Gear And Accessories
The S&W 940 – Reborn Better Than Ever
The S&W 940 – Reborn Better Than Ever
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍United States
The S&W 940 has made its triumphant return, a highly anticipated re-release of the classic revolver originally produced from 1991 to 1998. This latest iteration of the 940 series is a J-Frame, 5-shot 9mm revolver designed to utilize moon clips, presenting an appealing alternative to traditional revolver offerings given the rising price of 9mm ammunition compared to .38 Special and .357 Magnum options.
S&W has rolled out this new variant as a Davidson’s exclusive, featuring several smart design upgrades that enhance its functionality and appeal. Among these changes, the most notable is the inclusion of a rear dovetailed sight that pairs seamlessly with an XS front sight, making it easier for shooters to achieve an accurate sight picture and improving grouping and effective range.
The new model boasts a barrel that has been elongated from the original 1 ⅞ inches to a more substantial 2.17 inches, providing a striking appearance that complements its stainless steel frame and enhancing performance. This slight increase in barrel length allows for a longer ejection rod, facilitating easier extraction of spent cases.
Weighing in at 23.52 ounces, the 940 is heavier than typical J-Frame models, which serves to mitigate issues commonly faced with crimp jump — a phenomenon where the projectile jumps the crimp during recoil due to insufficient weight. A heavier revolver means less recoil, hence reducing the likelihood of crimp-related malfunctions.
Additionally, the revolver features red cherry VZ grips that are both minimalist in design and offer an excellent tactile feel, ensuring a solid grip for the shooter. Each purchase includes three moon clips, which, while a bit of a hassle to manage, enhance reloading speeds akin to using speed loaders.
While the 940 is tailored for concealed carry, some users may find that it works better in a belt carry configuration due to its weight. Pairing it with a Milt Sparks leather rig could streamline comfort and concealment.
At the range, this revolver truly shines. Many shooters, including myself, welcome the evolution towards dovetailed sights, particularly for compact revolvers. The rear sight paired with the front sight allows for rapid targeting at distances up to 50 yards, and consistent practice showed that five rounds could be fired into an IPSC-sized target within seconds without a miss.
However, the system isn't without its challenges. The aggressive texture of the grips, while beneficial for grip retention, can lead to noticeable muzzle rise and discomfort during extended shooting sessions. Recoil becomes a defining characteristic over time, and even after a modest range day, fatigue can set in. That said, reliability remained consistent throughout testing; no light strikes or extraction issues arose, thanks largely to the use of brass-cased ammunition.
As a testament to its improved design, the new 940 appears to be a solid option for both professionals and enthusiasts in the growing niche of 9mm revolvers. With an MSRP of $999, it should be noted that this revolver occupies a premium market segment. As more consumers look toward practical and higher-caliber options in carry revolvers, the S&W 940's re-entry into the market signals a promising direction for companies focusing on user-friendly improvements in classic designs.
In summary, the new S&W 940 is not just a throwback; it’s a thoughtful evolution of a classic revolver brought to life with modern design considerations. As the firearm community embraces innovative revolvers that blend tradition with advancements in shooting technology, the 940 stands out as a noteworthy contender in the concealed carry realm.
ShoQ’s Take: Early reports suggest the rebirth of the S&W 940 could mean a resurgence in the popularity of 9mm revolvers as practical carry options. With its upgraded features aimed at enhancing user experience, this model signals a trend towards blending adaptability with classic designs in the market. As appreciation grows for the nuanced performance of 9mm revolvers, it remains to be seen how well these changes resonate with both seasoned shooters and new entrants in the community. For now, the S&W 940 is positioned to become a staple for those seeking a reliable, compact, yet powerful carry weapon.