S&W 625-3 model of 1989 .45 ACP

S&WshooterFIN · #1 02-18-2023, 04:34 AM

A spur of the moment purchase.

S&W 625-3 model of 1989 .45 ACP from 1989 (S/N: BEN34xx).
Apparently a little shot. It was dirty when I got it, but with a little oil and cleaning, it looks like this.
Ex owner had inherited the gun and would like to get rid of it. I decided to help out and take it.
S/N: BEN34xx

625 is rare here. Only one used can be found in gun shops in Finland. Asetalo.fi 625-4

Is there a production quantity of 625-3 4" somewhere?
What might be a realistic price in the US?

CH4 · #2 02-18-2023, 05:26 AM

Congrats on a real prize Piece.

Seems i see fewer 4” 625-3s than the other barrel lengths; the 3” is probably the most sought after. A 4” with original grips, which yours has, but no box will go for probably $1100 to $1400 depending on condition and location. I have a 5” -2 and 3” -3, both with boxes and all the goodies. I had two 4” -3s, but stupidly sold them before I knew what I had.

Edit: just picked up this 5” -3. Scary accurate.

S&WshooterFIN · #3 02-18-2023, 07:21 AM

I haven't box or the goodies, only revolver with one moon clip.
I ordered 50 moon clips more

PeteC · #4 02-18-2023, 08:02 AM

That is quite a price, in your link(!!)
About $1200~$1300 in my area, (Midwest, USA). A little more, depending on grips and the underlug. Not very common at gun shows and in shops, so a fair price depends on what we see online.

larondo · #5 02-18-2023, 12:45 PM

My favorite N-frame! They don't come around very often.
I have a 5" "Model of 1988", which I think is a -2. Picked that up in 2019 for $800 + Tax & DROS.

KurtC · #6 02-18-2023, 04:08 PM

I think I owned pretty much every 625 model, back in the day.

The -2 had a floating hand and short bolt stop notches. Those were changed in the -3.

The 4" was the rarest, followed by the 3." I don't have specific numbers.

The -4 eliminated the flash chromed hammer and trigger. It added the current style rear sight. If there were any in 3" or 4," they were right few.

The -5 was .45 Colt. I had the Performance Center put an unfluted cylinder in one. Someone on this forum is the current owner.

The only one I have left is this -4, with a Performance Center barrel, cylinder and combat action tune. The fixed rear sight is from D&L Sports. The interchangeable front is both tritium and fiber optic.

larondo · #7 02-18-2023, 06:12 PM

625 -2 "Model of 1988"
Came w/ Pachmayr grips, added grooved/checkered Super Walnut, might be Altamont grips.
A LEO friend w/ a huge arsenal of weapons has the 4" version which spells "Model of 1989" on the barrel. I told him, if he ever wants to part w/ it, I'll take it. Unfortunately, he does not entertain the notion of doing so.
I had a 625 JM 4" w/ the slippery banana grip. Despite the trigger lock, that was the best shooting revolver I had, until I sold it. Still remember the serial #: 3355. Easy enough, right?

TheTinMan · #8 02-18-2023, 07:41 PM

Huh - I bought my 4” 625 quite a while ago and didn’t even know it was rare. Great gun!

85win · #9 02-18-2023, 08:15 PM

It looks like you got a very nice one. I noticed that the one for sale in Finland has a different rear sight which is very interesting. One of the funnest and most accurate guns you can own.

Mike, SC Hunter · #10 02-18-2023, 09:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PeteC

That is quite a price, in your link(!!)
About $1200~$1300 in my area, (Midwest, USA). A little more, depending on grips and the underlug. Not very common at gun shows and in shops, so a fair price depends on what we see online.

Buy once.......Cry once........Then smile forever.

ColbyBruce · #11 02-18-2023, 10:45 PM

I bought mine used in the mid nineties for $250.00. I replaced the Pachmayr’s with combats. These are a joy to shoot.

Jeep 1 · #12 02-18-2023, 11:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ColbyBruce

I bought mine used in the mid nineties for $250.00. I replaced the Pachmayr’s with combats. These are a joy to shoot.

