Introduction
From the Wild West to modern day, the revolver has held a special place in the hearts of firearms enthusiasts. Their rugged reliability, straightforward operation, and undeniable aesthetic appeal have cemented their place in history. Today, these timeless firearms continue to fascinate, and among the esteemed manufacturers producing these marvels of engineering, Smith & Wesson stands tall. The focus of this article is the S&W 627 Pro Series, a premium revolver that exemplifies the marriage of tradition and innovation. This is not just a firearm; it’s a statement.
This examination will explore the 627 Pro Series, delving into its design, its performance on the range, its features, and its place in the world of modern shooting. We’ll uncover what sets this revolver apart, and why it continues to be a favorite amongst those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and precision.
Historical Context of the 627
The Smith & Wesson name is synonymous with firearms excellence. Their history is interwoven with the evolution of the revolver itself. Starting in the mid-19th century, the company revolutionized firearms with its innovative designs, quickly becoming a trusted name in law enforcement, the military, and amongst civilian shooters. From the early single-action revolvers to the iconic double-action designs, Smith & Wesson has consistently pushed the boundaries of firearm technology. They played a pivotal role in shaping the firearms landscape.
Before the S&W 627 Pro Series, the legacy included legendary models like the Model 27, a masterpiece of blued steel and walnut grips that established a reputation for accuracy and power. The Model 27 was followed by the Model 28 Highway Patrolman and countless other iconic handguns. As the industry evolved, so did Smith & Wesson, embracing stainless steel for increased durability and creating the groundwork for their Performance Center. The Performance Center is where Smith & Wesson’s finest models are born, guns that represent the pinnacle of their engineering prowess. The S&W 627 Pro Series is a direct descendant of that heritage.
Design and Features of the 627 Pro Series
The S&W 627 Pro Series itself is a marvel of engineering. Built on Smith & Wesson’s N-frame, a platform known for its strength and robustness, this revolver immediately conveys an impression of quality. The frame is crafted from stainless steel, providing exceptional resistance to corrosion and wear, making it ideal for various environments. The steel itself contributes to the substantial feel in the hand, reinforcing the sense of enduring quality.
The barrel, another key component, can be offered in several lengths (though a 5-inch option is common), balancing handling and accuracy. This carefully chosen barrel length offers excellent balance and handling, allowing for precision shooting. The cylinder is perhaps the most striking feature, holding eight rounds of .357 Magnum ammunition, or its .38 Special variant. That eight-round capacity is a significant advantage over many other revolvers on the market, allowing for more shots before needing to reload. Often, the cylinder on a 627 Pro is fluted, reducing weight and adding to the visual appeal.
The sights on the S&W 627 Pro Series are designed with practicality and precision in mind. The front sight usually features a Hi-Viz fiber optic insert, making it exceptionally easy to acquire the target, even in challenging lighting conditions. The rear sight is fully adjustable, enabling shooters to fine-tune their point of impact. The sight picture is clear and uncluttered, ensuring that the shooter can quickly and accurately align the sights on the target.
The trigger and action is where the Performance Center difference truly shines. The S&W 627 Pro Series is engineered for both single-action (SA) and double-action (DA) operation. In SA mode, the hammer is manually cocked, resulting in a light, crisp trigger pull, perfect for precision shooting. The double-action mode is where the trigger pull actuates the hammer, and the trigger is typically very smooth and relatively light, making rapid follow-up shots faster. The trigger pull is meticulously tuned for smoothness and consistency, providing a superior shooting experience.
The grips on the S&W 627 Pro Series are selected to deliver comfort and control. Rubber grips are commonly used. The ergonomics are carefully considered to fit the hand well and to absorb recoil effectively, so that you can enjoy shooting the gun more. The grips provide a firm and confident purchase, allowing for better control during rapid firing.
Beyond those core components, the 627 Pro Series features several other refinements. The Performance Center enhancements include careful polishing of internal parts, optimized spring rates, and meticulous attention to detail. These enhancements contribute to the gun’s overall performance and smooth operation. The overall design aesthetic is a blend of classic revolver lines with modern enhancements, resulting in a timeless and functional firearm. The clean lines, the polished steel, and the carefully selected materials all contribute to a truly handsome and desirable revolver.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance, the S&W 627 Pro Series truly shines. The accuracy of this revolver is superb, its accuracy capabilities are well-regarded by target shooters and those involved in competitive shooting. At a range of targets, shots can be grouped tightly. The quality of the trigger, the sight picture, and the balance of the gun all combine to facilitate accurate shooting.
