A Look Back at the Smith & Wesson 640-1
The Legacy
The realm of concealed carry firearms is a competitive landscape, demanding reliability, concealability, and ease of use. Within this arena, the Smith & Wesson 640-1 has carved a niche for itself, a favorite among those seeking a compact, powerful, and dependable sidearm. This article dives deep into the Smith & Wesson 640-1, exploring its history, features, performance, and its suitability as a concealed carry companion. We’ll examine what makes this revolver so appealing and why it continues to hold its place in the hearts of firearm enthusiasts.
Before we delve into the specifics of the Smith & Wesson 640-1, it’s worth taking a moment to understand the legacy of Smith & Wesson and the iconic J-frame revolvers that spawned this model. Smith & Wesson, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the firearms industry, has been producing revolvers for well over a century. The company’s commitment to engineering excellence has consistently yielded dependable and trustworthy firearms, earning it a reputation for reliability that resonates with both law enforcement professionals and civilian shooters.
The J-frame, a cornerstone of Smith & Wesson’s revolver lineup, represents a compact design tailored for concealed carry. These small-frame revolvers were initially created for deep concealment, easily concealed within clothing or in pockets. The J-frame platform quickly became a standard, offering a balance of power, portability, and ease of operation, making it a top choice for personal defense.
The Evolution
The Smith & Wesson 640-1 is a specific iteration within this family. Understanding the evolution of the model is key. The original Model 640 was introduced to the market, and the “-1” designation signifies a specific generation or minor modification within the original design. This designation usually encompasses slight improvements or tweaks to the revolver. The 640-1, built upon a legacy of reliability, benefits from the collective experience and refined engineering of countless predecessors.
The Smith & Wesson 640-1 quickly gained prominence because of its stainless steel construction. It’s designed for those seeking a dependable firearm that can endure challenging conditions. Its reputation has only grown over time, solidifying its place as a highly sought-after option in the concealed carry realm.
Examining the Core: Specifications and Key Features
Key Specifications
The Smith & Wesson 640-1’s appeal stems from its combination of a compact size and potent performance. It offers a compelling package for those prioritizing concealability and stopping power. Let’s break down the key specifications:
The heart of the 640-1 is its ability to chamber .357 Magnum or .38 Special cartridges. This versatility makes it a good option for those seeking both power and manageable recoil. The choice between .357 Magnum and .38 Special gives shooters the flexibility to choose the ammunition best suited to their needs.
The capacity of the 640-1 is five rounds. While this capacity may seem limited compared to some semi-automatic pistols, it is standard for many concealed carry revolvers, prioritizing compactness and reliability.
The frame is crafted from stainless steel, which is a defining feature of the 640-1. This choice of material provides exceptional durability, corrosion resistance, and contributes to the revolver’s longevity. This construction is a major benefit for concealed carry, as it makes the 640-1 resistant to sweat and the elements, which are commonly encountered when carrying a firearm close to the body.
The grip is commonly made from rubber or a synthetic material. The grip design is crucial for providing a comfortable and secure hold, crucial for managing recoil, and ensuring accuracy.
The barrel length is compact, designed to maximize concealability. This size enhances concealability.
The overall length is likewise optimized for ease of concealment. The balance of compactness and power is a cornerstone of the 640-1’s design.
The weight, though varying slightly depending on the specific configuration, is generally manageable. This weight aids in concealment and adds to the ease with which the revolver can be carried throughout the day.
The sights are generally basic but effective. The front sight is a fixed ramp, and the rear sight is typically a fixed notch. These sights are simple to acquire.
Design and Feel: Understanding the Ergonomics
The Design
Beyond the specifications, the Smith & Wesson 640-1 impresses with its design and ergonomics, which enhance the experience of owning and shooting this revolver.
The overall design is streamlined, reflecting the intent for deep concealment. The smooth lines and absence of protruding edges minimize the chances of snagging on clothing or equipment.
The grip is well-contoured, designed for a comfortable and secure hold. The grip allows for a solid purchase, allowing the shooter to maintain control, even under the pressure of recoil. The grip also contributes to the ease with which the shooter can point the revolver.
Trigger and Sights
The trigger pull is a central feature of the 640-1. This revolver features a double-action only trigger. The trigger pull is a bit longer and heavier than a single-action pull, but it offers a high degree of safety. The trigger has a consistent, predictable pull.
The sights are simple, but the design allows for quick target acquisition. The sights are straightforward, easy to use. They provide adequate accuracy for self-defense situations.
Loading and Unloading
Loading and unloading the cylinder is a user-friendly process. The cylinder swings out smoothly, offering easy access for loading and unloading. The ejector rod quickly clears spent casings, making the process efficient.
