Video—ARTV: Inside the Smith & Wesson Performance Center

by
posted on August 20, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Smith & Wesson opened its Performance Center in 1989 in order to create custom race guns, eventually expanding to a variety of guns ranging from hunting rifles to carry guns. What makes S&W Performance Center firearms unique is that although many of the firearms might contain special features that are typically found only in "one off" custom guns, the manufacturer produces them in large enough quantities to keep them affordable and available to everyone. Many Performance Center guns—like the Ported M&P Shield—originate from standard designs and are then customized and tuned for precision, while others are created from the ground up to include hand cutting and fitting. Overall, Smith & Wesson prides itself not only on its products but also its employees, with some of its workers being the third generation of their family to work for the company. Check out this segment from a recent episode of American Rifleman TV to learn more about Smith & Wesson's Performance Center.











Additional Reading:
NRA Gun Gear of the Week: Smith & Wesson Performance Center Ported M&P9L with Red Dot Sight
NRA Gun of the Week: Smith & Wesson Performance Center Ported M&P9 Shield


Latest

Bushmaster V-Radicator
Bushmaster V-Radicator

Review: Bushmaster V-Radicator

The business of dispatching unwanted critters requires a platform capable of a high degree of accuracy. Nuisance animals such as prairie dogs are both small and skittish in nature, meaning that they tend to keep their distance and scurry away upon the arrival of incoming fire.

New for 2026: Smith & Wesson FPC in 5.7x28 mm

The folding carbine line expands to include the 5.7 mm chambering.

The Armed Citizen® Jan. 26, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

New For 2026: Vortex Optics AMG 1-10X 24 mm FFP Riflescope

The Vortex Optics AMG 1-10X 24 mm FFP riflescope is the shortest and lightest FFP 1-10X low-power variable optic made available to the U.S. commercial market.

New for 2026: Armasight Pro Series Thermal Platform

Armasight launches a professional-grade thermal-imaging platform designed to perform.

KelTec Launches KelTec Direct

KelTec begins its 35th anniversary celebration by launching KelTec Direct.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.