Original M&P AR15 modification question

[Pathfinder69]

Probably been discussed before but I did search. I have one of the 1st gen ar15's M&P. From what I see the sport II difference is mainly the Forward Assist & Dust Cover?

Can mine be upgraded or is not worth the $$$?
I was going to buy a new one but figured I would ask first.
Thanks folks

 

[cyphertext]

Forward assist, ejection port cover, and barrel (if you got a Sport with the 1:8 twist, 5R barrel) are the big differences.

To "upgrade", you would have to buy a stripped upper and move your barrel over to it. I don't think it is worth it.

 

[Pathfinder69]

OK. Thanks. Appreciate the response.

 

[vonn]

Lot of rifles, civilian and military, don’t have a forward assist or a dust cover and have been used in all environments successfully. I like having them but I wouldn’t change what you have for that level of expense.

 

[Pathfinder69]

Thanks vonn

 

[ameridaddy]

Pathfinder, that was my first AR, and I added an EoTech, changed the scritchy trigger, added a two-point sling, changed the pistol grip to one that fit my hand better. It's still going strong after ~10 years now.
IIRC, the original M&P15 had a chrome lined barrel, whereas the Sport did not, along with the FA and dust cover deletions.

 

[Pathfinder69]

OK Thanks ameridaddy. I had considered the trigger before also. I may perhaps just do that.
But with the replies above including yours I will not be doing anything about FA or Dust cover.
Thanks

 

[ameridaddy]

OK Thanks ameridaddy. I had considered the trigger before also. I may perhaps just do that.
But with the replies above including yours I will not be doing anything about FA or Dust cover.
Thanks

I used the Rock River two-stage trigger; nice and crisp, good value for the money I think.
I'm sure a Timney or Geissele would be better, but double the bucks of the RR or more.

 

[Westie1]

Another trigger to look at is the Larue MBT @$87.00. Also a two stage. Can be had with either a straight or curved trigger bow.

Triggers
- LaRue Tactical

 

[Pathfinder69]

Thank Guys. I will look at the triggers mentioned above. I am hoping it is something I can do myself. Way back when, I remember taking my M-16 apart and putting it back together blindfolded-That was in Pathfinder school iirc.
I build computers and play lots of guitar so my hands are well tested.
Frank

 

[Luger9x19]

Ejection port and forward assist on civilian rifles is mostly cosmetic. I wouldn't bother upgrading just to get those. Way too much work and money.

I will second the motion to proceed on adding a Larue Tactical MBT 2 stage trigger. Amazing! IMO best bang for the buck trigger on the market.

Another trigger to look at is the Larue MBT @$87.00. Also a two stage. Can be had with either a straight or curved trigger bow.

Triggers
- LaRue Tactical

 

[Pathfinder69]

Thanks luger. I am looking at the trigger options....

 

[Luger9x19]

Thanks luger. I am looking at the trigger options....

You're welcome!

If you get lucky Larue will give you some Dillo Dust.

 

[touchoneoff]

Personally, I wouldn't do anything to that original Sport...still wish I had mine. I have the Sport II now, with upgraded furniture and charging handle, but I actually think my original Sport was just a tad more accurate.

 

[1sailor]

Since the subject of triggers has been brought up, I installed a 3lb Timney trigger in mine and there is a world of dfference. Very nice trigger and easy to install.

 

[shep854]

Just buy a complete upper in the configuration you wish, then swap out when the whim strikes. If you also want to play with different barrels or gas systems; buy them and drop them on. If buffer/recoil spring changes are recommended, those aren’t very expensive either.
You’ve got a Lego gun! Enjoy!!