SHOT Show 2026: Smith & Wesson – New FPC Variants and a Kel-Tec Challenger

The side-folding pistol-caliber carbine (FPC) became a hit almost immediately after its launch. In 2026, the manufacturer went a step further, offering the platform across a full spectrum of calibers – from the recreational .22 LR to the powerful 10 mm Auto. All models retain a 16.25-inch (413 mm) barrel, allowing shooters to extract maximum energy from the ammunition while avoiding classification as a short-barreled rifle (SBR), which would involve additional regulatory paperwork in the United States.

Photos: Jakub Buczma, MILMAG

New FPC Caliber Lineup:

• .22 LR: The lightest variant (2.1 kg), featuring a 1/2″x28 threaded barrel. Ideal for low-cost training and recreational shooting.
• 5.7×28 mm: A technical novelty offering minimal recoil and a flat trajectory. Equipped with a 1/2″x28 threaded barrel and 22-round magazines.
• 9×19 mm Luger: A proven classic, weighing 2.3 kg, with a 1/2″x28 threaded barrel.
• .40 S&W: A solid mid-range option at 2.3 kg, featuring a 9/16″x24 threaded barrel.
• 10 mm Auto (10×25 mm): The most powerful in the lineup (2.5 kg), designed to handle higher loads, with a 5/8″x24 threaded barrel. A practical alternative to survival carbines.

The 10 mm model drew particular attention at the trade show. Many observers noted that the limited stopping power of typical survival carbines often forces users to carry a secondary firearm in case of an encounter with a bear or mountain lion. The caliber commonly used in popular survival platforms – usually .22 LR – would not be sufficient to stop such a threat. The 10 mm variant appears to be a near-perfect fit for customers in the so-called “bear states.”

The biggest sensation, however, is the new iteration of the M&P 12 shotgun. While the concept of dual tube magazines is primarily associated with the Kel-Tec KSG, Smith & Wesson has focused on rugged build quality and significantly more advanced ergonomics.

Key Control Innovations:

• Intuitive Selector: A large cross-bolt button positioned above the pistol grip allows the shooter to instantly select which magazine tube feeds the next round. You can keep buckshot in one tube and slugs in the other – switching takes a fraction of a second.
• Assist System: Special levers located on the underside of the stock make loading and unloading the tubular magazines easier, eliminating the need to wrestle with spring tension.
• Fully Ambidextrous Design: An AR-15–style safety selector, the fore-end release, and the magazine selector are fully ambidextrous, making the firearm suitable for any shooter.

Unlike its competitor’s polymer-based predecessor, the M&P 12 is built around a rigid metal frame. The controls are also larger, and during testing I had the impression that the engineers aimed for maximum intuitive operation – even while wearing gloves. Could this be another nod toward uniformed services?

The new FPC models are the essence of a “backpack gun” – they fold in seconds while the optic remains in place. Meanwhile, the M&P 12 Spec Series is a formidable home-defense tool that, in a bullpup configuration, holds 12+1 standard shells (or significantly more when using mini-shells).

Suggested retail prices (MSRP) in the United States:

• FPC .22 LR: approx. 549 USD
• FPC 5.7 / 10 mm: approx. 719 USD
• M&P 12 Spec Series: approx. 1,199 USD

These models are expected to reach Polish distributors in the second half of 2026.

Smith & Wesson official website