[shooterer]

Thanks for looking,
I am in the market for an .45 acp 625. Could someone please direct me to a place that I can find out what the different dash numbers (-3, -8) refer to? Is there any years or models I should stay away from? Any info would be great.

Thanks,
Shooterer

[pinotguy]

The "-X" system that S&W uses refers to subsequent models that are modified from the original, base model. These modifications could be minor (going from an unfluted cylinder to a fluted one, for example) to fairly major (different bbl. length/style - think Mountain Gun variants).

I believe the current 625's available right now are the 625-8, 625-8 Jerry Miculek model, and the 625-9 (Mt. Gun - .45 Long Colt). There are also the Performance Center models. I have a 625-8 with the 5" bbl. They also offer this with a 4" bbl. All of these variations are well-made and you should be fine with whatever one you choose. The older 625's and 25's were nice guns too and should serve you well, provided it was well taken of.

[Iggy]

http://www.handloads.com/misc/Smith.Model.Changes.asp

[ChristopherG]

I have a vague memory that there were some potential problems with the -2, which was the 'original' stainless, full-lugged re-introduction model of the .45acp wheelgun by S&W. It had previously been known as the model of 1955 or the 25, and I think that went out of production around '79 or '80. Anyway, the 625-2 came out in '88, and had a few problems which were corrected in the -3 of '89 (and for a long time afterward, all 625's were engraved 'model of 1989').

I don't know of any serious issues after the -3. My -3 has probly 10,000 rds of ACP and AR through it, from 185 grs moving just fast enough to make a PF of 125, to 255 grs humping over a thousand fps. No problems yet.

[shooterer]

Thanks Iggy, I've seen that chart before but I didn't see anything about the 625 dashes only the frame type.

(I may have overlooked it if it's in there)

Thanks again every one.
Shooterer

[00blkgt]

I just wanted to add that this is my favorite model to shoot. I have been very pleased with my dash eight model. Just go out and buy one and I'm sure that you will feel the same.
J;)

[Iggy]

I never bothered to look and see if your model was there.:o