Recently purchased an M&P 2.0 Compact 3.6.

When ordering additional magazines, I noticed the baseplates are different, both have S&W Markings, but the manner in which the baseplate/floorplate designed differs.

- one style has a circular button near the center, to remove the baseplate
- one style has more of a latch off-center, to remove the baseplate

Outside of these factors, they are mostly identical. Could someone please explain this?

They redesigned the mag base plate.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

Thank you seebee, I had assumed so since the difference-- do you know if this was done at the inception of the 2.0, or prior? Or for any particular reason? Seems like a "if it isn't broke don't fix it" kind of situation

From what I learned they went from the round hole to the square then back to the round.

I’ve had my 2.0 for about 2 years the last time I ordered mags was maybe a few months after I got it and the mags had round holes.

I was under the impression that the square hole was a recent change.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

Thank you for the clarification.. very interesting.

My factory 15s were square, the magazines I had ordered: 15s were round, think the 17s were round as well, will double check

Yes the last time I ordered mags they were 17’s with round holes.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

The square "holes" are the later ones. They are a lot easier to reassemble since the pin is further back and ramped.

Bear in mind that there are 1000s of round hole mags still in distribution.

I have both sets. Other than the reassembly, I see no other difference.

Sorry, Saudade, just to clarify-- "later" meaning, more recent/current?

Agreed, they appear similar. Truly, as long as they function, no big deal-- once the day ends I intend on comparing them a bit more.

Was merely surprised to see varying styled magazines on a "newer" platform, with both styles from the manufacturer

They function the same. Obviously, the locking plates have to match the floor (butt) plate.

These no real designation I know of but you could consider Gen 1 (round) and Gen 2 (square).

As far as style goes, remember the 1.0 and 2.0 full size take the same magazines. So no real "style" change there.

FWIW, S&W is not the only one doing this. Sig has changed the style as well. I went crazy trying to find a matching floor and lock plate for my 320C which also has round vs square.

15s that came with the pistol are square.
15s that I ordered are circle.
17s that I ordered a square.

Followers all have "6" mark and appear identical in dimensions, even the 17s.

Fair input on the 1.0 and 2.0 sharing magazines, do not own a 1.0 and failed to take that info account.

Appreciate all the input, cheers

Attached Images

mags.jpg (76.6 KB, 50 views)