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Old 07-28-2016, 11:14 PM
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640 Pro Series or M&P 340 - help me choose!!! 640 Pro Series or M&P 340 - help me choose!!! 640 Pro Series or M&P 340 - help me choose!!! 640 Pro Series or M&P 340 - help me choose!!! 640 Pro Series or M&P 340 - help me choose!!!  
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Default 640 Pro Series or M&P 340 - help me choose!!!

Hey guys,

So I'm really stuck between buying a 640 Pro Series or a M&P 340 (w/o lock), and need some help deciding!

There's a lot of similarities between the two, but both of them have some distinct differences. Both have the internal hammer, no internal lock, .357 mag, j frames, similar in price, and are both awesome guns!

The 640 Pro has the full night sights, moon clips, and upgraded looks (fluted barrel), but the M&P 340 is considerably lighter (13oz vs 23oz), has the nice black finish, and still has the big dot front sight.

Whichever I choose will be an EDC and will endure a lot of practice time at the range.

I was considering a 649, but think I have since ruled it out - now it's between the 640 Pro Series and M&P 340.

I'm stuck between the two - help me decide and tell me which one you would pick!

EDIT: I guess the biggest question is if the lighter weight and slight bit of more concealability from the M&P 340 is worth a little more recoil, and giving up the extra features on the 640 Pro?
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Old 07-28-2016, 11:32 PM
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Welcome to the Forum

I own several Smith and Wesson Centennials and other J-frames


I carry the heaviest one that my activities and style of dress allow.

Different tools for different jobs. This choice between these two is also dependant on your personal skill level and tolerance, or lack thereof, for recoil

I own the 340s because there are situations where I need to carry but will be in shorts or swimwear. That rules out a 24+ ounce firearm in my pocket

Understand that firing a 357 Magnum round, even in the heaviest of these 2" J-frames, is not fun. These are your "I walked into a bad place and now need to save my butt guns." These are not target guns or plinking guns. They are not designed for spending a day at the range with a few boxes of ammunition

Shooting full 357 Magnums in the Scandium framed pocket pistols is too brutal to be tolerated by 90%+ of the shooters that buy them.

My 340s have more than 7000 full power 357 Magnums through them so far. Myself and probably close to 100 of my associates have used my 340s to shoot for qualification. Not everyone makes it. One of the LTs described firing full magnums in my 340PD Scandium/Titanium J-frame as "A Character Defining Moment," yes he did qualify.

If you alter your profile to let us know where in Florida you are, perhaps a forum member will offer to let you try a 340. If you are in South East Florida, I will gladly meet you at the range so you can try mine.

I actually had a fellow Forum Member at the range today trying one of the 360J Scandium revovlers

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Old 07-29-2016, 12:00 AM
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I'm a little like colt saa, I have one of each, and a bunch of others as well. My lightest is the 340 PD, at 11 point something ozs., then the M&P 340 at 13 ozs., and my other modern centennial style is the 640-1 Pro Series, at about 23 ounces. All are Cenntenniel style, smooth draw, could be fired from inside a jacket (not recommended, however), and I rotate through them none with the "Internal Lock". I will never own one with the lock. I like all of them. For pocket carry, the 340 PD is nice, as it weighs so little. But I also sometimes pocket carry the heavier 640, and truth to be told, there isn't much difference in feel. For belt carry in a holster, go for the heavier one. Easier to shoot, less recoil.

Also, what colt saa said about recoil is an important part of the equation, as practice is a must. I literally thought that I had broken a bone in my hand when I first fired my 340 PD with full house, 158 grain magnum ammo. Someone likened it to lighting an M80, and just letting it go off in your hand!

Get one of each!!!

Best Regards, Les
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Last edited by les.b; 05-03-2017 at 04:58 PM. Reason: Add a thought...correct handgun weights
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Old 07-29-2016, 12:14 AM
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Thanks Guys! I'm just outside of Tampa, Florida.

I understand recoil will be tuff in either model, which is why I tend to be leaning towards the 640 Pro. I wear a suit and tie Monday through Friday, so concealment is a huge factor for me. I've shot some .357 in 4" barrels, but not im a snub nose j frame yet. I have been shooting a friends 442, and really like it, but it's. 38sp only.
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Old 07-29-2016, 12:20 AM
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Hey! I forgot to welcome you to the forum!!! Welcome! After you figure out what's best, stick around. This is a wonderful place to learn and share information.

I forgot to add that I use Speer 135 gr Gold Dot .357 mag Short Barrel ammo in all three variations of the Centennials that I spoke of. Less recoil, less muzzle flash, and optimized for the short barrel. Downside: hard to find, and expensive, like $1.50 per round! But what price can you put on a potentially life saving investment? Recoil is not bad in the 11 ouncer, and not bad in the 23 ouncer.

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Old 07-29-2016, 02:02 AM
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Welcome aboard.

