The Smith & Wesson 625: A Revolver Like No Other
The Smith & Wesson 625 is a revolver that has been a favorite among handgun enthusiasts for decades. Known for its durability, accuracy, and versatility, this firearm has earned a reputation as one of the best in its class. Here are five facts about the Smith & Wesson 625 that you might not know:
1. Origins and Design
The Smith & Wesson 625 was first introduced in 1988 as a variant of the company’s popular Model 25. The Model 25 was designed to fire.45 Colt cartridges, but the 625 was chambered for the more powerful.45 ACP round. The 625 was created to meet the needs of law enforcement and competitive shooters who required a reliable and accurate revolver that could handle the high-pressure.45 ACP cartridge.
2. Moon Clips and Reloading
One of the unique features of the Smith & Wesson 625 is its use of moon clips to hold the.45 ACP cartridges in place. Moon clips are small, crescent-shaped devices that hold the cartridges together, allowing them to be loaded and unloaded quickly and easily. This design makes the 625 faster to reload than traditional revolvers, which is a significant advantage in competitive shooting and self-defense situations.
đź“ť Note: Moon clips can be reused multiple times, but they should be inspected regularly for wear and tear to ensure reliable function.
3. Strength and Durability
The Smith & Wesson 625 is built on the company’s N-frame, which is known for its exceptional strength and durability. The N-frame is designed to handle high-pressure cartridges like the.45 ACP, and it provides a solid foundation for the revolver’s other components. The 625’s stainless steel construction adds to its durability, making it resistant to corrosion and wear.
4. Accuracy and Performance
The Smith & Wesson 625 is renowned for its accuracy and performance. The revolver features a fixed sight system, which provides a consistent aiming point for shooters. The 625’s trigger pull is also notable, with a smooth, double-action pull that makes it easy to fire the revolver quickly and accurately. In terms of ballistics, the 625 is capable of delivering impressive velocities and energies, making it suitable for a variety of shooting applications.
| Cartridge | Velocity (ft/s) | Energy (ft-lb) |
|---|---|---|
| .45 ACP | 850-900 | 370-410 |
5. Collectibility and Legacy
The Smith & Wesson 625 has become a collector’s item in recent years, with many variants and special editions being produced over the years. The revolver’s popularity among competitive shooters and law enforcement agencies has also contributed to its collectibility. As a testament to its enduring popularity, the 625 has been featured in numerous films and television shows, cementing its place in popular culture.
The Smith & Wesson 625 is a revolver that has earned a reputation for its exceptional performance, durability, and versatility. Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a law enforcement officer, or simply a firearms enthusiast, the 625 is a gun that is sure to impress. With its unique features, impressive ballistics, and collectibility, the Smith & Wesson 625 is a revolver that is sure to remain popular for years to come.
In summary, the Smith & Wesson 625 is a remarkable firearm that offers a unique combination of performance, durability, and collectibility. Its moon clip design, stainless steel construction, and impressive ballistics make it a favorite among shooters, while its collectibility and legacy have cemented its place in firearms history.
What is the difference between the Smith & Wesson 625 and the Model 25?
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The main difference between the Smith & Wesson 625 and the Model 25 is the cartridge they are chambered for. The Model 25 is chambered for the.45 Colt cartridge, while the 625 is chambered for the.45 ACP cartridge.
Can I use moon clips with other revolvers?
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No, moon clips are specifically designed for use with the Smith & Wesson 625 and other revolvers that are chambered for the.45 ACP cartridge. Using moon clips with other revolvers may not be safe or reliable.
Is the Smith & Wesson 625 still in production?
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No, the Smith & Wesson 625 is no longer in production. However, the company still produces other revolvers that are chambered for the.45 ACP cartridge.
