Featured Apex Launches Barrels for Compact S&W M2.0 Industry News November 23, 2017 Join the Conversation At RECOIL, we review every product fairly and without bias. Making a purchase through one of our links may earn us a small commission, and helps support independent gun reviews. Learn More Written by Jacki Billings While you’re trading out the trigger on the Smith & Wesson M2.0 Compact, you might as well drop in a new barrel — at least that’s what Apex suggests; recently they introduced the Apex Grade Barrel designed for the M2.0 in 9mm. Launching both the Gunsmith Fit and Semi Drop-in models for the M2.0 Compact, Apex says the barrels boost accuracy and can deliver sub one-inch groups at 25 yards. The first of the M2.0 Compact barrel offerings, the Gunsmith, serves as a direct replacement of the M2.0’s factory barrel. Delivering a 4-inch stainless steel barrel design with 1:10 twist rate, the Gunsmith is not a drop-in, instead requiring a gunsmith to properly fit the barrel to the M2.0 Compact. Apex says the barrel is capable of 1-inch groups at 25 yards using a mechanical rest; though it’s worth noting, the Gunsmith is not magic and thus individual performance will vary depending on actual skill. The Semi Drop-in also features a stainless steel 4-inch design with 1:10 twist rate. Unlike the Gunsmith model, the Semi Drop-in doesn’t require service by your friendly neighborhood gunsmith. Instead, due to tolerance variations in the slide, Apex says the barrel may drop-in without alteration. Then again, maybe not. According to the company, in some cases barrel insertion might require minor fitting to achieve a proper fit. In short, it’s a coin toss. For optimal performance, Apex suggests shooters stick with bullet weights between 115-147 grains with jacketed ammo. MSRP on both barrels is $119. Explore RECOILweb:CMMG Unveils The MkGs GUARD In 9mmThe Joint Special Operations Kalashnikov: A Look at the AKs of a New Cold War20TH Annual Hochheim SFC SeminarMaggie: Arnold's new movie receives surprising early accolades NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOILFor years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included). Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.You want this. Trust Us.