Hot off the (machine) presses today is an exciting announcement from Smith & Wesson: The company's first AR-15-style pistol-caliber carbine is out! It's called the Response, and it's ready when you are. Designed for versatility and ease of use, the Response breaks barriers for those looking to enter the PCC market with a terrific price of just $799.
Because it's built on a modern sporting rifle (MSR) pattern, it's easily compatible with many existing MSR parts and accessories. Chambered in 9mm, which is a handgun caliber, this carbine rifle is great for new gun owners and those who are sensitive to recoil. The Response has a 23+1 capacity out of the box and ships with two 23-round M&P double-stack magazines. But there's more to know about those magazines ...
The coolest aspect of this new carbine is rooted in its innovative and easy-to-install FLEXMAG System, which consists of interchangeable magwell adaptors. These permit the rifle to operate using a variety of S&W and other manufacturer magazines. The Response comes with two FLEXMAG kits that are compatible with either M&P double-stack or Glock G17 or G19 magazines.
The Response has a 16.5” threaded barrel and an overall length of 35-3/8 inches fully extended, and it weighs just under 6 lbs. unloaded. This means the firearm is nimble and easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces. polymer handguard with Picatinny-style rail and M-LOK slots, MAGPUL MOE SL stock, flat face trigger, and an M&P grip with four interchangeable palmswell adapters.
“The Smith & Wesson Response is our solution for the PCC shooter that enjoys MSR platforms and prefers interfacing capabilities with various pistol magazines available in the market today. Its compatibility with the vast network of MSR aftermarket accessories allows the user to easily customize the Response to their specific preferences and needs. Smith & Wesson listened to the consumer and our goal was to deliver a completely versatile pistol caliber carbine that would be a perfect companion to your sidearm. This design is our response,” said John Myles, Senior Product Manager. MSRP $799; Smith-Wesson.com.
