First Shots: S&W Model 625-6 w/3" Bbl...

[Stephen A. Camp]

Hello. At the last gun show, I came across a like new S&W 3" Model 625 chambered for .45 ACP and Auto Rim. Finally, I got a little unexpected free time and wagged it and several different loads in ACP and AR to the range.

I've owned a Model 625 5" Model of 1989 since I bought it new and wondered how this later incantation of the gun would perform.


This like new Model 625-6 was used for the range evaluation. I slapped on a pair of Eagle Secret Service grips and used them on the revolver during this shooting session. They will stay right where they are.

Cutting to the chase, there were no malfunctions of any kind and the revolver grouped very nicely with all of the ammo that I had available.

The 15 yard targets were fired while I was seated and with my wrists braced using sandbags. At 15 yards, I fired slow-fire and in single-action.


This 12-shot group was fired using a 255-gr. CSWC handload. (I mistakenly wrote "250-gr" on the target that is pictured.) None of the groups fired at 15 yards were larger than this one.

I only fired on "practical" type target using the same 255-gr. handload. It was done at 7 yards, standing, two-handed and in double-action with each shot fired as quickly as I could obtain a sight picture.


The Model 625 handled plenty well in double-action. The 3" gun surprised me in that it had considerably more muzzle flip than my 5" version.

I also chronographed several loads from this revolver. Average velocities are based on 10 shots fired 10' from the muzzle.

Model 625-6 3" Average Velocities (ft/sec):

.45 Auto Rim:

Corbon 160-gr. DPX: 1052

200-gr. Sierra Competition JFN: 707
4.2-gr. Bullseye
WLP Primer
R-P Cases

200-gr. Speer JHP: 858
7.2-gr. Unique
WLP Primer
R-P Cases

Corbon 230-gr. FMJ: 801

255-gr. Kead CSWC: 810
6.0-gr. Unique
WLP Primer
R-P Cases

.45 ACP w/Moon Clips:

Corbon 185-gr. DPX +P: 972

Winchester USA 230-gr. FMJ: 797

Winchester Ranger 230-gr. JHP: 843

Federal 230-gr. HST +P: 921

There were no malfunctions of any kind and no shooting was done beyond 15 yards. It was just too hot and I didn't have much time.

In short, I am more pleased with this revolver than I initially expected and will be hanging on to it.

For those interested in a more detailed report:

http://www.hipowersandhandguns.com/S...Evaluation.htm

Best.

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[jwkimber45]

Very Nice. I'd say its a keeper!!!!

[P95Carry]

I am impressed with that Steve - not just good but darned good. Now it seems despite having my 5" - I just might have to keep alert for a 3".!

As always thanks for sharing your investigative efforts

[rstickle]

Wow, looking at those targets, I'll take two! That sure outs out a nice group.

[Redneck Repairs]

looks like its a keeper lol

[Bud White]

Better Sell it to me it Sucks..



Looks like a great gun the 3" would be nice

[soonerjh]

nice gun, great range report, thanks!

[Stephen A. Camp]

Hello and thanks to all for their responses.

Best.

[srfl]

Excellent gun....excellent report Mr. C!

...now where's my credit card?

[gpsdreams]

Nice, I've been thinking about picking up one of those my self.

[dimmak]

sweet...
like to have one with 1.5" bbl for pocket carry...

[Jungle Work]

I just hate it when I don't have one of those. Can't find a 696 either.
And bad Juju shall follow me in obtaining the revolvers I really need.

Jungle Work

[frankmako]

great gun and range report. good group.