You've narrowed your selection down to two great choices. I have one of each.

les.b: I believe S&W lists the M&P 340 at 13.3 oz and the 640 Pro at 23.

I don't notice the difference in weight in my Lobo Gun Leather Enhanced Pancake Holster mounted on a 1¾" Milt Sparks lined leather belt. Depending upon what I'm doing I wear the holster in the appendix or kidney positions with equal comfort.

I've been carrying Speer 135gr Gold Dot Short Barrel .38+P, which pushes the guns' weights to 1 and 1½ lbs, respectively (and that's with the moon clips in the 640 Pro). I received my order of Barnes TAC-XPD .357 125gr Hollow Point Lead-Free today so I'm going to give that a go in both guns. This magnum ammo is light and adds less than a quarter oz to each gun's weight.

Please let us know what you decide, but I agree with les.b: get one of each!

Cheers,

Bob
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Old 07-29-2016, 10:43 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by two-bit cowboy View Post
Welcome aboard.

You've narrowed your selection down to two great choices. I have one of each.

les.b: I believe S&W lists the M&P 340 at 13.3 oz and the 640 Pro at 23.

I don't notice the difference in weight in my Lobo Gun Leather Enhanced Pancake Holster mounted on a 1¾" Milt Sparks lined leather belt. Depending upon what I'm doing I wear the holster in the appendix or kidney positions with equal comfort.

I've been carrying Speer 135gr Gold Dot Short Barrel .38+P, which pushes the guns' weights to 1 and 1½ lbs, respectively (and that's with the moon clips in the 640 Pro).
Any preference to one or the other? What about for pocket carry?

Thanks!
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Old 07-29-2016, 11:59 AM
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I fired an AirLite five times with 357 ammo. I will not willingly ever do that again! After that experience, I bought a model 640 Pro for pocket carry. With a good Kramer holster and a sturdy belt, the weight isn't a problem for daily carry in my front pocket? The sights on the Pro are a real plus and I'm sold on moon clips as well.
If you have a chance, shoot an AirLite side by side with an all steel J frame and decide from there. I'm very pleased with my choise.
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Old 07-29-2016, 12:35 PM
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A lot of people, including me, feel that 38 special ammo is fine for a snub nose defensive carry pistol. With 357 magnum there is the risk of over penetration, increased blast and recoil and slower follow up shots. With the right ammo choice the 38 special is preferred in most cases. So that may affect your choice of an airweight vs an all steel snubbie
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Old 07-29-2016, 12:43 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ridgewalker View Post
A lot of people, including me, feel that 38 special ammo is fine for a snub nose defensive carry pistol. With 357 magnum there is the risk of over penetration, increased blast and recoil and slower follow up shots. With the right ammo choice the 38 special is preferred in most cases. So that may affect your choice of an airweight vs an all steel snubbie
Thanks for the feedback, but I'm set on a .357. Both the 640 Pro and M&P 340 are .357, which is why they're still in the running for me.

My question is really about the weight and pros/cons of each of the two models listed.
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Old 07-29-2016, 12:44 PM
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I wouldn't discard using exclusively 38 and 38 special +p in a J frame snub nose. Sure 357 is going to give you greater velocities but it will be at the cost of greater recoil and slower follow up shots. I'm not talking through experience because I have never fired 357 out of a snub nose. I have however shot some very potent 38 spl +p rounds (BB 158 +p) through my 642. It was not fun at all. I'm not recoil shy at all and I actually like hot loads. Once at the range I shot 100 plinking rounds out of my 642, I then proceeded to fire 5 BB 158 +P rounds. I didn't think it was all that bad until I looked down and observed blood splatter on my gun. I then looked at my hand and I had split the skin around the webbing of my thumb and index finger. A week later after I healed, I went back to the range and shot 150 plinking rounds and several other +p carry rounds other then BB and did not have that problem.


What I'm trying to say is, don't worry too much about having the ability to fire 357 or not when picking out a J frame. For its intended use, I'd stick with 38 and call it a day.

Last edited by GA_Sheepdog; 07-29-2016 at 12:45 PM.
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Old 07-29-2016, 12:47 PM
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Quote:
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I wouldn't discard using exclusively 38 and 38 special +p in a J frame snub nose. Sure 357 is going to give you greater velocities but it will be at the cost of greater recoil and slower follow up shots. I'm not talking through experience because I have never fired 357 out of a snub nose. I have however shot some very potent 38 spl +p rounds (BB 158 +p) through my 642. It was not fun at all. I'm not recoil shy at all and I actually like hot loads. Once at the range I shot 100 plinking rounds out of my 642, I then proceeded to fire 5 BB 158 +P rounds. I didn't think it was all that bad until I looked down and observed blood splatter on my gun. I then looked at my hand and I had split the skin around the webbing of my thumb and index finger. A week later after I healed, I went back to the range and shot 150 plinking rounds and several other +p carry rounds other then BB and did not have that problem.


