The SD40VE is an enhanced version of the SD40 pistol and was released by Smith & Wesson in 2012. The โVEโ stands for Value Edition and the handgun features improved ergonomics and build quality than the original version. However, even this value edition can use a few extra upgrades to perform better than a standard version.
This is what we will be looking at in the review, which covers the details of the best SD40VE accessories.ย
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for SD40VE Accessories
- OUR TOP PICK: TALON Grips Adhesive Pistol Grip
- RUNNER-UP: ArmaLaser TR31
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: CAA Micro Conversion Kit w/TAC Compartment
Comparison of the Best SD40VE Accessories
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Factors to Consider Before Buying SD40VE Accessories
The SD40VE is a good handgun, but it is not perfect in itself. There is room for improvement in general and also based upon the different intended applications. It is a striker-fired pistol with an effective range of about 200 yards. The capabilities and the .40 S&W chambering of this handgun create some space for upgrades.
Easy Installation and Customizability
The first prerequisite of choosing an accessory for your SD40VE is that it should be easy to install. It is a Glock-style striker fired pistol and will not accept any major modifications to the design. Additionally, the resulting pistol should help with handling and still maintain a level of customizability for modifications.ย
Legal Implications
Now, this factor exclusively implies the CAA micro conversion kit reviewed here. Converting a handgun into a shoulder-held rifle-style firearm is illegal without an NFA stamp. This becomes extremely important if you are living in states like California where gun laws are quite strict. So it is always the right idea to understand that any modifications to your handgun will not attract any legal problems.ย
Ease of Handling
Since the SD40VE will mostly be used for EDC, CCW, or active duty purposes, any accessory you add to it mustn’t impede the handling. For example, if you plan on adding a light or high sights, you must ensure using the right holster so it fits well. Additionally, things like a holster should be chosen after thorough research to match the optimal level of comfort and responsiveness.ย
Review of the Best SD40VE Accessories
Hereโs a compiled list of the best SD40VE accessories which I and my team think will be the best upgrades to your handgun. These include the simplest accessories like an adhesive grip and the most advanced upgrades like a carbine conversion kit. So I can boldly term it to be a comprehensive list.
Best Overall
TALON Grips Adhesive Pistol Grip
[amazon fields=”B00NGYQ0LA” image=”1″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_link=”none”]
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Reviewย
The SD40VE has a grip size similar to that of the Glock 17. The factory grip is also textured and provides a significant grip to the user. However, due to the big grip size, shooters with smaller palms can face difficulties with handling the weapon. This can also be a big problem with shooters who have sweaty hands.ย
This is a simple stick-on grip that is less than 0.5mm in thickness so that you wonโt notice any difference in grip swell. It is available in rubber or granulate texture, and I suggest you use the rubber texture for a better grip.ย
Installation means just positioning and wrapping it around the grip by yourself. It is pure DIY, and you can even customize it with a pair of scissors for your desired shape. It is a simple and inexpensive add-on for your handgun which will help you with handling the recoil of the .40S&W rounds.ย
Bottom Line
This grip from TALON is a simple yet effective addition to your SD40VE handgun. It improves the overall handling of the weapon and costs ridiculously low.ย
Pros
Works with sweaty or wet hands
Simple to install and even customize
Available in two textures to choose from
Greatly improves the grip for fumble-free operation
Less than 0.5mm thick, so doesnโt increase palm swell
Cons
Installation can be meticulous
Runner-up
ArmaLaser TR31
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ArmaLaser is a renowned brand manufacturing weapon optics, especially laser sights for handguns. This TR31 laser is a tactically fit attachment for your SD40VE because it has a grip activation feature. You simply have to hold the handgun in the normal grip position and the laser activates on its own. However, there is also a master kill switch on the base, in case you do not want to use the laser.ย
Mounting is very easy because this laser has been custom designed for the SD40VE and SD9VE handguns. Simply slide it over the under-barrel rail of the handgun and youโre good to go. The laser is Class 3R rated and very bright, plus, it will fit most holsters because of its compact design.ย
The laser is adjustable for windage and elevation using the hex key provided in the package. The separate battery door also ensures that you donโt have to change the settings after every swap.ย
Bottom Line
Mounting this TR31 laser on your SD40VE is a good idea if you are active duty personnel or keep it handy for home defense. EDC and CCW users can also use it for quick aiming in case the situation goes tense. The laser fits most holsters and does not take a lot of space.
Pros
Easy grip-activation for quick use
Easy to install, and fits most holsters
Master kill switch for battery conservation
Laser is adjustable for windage and elevation
Ultra bright Class 3R red laser. Best for night use
Cons
Red laser isnโt ideal for daytime use
Needs a dedicated holster for the best results
Best for the Money
CAA Micro Conversion Kit w/TAC Compartment
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This micro conversion kit will instantly convert your SD40VE into a small pistol length carbine for tactical use. This is a simple plug-n-play kit that requires no disassembly of your pistol. Just lock it in place and youโre good to go. The kit has three Picatinny rails for mounting a ton of accessories.ย
The conversion kit is ambidextrous and has a built-in charging handle for extremely easy operation. In fact, the slide release is also exposed which further eases the handing of the weapon. For the stock, it comes with a Gen 2 stabilizer that can also fire in the folded position.ย
The kit also has a TAC compartment on the rear that can be used to store batteries, earplugs, or any other appropriate item. Plus, a front spare magazine holder that has a simple magazine button catch for release.ย
Bottom Line
Overall, this micro conversion kit is a complete conversion solution that will turn your SD40VE from a handgun into a pistol length carbine with a lot of space to mount accessories. The TAC compartment and spare mag holder are cool features, and the included brace/stabilizer will help with handling and also eliminate any legal complications.
