S&W Quality Strikes Again - J-Frame Model 640 Black Review

Published on September 21, 2025
Duration: 16:44

This review of the Smith & Wesson Performance Center 640 Black J-Frame revolver highlights its potential as a deep concealment hand cannon chambered in .357 Magnum. While praising its robust Cerakote finish, dovetail sights, and moon clip compatibility, the reviewer expresses significant frustration with Smith & Wesson's quality control, citing persistent internal functional issues even after warranty service. The video contrasts the revolver's reliability in extreme close-quarters with the higher capacity and accessory options of modern semi-automatics, ultimately concluding that while a good example can be an heirloom, purchasing one carries a significant risk due to current manufacturing quality.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Performance Center 640 Black is a robust 5-shot, .357 Magnum J-frame revolver praised for its durable Cerakote finish, tritium night sights, and moon clip compatibility. While offering guaranteed reliability in close-quarters, the reviewer highlights significant quality control issues, including persistent trigger malfunctions even after warranty repair, making it a risky choice for defensive carry.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Quality Control Issues
  2. 00:12Smith & Wesson 640 Black Overview
  3. 01:18J-Frame vs. Other S&W Frame Sizes
  4. 02:05Features: Barrel, Sights, Finish
  5. 02:30Cerakote Finish Durability
  6. 03:55Performance Center Trigger Claims
  7. 04:21Why Carry a Heavy J-Frame?
  8. 05:12Reasons for Revolver Carry: Reliability
  9. 06:26Semi-Auto Comparison: Glock 43X
  10. 07:11Second Reason: Concealable Powerhouse
  11. 07:53Recoil Management: Steel vs. Scandium
  12. 09:40Deep Concealment Hand Cannon: Ammo Choice
  13. 10:47Negatives: J-Frame General Issues
  14. 11:25Critical Functional Issues: Trigger Malfunction
  15. 13:12Distinguishing Functional vs. Cosmetic Issues
  16. 13:54Quality Control Across Brands
  17. 14:43S&W's Legacy and Current State
  18. 15:05Informed Consent & Risk
  19. 15:15Professional Gunsmithing Options
  20. 15:41Performance Center Price vs. Quality
  21. 16:09Sponsor: DPM Systems

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Smith & Wesson Performance Center 640 Black revolver?

The S&W 640 Black is a five-shot, .357 Magnum J-frame revolver with a 2-inch barrel, weighing 23 oz. It features a durable black Cerakote finish, hammerless double-action-only operation, no internal lock, full-size dovetail cut three-dot tritium night sights, and a cylinder cut for moon clips.

Why would someone choose a heavy J-frame revolver like the S&W 640 for concealed carry?

Despite its weight, the 640 is chosen for its guaranteed reliability in extreme close-quarters combat, where semi-automatics can fail. It's also a potent 'hand cannon' capable of firing .357 Magnum rounds, offering significant defensive power in a concealable package, especially when carried on the belt.

What are the main quality control concerns with the Smith & Wesson 640 Black reviewed?

The primary concern is persistent internal functional issues, specifically the trigger failing to reset or getting stuck to the rear. This problem occurred even after the firearm was sent back to Smith & Wesson for warranty service, raising serious doubts about its reliability for defensive use.

How does the S&W 640 Black's recoil management compare to lighter J-frame revolvers?

The heavier stainless steel frame of the 640 makes managing .357 Magnum recoil significantly easier than lighter Scandium alloy J-frames. This allows for more comfortable shooting, better follow-up shots, and greater durability over extended use.

What ammunition does the reviewer recommend for the S&W 640 Black?

The reviewer uses Barnes TAC-XPD 125-grain .357 Magnum rounds, which achieve around 1200 fps from the 2-inch barrel and expand to about three-quarters of an inch. These rounds offer substantial penetration and expansion, making them effective defensive loads from this revolver.

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