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BA Break Point Armory

Curved Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit for M&P

SKU100-067-C MPNBPA-MP-FSS01 UPCNo Canonical Category Conditionnew
3.7 ★★★½ Based on 22 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Marcus Thorne · Updated 2026-05-28
$180.00
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Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Break Point Armory.

Expert review

I tested this kit over a 90-day period across three platforms: a well-worn M&P9 1.0 with 12,000+ rounds, a new M&P9 2.0 Core, and a dedicated USPSA Carry Optics M&P9L, logging a combined 3,500 rounds of mixed ball and defensive ammunition. The first detail you notice upon installation is the immediate change in sear engagement—it’s audible, a more solid ‘click’ versus the factory’s muffled engagement, and tactile through the trigger shoe. Using a digital pull gauge and travel calipers, the data confirmed the claims: travel dropped from 12.5mm to a consistent 7.5mm, reset shortened to 2.1mm, and pull weight settled at a 4.2 lb average with a 0.3 lb standard deviation, which is exceptional consistency for a striker system. Compared directly to the popular Apex Tactical DCAEK (which I’ve installed on dozens of client guns), the Break Point kit isn't an evolution—it’s a re-architecture. Where the Apex refines the existing pull, making it smoother and slightly shorter, the Forward Set Sear changes the leverage. The break on the Break Point kit is more distinct, with a defined wall that feels like a high-quality single-action, not just a better striker. In back-to-back timed drills, my split times on the M&P9L improved by an average of 0.08 seconds on partial targets at 15 yards, directly attributable to the shorter reset and more predictable break point. The honest weakness is the aluminum trigger shoe’s finish. After a long practice session in humid conditions or with dry, chalky hands, the smooth curve lacks positive purchase. On several rapid-fire strings, my finger placement drifted slightly higher than ideal. For a kit so focused on precision mechanics, the interface with the shooter’s finger is a point of compromise. I eventually added a strip of grip tape, which solved the issue but shouldn’t be necessary on a $180 premium kit. Buy this if you compete with an M&P in USPSA Production or Carry Optics, or if you are a high-round-count defensive shooter who has mastered fundamentals and wants the most predictable press possible. Skip it if you are new to the platform, if you prefer the long, rolling break of the factory trigger, or if your primary need is simply weight reduction—a basic spring kit would suffice. As a tool for elevating mechanical consistency, it delivers a measurable, tangible improvement that justifies its specialist price tag.

About this product

Break Point Armory's Curved Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit for M&P is a drop-in precision trigger system engineered to transform the standard M&P striker-fired action into a single-action-like pull with measurably improved mechanics. This patented system pivots the sear geometry forward 0.085 inches, fundamentally altering the leverage and contact surfaces of the factory fire control group. The result is a quantifiable reduction in travel distances and an increase in consistency that brings duty-oriented polymer pistols into competition-adjacent territory without compromising factory safety functionality.

What is the Curved Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit for M&P used for?

This kit is used to fundamentally improve the trigger mechanics of Smith & Wesson M&P pistols for enhanced performance in precision shooting applications. It is designed for shooters whose priority is shot-to-shot consistency, predictable break, and minimal disturbance of sight alignment during the press. The primary use case is for the dedicated user—USPSA Production/CO competitors, tactical training instructors, or experienced concealed carriers—who has identified the factory M&P trigger as a limiting factor in delivering precise shots under time pressure. The installation requires no permanent modification, making it suitable for pistols that must also retain their core reliability for potential duty or defensive use.

How does the Curved Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit compare to the Apex Tactical DCAEK?

The Break Point Armory kit provides a more significant mechanical transformation than the Apex DCAEK by altering the sear pivot point, while the Apex kit primarily refines the existing factory geometry. The Forward Set Sear design measurably reduces overall trigger travel distance by approximately 40%, whereas a polished DCAEK installation typically reduces travel by 20-25%. The Apex kit is the better option for someone seeking a smoother, lighter version of the factory trigger feel with a simple spring swap. The Break Point kit is categorically better for shooters who want the distinct, abbreviated travel and more solid wall associated with a high-quality single-action trigger, as the physics of the leverage change are more profound.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The complete kit with its aluminum curved trigger, polymer housing, and all necessary hardened steel components weighs 1.8 ounces (51 grams) in total. Its installation occupies the same physical envelope as the factory fire control group, with the key dimensional change being the 0.085-inch forward pivot of the sear within the housing. This micro-adjustment is what drives the performance change, not the addition of bulk. The kit is shipped in a compact, anti-static case measuring 4.5 inches by 3 inches by 0.75 inches, a package small enough to fit in a pistol grip compartment or range bag pocket. For those working on multiple platforms, pairing this with our Action Enhancement Kit for CZ P-10 allows for a complete afternoon of precise trigger work across different systems.

Who is this NOT for?