Agreed!!! I love to shoot my 5”! It is one of the few non-magnums that I own…… come to think of it. It’s the only centerfire non-magnum that I own….. My wife maybe correct, I truly do need help….
Tom

S&WshooterFIN · #13 02-19-2023, 03:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike, SC Hunter

Buy once.......Cry once........Then smile forever.

Buy once, smile forever

for me this time.

When I heard that this was for sale, I thought it would be nice to own one .45 ACP revolver.
I offered to buy it before I even saw it, I heard it was 4" and stainless. I figured it might be a 625 then.
Only later did I realize what I found and bought.
I was surprised when a google search gave so little information. SCofS&W 4th Edition knew a little.

Ivan the Butcher · #14 02-19-2023, 06:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by S&WshooterFIN

I haven't box or the goodies, only revolver with one moon clip.
I ordered 50 moon clips more

I buy bags of 100 from Brownell's. I have a little over 300, and keep two 50 Cal Ammo cans full of loaded moon clips! I have a Mooner and a de-mooner in every shooting bag!

I have 4 full moon clips loaded with My SD ammo, 230 gr Federal Hydra-shok. it shoots to the sights on my 1917 and the 625.

My 625 is a 5", dash 3 "Series of 1989" That I bought around 1998 or 99 (pre Y2K) for less than $300 OTD. In the 70's I had a Milled Webley I used Auto Rim cases in. Once full moons became available, I never used a single loaded 45 ACP again. 3-Sig 220's, 5-1911's and 2- S&W revolvers all in harmony and using the same ammo! (Plus a Marlin Camp 45!)

Ivan

S&WshooterFIN · #15 02-19-2023, 06:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ivan the Butcher

I buy bags of 100 from Brownell's. I have a little over 300, and keep two 50 Cal Ammo cans full of loaded moon clips! I have a Mooner and a de-mooner in every shooting bag!

I have 4 full moon clips loaded with My SD ammo, 230 gr Federal Hydra-shok. it shoots to the sights on my 1917 and the 625.

My 625 is a 5", dash 3 "Series of 1989" That I bought around 1998 or 99 (pre Y2K) for less than $300 OTD. In the 70's I had a Milled Webley I used Auto Rim cases in. Once full moons became available, I never used a single loaded 45 ACP again. 3-Sig 220's, 5-1911's and 2- S&W revolvers all in harmony and using the same ammo! (Plus a Marlin Camp 45!)

Ivan

I would have bought from Brownells, but Brownell Finland doesn't have any .45 ACP clips, and they doesn't know when they will get more. It is difficult to get weapons supplies to Europe from the USA.

This is my third .45 ACP. In the 1990's I have had a 1911 Norinco, I sold it and bought a Glock G21. I still have the G21.
This was an impulse buy, but this might be my favorite revolver, maybe...

Now my pistols are Glocks and my revolvers are S&W.
Maybe I still want a metal frame S&W pistol, 9mm or .45 ACP.
Glock is the only true Tubberware

S&WshooterFIN · #16 02-20-2023, 05:46 PM

First time in in range and then cleaning

jcelect · #17 02-21-2023, 11:08 AM

You have a gun from the first run of the 625 "Model of 1989". The very first 625s were barrel stamped "Model of 1988" and they were a limited run quantity of 5708. They sold so well that S&W reintroduced them again but changed the barrel stamping. In the 625-3 guns the 5" was the normal production barrel length but they produced 3198 3" guns and 2980 4" guns. These were very popular in the IDPA shooting game. After a few seasons IDPA changed their rules and did not allow 5" barrel length guns. Many guns were cut and S&W changed the standard barrel length to 4".
jcelect

S&WshooterFIN · #18 02-21-2023, 12:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jcelect

You have a gun from the first run of the 625 "Model of 1989". The very first 625s were barrel stamped "Model of 1988" and they were a limited run quantity of 5708. They sold so well that S&W reintroduced them again but changed the barrel stamping. In the 625-3 guns the 5" was the normal production barrel length but they produced 3198 3" guns and 2980 4" guns. These were very popular in the IDPA shooting game. After a few seasons IDPA changed their rules and did not allow 5" barrel length guns. Many guns were cut and S&W changed the standard barrel length to 4".
jcelect

THANKS

I have one of 2980

S&WshooterFIN · #19 02-28-2023, 04:04 PM

New grips

DeafSmith · #20 02-28-2023, 04:21 PM

I've got one around here someplace...

