S & W 940

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351 WINCHESTER

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Probably one of the most underated/overlooked revolvers. I was surprised at the velocity I got from it's 2" bbl. Positive extraction and the quickest reload (full moon clips) on this planet. This is the only revolver that I purchased new that had the front sight filed to to regulate the point of impact. To this day S & W denies they filed it down, but that's the way it came. I sometimes wonder why they quit making them. They probably didn't have enough demand for them. If they brought them out again I'd probably get another. Yes the clips are a pain in the but to load and unload, but with the recoil I never shot that much anyway. Over the years it developed a little bit of end shake, but not a problem. Now that's one hot revolver.
 
Most folks think that the rather serious extraction problems many (not all) examples of the 940 had caused Smith to end production.
I know mine got bad after only one or two cylinderfuls and I tended not to shoot it as a result. Finally, in preparation of a sale, I sent it to Smith complaining about both the extraction trouble and a torque-ringed (overtightened) barrel.
They replaced both the cylinder and barrel and sent it back, all for no charge.
When I got it back and shot it, it was so good that now it's my only Smith J-snub. Needless to say, it's no longer for sale.
Bill
 
When I first bought her I noticed that the bbl/cylinder gap was excessive. I measured it a a little over .011. Sent it back to smith and they adjusted it to about .006. Never had a problem with hard extraction. This is one powerful snubby for sure.
 
I've had two. First one had HORRIBLE extraction problems, even after a trip back to Smith. Even with standard pressure, nickel plated cases, like HydraSHok ammo, it would require opening the cylinder and pushing the ejector rod on the shooting bench to empty the cases. I sold it off, with full disclosure of my experience. The second one is still in my right front pocket.
 
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