What I'm trying to say is, don't worry too much about having the ability to fire 357 or not when picking out a J frame. For its intended use, I'd stick with 38 and call it a day.
My debate isn't which caliber to choose, it'swhich of the two models to choose. I understand where you're coming from, but I'm set on a .357.
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Old 07-29-2016, 12:51 PM
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All great points about using just .38spl, but I want a .357 and know I will end up with buyer's remorse if I don't get what I truly want.
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Old 07-29-2016, 01:07 PM
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Quote:
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All great points about using just .38spl, but I want a .357 and know I will end up with buyer's remorse if I don't get what I truly want.

I went through a similar decision when I was thinking about buying a J frame. Mine was between the 340M&P and the 642/442. I like you was interested in having the ability to fire 357. My thought process was, I could go to the range and shoot 38 spl and use 357 for carry. At the time I posted a thread over at Defensive Carry and had a lot of good information and experience passed on to me about both guns. In the end I went with the 642 due to me being able to purchase it for a very good LE price at Buds gunshop. I'm happy with my choice and the 38 round.


As far as your two choices:


640
Pro: Less felt recoil.
Con: Heavier and less likely to be happy with pocket carry.

340 M&P
Pro: Lighter, easier to carry.
Con: Much more felt recoil.


End the end, you have to figure out how you want to carry and what gun will better suit your needs.
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Old 07-29-2016, 02:27 PM
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Quote:
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Any preference to one or the other? What about for pocket carry?

Thanks!
Preference? Wow! Sort of like trying to say which of our two Australian shepherd pups is my favorite.

Reading reviews of these two guns doesn't make the decision easier; you can find (and might have already) sort of an equal split among reviewers who claim one of these is the "best" J-frame or ccw out there.

Both have a shroud around the ejector rod -- a must-have for me. And, like you, I wanted the ability to use .357s. I've had the 340 since early this year and picked up the 640 early this month. I bought the 640 to be an alternate, but...

Since I don't notice a difference in weight when I carry either of them in my Lobo holster, the 640 Pro has become my number 1 ccw. I appreciate its weight when I'm aiming and firing -- feels substantial -- in fact, sometimes I'd swear I was holding a K-frame, which might also come from those big Karl Nill stocks. Hogue makes a rubber Centennial "Tamer" that comes all the way up the backstrap, too. I might give a pair of those a go on the 340.

If I feel a need to take the 340 along for a walk in the woods with the pups I toss it in my inside left vest pocket (no holster). If I'm wearing one of my heavy flannel shirts I put it in the left breast pocket. Either way, I never know it's there -- it's only double the weight of Barbara's smart phone.

I've not tried to carry either one in a pants pocket (too much other "stuff" in those).

I've learned to appreciate the 640's moon clips and the full-length ejector rod. I haven't taught myself to be quick when unloading/reloading using the moon clips so I don't pack a spare when I'm out and about. I keep different types of ammo loaded in the three clips that came with it so changing from one to another based on where I'm headed is a piece of cake.

The 340 bucks a bit more, but I've never been one to shy away from recoil so that doesn't give me a problem. Enough time with any gun will allow the shooter to learn best practices for accommodating recoil and follow-on shot sighting.

In daylight -- speaking of sighting -- I can't say the 640's rear sight is any better than the 340's. In low or no light situations I've taught myself how best to use the 340's Tritium front sight, but I must admit I'm already faster getting a sight picture with the 640's triple dots.

Cost-wise, it was a tossup. I bought both guns NIB and actually paid $70 less for the 340 thanks to S&W's first responder/LE/military program.

I'm not sure I've answered your "tough" question or helped in your decision. Weights and features are the keys, but I'm sure those are what got you to this point.

Best of luck deciding,

Bob
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Last edited by two-bit cowboy; 07-29-2016 at 02:36 PM. Reason: talk about stocks
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Old 07-29-2016, 02:52 PM
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I've owned 640's and 340 M&P's.

I personally found the 640 a bit impractical for pocket carry while the 340 was ideal for it. If pocket carry isn't your preferred carry method and you insist on carrying/shooting .357 magnum, then the 640 probably makes the most sense. I don't care for moon clips on defensive revolvers and don't see the pro models sights being a big advantage on a snub considering it's likely defensive use and would opt for a standard model myself. Just my opinion though, YMMV.
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Old 07-29-2016, 03:55 PM
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Have you seen this thread?:

340 M&P No Lock - Pros/Cons?

... or this one (it's a zombie)?:

640 Pro Series
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Old 07-29-2016, 04:38 PM
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Quote:
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Have you seen this thread?:

340 M&P No Lock - Pros/Cons?

... or this one (it's a zombie)?:

640 Pro Series
I actually saw thr first link the other day, but haven't seen the second one. I would be getting the non-lock model if I got the 340. Do you think the bullet issue could be something to turn someone away from the M&P340?
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Old 07-29-2016, 05:30 PM
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If you are going to shoot it a lot, get the 640. If you are going to carry it a lot and shoot it little, then the 340 might be the better choice. Either way, I'd be shooting .38 Special +P and practice ammo in either one. If you belt carry almost all the time, get the 640, although the 340 will do just as well there, but the added weight won't be noticed. The additional recoil and shot recovery time between them will be noticed any time you shoot. We are all different about recoil, but there is a noticeable difference between the steel frames and the lightweights. The steel frame will probably tolerate many more rounds through it without issue whereas the lighter frame might not do that well.