Pros
Easy carry and concealment
Ergonomic and ambidextrous design
Includes a folding brace for better handling
Built-in charging handle and exposed slide release
Includes a TAC compartment and a spare mag holder
Top and side Picatinny rails for attaching accessories
Instantly convert the pistol into a carbine without disassembly
Cons
Pricey upgrade for some
Requires an NFA stamp/tax since it is now an SBR
Best S&W SD40VE Laser
Streamlight TLR-4
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Streamlight is one of the most trusted and reliable manufacturers of weapon lights for both civilian and military markets. This specific light, the TLR-4 is a mix of powerful white light and a green laser. The light can project 160 lumens out to a distance of 113 meters, so you can also use it interchangeably on rifles.ย
The laser light has an on/off switch and a mode switch to switch among three different modes. The LED mode (1.75 hours), the LED/laser mode (1.25 hours), and the laser only mode (4 hours). The single-handed snap-on design makes it easy to mount, even on a functional weapon without presenting your hands before the muzzle.ย
The laser is a powerful green laser that is ideal for daytime use and is also adjustable for windage and elevation. The light is extremely durable and is also IPX4 water-resistant so you can use it for tactical applications. The great thing is that it uses just one 3V CR2 battery and weighs just 80 grams (2.8 ounces) in total.ย ย
Bottom Line
The Streamlight TL-4 can be a great addition to your SD40VE, especially if you have other weapons that you need a light for. It is a two-in-one setup that includes a powerful LED and a green laser.ย
Pros
Can work with many weapons
Very durable and IPX4 water-resistant
Three operational modes to choose from
Powerful white LED with a range of 113 meters
LED light and laser combo for handguns and rifles
Powerful green laser with windage/elevation adjustment
Cons
Quite heavy for a handgun
Mostly suitable for tactical applications
Best SD40VE Sight
Meprolight Smith & Wesson Tru-Dot Night Sight
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This night sight from Meprolight is an economical and useful addition to your handgun. The SD40VE has a variant that comes with night sights, but the factory sights arenโt that great and youโll seriously need to upgrade if you are planning to use your gun for defensive uses.ย
This sight is powered by tritium lamps that are known to stay bright for a long period of time. While the brightness may start to fade after some time, if you find problems with the brightness, you can always use the warranty.ย
Since this sight has been made from anodized aluminum, it is already lightweight. Plus, the wide field of view helps with target acquisition to some extent. I could have included Trijiconโs instead, but for the price point, these Meprolight sights are great.ย
Bottom Line
Adding a new night sight to your SD40VE will greatly help with target acquisition. Since these dots are green, you can also expect significantly good daylight performance.
Pros
12 years manufacturers warranty
Battery-free self-illuminating tritium design
Anodized aluminum construction for durability
Replaces factory sights and helps with quick acquisition
Works with a wide range of M&P 9mm & .40S&W pistols
Cons
Brightness fades after a few years
Front sight could have been of a different color
Best SD40VE Holster
Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5
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The Cloak Tuck series of holsters from Alien Gear has been very successful in recent years and is available for almost every handgun on the American market. This holster in particular has been custom designed for the SD40VE handgun and features a non-scratching shell to protect your firearm.ย
The wide neoprene backing is breathable and keeps you comfortable when you wear this inside your waistband. The ride and cant are both adjustable, although the ride height can be adjusted to only two levels. The holster works on passive retention, which is fine in my opinion because you will wear it IWB.ย
Since the SD40VE is mostly used for CCW and EDC purposes, this holster seems to fit very well. The shell is soft enough to prevent your firearm from scratches which is also a plus.ย
Bottom Line
This holster is great for people who use this handgun for CCW or EDC purposes. Mostly for carrying their weapon IWB and for long stretches of time. This is a better alternative to belly band holsters because of the quick access and adjustability. However, a holster is always a matter of personal choice.
Pros
Used IWB for perfect concealment
Made in America and 30-day returns
Fully adjustable for ride height and cant
Custom designed for the SD40VE pistol
Covered trigger guard and fully-exposed grip
Soft and wide neoprene backing paddle for comfort
Cons
Wearing a belt is essential
Takes quite some space on your body
Price Points of SD40VE Accessories
This section about price points will help you determine the value of your investment on these accessories. I will classify the price ranges into a few categories, so you may understand the amount of budget you need to buy the accessories.ย ย
$20 – $100
The cheapest accessory you can find for your SD40VE is a good adhesive grip like we have reviewed above. The night sights, holster, and even the laser will not cost you more than $100. Although, these options will be available from some of the best brands. Branded items will not always be too expensive, especially if you find the right product and get the right deal.ย
$110 – $300
It is quite unlikely that a handgun accessory should cost you more than $100. However, a few advanced add-ons like the carbine conversion kit and the Streamlight laser light reviewed above can prove costly. The price, however, is justified because such accessories greatly enhance the functionality of your handgun, and can even be used with other firearms.ย
Conclusionย
The SD40VE is an effective handgun that is sometimes used as an alternative to the Glock series. It is budget-friendly, and also one of the best value-for-money handguns available on the market. The 14-round standard capacity is great for a .40S&W chambered pistol, and adding accessories to it is always a great idea to enhance the performance.