Shooting Experience: Performance and Reliability
Recoil and Accuracy
The true test of any firearm lies in its performance on the range. The Smith & Wesson 640-1 offers a unique shooting experience.
The recoil is substantial, particularly when using .357 Magnum ammunition. The compact size and lightweight frame amplify the felt recoil. Shooters comfortable with managing recoil will find the .357 Magnum a potent self-defense cartridge. Those less accustomed may prefer .38 Special loads.
Accuracy, for a revolver of this size, is respectable. The inherent accuracy of the design allows the shooter to place rounds on target. The fixed sights are adequate for close-quarters self-defense scenarios.
Reliability and Ammunition
Reliability is a hallmark of the Smith & Wesson 640-1. The revolver’s simple design and durable construction lend themselves to dependable performance. The smooth double-action trigger and robust components contribute to a consistent shooting experience.
Regarding ammunition compatibility, the Smith & Wesson 640-1 handles both .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges. The versatility allows the shooter to choose between the increased power of the Magnum rounds or the milder recoil of the .38 Special rounds. .38 Special rounds are a popular choice for practice and concealed carry due to their manageable recoil.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
Like any firearm, the Smith & Wesson 640-1 has its strengths and weaknesses. An informed decision comes from assessing the advantages and disadvantages.
Among the strengths, the compact design makes it highly concealable, ideal for everyday carry. The stainless steel construction provides durability, providing excellent resistance to wear and tear. Reliability is a major selling point, built on a proven design. The ability to chamber .357 Magnum ammunition gives shooters the power to stop a threat. The ease of maintenance, and the relative simplicity of the design, are other notable advantages.
Disadvantages
The disadvantages include the heavy recoil, especially when shooting .357 Magnum rounds. The small grip might not be a good fit for everyone, making it less comfortable to hold for some shooters. The limited capacity, at five rounds, requires more careful shot placement, as well as faster reloading if a second magazine is needed. The long trigger pull demands practice to master.
A Consideration for Concealed Carry
Concealability
The Smith & Wesson 640-1 is a natural choice for concealed carry due to its small size, robust construction, and ease of concealment. It ticks many of the boxes that concealed carriers look for.
When choosing a holster, options are abundant. Inside-the-waistband holsters provide discreet concealment, perfect for everyday carry. Pocket holsters enable quick deployment when concealed in a pocket. Ankle holsters are another option.
The overall profile allows for easy concealment. Clothing choices are essential. Loose-fitting garments help obscure the firearm.
Maintaining Your Investment: Care and Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the long life and reliability of your Smith & Wesson 640-1. Cleaning after shooting is essential. A thorough cleaning involves disassembling the revolver and cleaning the cylinder, barrel, and other components with appropriate cleaning solvents and lubricants.
The revolver should be stored in a safe place, away from children, and in a moisture-controlled environment.
Comparisons with Other Options
Comparing the Smith & Wesson 640-1 to other revolvers provides a broader perspective. The other J-frame revolvers, like the 642, offer a similar profile. Other options include the Ruger LCR.
The Final Verdict
The Smith & Wesson 640-1 has established itself as a reliable and formidable choice for concealed carry. Its combination of compact size, robust construction, and a powerful chambering, make it an excellent option for self-defense. The revolver’s simple design promotes reliability and ease of maintenance. The ergonomic design and easy-to-use controls contribute to a user-friendly experience. The .357 Magnum chambering provides substantial stopping power when needed. While recoil can be substantial and the capacity is limited, the 640-1 is an ideal choice for those who prioritize concealability and stopping power.
If you are seeking a dependable, easy-to-carry revolver, the Smith & Wesson 640-1 is certainly worth considering.
Addressing Common Questions
Beginners
Is the Smith & Wesson 640-1 a suitable choice for beginners? While the revolver’s simplicity is attractive, the heavy recoil and double-action trigger pull can present challenges for beginners. New shooters might benefit from starting with a .38 Special model, eventually transitioning to the more potent .357 Magnum rounds as they become more comfortable with handling recoil.
Model Differences and Pricing
What is the distinction between the Smith & Wesson 640 and the 640-1? The difference is mostly related to minor refinements in the design or manufacturing, and a specific generation. The general construction and performance remain generally the same, and are primarily related to engineering changes.
What is the typical cost of the 640-1? The price will vary depending on the market, condition, and any customization options. But, in general, this revolver can be found at a reasonable price.
Holster Recommendations
What holster is recommended? The best holster depends on the individual’s body type, carry preference, and clothing choices. Inside-the-waistband holsters offer maximum concealment, while pocket holsters are convenient for everyday carry.
The Smith & Wesson 640-1 is a strong contender in the realm of concealed carry firearms. Its blend of power, durability, and portability has earned it a dedicated following. The revolver offers a compelling option for those who seek a reliable and effective self-defense tool.
