The Ultimate Guide to the Smith & Wesson Model 640 Centennial Revolver: Unrivaled Reliability for Personal Defense

When exploring options for personal safety and concealed carry, many individuals seek a firearm that offers uncompromising reliability, straightforward operation, and a compact design. The Smith & Wesson Model 640 Centennial revolver stands as a prime example of these qualities, representing a refined evolution of a timeless design. This formidable small-frame revolver is engineered to deliver a full-power round with the simplicity and unwavering dependability that has made Smith & Wesson a household name in firearms for generations.

Whether you are a seasoned firearm owner looking for a dependable backup, a first-time gun buyer prioritizing ease of use and safety, or someone seeking a powerful yet discreet self-defense tool, the Smith & Wesson Model 640 offers compelling advantages. Its design philosophy centers on foundational effectiveness, ensuring that when moments count, this revolver performs without hesitation.

Why Choose a Revolver for Personal Defense? Simplicity and Dependability

In a world increasingly dominated by semi-automatic pistols, why do revolvers like the Smith & Wesson Model 640 maintain such a loyal following, particularly for self-defense? The answer lies in their inherent simplicity and legendary reliability.

• Unmatched Reliability: Revolvers are renowned for their mechanical robustness. With fewer moving parts compared to semi-automatics, they are less prone to malfunctions caused by ammunition variations, limp-wristing, or environmental factors like dirt and grime. Each pull of the trigger cycles a fresh cartridge into position, largely isolated from external influences. This makes them incredibly dependable when faced with a high-stress situation where a malfunction could be catastrophic.
• Ease of Operation: The Smith & Wesson Model 640, with its double-action-only (DAO) mechanism, is exceptionally simple to operate. There are no external safeties to disengage, no slides to rack for the first shot, and no magazines to seat. For many, especially those new to firearms, this straightforward "point and shoot" operation provides a significant advantage in training and real-world application. It removes layers of complexity, allowing the user to focus purely on threat assessment and marksmanship.
• Concealed Hammer Design: The "Centennial" designation for the Model 640 specifically refers to its enclosed, internal hammer. This design choice is critical for a concealed carry firearm. What are the benefits of an enclosed hammer?
  • Snag-Free Draw: The absence of an external hammer means there are no protrusions to catch on clothing, holsters, or other gear during the draw stroke. This ensures a smooth, rapid, and unhindered deployment when every second matters.
  • Reduced Lint and Debris Accumulation: An enclosed mechanism helps protect the hammer and firing pin assembly from lint, dust, and other debris that can accumulate when carried close to the body, particularly in a pocket or inside-the-waistband holster.
  • Pure Double-Action Operation: The internal hammer necessitates a double-action-only trigger pull. This consistent, heavier trigger pull acts as an inherent safety mechanism, reducing the chance of accidental discharge while still allowing for quick follow-up shots.

The Smith & Wesson J-Frame Legacy: A Compact Powerhouse

The Model 640 is a proud member of the iconic Smith & Wesson J-Frame family. Introduced in 1950, the J-Frame series was designed specifically for concealed carry, offering compact dimensions without sacrificing firepower. Over decades, it has become synonymous with discreet personal protection. The Model 40 Centennial, from which the 640 descends, was particularly innovative for its internal hammer design, setting a standard for snag-free carry. The Model 640 takes this time-tested foundation and integrates modern advancements while preserving the core benefits.

• Optimal Size for Concealment: Measuring a compact 6.56 inches overall and featuring a 2.125-inch barrel, the Model 640 is perfectly proportioned for deep concealment. It can be comfortably carried in a variety of methods, including inside-the-waistband (IWB), outside-the-waistband (OWB) with the right clothing, ankle holsters, or even in a properly designed pocket holster. Its small frame ensures it melts away under typical clothing, making it an excellent choice for everyday carry.
• Manageable Weight: At 22.1 ounces (approximately 1.38 pounds) unloaded, the Model 640 strikes a balance between being light enough for comfortable carry throughout the day and heavy enough to absorb some of the recoil from its powerful caliber. This weight range (16.00 oz to 31.99 oz) places it squarely in the sweet spot for a concealable defensive firearm.

Unleashing the Power of .357 Magnum: Versatility and Stopping Power

One of the most significant features of the Smith & Wesson Model 640 is its chambering in the formidable .357 Magnum caliber. What makes the .357 Magnum an excellent choice for self-defense?

• Superior Ballistics: The .357 Magnum is a high-velocity, high-energy cartridge known for its excellent terminal ballistics. It delivers significant kinetic energy, making it highly effective for incapacitating threats. This power ensures that if a situation demands decisive action, the Model 640 is up to the task.
• Ammunition Versatility: A key advantage of the .357 Magnum chambering is its ability to also reliably fire .38 Special cartridges. This provides immense flexibility:
  • For Practice and Training: .38 Special ammunition, particularly standard pressure loads, offers significantly reduced recoil and muzzle blast compared to full-power .357 Magnum. This makes practice sessions more comfortable, less fatiguing, and more affordable, allowing shooters to build proficiency and confidence without the intimidation of magnum recoil.
  • For Personal Defense: When the stakes are highest, loading the Model 640 with modern, high-performance .357 Magnum defensive ammunition provides maximum stopping power. Alternatively, some individuals prefer specialized .38 Special +P (Plus P) loads for defense, which offer a balance of increased power over standard .38 Special while generating less recoil than .357 Magnum.
• Five-Shot Capacity: While some semi-automatics boast higher capacities, the five-round cylinder of the Model 640 is more than adequate for most self-defense scenarios. Statistics show that the vast majority of defensive encounters involve very few shots fired at close ranges. The reliability and power of five well-aimed .357 Magnum or .38 Special rounds far outweigh the theoretical advantage of higher capacity in many practical defense situations.

