As is my custom when I pick up a new gun, I have it sent to my local FFL/Indoor range so I can immediately run a 100 rounds through it.

Today was no exception. I got the call my brand new 625JM came in this AM, I left the office and ran over to the range to shoot some rounds.

First thing I noticed was N Frame guns are BIG guns! I only have 1 other N Frame, a 627PC 2.6". The short barrel makes it seem a bit smaller than a 4". This is not a carry gun for me, so the size does not really matter. But I do know that I will never be carrying a 4" N Frame concealed.





Next thing I noticed is the trigger is a bit heavier than I am used to. All of my dozen S&W revolvers have aftermarket action jobs or are Performance Center pieces. But it is not bad at all. I have handled new J Frames that have heavier triggers than my 625. The pull is pretty smooth though, so I can't complain.

I had never shot a 45acp revolver before. It was quite an experience. Recoil is not at all sharp, as the 45acp in general is not a sharp recoiling round, but it is somewhat stout. Stouter than I thought it would be from a 42oz revolver. But it is totally manageable, and with a little practice it is not hard to get right back on target. The muzzle does not flip that much at all. It is a very different experience from shooting a 357.





After a few cylinders I was in love. The gun is very accurate, though I will need a few range trips to work it out and get used to the large N Frame in 45acp. Though the balance of this gun is really excellent and allows it to point very naturally. It feels like a natural extension of your hand when you hold it up to the target.

I wish I had brought more than a 100 rounds on moon clips with me, I was having a lot of fun. I don't know what it is exactly, but it really is a very fun gun to shoot and you just don't want to stop. Can't wait to take her out again.

My first 4 cylinders fired are pictured below. All shooting is done Double Action. I definitely need to get used to the heavy trigger and handling the large N Frame:





I absolutely love the Gold Bead front sight and black rear blade. It is an excellent sighting system, great for quickly picking up your target.

The grips are perfect for me, exactly the kind of grips I would put on this gun if they did not come with them. Long and slim smooth wood grips with NO finger grooves. Just perfect.

The only thing I do not love about the gun is the grooved trigger. The grooves are surprising sharp, and my finger is sore. I much prefer a smooth faced trigger.



Overall the fit and finish are absolutely excellent on this gun. Barrel is straight, no tool marks on the forcing cone (as I have seen on so many new S&W revolvers), and the timing is perfect. There is just something about this gun that makes it feel like it will last forever. Great piece!

They are rather addictive to shoot! A controllable recoil that just has a 'different' feel than other guns/calibers.

yes that gold bead sure picks up light and is very easy to see!

Glad you are happy with your new shooter, they are easy to soften up too on trigger and pull. Curious, are you shooting SA or DA?

Have fun and congrats on a sweet revolver
Karl

Nice, I like it. Been thinking about getting one, actually.

A little gentle work with a Dremel tool will reduce the sharpness, or remove the grooves in that trigger. I much prefer a smooth, polished trigger for DA use as well.

Larry

Very nice!!!! Great looking grips.

I have had my JM Special 625-8 for several years. It IS an enjoyable piece to shoot. In fact, it is my most often shot revolver (and I have a few).

I cast my own bullets and reload. My "standard" load for the range is a Mihec mould for the HG #68 (200 gr SWC) and 4.0 grs. of Bullseye or equivalent (currently Titegroup). I also, on occasion shoot the NOE version of the Lyman 454424 (250 gr Keith). Ahead of 7.0 grs. of Unique it chronographs at 900+ fps and is good medicine for deer or hogs at reasonable ranges. If I am looking for a full power load with a quick reload, then the Lee 230 gr Truncated Cone bullet does the trick as it loads like quicksilver with full moon clips.

I mostly use .45 Auto Rim cases for the range but also use .45 ACP with both Ranch Products steel full moon clips or, most often, RIMZ clips (do not require tools). Their latest hydrocarbon/polymer clips retain quite well if you happen to drop a loaded clip.

HarrisMasher you have "done good"!

FWIW
Dale53

I only shoot DA. I always try practice the way I would use the gun in the real world.

Yes I will definitely have to hit the grooves on the trigger with my Dremel. My finger is still very raw, had I shot much more it would have been bleeding for sure.

I have also got into shooting 45acp revolvers. A few months ago I bought a lnib 325sc because I like light weight for carry. Between my others a 329ng 337ti & 340pd I realized I didn't have an all steel S&W. I found a 625-2 for sale on another forum that sat in the mans safe for decades. Its in perfect shape with beautiful rb factory combats. I put 84 rounds through it on Saturday & these 625's really shoot accurately & with light recoil. Now I know what I have been missing.