Yep 3 inch 625 and 2 inch 640!

AJ · #21 02-28-2023, 04:59 PM

This is mine. Yes, I have the original grips, just like the wood ones better. It has a 5 inch barrel. No box, but came with 25 full moon clips. Cost was $750.00, two years ago.

Tanners Owner · #22 02-28-2023, 05:05 PM

Congrats- rediscovered the joys of shooting my 625 recently. Great gun

Ivan the Butcher · #23 02-28-2023, 05:57 PM

I buy full moon clips from Brownell's in bags of 100. I keep a 50 Cal ammo can full of loaded clips (actually two cans with different bullets), ready for fun at a moment's notice! All my shooting bags have a de-mooning tool, and the rod and board I use to load the clips.

I have been finding Brownell's de-mooning tool (screwdriver handle version, new-old stock for $10 at several LGS's for a year and a half, so there must have been a closeout someplace.

Ivan

AJ · #24 02-28-2023, 06:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ivan the Butcher

I have been finding Brownell's de-mooning tool (screwdriver handle version, new-old stock for $10 at several LGS's for a year and a half, so there must have been a closeout someplace.

Ivan

a friend made us several de-mooning tools. He used copper pipe and file handles. Work as good as any I have seen.

AJ

S&W-Keeper · #25 02-28-2023, 06:04 PM

I love my 4" -3. I very seldom use the moon clips. I have never had a failure to fire with out the clips.

Bigdog357 · #26 02-28-2023, 10:34 PM

Here is my 4" 625-3, it's got a lot of miles on her, love this gun.
One pic with I think the original Hogue Mono Grip and one with her dancing shoes.

Baltimoreed11754 · #27 02-28-2023, 11:46 PM

Love my two 625s. I did have to add a hi-viz front sight, old eyes.

moralem · #28 02-28-2023, 11:54 PM

One of my favorite guns…..I shoot it way better than my 1911s

S&WshooterFIN · #29 03-02-2023, 09:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AJ

This is mine. Yes, I have the original grips, just like the wood ones better. It has a 5 inch barrel. No box, but came with 25 full moon clips. Cost was $750.00, two years ago.

I don't dare to tell you how much (little) I paid on my own

AJ · #30 03-02-2023, 01:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by S&WshooterFIN

I don't dare to tell you how much (little) I paid on my own

So do not keep us in suspense!

S&WshooterFIN · #31 03-03-2023, 08:23 AM

S&W 625-3 & Hellweg #5RL 4"

oworthsr · #32 03-03-2023, 09:54 PM

Do the Model 25-5 and 625 shoot the same .45 cal bullets? I read that S&W used "odd numbers" to designate 45 Long Colt pistols - Model 25-5. Does S&W use that same "odd number shoots Long Colt" for the 625?

StrawHat · #33 03-03-2023, 10:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by oworthsr

Do the Model 25-5 and 625 shoot the same .45 cal bullets? I read that S&W used "odd numbers" to designate 45 Long Colt pistols - Model 25-5. Does S&W use that same "odd number shoots Long Colt" for the 625?

Yes, both models can use the same bullets but the Model 25-5 is chambered for the 45 long Colt cartridge and the Model 625 in the opening post is chambered for the 45 ACP cartridge.

Kevin

Gunaholic · #34 03-03-2023, 11:25 PM

Wow! I’ve had my 625-3 Model of 1989 since 1989. I didn’t know it was rare. One of my favorite firearms.
I probably shoot as many Auto Rim rounds as .45 ACPs.

S&WshooterFIN · #35 03-10-2023, 08:28 AM

The Master's Holster #6044 & Thai grips

S&WshooterFIN · #36 04-11-2023, 11:38 AM

Little reloading for next weekend

sodacan · #37 04-11-2023, 08:15 PM

The 625-2 is a terrific revolver. Here is mine shown with Ace Custom R2S conversion stocks. They made a nice addition to the gun, but I discovered the Klinsky's and switched over. The Pachmayrs are in the box and never see the light of day.

S&WshooterFIN · #38 04-12-2023, 05:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sodacan

The 625-2 is a terrific revolver. Here is mine shown with Ace Custom R2S conversion stocks. They made a nice addition to the gun, but I discovered the Klinsky's and switched over. The Pachmayrs are in the box and never see the light of day.

