Shooting and Reviewing the Smith & Wesson Model 940 9mm Revolver

S&W Model 940 9mm Revolver Overview

• 🎯 The Smith & Wesson Model 940 is a 9mm revolver featuring a concealed hammer in the Centennial style, similar to the long-standing Model 640.
• 💡 While some may find its appearance unconventional due to the lack of a hammer spur, it's recognized by those "in the know" as a functional design.

9mm Ammunition and Clips

• ⚡ The Model 940 fires 9mm rounds using special clips, as the 9mm cartridge's rimless design causes it to seat too deeply in the cylinder without one.
• ⚠️ The speaker initially doubted the need for clips but discovered through testing that they are necessary for proper headspacing and firing pin engagement.
• ⚙️ Experience with similar clips in competition (IPSC matches) highlights their utility for reloading revolvers.

Advantages of the Model 940

• 🌟 The revolver offers the familiarity and comfort of a double-action-only mechanism, which is beneficial under stress.
• 🔫 It provides the option to use a wide variety of 9mm ammunition, including preferred hollow-point rounds like Gold Dot or HST.
• 🎯 The concealed hammer design is praised for its reliability and suitability for concealed carry.
• ✨ The firearm is described as attractive, with a fluted barrel, underlug, and a tritium-equipped XS Big Dot front sight.

Disadvantages and Comparisons

• ⚖️ A significant negative is its weight, nearly 24 oz, comparable to a Glock 19, making pocket carry less advantageous than expected.
• 💥 The capacity is limited to five rounds, significantly less than semi-automatic pistols like the Glock 19 (15-16 rounds).
• 🤔 The choice between the 9mm Model 940 and its 357 Magnum counterpart (Model 640) is a matter of preference, with neither chambering fully optimized in such a small frame.

Shooting and Accuracy

• 🎯 The revolver demonstrated good accuracy, hitting the bullseye with hollow-point rounds.
• 🕳️ It successfully fed and fired hollow-point ammunition without issues on the feed ramp.
• 💥 The firearm is considered a good option for self-defense, especially when carried in a belt holster where its weight is less noticeable.