zorba
Member
It is my understanding that the Model 620 revolver was introduced by S&W as a replacement for the much revered Model 19. As near as I can tell, it is not really any lighter or better handling than a 686. The only feature that seems reminiscent of the Model 19 is the partially lugged barrel. I have heard rumors that the 620 did not sell particularly well.
I understand that the 620 uses a barrel shroud with a threaded barrel liner, rather than a one piece barrel like most other S&W revolvers. I have seen some people talking trash about the 620 on other forums while implying that the barrel shroud and liner is just a cheaper method of manufacture which reduces the overall quality and desirability of the revolver. Of course, some old timers would not be satisfied with anything but a careful reproduction of the original Model 19 on the original K frame.
I think it is likely that the barrel shroud & liner probably does reduce the cost of manufacture, and it also probably makes it easier to get a precise fit and close cylinder gap. But does it really reduce the quality in any way?
The Dan Wesson revolvers were manufactured by a similar method, and they earned a reputation for long range accuracy in the various Met. Sil. sports. Maybe it's actually a better way of making a high quality revolver with a good barrel and cylinder fit. ( I think the DW revolvers also had a front cylinder latch on the crane which also helped accuracy, IIRC)
So what's the story on the 620? Are they good shooters?
I understand that the 620 uses a barrel shroud with a threaded barrel liner, rather than a one piece barrel like most other S&W revolvers. I have seen some people talking trash about the 620 on other forums while implying that the barrel shroud and liner is just a cheaper method of manufacture which reduces the overall quality and desirability of the revolver. Of course, some old timers would not be satisfied with anything but a careful reproduction of the original Model 19 on the original K frame.
I think it is likely that the barrel shroud & liner probably does reduce the cost of manufacture, and it also probably makes it easier to get a precise fit and close cylinder gap. But does it really reduce the quality in any way?
The Dan Wesson revolvers were manufactured by a similar method, and they earned a reputation for long range accuracy in the various Met. Sil. sports. Maybe it's actually a better way of making a high quality revolver with a good barrel and cylinder fit. ( I think the DW revolvers also had a front cylinder latch on the crane which also helped accuracy, IIRC)
So what's the story on the 620? Are they good shooters?
