Low prices on the Smith & Wesson Model 640 .357 Magnum start at Champion Firearms:

S&W's Hammerless Hand Cannon. The Smith & Wesson Model 640 is often referred to as a "hammerless" revolver, though it does actually have a hammer. It is just completely covered inside the frame, making it a double action only design.

While many believe that the hammerless revolver is a relatively new invention in shooting, the architecture can trace its roots back to the year 1887 and Smith & Wesson's original "Lemon Squeezer" (named after the appearance of the gun's backstrap grip safety). Then in 1952, the company applied the same concept to its J- frame size revolvers and christened it "Centennial", in honor of Smith & Wesson's 100th anniversary.

In 1965, they released the world's first successful stainless steel handgun, the J- frame Model 60. Several decades would pass before Smith & Wesson would finally merge the synergy of a hammerless design and an all stainless revolver, then chamber it for the potent .357 Magnum cartridge. In 1996, the modern Model 640 Centennial was born.

The Model 640 is a compact all steel frame revolver capable of handling the hottest ammo without tearing your arm off. It is a beefy, solid snubby that balances well in your hand.

It is equally at home firing full power .357 Magnum or reduced recoil .38 Special loads. The smooth organic contours of the 640 make it a superb concealed carry gun.

It�s a bit heavy for a front pocket, but the ergonomic design still carries well from inside the waistband, or a shoulder holster, brief case, purse, desk drawer, automobile console, nightstand, etc. Since the J- frame is the smallest of Smith & Wesson's double action revolvers, the handgun was designed with concealed carry in mind. In essence, the smooth hammerless profile transforms this micro hand cannon into the ultimate snag- free concealed revolver.

Without a hammer spur, the sleeker profile provides a smooth draw from concealment. The design also does not collect lint or debris between the hammer and firing pin like traditional double action revolvers.

While the DAO trigger is long, it remains smooth throughout the entire pull and safe under all concealed carry conditions. The trigger itself has a smooth face, which allows your index finger to move across it as you pull the double-action mechanism.

For those that question the practicality of a revolver, keep in mind they don't jam- up, stovepipe, fail to feed or extract. Compared to semi-autos, revolvers are not only more reliable mechanically, but they are also more forgiving with operator error, and are much simpler to operate under stress.

With revolvers, there�s no chance of limp-wristing or creating a stoppage. There's no magazine to accidentally release and no slide movement to impair the action (if blocked, if ejected shells bounce back into the ejection port, etc.).

Loading and unloading are much easier, and accomplished by using gravity to drop rounds directly into the cylinder, versus the wrestling match new shooter's often experience attempting to push rounds into a magazine under spring tension. In addition, revolvers aren't picky about the types of ammo they fire.

When encountering misfires, rather than highly skilled clearance drills required to get a semi- auto back on line, revolvers only require that an operator squeeze the trigger again. More importantly, revolvers are capable of firing while remaining completely concealed.

Auto's require sufficient distance from objects like clothing to cycle properly. Yes, basic gun handling skills prevent some of the operator-induced mistakes that can cripple a semi-auto. However, these type of errors are practically non- existent on revolvers.

The Smith & Wesson Model 640's satin finish provides an overall pleasing appearance, while a solid forged stainless steel chassis ensures longevity. The 2 1/8-inch barrel features an elegantly sculpted full-length under lug that protects the ejection rod from being bent if the underside of the barrel were to strike against something with brute force.

The 640 is outfitted with a low profile fixed U- notch type sight and weighs in at around 23- ounces. Notwithstanding its snub- nose barrel, the gun shoots remarkably straight.

An extremely smooth cylinder latch, combined with positive cartridge extraction, make reloading ridculously easy. The rubber grip on the 640 accommodates all three of the shooter�s gripping fingers for a firm and secure hold.

The rubber helps absorb some of the recoil since it covers the stainless-steel rear frame. Similar grips that cover the frame are available and may be slightly shorter for pocket carry, but their design means your pinky finger is going to hang off the bottom, instead of being used to control the handgun.

Overall, the Smith & Wesson Model 640 is an excellent choice for any shooter looking for a powerful, easily concealed, accurate, reliable and durable self- defense handgun.

Established in 1993, Champion Firearms is a retail gun store and indoor range located in College Station, Texas.

As a brick & mortar store, we pride ourselves on customer service, quality products and our competitive pricing.

Each listing is an item we actively plan to stock. While not all of our inventory is listed, the items contained on our website represent some of the most popular products we carry.

Our staff has worked hard and done their best to ensure the accuracy of every listing. In the event an error has been made, Champion Firearms asks your understanding while we make it right.

From all of us here at Champion Firearms, thanks for visiting our store. For assistance, please do not hesitate to let us know what we can do to help: (979) 693-9948 or [email protected]