Understand though that the Model 640's are my very favorite J Frame model so I may be a bit predjudiced. But have have both weights and can carry either. The 640-1 is my EDC!
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Old 07-29-2016, 05:43 PM
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Quote:
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Any preference to one or the other? What about for pocket carry?

Thanks!

The 340 will be a dream to pocket carry and it won't play peek-a-boo, the 640 is doable but if someone is behind you on an angle they'll see the butt. Make sure your pockets are deep enough.

My 642 I had was 6.31 the Ruger LCR was 6.5 and right at the edge. The 640 I believe is 6.6 the 340 the same as the 642.

Now, let's talk which one you will enjoy shooting. And if you don't like shooting it you will not practice with it, and a snubby is very hard to master.
The 340 is a work of art in my opinion but at 13.3 oz. you'll feel even the standard .38 loads and get ready if you try to go magnum.

Tough choice, I know the 640 will feel better to shoot, but there is just something about that 340 that always captivates me, I especially like how they have covered the ejector rob unlike the 642 that looks naked out in the open. And makes me think it's vulnerable.

Good luck with your decision.

p.s. don't be fooled by the 640 because it's heavier magnum loads out of that thing won't be fun either after awhile. But unlike the 340 you should be able to do more than 2 or 3 before you say enough of this.
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Old 07-29-2016, 05:44 PM
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I've owned 640's and 340 M&P's.

I personally found the 640 a bit impractical for pocket carry while the 340 was ideal for it. If pocket carry isn't your preferred carry method and you insist on carrying/shooting .357 magnum, then the 640 probably makes the most sense. I don't care for moon clips on defensive revolvers and don't see the pro models sights being a big advantage on a snub considering it's likely defensive use and would opt for a standard model myself. Just my opinion though, YMMV.
Why do you say the 640 is impractical for pocket carry? The length, weight, stock grips?
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Old 07-29-2016, 06:35 PM
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I actually saw thr first link the other day, but haven't seen the second one. I would be getting the non-lock model if I got the 340. Do you think the bullet issue could be something to turn someone away from the M&P340?
In your question about "the bullet issue," if you mean .38 vs .357, probably. That and the price.

If there were a poll about J-frames in general and the alloy J-frames specifically I get the sense a big majority of respondents on this forum would opt out of ever using .357s in them.

I keep my goal in mind: best results if I get into a bad situation, which for me would be an aggressive bear that thinks I'm trespassing, or worse yet, lunch. So I'll do what I need to do -- practice, practice, practice -- in hopes the outcome will be in my favor if I ever get into that situation. The magnum's bite isn't nearly as bad as the damage those big claws and jaws might inflict.

I sold my 629 because I grew really tired of the weight, and when I go to town I put the moon clip with Speer GDSB 135gr .38+P in my 640 Pro.

The best any of us can do in advance of a purchase is read all the opinions we can find. Then consider them all and not just look at the ones that fit our preconception of what we think we want. I'm ever awed by the great, collective wisdom on this forum based on hundreds (thousands?) of years of experience. Makes sense to seek it out, as you have done.

There is no perfect-for-everybody gun. Picking a working gun is very personal. There's no universal consensus, there is no wrong answer, but there are lots of stories of guns bought that end up being sold because they didn't do what the buyer wanted.
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Old 07-29-2016, 07:06 PM
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Why do you say the 640 is impractical for pocket carry? The length, weight, stock grips?
The weight. A lot of folks pocket carry 640's and have no complaints, but to me they are just a little too weighty for that role. I generally prefer my pocket pistols to weigh around a pound or less.
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Old 07-29-2016, 07:18 PM
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In your question about "the bullet issue," if you mean .38 vs .357, probably. That and the price.

If there were a poll about J-frames in general and the alloy J-frames specifically I get the sense a big majority of respondents on this forum would opt out of ever using .357s in them.

I keep my goal in mind: best results if I get into a bad situation, which for me would be an aggressive bear that thinks I'm trespassing, or worse yet, lunch. So I'll do what I need to do -- practice, practice, practice -- in hopes the outcome will be in my favor if I ever get into that situation. The magnum's bite isn't nearly as bad as the damage those big claws and jaws might inflict.