Recoil management is another area where the 627 excels. The weight of the stainless steel frame, combined with the grip design, helps to mitigate felt recoil. The .357 Magnum is known for its potent performance, and the 627 is designed to handle the ammunition effectively. The result is a revolver that is pleasant to shoot, even with powerful loads.
Reliability is paramount in any firearm. The S&W 627 Pro Series is built to last, and it delivers. The robust construction, combined with the quality of the internal components, ensures dependable operation. The revolver functions flawlessly, shot after shot.
Handling is another important aspect of any firearm. The 627 Pro balances well in the hand, the weight is distributed to provide stability and control. The ergonomics of the grip and the placement of the controls are designed to facilitate comfortable and intuitive use. Whether shooting at the range, or handling the gun for other purposes, the 627 Pro Series is a joy to use.
Pros and Cons
The S&W 627 Pro Series is a truly exceptional firearm, but like any product, it has strengths and weaknesses. The pros are numerous. The accuracy and performance are consistently impressive. The quality of the construction is first-rate, the stainless steel frame and Performance Center enhancements make for a supremely durable firearm. The features, from the Hi-Viz front sight to the adjustable rear sight, add to the revolver’s appeal. The 8-round capacity is also a significant advantage.
There are a couple of downsides. The price is significant, reflecting the quality of materials and craftsmanship. The weight, due to the stainless steel construction, could be an issue for some.
Comparison with Competitors
In the world of revolvers, there are many competitors. The S&W 627 Pro Series stands out as a premium offering within its class. It is important to compare it to other revolvers. It is most commonly compared with other S&W offerings, such as the Model 686 Plus, a popular .357 Magnum revolver. The 686 Plus offers similar reliability and accuracy, but with a 7-round cylinder. The Performance Center enhancements of the 627 Pro Series are what set it apart. It also competes with other brands, like Ruger. The Ruger GP100 is a sturdy, reliable option, but with a slightly less refined trigger and sight system. The S&W 627 Pro Series, with its smooth trigger pull and precision-tuned action, offers a premium shooting experience.
Applications and Suitability
The versatility of the S&W 627 Pro Series makes it suitable for various applications. It’s an excellent choice for target shooting, offering the accuracy and the handling characteristics that appeal to target shooters. The smooth trigger and the sight picture are huge benefits. The 627 Pro Series is also well-suited for competitive shooting, such as IDPA and USPSA events. The 8-round cylinder provides an advantage over revolvers with fewer rounds. This revolver can also serve as a home defense option. The .357 Magnum ammunition is a proven self-defense round, and the revolver’s reliability makes it a trustworthy tool. The larger frame and the overall weight of the 627 Pro Series make concealed carry more challenging, though not impossible, and is not its primary design purpose.
Maintenance and Care
Maintaining a S&W 627 Pro Series is essential for its long-term performance. Regular cleaning is crucial, after each range session, or after use. Field strip the gun according to manufacturer’s instructions, then thoroughly clean the barrel and cylinder with a bore brush and solvent. The internal components should be cleaned and wiped down to remove any residue. Proper lubrication is key to the smooth operation of the trigger and other moving parts. Use a high-quality gun oil on the appropriate areas, following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Careful maintenance will ensure that the revolver performs reliably for many years to come.
Pricing and Availability
The S&W 627 Pro Series is a premium product, with a price tag that reflects its quality. The cost will vary depending on the vendor and the condition of the revolver (new or used). However, the value proposition lies in the revolver’s accuracy, reliability, and its high-end construction. The Performance Center enhancements and the stainless-steel frame are factors that greatly increase the long-term value of the firearm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the S&W 627 Pro Series is a truly exceptional revolver, a testament to Smith & Wesson’s dedication to quality, precision, and performance. It’s a premium option, but the enhanced features and the Performance Center touch make it worth the investment for those who appreciate superior craftsmanship and want a top-tier revolver. If you value accuracy, reliability, and a truly enjoyable shooting experience, the S&W 627 Pro Series is a firearm well worth considering. Explore the world of revolvers and consider adding the S&W 627 Pro Series to your collection today!