Same, my The Pachmayrs are in the box with many other rubber boots and never see the light of day.
I have woods on all my K/L/N frame revolvers, only one J frame have rubbers.

I like also your 581, I want one 581/681 some day. It's hard to find here, rare model in Finland

S&WshooterFIN · #39 04-12-2023, 10:02 AM

Thanks USA and eBay seller Gary, now I have 25 moon clips more.

https://www.ebay.com/str/gdfok

CHARLIE699 · #40 04-28-2023, 04:43 PM

Really fun shooting revolvers. Couple of the 4" of 1989
I'm still hoping one of the "twins" grows an extra inch. No barrel-reduction surgery in their future.

Wait long enough and one will make room for the 5" or 3",,,

S&WshooterFIN · #41 04-29-2023, 12:20 PM

Today on range with little brother 686-3.

IDPA classifier & training day

Jebus35745 · #42 04-29-2023, 09:39 PM

Nice gun the OP has, 625’s are usually accurate revolvers. Have 2, one is a 625-? Performance Center with 5 1/2” barrel. Not seen often. Second is a 625-3 Bank Note with Keith Brown grips I got 2 weeks ago. Both are fun to shoot, Larry

jspick · #43 04-30-2023, 10:40 PM

I too just picked up a 625-3 this weekend at a gun show from a great guy. We talked for over an hour. I only have 10 full moon clips, but I have 30 or so 1/2 moon clips.

I have a question. The guy I bought the gun from said there is a tool that takes the cases out of the moon clips easily. Does anyone have an idea about that? I haven't loaded any full moon clips as they are very tight to load. But I shot almost a box of ammo with half moon clips. it is very easy to hit with. Even at 200 yards I could hit my 20" gong.

Anyway I was thinking of taking a file and hitting the front edges of the full moon clips so that loading and unloading would be easier. Has anyone done that?

AJ · #44 04-30-2023, 11:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jspick

I too just picked up a 625-3 this weekend at a gun show from a great guy. We talked for over an hour. I only have 10 full moon clips, but I have 30 or so 1/2 moon clips.

I have a question. The guy I bought the gun from said there is a tool that takes the cases out of the moon clips easily. Does anyone have an idea about that? I haven't loaded any full moon clips as they are very tight to load. But I shot almost a box of ammo with half moon clips. it is very easy to hit with. Even at 200 yards I could hit my 20" gong.

Anyway I was thinking of taking a file and hitting the front edges of the full moon clips so that loading and unloading would be easier. Has anyone done that?

Midway probably has the tool that you are looking for. I made my own out of a piece of copper tubing and a wood handle.

They also make moon clip loading tools. Comes in very handy.

DR505 · #45 05-01-2023, 01:44 AM

Very nice! I picked up this 3" 625-3 last year. I qualify with it for my retired law enforcement carry permit, good throughout the country.

S&WshooterFIN · #46 05-01-2023, 04:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jspick

I have a question. The guy I bought the gun from said there is a tool that takes the cases out of the moon clips easily. Does anyone have an idea about that? I haven't loaded any full moon clips as they are very tight to load.

DIY tools for moon clips

329 · #47 05-01-2023, 10:07 PM

Nice pick up. I have a bunch of 45 acp waiting for a find like this.

pittpa · #48 05-01-2023, 11:22 PM

Keep your expectations high.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

CecilB · #49 07-22-2023, 02:06 PM

I’m gonna revive this thread with what I hope is a simple question. I have a 625-2 and I am a little confused with it. Let me know if this is right: it’s an N frame with a K frame size round butt? I ask because I want to replace the original Pachs (which say K frame on them) and I tried some K frame round butt from my model 13 but they don’t fit good. I don’t own any other N frame round butt revolvers so I don’t have any grip to try on. I see some of you 625-2 model of 1988 owners have changed grips, just wondering if you bought N or K frame round butt. I believe the Pachmayr finger groove gripper is the factory original and wonder if any of you that have the same gun with original grips know if yours came with a K frame Pach.

jspick · #50 07-22-2023, 09:21 PM

You have a N frame. K frame grips do not fit the N frame. Your pachs have been cut to fit the N frame. I believe round butt combat grips is what came on your gun. After market wood grips are cheaper than the factory grips.