Robust Construction for Lasting Performance

The Smith & Wesson Model 640 is built to endure, utilizing high-quality materials and manufacturing processes that define the Smith & Wesson standard.

• Stainless Steel Construction: Both the frame, barrel, and cylinder are crafted from durable stainless steel. What are the benefits of stainless steel in a firearm?
  • Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel is inherently resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for a firearm that will be carried close to the body, exposed to sweat, humidity, and the elements. This ensures long-term reliability and reduces the burden of meticulous maintenance.
  • Strength and Durability: Stainless steel provides exceptional structural integrity, capable of withstanding the pressures generated by repeated firing of powerful .357 Magnum cartridges. This robust construction ensures a long service life and consistent performance.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: The natural finish of stainless steel gives the Model 640 a clean, professional, and timeless look.
• Sights Designed for Practicality: The Model 640 features a blade front sight and a fixed rear sight. This simple, rugged sight picture is ideal for a close-range defensive firearm. Fixed sights are incredibly durable, less prone to snagging, and require no adjustment, ensuring they are always ready. For the distances typically associated with self-defense (often within 7-10 yards), these sights provide a clear, intuitive aiming point.
• Black Synthetic Grip: The revolver comes equipped with a black synthetic grip. These grips are designed for a secure and comfortable hold, even with the recoil of .357 Magnum. Synthetic materials offer good durability, resistance to chemicals, and often provide a texture that enhances grip, which is crucial for controlling a powerful handgun. Additionally, the J-Frame platform benefits from a wide array of aftermarket grip options, allowing owners to customize the feel and fit to their personal preferences, whether they prefer larger, softer grips for comfort or slimmer ones for maximum concealment.

Caring for Your Smith & Wesson Model 640

Maintaining your Smith & Wesson Model 640 is straightforward, ensuring its longevity and continued reliability. Regular cleaning, especially after shooting, is essential.

• Cleaning: Use a quality bore cleaner, brush, and patches to clean the barrel and cylinder chambers. Pay attention to the forcing cone and the area under the extractor star, where carbon and lead residue can accumulate. Wipe down all external surfaces with a lightly oiled cloth to prevent corrosion, even with stainless steel.
• Lubrication: Apply a thin layer of gun oil to pivot points and moving parts within the action, as recommended by the manufacturer. Avoid over-lubricating, as this can attract dirt.
• Storage: Store your revolver unloaded in a secure location, such as a gun safe, inaccessible to unauthorized individuals, especially children.

Why the Smith & Wesson Model 640 is a Premier Choice for Discreet Protection

The Smith & Wesson Model 640 Centennial is more than just a firearm; it's a commitment to personal security. Its combination of a proven, snag-free design, powerful chambering, and legendary Smith & Wesson reliability makes it an outstanding choice for anyone prioritizing dependable self-defense.

• Ideal for Concealed Carry: Its compact dimensions, enclosed hammer, and relatively light weight make it effortlessly concealable for daily carry, offering peace of mind wherever you go.
• User-Friendly for All Skill Levels: The double-action-only mechanism and robust design simplify operation, making it an approachable firearm for new shooters while still offering the performance demanded by experienced users.
• A Legacy of Trust: Smith & Wesson has built a reputation over more than a century and a half for producing high-quality, reliable firearms. Owning a Model 640 means owning a piece of that trusted legacy, knowing it’s backed by a brand synonymous with American craftsmanship and innovation.
• Versatile Ammunition Options: The ability to fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special allows for tailored ammunition choices, from powerful defensive loads to comfortable training rounds, enhancing both effectiveness and affordability of practice.

For those considering a discreet yet potent self-defense solution, the Smith & Wesson Model 640 Centennial represents an exceptional investment in safety and preparedness. Its enduring design and unwavering performance ensure it’s ready when you need it most.

This exceptional Smith & Wesson Model 640 Centennial revolver, SKU 163690, is available for purchase at DEGuns.com, your trusted source for quality firearms and accessories.

Smith & Wesson Model 640 Centennial Specifications Overview

Feature	Details
Type	Revolver
Caliber	.357 Magnum	(.38 Special compatible)
Capacity	5 Rounds
Action	Double Action Only (DAO)	Internal Hammer
Barrel Length	2.125 inches
Overall Length (OAL)	6.56 inches
Weight (unloaded)	22.1 ounces
Frame Size	Small (J-Frame)
Frame Finish	Stainless Steel
Cylinder Finish	Stainless Steel
Sights	Blade Front, Fixed Rear
Grips	Black Synthetic
SKU	163690
UPC	022188636901