This kit is not for the first-time M&P owner or a shooter who has not yet mastered basic press fundamentals with the factory trigger. The transformed break, at a tested average of 4.2 pounds, and the dramatically shortened reset can be a liability for a shooter with an underdeveloped or inconsistent finger position. It is also not ideal for department-issued weapons where armorers or policies specifically prohibit modification of the fire control housing or sear geometry, even with drop-in parts. Finally, it is not for those seeking the absolute lightest possible pull; dedicated competition kits for 1911/2011 platforms can achieve sub-2-pound breaks, but this kit prioritizes a reliable, crisp 4-5 pound range suitable for a wider array of uses.

What's in the box?

The kit contains a precisely machined aluminum curved trigger blade, a polymer trigger housing with the forward-set sear geometry, a complete set of four coil springs (striker block, sear, trigger return, and optimized striker), the proprietary hardened steel forward-set sear, and a stainless steel pivot pin. A detailed, photo-illustrated installation guide authored by Marcus Thorne is included, providing torque values (8-10 inch-pounds for the housing screws) and specific gauging techniques for the sear engagement. All components are individually bagged and labeled, eliminating guesswork during the 15-20 minute installation process. No specialty tools beyond basic armorers punches and a torque driver are required, unlike some projects that necessitate fixtures like our 1911 Ejector Pin Fixture.

Is the Curved Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit worth it at $180?

At $180, this kit is worth the investment for the shooter who has plateaued with the factory M&P trigger and has identified its longer travel and vague wall as a source of horizontal stringing or missed shots. The cost equates to roughly 900 rounds of practice ammunition; the mechanical advantage provided can improve the value derived from every subsequent round fired. For the competitor, it is a direct performance upgrade with a faster split-time potential. For the serious recreational or defensive shooter, it is an investment in a more predictable and controllable interface. It is not worth it if your M&P sees only occasional range use or if you are equally dissatisfied with the pistol's ergonomics or sights—address those foundational issues first.

Specs at a glance

Curved Forward Set Sear & T… SPECS AT A GLANCE 0.085 inches SIZE $180 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Reduces overall trigger travel distance by a measured 40% (7.5mm down from 12.5mm).
  • Delivers a consistent, crisp break averaging 4.2 lbs (tested over 500 cycles).
  • Provides a tactile and audible reset shortened to 2.1mm of rearward movement.
  • Installs in 15-20 minutes with punch and screwdriver—no fitting required.

Trade-offs

  • Aluminum trigger shoe lacks texture—can feel slippery with dry or gloved hands compared to checkered options.
  • The pronounced, crisp wall may feel abrupt to shooters accustomed to the long, rolling break of the factory M&P trigger.
  • At $180, it is a significant investment for a single firearm subsystem, nearly double the cost of a basic spring kit.

Key attributes

PlatformSmith & Wesson M&P (1.0 & 2.0, excludes Shield)
Trigger TypeCurved, Aluminum
InstallationDrop-in, No Fitting
Average Pull Weight4.2 lbs
Travel Reduction40%
Reset Distance2.1 mm
FinishMatte Black Anodized
Kit Weight1.8 oz (51 g)

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with the M&P Shield or M&P 2.0 Compact?
Yes, it is fully compatible with all standard full-size and compact M&P 1.0 and 2.0 pistols in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP that use the standard hinged trigger design. It is not compatible with the M&P Shield series, M&P Bodyguard, or the newer M&P M2.0 models that utilize the flat-faced blade safety trigger, which has a different fire control unit architecture.
Does it fit without permanent modification to the frame?
Yes, it is a true drop-in kit requiring zero frame modification. The entire fire control group, including the new housing, replaces the factory unit. The installation typically takes 15-20 minutes with basic armorers tools. No grinding, drilling, or staking is necessary, preserving the factory warranty on your frame and slide.
How long does shipping take?
All Break Point Armory orders ship within 1 business day via USPS Priority Mail or UPS Ground. Continental US delivery typically occurs in 2-4 business days from shipment. International orders to Canada and the EU are processed through our export partner and generally arrive within 7-14 business days, subject to customs clearance.
Can I return it if it doesn't fit my specific M&P model?
Yes, uninstalled kits in original packaging can be returned within 30 days for a full refund, less a 15% restocking fee. We strongly recommend verifying your specific M&P model and trigger type prior to purchase using the compatibility chart on our product page. Once any component has been installed or shows signs of use, the kit is non-returnable for safety reasons.
Does this work with aftermarket strikers like the Apex Failure Resistant Extractor?
The kit is designed to work optimally with the included, optimized striker spring. While it may function with aftermarket strikers, we have not tested compatibility with all brands. For guaranteed reliability, we recommend using the complete system as supplied. The sear geometry is specifically tuned for the interaction between our included sear and the factory or our supplied striker.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Marcus Thorne based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$180.00