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Smith & Wesson is reaching into the vault and pulling out a modernized classic.
After a 27-year hiatus, the Model 940 revolver is back, this time with a few notable updates aimed at today’s concealed carriers.
Originally discontinued in 1998, the 940 returns as a 9mm revolver built on the familiar 640 frame. It features a five-shot cylinder, utilizes moon clips for 9mm headspacing, and sports a snag-free concealed hammer—making it a compact option for deep carry.
The updated version includes a fluted, one-piece barrel, an XS tritium front sight, and a U-notch rear, giving shooters a clearer sight picture right out of the box. Smith & Wesson also dropped the internal lock, which many shooters will likely see as a plus.
Grips come in the form of VZ Black Cherry stocks, contoured for moon clip compatibility. The grips offer solid texture without being overly aggressive, helping the revolver ride smoothly in a pocket or holster without catching on the draw.
SEE ALSO: The S&W M&P K-Frame – A Classic Six Gun
While revolvers chambered in 9mm remain a niche choice, the 940 gives those who already run 9mm a convenient backup option without the need to stock another caliber. It’s also a compact wheelgun for those who want simplicity without giving up modern sighting options.
The 940 may not be for everyone, but for those looking for a 9mm revolver with carry-focused features and no-frills function, it’s worth a look.
MSRP: $999.
More details are available at smith-wesson.com.
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is a seasoned outdoorsman, lifelong hunter, and the kind of guy who’d rather track whitetails than scroll social media. As an editor for GunsAmerica, he’s got a sharp eye for spotting both solid gear and bad gun laws. Whether he’s deep in the woods or deep in editorial deadlines, Larry brings a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach to firearms, hunting, and the great American tradition of self-reliance. If there’s a hot debate on gun rights or the latest in hunting tech, you can bet Larry’s got an opinion—and it’s probably backed up with both facts and field experience.
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One other advantage of a 9mm revolver, or any revolver that uses moon clips is that it’s easier to reload fast than a revolver with individual rounds.
No Hillary hole? I would carry that sometimes as a nice combo with 9mm semi-auto.
I am aware of the perjorative slang, but shouldn’t it be more correctly a Reno hole?
I understood the negotiations was between Hillary and S&W, it’s been a long time, but my recollections hold up reasonably well. What’s your recollection? Hillary was a tyrant and S&W caved, the question remained unanswered, why did S&W cave? The executives of S&W have changed over the years and so has the bases of power in the WH. S&W should explain what happened and why. I have avoided S&W because of this ugly internal lock and tended toward other revolvers in the following years.
One thing the Clinton’s were willing to drop on Reno’s lap was the Elian Gonzales and the Waco debacles. I seem to remember Hillary telling Willie Jeff to end it (Waco). Guess Hillary has had “psycho-emotional” for a longtime.
TRUMP should unravel the bad negotiations of S&W and release the company from any bad business commitments to lifelong politicians.