Opinions on 625 version to pursue?

[STEVESKI]

I'm currently looking into purchasing a 625. The question comes down to which version. I'm looking at the 625-2, 625-3 and then the new production (i think 625-8) performance model.

I pretty much know the differences between them all. Pros for the old ones are collector value, cool factor of having an older gun. Forged hammer and triggers. No MIM parts. No lock. Cons are the unknown about a used gun. No warranty. Probably will cost more or about the same. This is my first revolver so any maintenance besides basic cleaning will be very difficult to me.

Pros for the new performance model version is I like the finish on them better. Another pro is I'm sure sure the trigger on it is much better. Get a warranty and piece of mind that I won't have any issues without having S&W backing me up if I do. Cons would be resale value, lack of a cool factor having a nearly 30 year old revolver.


Some info to help you, help me decide. For some reason, I like the fact that it's a collector and the value will increase. The question is, how much and does it really matter? If I decided to sell either one 20 years from now, would the 1989 version be worth quite a bit? If it still wouldn't be worth a lot, then it helps me lean away from that model.

As far as gun usage. Just fun, occasional range shooting. I'll take good care of either one. Wont be carried or used for self defense. Will be thorough with cleaning after each range visit. I say this now, but there's no guarantee: it would be nice to have something to pass down to children some day (don't have any yet).

And to complicate this more, I also plan on picking up a 44 Mag version down the line. So that may be a good opportunity to fill my need for a "classic older revolver" if I were to get a newer one now.

So what do you guys think is best for me?

 

[Cal44]

I have a 625 jm regular non pc version.

Like it a lot. Good trigger, great shooter, and nicely finished.

 

[STEVESKI]

I have a 625 jm regular non pc version.

Like it a lot. Good trigger, great shooter, and nicely finished.

Thanks. I'm positive that if I got the performance center one, which is very similar to the JM version that I'd be satisfied becasue I know they are great guns and the warranty makes me feel comfortable in case something is wrong with my gun. The problem is I know it won't satisfy my desire for an older classic revolver and it's only a matter of time before I'm shopping again.

If I buy a very old used gun and it doesn't work perfectly, I'm kind of screwed outside of bringing it to a local shop (which charge a ton) in hopes of them fixing it. That being said, if I KNEW I was getting good versions of both guns, I'd prefer the older versions becasue of the cool, collectors, and unique factor. Also, it would satisfy both my needs of having something with some cool, collector value but still useful and fun to shoot.

Anyways...thanks for your input. I've heard great things about the new 625's and I'm sure I wouldn't be unhappy with one of them. I didn't even know 45 acp revolvers existed until about a week ago and I love the idea. I reload for 45 and for 44 Mag so I'm fine with either,but if I went with a 44 Mag then I'd need some new powders, etc because the cartridges I make are way too hot for a regular diet on the 629.

 

[629shooter]

If you feel more comfortable with a warranty, buy a new one.

In my opinion, the old pre-locks aren't getting any cheaper. So, if that is really what you desire that would be the direction I would go.

 

[Gripgrabber]

Hello, aren't these S&W problems fun? I have a 625-8, 4" PC, with a J-point , it has the best trigger ever! I have many sw revolvers and this is the best. Also the 629-4 is a great choice. I have the 3", I prefer the 3"over the 4"( boy I bet that will start some chatter)
PS I love moon clips! And so does the Governor

 

[eveled]

Why do you want a .45?

 

[STEVESKI]

Why do you want a .45?

I reload for 45 and I've heard some very positive things about 45 in a revolver. I don't shoot 357 and don't reload for it yet and personally have no interest. I reload for 44 Mag, but currently only have powder that produces stout loads, which I don't think the S&W can handle regularly. I just think starting with a 45 as my first revolver is a good starting point since technique and such is different than the other Semi-Autos.

 

[STEVESKI]

Hello, aren't these S&W problems fun? I have a 625-8, 4" PC, with a J-point , it has the best trigger ever! I have many sw revolvers and this is the best. Also the 629-3 is a great choice. I have the 3", I prefer the 3"over the 4"( boy I bet that will start some chatter)
PS I love moon clips! And so does the Governor

Nice looking gun! Do you think I should go with the 625-8 Pc as my first revolver and then later down the line pick up a more classic 44 Mag? Or go for an older classic 625-2/625-3?

 

[MarkL_01]

I wanted a .45acp mountain gun, but couldn't find one except for very expensive ones on GoneBroker. Ran across a new JM for about $200 less than list and got that instead and I'm happy with it. Mine won't be carried, either; it's just a range playtoy. I wanted a .45 because I like 'em. I just don't like picking up brass.
-Mark

 

[rbert0005]

I would chase the PC 5-1/4" version if I were in the market.

Wish I would have kept the one I had.

Bob

 

[keithherrington]

Have owned many

Over the years I've owned 8 Model 625s, from -2 to several -7s. For Bullseye shooting I liked the -2 with a 5" barrel the best. But for overall shooting I like my JM Special (-7) the best.




Keith

 

[bananaman]

A few years back, I was looking for a .45ACP revolver. I could not find a 625 model of 1989 that I could afford. So, after a while, I found a used 625JM for $800 shipped. I couldn't be happier. Have changed the stocks a few times, and added Hi-Viz fiber optic front sight. As time went on, I stumbled on a 25-15 in 45Colt. Gotta love 45's! Bob

 

[STEVESKI]

Over the years I've owned 8 Model 625s, from -2 to several -7s. For Bullseye shooting I liked the -2 with a 5" barrel the best. But for overall shooting I like my JM Special (-7) the best.




