0/5

Smith and Wesson Model 40 Centennial

Posted by Jason Brumett     

  • Smith and Wesson Model 40 Centennial Photo 1

The Model 40 came on the scene in 1953 and was discontinued in 1974. It is chambered for the .38 Special and features a two-inch barrel, fully concealed hammer, grip safety and smooth wood grips. It was available in blue or nickel finish (by far, most are blued steel). With an MSRP of $6,500.00 this may be the most expensive handgun in our database.

Several factors made the Model 40 Centennial such a preferred revolver for concealed carry. First, it doesn't weigh much (even being made all of steel). And because the cylinder holds five rather than six rounds, as do many revolvers, the cylinder is a slim 1.3 inches wide (the widest part of the entire gun). That's pretty skinny and not a whole lot wider than some of the more modern, boxy autos.

The Centennial does have sights, although they are the most basic available on a revolver. The front sight is a rather substantial blade, while the rear sight is the typical squared cut in the top of the rear of the top strap.

The Centennial picked up a nickname along the way. It is variously referred to as the "lemon squeezer," because of the grip safety. But the grip safety on the Centennial doesn't get in the way; when you hold the Centennial in firing mode, the grip safety is automatically depressed and becomes a non-factor.

Combine the size and geometry of the Centennial and you have a package that can be pointed and shot with adequate accuracy. For example, if the shot is to be quickly, the revolver clears clothing without a snag--no exposed hammer spur or anything else to catch. As it is being brought to bear on target, the long trigger pull can begin so it goes "bang" at the precise instant the arm is extended properly.

Or, if there's a chance to aim the shot, there are two really distinctive stages to the smooth double-action trigger. The long trigger take-up can be done and the trigger held in place at a spot in the pull where there is not much spring pressure back onto the trigger finger; just a bit more pressure and slight trigger movement will set it off.

Specifications [login to edit wiki]

Low Price : $6000High Price : $6500

User Contributed Gun Pictures

Add Your Gun Picture

Similar Guns

  • S&W SD40 VE - Std Capacity

    Make: Smith & Wesson Model: SD40 VE - Std Capacity Caliber: .40 S&W

    The new SD40 VE semi-automatic pistol, chambered in 40 Smith & Wesson, combines value with enhanced features to deliver top-grade performance in a reliable option for home and pers...(more)

  • Smith and Wesson Custom Engraved Model 60

    Make: Smith & Wesson Model: 60 Caliber: 357 mag, 38 special. 357 magnum Designed By: Smith & Wesson Make Year: 2012

    To say the Smith and Wesson Custom Engraved Model 60 is a common carry revolver would be a farce, and with it's $2630 MSRP it should be. This revolver is one of the finest on the m...(more)

  • Smith and Wesson MP Compact .357 Sig.

    Make: Smith & Wesson Model: M&P Compact .357 Sig. Caliber: .357 sig

    Reinforced polymer chassis, superior ergonomics, ambidextrous controls, proven safety features. The new standard in reliability when your job is to serve and protect and your life ...(more)

  • Colt 1991 Series O2071ELC2

    Make: Colt Model: 1991 Series O2071ELC2 Caliber: .38 special

    The O2071ELC2 is the only 38 special in this series the others are .45's This one says Colt Special on the side has a barrel length of 5". and since it's a 38 special and not a 45...(more)

  • Winchester Model 1886 Extra Light Rifle

    Make: Winchester Model: 1886 Extra Light Rifle Caliber: 45-70

    The Model 1886 Extra Light rifle made by Winchester Repeating Arms is available in just on caliber the 45-70 is a vintage western style rifle system that was first used back in the...(more)

Liked this? Try these too..

Revisions

Random Guns Gallery

Sig Sauer P229 Classic 22Glock 17Sig Sauer P220 CombatSmith And Wesson Engraved Model 3 SchofieldSig Sauer P220 Carry Elite StainlessColt Match Target CR6724Remington 11-87 Sportsman FieldS&W SD40 VE Low CapacityBeretta Sako 85 Bavarian Set Trigger