I did a forum search on model 640 and got a bunch of posts on 66 & 36, and so decided to ask...

I have a 642 and a 64 and recently saw a 640-3 [IL] at the LGS for $550 plus tax. I was thinking it would be a good compromise between the two snubbies I already have, and it has the .357 capability. What should I know about this revolver to decide whether it's worth adding to the group? Will it be as harsh as the 642? Will it be easier to carry than the 64? Is there enough difference to make it worth the investment? TIA

Your 642 weighs about 15 ounces while the 640 weighs about 24 ounces. The 640 will have less felt recoil than the 642 with the same ammunition.

As to 357 Magnum, if you have to ask about recoil of 38s in an alloy frame revolver, you will not like the recoil of a magnum in the 640.



As to ease of carry that cant be answered without knowing how you carry.

If you pocket carry, yes the 640 will be the better choice. If you are carrying in a standard belt holster there will be no perceivable difference.

Only you can decide if it is worth adding.

Let me start off by saying you can never have too many S&W revolvers.

Even though it is heavier than your 642, with full house 357s it should be no less brutal than the 642 with 38s. Shooting 38s out of the 640 will however be easier to handle than out of the 642.

It should be easier to carry than the 64. Smaller frame, more narrow cylinder.

other than have 357 capabilities, will it do anything that your 642 and 64 will do? No.
But I have multiple guns that serve the same purpose as each other and does nothing that the others cant, yet I'm always on the market for another that does
The exact same job the exact same way.

Be aware they made two versions of the 640, with the original a 38 Special, then later (I don't know offhand the -#) changed it to a enlarged frame that would take the 357 Magnum. As others have stated, the 357 recoil in this small a handgun is brutal.

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

The 640-1 is the first 357 version. I have two, love them both.

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Randy
Provenance nerd

I love my 640. Never go anywhere without it. Goes well in a pocket with a good belt but I carry mine aiwb with great success. With a good set of grips recoil is quite manageable and maybe im crazy but that 2 1/8 barrel helps me shoot it a lot better than my pops old chiefs special.

That one has ".38 S&W SPL" stamped on the barrel, so it is easy to spot. On the frame, it's stamped "Mod 640".

This poster is my hero! In fact, this post should be included among the required reading for the Forum. Best wishes and,

Stay safe, partner.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

Ooooooooooh Yeaaaaaaah!