S&w 325pd

sendec

Moderator
Anybody have experience with one? I am debating the purchase if for no other reason than I like big-bore snubbies.

I'm guessing it takes clips?
 
It's a handful. The trigger pull on mine is heavy, but smooth. Light weight, which is nice while carrying. Not so nice while shooting. This is one of the more punishing guns to shoot I have, which I attribute to the light weight of it. It's not difficult to shoot 1 time, or 3 times, or 6 times, but after a couple of cylinders, it does start to wear on me. No hitches to report, fits in other N frame holsters... frankly, other than the size, it's tough to come up with anything really negative to type about it.

HTH
 
sendec,

I have nothing but praises for my 325 snubby. Great gun and one of my favorites to shoot (among many, many handguns). True, it is not the easiest to shoot from a recoil standpoint, but not near as bad as some might suggest. I shoot 185 grain bullets in it to minimize the recoil and to avoid the bullets pulling out of the cases (which is not terribly uncommon in the 230 grain bullet...there will be some recoil!). The gun is far more accurate than it needs to be. I had mine slicked up and replaced the mainspring with one a bit lighter and now shoot it in the local IDPA matches. Apparently no one else had ever considered such a gun in the match, as 4 or 5 guys asked for an opportunity to shoot the gun after the match. All said it shot far easier than they had imagined (but none offered to use it in the next match). I have total confidence in the gun and carry it a good bit when the weather or circumstances permit (i.e., a jacket is worn). And since my every-day carry piece is a snubby pocket revolver, they go hand-in-hand from a practice standpoint.

The gun will get some attention if you get it. And I think you might like it. But I suggest you shoot one before buying. At the match, a big policeman (probably runs about 280 pounds) said he had one for sale...too much recoil to suit him....

Boarhunter

Ps: And if I talk you into the 325, I will work on getting you set up with a 329 .44 mag (I killed my last Russian boar with one) and then set up with a scandium j-frame Smith .357 (which I keep in my safe...even I do not care to shoot it! It is the toughest of all the scandium guns to shoot.).
 
I suggest research into carpal tunnel syndrome first. Find a good surgeon. Check into whether your HMO/IP provides for rehab. I liked the looks of this Frankenstein revolver but, it is punishing to shoot. I am none too sure of the durability of these models either. A 625 Mountain Gun in 4" would be a better choice.
 
I already have a 625 Mountain Gun, but it isnt weird enough. I've always regretted not getting one of the earlier 625 snubs, or the 629 Trail Boss with the 3 inch tube and the unfluted cylinder.

Forunately, I'm not real recoil sensitive when it comes to .45s, and havent had problems with Officer's and LW Commanders, so I'm optimistic. I'll pass on the scandium .357 though, thankyouverymuch.

Plus, I have way too many practical guns. Thanks for the input

:)
 
I bought one of the 1st 325PD's almost two years ago. Just had it to the range again last Friday.

It probably has 3k+ rounds through it, and it still looks and works like new.

Joe
 
Joe, I don't think you own a battered and beaten firearm. Your pics are always great and show clean, shiny and well cared for specimens. I tried the 325 2.5" and I found it to resemble Frankenstein, shoot well and snap my wrists more than I liked. Funny thing is, I shot a snubby 500 X and it PUSHED rather than snapped my wrists. My experience was more pleasant with it than the 325. I just couldn't justify $2.00 per round. I have one 45 ACP revolver but it has a 6" barrel. It is a WWI surplus. I like the speed of reloading with Wilson full moon clips. A 1911 and a 2.5" 325 as BUG would be a good combination.
 
It's all in the load. Ball ammo snaps pretty good, but I shoot 200 grain bullets at around 800 fps from a 5" barrel. I'm not sure how much slower they are in the 2.75", maybe around 700.

Actually makes for a pretty soft shooting gun. Well... for the 1st box or so anyway... ;)

Joe
 
Back
Top