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Gun Shop Podcast

S&W FPC Folding 9mm Carbine: Review & Extreme Conditions Test

09 May 2025

Description

Today we’re digging into the Smith & Wesson M&P FPC — a 9mm folding carbine that’s shaking up the pistol-caliber world with smart design, portability, and familiar reliability.Main Themes:The Big Story — Folding for Convenience.The FPC folds horizontally to about 16.5 inches, making it extremely easy to store, transport, and carry discreetly.As Hickok45 put it: "It doesn’t scream gun — it just looks like a random bag."It’s not just about saving six inches compared to something like a Ruger LC Carbine — it’s about how much easier it is to pack and deploy.Magazine Compatibility and Storage.The FPC takes M&P pistol mags, shipping with a 17-rounder and two 23-round mags in many configurations.The built-in mag storage in the stock is clever — but it’s also one of the more controversial features.Some say the mag release is awkward.Others love the extra onboard capacity.And yeah, some folks wish it had been Glock mag compatible — but for M&P owners, it's a huge win.Build and Construction — Mostly Solid.The FPC feels solid and well-built, despite using a lot of polymer to keep weight down (~5.78 pounds unloaded).Aluminum receiver ✅Polymer handguard with M-LOK slots ✅Solid M&P 2.0-style grip ✅However, some reviewers worry about the polymer rail and handguard durability, especially under rough use.Features You’ll Appreciate.Threaded barrel (1/2x28) for suppressors or comps.Nice trigger — comparable to an M&P pistol.Rear-mounted charging handle — though not everyone loves the feel.Optics-ready with a full top rail.No iron sights included — plan to add your own.Reliability and Accuracy.Generally, the FPC has been very reliable.TFB TV: "Half a case of 9mm — zero issues."Sub-1-inch groups at 50 yards with good ammo.10/10 hits at 100 yards on silhouette targets.However, some users report ammo sensitivity — especially light primer strikes with +P or hard-primer ammo like Underwood. Testing your preferred rounds is a smart move.Potential Negatives:Slide/Bolt lock is stiff and awkward — not AR-style.Handguard touches barrel in some cases — could affect precision.Magazine storage release isn’t very intuitive.Charging handle is serviceable but not ideal for everyone.Comparison — FPC vs Kel-Tec Sub 2000.Both are folding 9mm carbines, but the FPC edges out in:Trigger qualityFit and finishAbility to mount optics that stay zeroed while foldedIf you own an M&P pistol? The FPC is an easy choice.If you have Glock mags? Maybe stick with the Sub 2000.Pricing and Value.At $650-$700 MSRP, the FPC is competitive and well-priced for what you get.Lightweight, compact, solid shooting — with some ergonomic quirks to be aware of.Bottom Line:The Smith & Wesson M&P FPC is a smart, practical folding carbine that blends storage convenience with solid 9mm performance.It’s not perfect — but if portability, magazine compatibility, and discreet carry matter to you, it’s absolutely worth a look.

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