Keith

Thanks! I was hoping someone who owned both a -2 and one of the newer ones would chime in. From your explanation, I'm guessing the -2 with the longer, full lugged barrel was probably easier to stay accurate. Can you explain what is it about the newer one that you like about for overall shooting though?

 

[keithherrington]

Can you explain what is it about the newer one that you like about for overall shooting though?

It's a little lighter at the muzzle (and of course the shorter cylinder) and the recoil is a bit snappier, but overall a better balanced revolver. It doesn't "hang" as steadily when shooting offhand, but with two hands I like the way it handles a bit better. The difference is not stark, but more subtle. I think it depends more on whether you're willing to pay the freight for the improved looks and improved design.

Keith

 

[sodacan]

I own 5, 45acp revolvers. Up until a month ago, the newest one was made in 1956. Anything newer wasn't on my radar. I saw a 625-2 on gunbroker, and took a flyer on it with a reasonable bid and surprisingly, I won it. I would not have bid on any later production model. It's a nice revolver. Very well made and very accurate. From a collector's standpoint, if there is any collector value for a 625, the dash two would be the one to own. For those of you that don't know, there was never a no dash or dash one. I have not bought into the PC hype. I have shot a couple, and although they're okay, I would not own one. As far as I'm concerned, the pre-model number guns are all from the "performance center". Once you experience revolvers using moon clips, you' ll wonder why you didn't do it sooner. Good luck.

BTW, my 1917 models from S&W and Colt are really fun shooters. It's really cool to shoot a piece of history.

 

[STEVESKI]

It's a little lighter at the muzzle (and of course the shorter cylinder) and the recoil is a bit snappier, but overall a better balanced revolver. It doesn't "hang" as steadily when shooting offhand, but with two hands I like the way it handles a bit better. The difference is not stark, but more subtle. I think it depends more on whether you're willing to pay the freight for the improved looks and improved design.

Keith

Based on what I see on auction sites, the prices for good condition -2's are about equal or possibly slightly more than the new PC versions. Given equal price, would you go with the new PC?

 

[bananaman]

By the way, Welcome to the FORUM from Ohio! Bob

 

[KertP]

Another consideration you should take into account is the availability or lack of availability of parts for whichever handgun you decide to purchase. Smith & Wesson doesn't produce parts for their older revolvers, and I have found that as each year passes, there are fewer and fewer parts available from any source. While you can substitute some of the newer MIM parts (such as triggers), if your model has a hammer mounted firing pin, you may not be able to find a replacement, or find a replacement that is less expensive than a new handgun. Just some things to consider in your purchase. Personally, while I own S&Ws of various vintages from pre-model days to current production, I shoot them all. And I have a sufficient stash of replacement parts in case I need to make a replacement. I do my own work on my revolvers (regardless of manufacturer). I have found every S&W revolver is an individual unto itself, with the older ones being particularly individualistic. Bottom line is that if you plan on shooting it much, I would go for the new production. If you only plan on shooting it occasionally, and have a good revolversmith who will check it out prior to your purchase, then you will never go wrong with purchasing a well-maintained older S&W revolver.

Incidentally, I've been shooting my Model 29-2 for 35 years and it's still tight. Started shooting IHMSA before handgun hunting became popular, so mine has had lots of rounds through it. I have heard stories of Model 29's that have been loosened and stretched by shooting hot loads, but never seen one in actuality. Mine still has the .004" BC gap it came with. You are more likely to shoot loose than the revolver.

JMHO, YMMV.

 

[brucev]

Found several 625's in a local gunshop back in 2009. Ended up buying the 625-2. Tremendous revolver! It is one of the most accurate handguns I've ever fired. It would take a very good 1911 to beat it for target shooting, etc. With full-moon clips, firing double-action, you can hang right with most folks using a 1911. It is a very easy revolver to shoot well.

I have shot the hound out of it w/ plain Jane ball of all makes, both foreign and domestic. It works well with everything. God only knows how much of that steel cased Tulaammo .45 ACP I've put through that revolver. Regardless of ammo used, function is 100% perfect. The SA breaks like the proverbial glass rod. The DA is smooth and easy. It came w/ a Hogue monogrip which I liked. But, I put a nice set of S&W target grips on it. Those ebony grips just look good on that SS N-frame!

For the money, I'd buy the 625-2 over just about anything else. Don't be overly concerned about replacement parts. I've been shooting revolver heavily since 1980. In all those years I've replaced three hammer noses (pins). That is all. Unless you plan on taking a revolver and dragging it through a gravel pit and then a mud hole, it's not likely you will ever have anything break on a S&W revolver.

Of course it is you decision. Either way, you will have a find revolver in an excellent caliber that will give you a life-time of pleasure and enjoyment. Sincerely. bruce.

 

[Hoot]

I've had all the pre-lock S&W 625's at one time or another, 3"-5" barrels, and the one I kept is the 625-2 Model of 1988 (only came in the 5"). Best shooting revolver I've ever owned.

I don't have any experience with S&W lock guns, so I can't compare with them.