A Glimpse into History
Examining the Core: Features and Specifications
The Smith & Wesson 627 V Comp is more than just a firearm; it’s a product of the Smith & Wesson Performance Center. This designation alone speaks volumes about its quality and design. The Performance Center represents the pinnacle of Smith & Wesson’s custom shop, where skilled gunsmiths transform existing models into high-performance masterpieces. The 627 V Comp embodies this philosophy, offering a refined shooting experience geared towards accuracy and controlled recoil.
To understand the 627 V Comp, we must first appreciate the lineage from which it emerged. The Smith & Wesson 627 series, built on the robust N-frame, is well-known for its chambering in the powerful .357 Magnum cartridge. These revolvers have found favor among competitive shooters, law enforcement professionals, and civilian enthusiasts alike.
The Performance Center, established to cater to the demands of high-performance shooting, took this foundational design and elevated it. The 627 V Comp, with its specialized features, including a compensated barrel, marked a significant step forward in the evolution of this classic revolver, promising faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy. The Performance Center’s meticulous attention to detail, from hand-fitting components to precise trigger work, is evident throughout the entire design.
The 627 V Comp is built to perform, and its features reflect this dedication. Let’s examine the key aspects that make it so special:
The heart of the 627 V Comp is its chambering in .357 Magnum, a cartridge known for its impressive power and versatility. This allows for the ability to use a variety of ammunition types, from target loads to self-defense rounds. The 627 V Comp also happily cycles .38 Special rounds.
The cylinder itself is crucial. The 627 V Comp typically holds eight rounds, offering a significant advantage in terms of capacity when compared to many other revolvers. This extra capacity is particularly beneficial in competitive shooting environments or situations where a rapid response is needed. The cylinder’s construction and smoothness of operation are also testament to the quality.
The barrel is where the 627 V Comp truly distinguishes itself. It features a compensated design, commonly referred to as the V Comp. This barrel is not just about length, although it does contribute to velocity and sight radius. The ports strategically placed near the muzzle redirect propellant gases upward and outward, counteracting recoil and muzzle rise. This compensation significantly enhances the shooter’s ability to maintain sight alignment and acquire follow-up shots rapidly and accurately. It is this feature that most defines the 627 V Comp.
The frame, typically constructed from stainless steel, contributes to the revolver’s overall durability and balance. The stainless steel construction also offers inherent resistance to corrosion and wear, ensuring the firearm’s longevity. The N-frame is renowned for its strength and ability to handle the pressures generated by the .357 Magnum cartridge.
The finish on the 627 V Comp is often a brushed or matte stainless steel, adding to the aesthetic appeal while offering a robust, low-glare surface. The finish contributes to the overall impression of a well-made and durable firearm.
The sights of a firearm are paramount to its performance. The 627 V Comp often includes adjustable rear sights and a front sight blade that is readily interchangeable. The adjustments allow shooters to refine their aim. The bright, easily visible sight system further promotes fast target acquisition, an essential aspect of competitive shooting.
The grips are a critical element of the overall feel and handling. The 627 V Comp typically includes custom grips, often made from materials such as wood or polymer. These grips are often carefully shaped and textured to provide a secure and comfortable hold, contributing significantly to control during rapid firing. They typically feature finger grooves that allow for consistent grip acquisition.
The trigger is a vital component for achieving accuracy and controlling the firearm. The 627 V Comp typically features a double-action/single-action trigger mechanism, allowing the shooter to either cock the hammer manually for a lighter, single-action pull or to use the trigger to both cock and release the hammer in double-action mode. The Performance Center often includes trigger enhancements such as lighter spring kits and polished components, resulting in a smooth, crisp, and predictable trigger pull.
The Art of Design and Build Quality
The 627 V Comp’s design reflects a commitment to both form and function. The lines are sleek and functional, providing a balanced and comfortable feel in hand. The ergonomics of the design, particularly the grip and frame shape, are critical for achieving good control and minimizing recoil.
The build quality is exceptional. The parts are meticulously fitted, and the action is smooth. The choice of materials, particularly the stainless steel, speaks to the durability and longevity of the firearm. You can feel the precision in every detail, from the cylinder’s rotation to the trigger’s break. This attention to detail is characteristic of the Performance Center’s commitment to excellence.
Putting It to the Test: Performance and Handling
The 627 V Comp truly shines on the range. The experience of shooting the 627 V Comp is, to put it mildly, impressive. The compensator dramatically reduces the perceived recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots. The revolver’s balance contributes to its ease of handling.
Accuracy is another area where the 627 V Comp excels. The combination of a quality trigger, a well-designed sight system, and the recoil-reducing compensator allows the shooter to consistently achieve tight groupings at various distances. The smooth trigger pull aids in precision.
The reliability of the 627 V Comp is also noteworthy. The gun is designed to withstand the demands of high-volume shooting. If the gun is well-maintained, it will likely deliver many years of consistent service.
The ability to use different ammunition types allows the shooter to tailor their experience and meet the demands of different situations. From target shooting to self-defense, the 627 V Comp provides versatility in terms of ammunition choice.
The trigger’s performance is critical. The crispness and smoothness of the double-action trigger, combined with the lighter single-action pull when cocked, greatly assist in accurate shooting. The trigger allows for precise shot placement.
The Advantages: What Makes It Stand Out
The 627 V Comp offers a number of key advantages that make it stand out among other revolvers. The most notable advantage is the recoil reduction provided by the compensator. This feature allows for rapid follow-up shots and allows for superior accuracy.
The accuracy and precision of the 627 V Comp are exceptional, making it a joy to shoot. The high build quality and reliability add to the confidence the shooter will feel. The ergonomics of the design promote comfortable handling. The Smith & Wesson Performance Center enhancements further elevate the shooting experience.
Areas to Consider: Potential Drawbacks
While the 627 V Comp is a remarkable firearm, there are some factors to consider. The cost can be a significant factor. As a Performance Center model, the 627 V Comp commands a premium price.
The size and weight, typical for an N-frame revolver, may be a consideration for some users, especially if concealed carry is the intended use.
The compensator, while beneficial for recoil reduction, can generate a significant muzzle blast. This is often loud and can produce more gases directed to the shooter.
Comparing and Contrasting: Alternatives and the Competition
The market features other revolvers. Comparing the 627 V Comp to other firearms highlights its distinctive qualities. Many competitors will not feature a compensated barrel.
Consider other Smith & Wesson revolvers, like the standard 627 models, or models by other manufacturers. Each of these may have different features and price points. However, the 627 V Comp, with its Performance Center enhancements and compensated barrel, offers a unique blend of performance and features.
Who Is This Revolver For?
The 627 V Comp has a clearly defined target audience. This revolver is a great choice for competitive shooters. It’s a great option for firearm enthusiasts and collectors seeking a high-performance revolver. It’s also suitable for those looking for a well-built and accurate revolver, especially if they value the advantages of a compensated design.
Concluding Thoughts
The Smith & Wesson 627 V Comp represents a high-performance revolver. It combines the classic reliability of the N-frame with the enhancements of the Performance Center, culminating in a handgun optimized for accuracy and speed. The compensator, in particular, sets this revolver apart, making it a pleasure to shoot and a formidable performer in any situation.
The 627 V Comp is an investment in quality, craftsmanship, and performance. This is a revolver that will serve its owner well.