I sold my 629 because I grew really tired of the weight, and when I go to town I put the moon clip with Speer GDSB 135gr .38+P in my 640 Pro.

The best any of us can do in advance of a purchase is read all the opinions we can find. Then consider them all and not just look at the ones that fit our preconception of what we think we want. I'm ever awed by the great, collective wisdom on this forum based on hundreds (thousands?) of years of experience. Makes sense to seek it out, as you have done.

There is no perfect-for-everybody gun. Picking a working gun is very personal. There's no universal consensus, there is no wrong answer, but there are lots of stories of guns bought that end up being sold because they didn't do what the buyer wanted.


I should've clarified the "bullet issue"... Quite a few of the guys on that thread were talking about "bullet pull", that's what I was referring to.
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Old 07-29-2016, 07:32 PM
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OP- if you can only have one in my mind it's a no Brainer. 640 Pro. Suit and tie 5days a week? Galco king tuk appendix carry... Done. You can even put some nice back strap padded pachmayer diamond pros on it and still be 100 percent concealed all the while toting around an easily manageable Buffalo bore or barnes 357 short barrel load that will go 1250 fps.

I have a 340 and a 649. The 340 is a last choice tank top and bb shorts type of gun to me. Nothing fun or easy about it. I load and can shoot the Speer 357s out of it without issue. No more though.

Good luck and welcome to the forum.
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Old 07-29-2016, 07:35 PM
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I'd buy both. Seriously.
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Old 07-29-2016, 07:51 PM
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I have a few 640-1's and one of the very first of the Scandium 340's that was built. The all SS 640-1 is a bit much for pocket carry, but the 340sc is a JOY.

I tried some real barn burner 125gr Federal JHP rounds in my 340 and it made me bleed in the first cylinder. I settled with 158gr mid-range Magnum ammo. I had several issues of bullet jump with Remington Golden Sabers see Updated again - 8-18-2013...Holy Bullet Jump Batman!!

The two guns that you are considering are built for two different purposes. The 340 fills the pocket carry role better (length & weight). If you are stepping up to a belt gun check out the model 65 with a 3" barrel.

Good luck in your search, and if you have the chance, do take up the offer to shoot them both (the 340 is certainly a 'memorable' gun).
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Old 07-29-2016, 07:58 PM
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I'd buy both. Seriously.
Wouldn't suprise me if I had both some day. My wife has the "why do you need another" mentality , so I might just exile myself from the bedroom if I come home with two new guns at one time hahaha
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Old 07-29-2016, 08:07 PM
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The two guns that you are considering are built for two different purposes. The 340 fills the pocket carry role better (length & weight). If you are stepping up to a belt gun check out the model 65 with a 3" barrel.

Good luck in your search, and if you have the chance, do take up the offer to shoot them both (the 340 is certainly a 'memorable' gun).
I want to be able to belt carry and pocket carry, but still want a gun with the most "shootability" that I can enjoy practicing with.

Unfortunately I haven't found a way to be able to shoot either since most of the gun shops and guys around me are, well... GLOCK-aholics
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Old 07-29-2016, 08:17 PM
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Well,

Here are the 640-1 Pro Series and the 340 PD side by side. Sorry for the iPad photo, but I'm here at the cabin, and lighting isn't too good. I have some other choices, like the M&P 340 as well, but these two represent most of my carry recently, and I think you are looking at something similar.



When I pocket carry, which is how I mostly carry, I use a Galco horsehide pocket holster. Here is the 640-1 in the holster:



And here is the 340 PD in the same holster:



As you can see, they have exactly the same profile in the pocket. The difference is in the weight. The 340 PD weighs a little over 11 oz., and the 640 weighs a little over 23 oz. twice as much weight, not counting the ammunition and holster, which would be the same for each.

When I am pocket carrying in Levi jeans (and you have to be careful which "number" you get, as my old "505"s used to have deep pockets, but they don't anymore, and I went to, I think, "550"s, which had, the last time I bought, deep pockets). Anyway, when pocket carrying in jeans, I don't notice the difference in the weight. But when carrying in a suit trouser pocket, I find the heavier gun does not carry well.

Personally, I'm glad I have several choices, and enjoy switching around. Of course, I spend a lot of time shooting all of my guns, and feel confident in my skills with pretty much any of them.

One note on the moon clips. I keep my 640 loaded with a moon clip, because it will ensure positive ejection of the empties. I usually carry spare ammo on a speed strip. Moon clips are nice, but they are not very sturdy, and are easily bent. This will not happen when used as I use them, but I would not be confident in trying to carry spare ammo in one. But having the capability in no way detracts from the versatility of the gun, it only enhances it.

As a poster noted above "buy both of them!"

