Smith & Wesson SD9 2.0 Review [Hands-On Tested]

We can all agree that saving a few bucks on a gun purchase is helpful, especially in this economy.

But can a budget gun really hold its own and provide the same level of performance as mid-tier defensive options?

Smith & Wesson thinks so…the company introduced yet another budget gun this year in the form of the Smith & Wesson SD9 2.0.

Any time you make changes to an established line of products, you open the door to new successes and failures. So, does the SD9 2.0 really improve the budget lineup, or is it a dud?

We took it to the range to find out! So keep reading as we run you through its specs and features, pros and cons, and a range report!

How We Tested the Smith & Wesson SD9 2.0

For this review, we tested the Smith & Wesson SD9 2.0, shooting 10-round groups for accuracy at 7 yards. Using 500 rounds of ammunition total, we tested the pistol with practice ammo and defensive ammo in the form of AAC 115gr FMJ, 124gr Hornady Critical Duty, and 115gr Nosler ASP JHP.

We tested the trigger on the SD9 2.0 with a Lyman Digital Trigger gauge to get an accurate assessment of the actual trigger pull weight. Normally, we test review guns with at least two magazines, but Smith only sent on with the gun.

The SD9 is not optics capable, so iron sights were used for the review.

Smith & Wesson SD9 2.0 Pros & Cons

Pros

• Affordable price
• Good ergonomics
• Updated features

Cons

• One magazine
• Not optics-capable
• Slide lock back

Smith & Wesson SD9 2.0 Specs & Features

Specs

• Caliber: 9 mm
• Action: Semi-auto, striker-fired
• Capacity: 16+1
• Barrel Length: 4″
• Overall Length: 7.2″
• Height: 5.5″
• Width: 1.29″
• Weight: 22.7 oz.
• Comes With: Cardboard box, 16-round magazine, owner’s manual, gun lock

Features

• Improved trigger
• Added slide serrations
• Compatible with SD accessories

SD9 2.0 Background

In 2010, Smith & Wesson released the first SD series, later adding VE for “value enhanced” in 2012. The guns were available in 9mm and .40 S&W and came in black or with a stainless slide.

For 2024, Smith updated the trigger by using a flat-faced shoe and removing the hinge from the middle. In addition, the slide serrations were improved to offer more grip.

Magazines from previous versions are apparently compatible with the 2.0, though we had none on hand to test this.

Who Is the SD9 2.0 For?

The SD9 is a budget-minded defensive pistol. Its size is similar to the Glock G19, so it could be used for concealed carry.

In addition, the SD9 could be used for home or vehicle defense. The only caveat for these scenarios would be the need to source additional magazines.

Ergonomics: Fit & Feel

Overall the fit and finish on the SD9 are solid. The black polymer frame pairs nicely with the silver finish of the slide.

When I held the SD9 2.0, I instantly appreciated the aggressive polymer texturing in the side panels, front strap, and backstrap. This would ultimately help mitigate recoil while shooting with sweaty palms.

Overall, the fit was very good, even for my 2X hand. The beavertail extended enough to cover the web of my palm and protect me from slide bite.

The trigger guard is wide and effective but does not include an undercut where it connects to the grip.  Forward of the guard, Smith included an accessory rail for mounting up lights.

Up top, the slide serrations are improved from previous versions. What were essentially milled lines have now become scalloped grooves that offer improved purchase.

The sights were of the steel, three-white-dot variety. While not particularly fancy, they aren’t polymer and should last a long time.

Feeding the SD9 was a challenge with the one magazine. I sincerely hope this trend dies away, even though I understand this particular line of guns is budget-minded.

The magazine is steel-bodied with round count windows on the sides, not the rear. It’s paired with a polymer base plate that just protrudes from the bottom of the grip when inserted.

Controls

The slide release is well-placed and easy to get your thumb on due to its length. However, it should be noted that this release is only on the left side of the gun.

In addition, the magazine release is a good size and is protected from accidental hits with a raised shoulder. It appears to be reversible, so lefties may rejoice.

The trigger has a very slight curve and flat surface. Additionally, the shoe features a safety device that melds into the body seamlessly when pressed.

When pressing back, there is a bit of creep before hitting a defined wall. The trigger then breaks with a fairly crisp snap, which averaged 4 lbs. 7.5 oz. on a Lyman Digital gauge.

Reset proved interesting in that there is a spot along the trigger’s return that sounds and feels like a reset, but isn’t. Releasing nearly the full amount, you finally reach the actual reset.

How Does the Smith & Wesson SD9 2.0 Shoot?

