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

Colt Kodiak Gotw 1
Colt Kodiak Gotw 1

Gun Of The Week: Colt Kodiak

The Kodiak, introduced in 2024, is based on the company’s iconic Anaconda design, which was brought back to the market in 2021.

The Armed Citizen® Dec. 12, 2025

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

The French Charleville: Workhorse Of The American Revolution

Often overlooked, the French "Charleville" infantry musket was one of the most significant longarms of the 18th and 19th centuries and was integral to the success of the Continental Army during the American Revolution.

Lisa Tuason Appointed Interim CEO of Armscor/Rock Island Armory

Following the unexpected passing of Armscor President and CEO Martin Tuason in November, Lisa Tuason was appointed as interim CEO in early December, ensuring continued family leadership.

Preview: BullyWerx BullyTRAKR

Ultra-compact and stealthy by design, the BullyTRAKR is a discreet electronic tracking device that uses nearby smartphones and Wi-Fi Positioning System (WPS) to keep tabs on valuables through that encrypted WPS technology.

I Have This Old Gun: P08 Luger

One of the most iconic sidearms ever made, the P08 Luger was a mainstay in the German army from before World War I until the end of World War II.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.