I hope that we have given you some help, but ultimately, the choice is yours. Either of these guns, or the M&P 340 would be a fine firearm, and one that you can stake your life on... If you master it!!! Someone, maybe the "Master", Jeff Cooper once said: "owning a handgun no more makes you a great shot than owning a piano makes you a musician!, You must master either one to be proficient!"

Best Regards, Les
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Old 07-29-2016, 08:20 PM
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I am faced with the same dilemma as the OP. My local store has a 640-Pro and a 340-PD. Currently, I have a 3" 686 and 4" 686. I am thinking of trading the 4" 686 towards one of these. The reason I may trade the 4" is because every time I pick up the 3" 686, I say to myself, this is the perfect weapon. Thoughts?
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Old 07-29-2016, 08:27 PM
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I am faced with the same dilemma as the OP. My local store has a 640-Pro and a 340-PD. Currently, I have a 3" 686 and 4" 686. I am thinking of trading the 4" 686 towards one of these. The reason I may trade the 4" is because every time I pick up the 3" 686, I say to myself, this is the perfect weapon. Thoughts?
I was interested in the 686+, but feel that it's too big for me - especially for pocket carry. I'm a really small guy (5'8" & 130lbs), so that 686 just seemed too big for me to reasonably conceal.
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Old 07-29-2016, 08:31 PM
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640 Pro

No contest.
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Old 07-29-2016, 08:35 PM
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640 Pro

No contest.
Curious to hear your reasoning behind that. Even for pocket carry?
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Old 07-29-2016, 09:13 PM
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I want to be able to belt carry and pocket carry, but still want a gun with the most "shootability" that I can enjoy practicing with.

Unfortunately I haven't found a way to be able to shoot either since most of the gun shops and guys around me are, well... GLOCK-aholics
That, my friend, is one sad state of affairs.

Have you considered moving?

Seriously, one of the forum members here has both, make a road trip, it is worth it

Or, if you are close to Ocala, I will be out that way in the near future, and I would be happy to meet for some good fried shrimp and range time.
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Old 07-29-2016, 09:25 PM
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Sure, if you're ever up in WV, I have quite a few that you would be welcome to try out. You've seen the 340 PD and the 640-1 Pro Series, I also have the M&P 340, and even an original low number pre model 40, and a 42, and a lot of others as well. I am partial to the Centennials in general, but also have Chiefs Spaecials and Terriers, and a Bodygaurd (the revolver kind), and a lot of other snubbies, including 7 or 8 Colts. Come on by and we'll shoot a little!

The Hammerless design just makes sense to me for a concealed carry gun, though, and there are a number of choices and finishes and weights and calibers etc., that will answer most requirements!

Best Regards, Les
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Old 07-29-2016, 09:38 PM
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I should've clarified the "bullet issue"... Quite a few of the guys on that thread were talking about "bullet pull", that's what I was referring to.
Ah, got it. I don't experience it with either gun, now.

The first night I had my 640 I loaded it with snap caps for a little living room range time. The next day I put it on the FedEx truck back to Springfield. Had I used ammo on the range I would have gotten bullet pull -- to the right, which I thought was weird. The action felt like somebody had assembled the gun in a sandbox. Plus the front sight was dark. The factory replaced the front sight and the trigger. Now the action is smooth as glass, and all three Tritium dots are bright.
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Old 07-29-2016, 10:04 PM
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Ah, got it. I don't experience it with either gun, now.

The first night I had my 640 I loaded it with snap caps for a little living room range time. The next day I put it on the FedEx truck back to Springfield. Had I used ammo on the range I would have gotten bullet pull -- to the right, which I thought was weird. The action felt like somebody had assembled the gun in a sandbox. Plus the front sight was dark. The factory replaced the front sight and the trigger. Now the action is smooth as glass, and all three Tritium dots are bright.


I'm sure this is was a wording mistake on your part, but did you really send a Smith to Springfield?
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Old 07-29-2016, 10:39 PM
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I'm sure this is was a wording mistake on your part, but did you really send a Smith to Springfield?
Smith and Wesson is in Springfield, MA.
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Old 07-29-2016, 10:40 PM
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I'm sure this is was a wording mistake on your part, but did you really send a Smith to Springfield?
Not a mistake

Springfield is the town where the Smith and Wesson factory is located
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Old 07-29-2016, 10:52 PM
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My first choice would be to get both, the 340 for pocket carry and occasional practice and the 640 for belt carry and regular practice.

If limited to one and I were going to pocket carry it most of the time, I'd go with the 340 for the lighter weight.

The 640 can be pocket carried, but the heavier weight can be an issue. You could always take your pants to a tailor and have them lenghten and reinforce your pants pockets to better handle the extra weight.

I carry IWB, so if I were making the choice I'd pick the 640 to make it easier to shoot and practice with.

I don't consider night sights essential on a defensive gun, so that's not a big deal to me. I also don't care for moon clips so that option is also moot.