I began by pulling the SD9 2.0 from the box and wiping it down. The slide was absolutely covered in clear oil.

Don’t get me wrong, this may be inconvenient, but it isn’t a knock. When you don’t know how long a gun will sit on the shelf, it’s good to keep it well-reserved for the buyer.

In the first magazine, I had a failure to lock back on the last round. This is a fairly common occurrence generated by my big hands and high grip.

I checked clearance on the slide stop and thought I had plenty of room but I shot with my thumb folded down just to make sure. It didn’t happen again.

Continuing testing, I shot the gun left-handed and found that the gun often would not lock back on the last round, regardless of which hand/hands I used or how I held the gun.

I have heard and also read that this may have been an issue with the original SD9. As the 2.0 uses the same magazines, it wouldn’t be surprising if this issue migrated forward, too.

Otherwise, reliability was perfect. The SD9 2.0 fed and fired 500 rounds of AAC, plus some Hornady Critical Duty and Nosler ASP, without any true malfunctions.

Accuracy was decent. Shooting 10 shot groups from 7 yards, I was able to keep groups at or under 2 inches.

The final group of Nosler had all the makings of an even tighter group, though I dropped two shots from jerking the trigger prematurely.

Admittedly, the faux reset took some getting used to, but I eventually learned to keep releasing past this before getting that affirming click of actual reset. The trigger is decent for a striker-fired gun this inexpensive.

Unlike many new guns, the slide release was easy to activate with my thumb, so I used it frequently during reloads. My one magazine dropped cleanly each time and also locked up easily upon insertion.

As far as shooting impulse is concerned, there is some muzzle flip, though I wouldn’t call the SD9 2.0 snappy at all. The significant texturing on the grip really helps you lock it down snugly.

Overall I found it to be accurate and reliable, though the last round lock back issue was a little troubling.

Why is the SD9 2.0 Unique?

This pistol represents a value proposition. You don’t get a red dot; you only get one magazine, but the price is well below $500 for a good shooter.

With trade-offs like that, many consumers will lean in and take a different route. They can buy upgraded sights, more magazines, even a holster and still save money.

By the Numbers

Reliability: 4/5

While the SD9 2.0 didn’t have any true malfunctions, the random nature of the failure to lock back cost it a point.

Ergonomics: 4/5

Ergonomics are on par with Milspec, though lefties will need some upgrades.

Accuracy: 3.5/5

With a couple of groups at 1.5 MOA, the pistol is solid.

Customization: 3/5

There is some aftermarket for this handgun because many of the accessories from previous versions like holsters and magazines still work.

Value: 5/5

With an MSRP of $349, several stores are selling the SD9 2.0 around $300.

Overall: 4/5

Upgrades & Accessories

With a price this low, you can afford to pick up some accessories to make the SD9 2.0 a complete package. You’ll definitely want some more magazines.

Good ammo is essential for your range sessions with the SD9 2.0, pick up some AAC for your next trip!

Finally, you’ve got to protect your eyes and hearing when shooting so do it in style and comfort with a set from Shell Shock.

Why You Should Trust Pew Pew Tactical

At the helm of this review was Pew Pew Tactical Content Producer Sean Curtis. Sean has been shooting since childhood but really began to delve into guns more during his law enforcement career. He spent over two decades in law enforcement, where he became a POST-certified handgun instructor and NLEFIA Red Dot Instructor and received CLEFIA Advanced Firearms Instructor Training and AR-15 armorer training. He has since attended a variety of training, including Tactical Performance Center Handgun Mastery & Carbine Mastery, and earned USCCA rifle instructor certification. Aside from training and prior to joining the Pew Pew Tactical team full-time, Sean wrote for several gun publications evaluating and testing guns and gear and has written hundreds of articles.

This review was edited by Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings, who runs Pew Pew Tactical’s experienced team of reviewers. Jacki is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association and has her bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications. She has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years, and has worked as an editor for five years. She uses her extensive professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards.

Final Verdict

Smith & Wesson has updated the SD9 lineup with an improved trigger and better slide serrations while keeping the price down around three Ben Franklins. We took it out to see how it would perform and found it to be a solid contender.

Ergonomics and accuracy were good, and while the slide occasionally failing to lock back was an issue, the reliability was sound otherwise. If a red dot isn’t crucial for you, the SD9 2.0 is a very affordable, brand name contender.

What do you think of the Smith & Wesson SD9 2.0? Let us know in the comments below. For more budget guns, take a look at our list of the Best Affordable Guns.