I bought a gun from a magazine article in 1994! Smith & Wesson 640 Jack Weigand 4PJ Executive Part 1

Published on January 22, 2025
Duration: 14:43

This video details a rare Smith & Wesson Model 640 revolver customized by the legendary gunsmith Jack Weigand. The presenter, a firearms enthusiast, discovered the gun locally and researched its unique features, including Hybra porting and internal polishing, which were documented in a 1994 American Handgunner magazine article. The video highlights the historical significance of Weigand's work and the value of such custom firearms.

Quick Summary

A Jack Weigand custom Smith & Wesson Model 640 from the 1990s features unique Hybra porting, internal polishing, and trigger tuning. Documented in a 1994 American Handgunner article, these rare revolvers are highly valued by collectors for their exceptional craftsmanship and historical significance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Collecting and Special Editions
  2. 00:32Searching for a Smith & Wesson Model 640
  3. 01:41First Look at the Found Revolver
  4. 02:00Identifying Unique Markings and Barrel Profile
  5. 02:21Grip Modifications and Condition Assessment
  6. 03:10Cleaning and Initial Inspection
  7. 03:24Trigger Pull Measurement and Feel
  8. 03:48Ported Barrel and Adjustable Sights
  9. 04:04Almost Passing on the Purchase
  10. 04:25Discovery: It's a No-Lock Model
  11. 04:50Dating the No-Lock Model (Mid-1990s)
  12. 05:08Closer Inspection: Polished Trigger Face
  13. 05:32Speculation: Custom Shop or Early Performance Center?
  14. 05:51Researching the 'W' Marking and Hybra Porting
  15. 06:03Magazine Article Reveal: Jack Weigand Connection
  16. 06:28Understanding Hybra Porting Design
  17. 06:56Introducing Jack Weigand
  18. 07:15Jack Weigand's Background and Expertise
  19. 07:50The 1994 American Handgunner Article
  20. 08:54Jack Weigand's Custom Touches on the 640
  21. 09:03Recreating Magazine Article Poses
  22. 09:22Detailed Custom Features: Ball Detent
  23. 09:43Polishing Work on the Cylinder
  24. 09:53Shrouded Barrel with Hybra Ports
  25. 10:10Side Profile and Cylinder Release
  26. 10:20Internal Polishing and Trigger Pull
  27. 10:32Hybra Porting: Tapered Jet Nozzle Design
  28. 10:44Polished Trigger Face for Smoothness
  29. 10:56Grip Options: Uncle Mike's and Craig Spiegel
  30. 11:30Original Purchase and Customization Cost (1994)
  31. 11:57Estimated Cost of Similar Work Today
  32. 12:41Comparison with Modern Performance Center Models
  33. 13:00A Piece of History: The Legend of Jack Weigand
  34. 13:13Range Test: Hybra Porting Effectiveness
  35. 13:27Loudness of Hybra Ported Firearms
  36. 13:55Conclusion and Future Content Tease
  37. 14:07Upcoming Shoot-Off Competition
  38. 14:17Call for Viewer Stories: Weigand Specials

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Jack Weigand custom Smith & Wesson Model 640?

A Jack Weigand custom Smith & Wesson Model 640 is a rare revolver from the 1990s modified by gunsmith Jack Weigand. These customizations often include unique Hybra porting on the barrel, internal polishing, trigger tuning, and specialized grips, making them highly sought after by collectors.

What is Hybra Porting and who patented it for firearms?

Hybra Porting is a firearm barrel porting system characterized by tapered, funnel-like ports on the top of the barrel, designed to reduce muzzle rise. The system was patented by Jack Weigand for use on firearms, drawing inspiration from rocketry technology.

Why are no-lock Smith & Wesson revolvers from the 1990s significant?

No-lock Smith & Wesson revolvers from the mid-1990s are significant because they were produced during the transition period before internal locking mechanisms became standard on most models. This makes them desirable for collectors who prefer firearms without the internal lock system.

What kind of custom work did Jack Weigand perform on revolvers?

Jack Weigand performed extensive custom work on revolvers, including installing his patented Hybra Porting, polishing internal components for a smoother action, tuning triggers for a crisp pull, adding ball detents for tighter lockup, and fitting custom grips. His work aimed to enhance performance and aesthetics.

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