Regarding practice, even if you intend to carry .357 Magnum loads, you don't have to do all of your practice with them. I carry a 642 loaded with Speer SB-GDHP +P. I'd say probably 2/3 to 3/4 of the rounds I fire are standard pressure .38 Special loads and the remainder +P. Such an approach can mitigate any recoil-related issues with practicing.

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Old 07-29-2016, 10:53 PM
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Not a mistake

Springfield is the town where the Smith and Wesson factory is located


Lmao!!!


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Old 07-29-2016, 10:55 PM
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M&P 340 vs 640, very tough choice. I've owned the M&P 340 a couple times (currently have one barely used) and have considered the 640 to the point of even putting one hold, but so far haven't purchased. These two are by far the only two modern J frames I'd buy (and the no-lock versions of both), and I've spent many many hours comparing the two, and still haven't completely come to a final decision. Close but not final.

As you know by now the answer depends on your requirements, modes of carry, philosophies, etc., but my opinions (I stress opinions):

In short, forget aesthetics, moon clips, glowing sights, etc. It all comes down to two factors:

1) Is pocket carry a must?

2) Are you comfortable shooting .357 magnums from a J frame?

If you must have pocket carry option, and especially if you pocket carry frequently, the 340 wins, no question. I find any steel J-frame too heavy in a pocket: it swings the pants about when you walk, it's bulky, and is hard to draw quickly and cleanly. I don't even pocket carry the 340 for the last two reasons. If you belt carry or IWB carry, either is fine in terms of weight, but if pocket carry is a requirement, go for the 340. I also don't pocket carry any gun because when you sit down, it's pointing down range, not down.

In terms of shooting comfort, .357 magnum is unpleasant in any J-frame. I've done it from a 340, 649, 60, etc. using up to 158 gr bullets in downloaded handloads and factory full power loads. I'm a medium build with medium sized hands. Unpleasant much more so in the 340. Steel 640 helps here. Still not pleasant but far less unpleasant than it is in the 340. If I was just carrying SHTF ammo I wouldn't mind (so I tell myself), but if you're doing any range time with magnums, even downloaded lighter loads, the 640 will be less punishing.

The most important difference between these two is the weight. Far more important than size, sights, barrel length, aesthetics, moon clips, etc.

I believe you've lowered it down to the best two modern J frames. I'd do whatever you can do to own both, and spend some time getting to know them, and keep the best, sell the other. Or not

Lastly, if you're willing to buy used, I would also consider a 640-1 (anything after the 640 no-dash will handle .357 magnum). You don't get moon clips or glowing sights, but you get a quality pre-lock piece, without the "Pro Series" script and fluted barrel (I'm not a fan of either). Again, pocket carry, maybe not.

Current fave and daily carry here is a humpback 49, looking for a 49-2 or 649-2, have a 340 posted FS but now talking myself out of it LOL, looking for a 640 and considering a 640 Pro. See? Not easy.
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Old 07-29-2016, 10:59 PM
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I'm with the ContinentalOp, you need to get both. I'm glad that I bought both. Yes, I'm a collector, but not so much of modern guns. I only have a Glock because they presented me with my service gun when I retired. And yes, I have some really nice carry automatics, too, but for day in and day out, carry, these two little charmers I posted above are the most likely to be the ones in my pocket.

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Old 07-29-2016, 11:00 PM
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I am faced with the same dilemma as the OP. My local store has a 640-Pro and a 340-PD. Currently, I have a 3" 686 and 4" 686. I am thinking of trading the 4" 686 towards one of these. The reason I may trade the 4" is because every time I pick up the 3" 686, I say to myself, this is the perfect weapon. Thoughts?
Love the 3" barrel length! But maybe a bit short for a typical .357 magnum. Choice might just come down to which you prefer to shoot: .357 magnum or 38 special
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Old 07-30-2016, 12:03 AM
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M&P 340 vs 640, very tough choice. I've owned the M&P 340 a couple times (currently have one barely used) and have considered the 640 to the point of even putting one hold, but so far haven't purchased. These two are by far the only two modern J frames I'd buy (and the no-lock versions of both), and I've spent many many hours comparing the two, and still haven't completely come to a final decision. Close but not final.

As you know by now the answer depends on your requirements, modes of carry, philosophies, etc., but my opinions (I stress opinions):

In short, forget aesthetics, moon clips, glowing sights, etc. It all comes down to two factors:

1) Is pocket carry a must?

2) Are you comfortable shooting .357 magnums from a J frame?

If you must have pocket carry option, and especially if you pocket carry frequently, the 340 wins, no question. I find any steel J-frame too heavy in a pocket: it swings the pants about when you walk, it's bulky, and is hard to draw quickly and cleanly. I don't even pocket carry the 340 for the last two reasons. If you belt carry or IWB carry, either is fine in terms of weight, but if pocket carry is a requirement, go for the 340. I also don't pocket carry any gun because when you sit down, it's pointing down range, not down.

In terms of shooting comfort, .357 magnum is unpleasant in any J-frame. I've done it from a 340, 649, 60, etc. using up to 158 gr bullets in downloaded handloads and factory full power loads. I'm a medium build with medium sized hands. Unpleasant much more so in the 340. Steel 640 helps here. Still not pleasant but far less unpleasant than it is in the 340. If I was just carrying SHTF ammo I wouldn't mind (so I tell myself), but if you're doing any range time with magnums, even downloaded lighter loads, the 640 will be less punishing.

The most important difference between these two is the weight. Far more important than size, sights, barrel length, aesthetics, moon clips, etc.

I believe you've lowered it down to the best two modern J frames. I'd do whatever you can do to own both, and spend some time getting to know them, and keep the best, sell the other. Or not

Lastly, if you're willing to buy used, I would also consider a 640-1 (anything after the 640 no-dash will handle .357 magnum). You don't get moon clips or glowing sights, but you get a quality pre-lock piece, without the "Pro Series" script and fluted barrel (I'm not a fan of either). Again, pocket carry, maybe not.

Current fave and daily carry here is a humpback 49, looking for a 49-2 or 649-2, have a 340 posted FS but now talking myself out of it LOL, looking for a 640 and considering a 640 Pro. See? Not easy.

Great response! I don't currently have a firearm that allows me to pocket carry, so it's hard to tell if it's a "must" and how much I'll do it once I own a j frame. I wear a suit to work everyday and live in Florida where it's hot and humid 99% of the time, so pocket carry could potentially be my new favorite method with either one that I pick.

I hit the range and practice with my EDC at least 3-4 times per month, so whichever I choose will certainly see a fair amount of rounds through it. I'm not necessarily recoil sensitive, but still want to somewhat "enjoy" shooting it and practicing with it. I've been shooting a buddy's 642 with .38spl, and can say that I do enjoy shooting a snub nose.

Is there any difference in the trigger pull/smoothness between the two?

I can definitely see myself with both in the future, but have to pick one for now. I know I could find a nice used gun, but want to buy brand new. That being said, if you could only pick one which would it be for you?
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Old 07-30-2016, 08:53 AM
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Is there any difference in the trigger pull/smoothness between the two?
While I find both trigger pulls somewhat long and heavy, the 340's seems smoother and lighter to me. Not by much. I'm not sure if it's truly smoother/lighter as it could just be the difference in "response" (tactile feedback) of the frame material. Softer, heavier steel will give a different response than stiffer and lighter alloy. Again the difference is small, but especially when I dry fire the 340, it just feels a little better.

I think you'll find the 340 trigger very similar to that of the 642 you shot.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Jsferrazza View Post
I can definitely see myself with both in the future, but have to pick one for now. I know I could find a nice used gun, but want to buy brand new. That being said, if you could only pick one which would it be for you?
If I had to pick one (without the option of buying a second in the future), I would go with the 640, for three reasons:

1) weight: I carry IWB and don't pocket carry so weight isn't a problem (the gun's weight... my own weight IS a problem as I really need to lose 25 lbs ) - so no problem with 640 weight and no great weight-saving advantage with 340.

2) shooting comfort matters: I want to enjoy range time with the snub with no hurting hands. The .357 magnum in a 340 isn't fun for me, even with my slightly downloaded handloads (granted they were heavy 158 gr not lighter 135, 125, etc)

3) material: I prefer steel in a revolver. Yes this gets into aesthetics but I can't help it.

So if I had to buy only one for me, the 640.

But if I had to recommend only one for you:

You live in Florida and wear suits a lot, so you may benefit from some flexibility. I'd recommend the 340, because it will give you more carry OPTIONS. When you're faced with restrictions, options become more valuable. Furthermore you don't have to shoot 158 gr bullets like I do; you can use lighter ones for both range and carry (Speer makes the .357 magnum 135 gr with short barrel which might make a great carry round for the 340), to reduce the discomfort of shooting .357 magnums.
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Old 07-30-2016, 11:31 AM
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Snubbert

That is a well thought out and articulated recommendation. After all that I have read and written, and the firearms we have looked at, and the OP's needs:

I concur.

Best Regards, Les
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Old 07-30-2016, 11:51 AM
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I, too, agree with snubbert.

My 340's action is a skosh smoother than my 640's (might be a factor of usage since the 640 is still nearly new).

snubbert's logic and recommendation are spot on.

Slàinte,

Bob
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Old 07-30-2016, 11:59 AM
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Originally Posted by Jsferrazza View Post
Curious to hear your reasoning behind that. Even for pocket carry?
All stainless.

No lock.

Cut for moonclips.

Night sights.

What more can one say?

For a personal defense revolver, the 640 pro is the ne plus ultra of current S&W guns.
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