What does "Performance Center" indicate in the context of S&W?

P

PeteCress

Inactive
What does "Perfromance Center" indicate in the context of S&W?

e.g. "Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus 357 Magnum Performance Center Revolver"
 
It means SW adds options or puts a little TLC into the product. For example, I own a SW Model 19 Carry Comp revolver with three-inch barrel. They ported the barrel, put on a tritium front sight, added a little nicer grip in addition to a set of rubber grips, and did an action job on it. The trigger pull is still a bit on the heavy side, but it is very smooth. https://www.smith-wesson.com/product/model-19-0?sku=12039

On the other hand, the SW Model 19 Classic has a 4.25 inch barrel, with the main addition being a polished bluing job. No mention of an action job, etc. (and its about $300 less than the Carry Comp). https://www.smith-wesson.com/product/model-19?sku=12040
 
Depending on the luck of the draw, I find there to be very little difference. I have had PC guns that needed an action job and stock guns that were great right out of the box.
 
For the PC, S&W gets more of your money.

Unless there is a configuration you are willing to pay more for that is not available otherwise, I find it best to buy a non-PC S&W and have the work done by a respected gunsmith, or if you are competent, yourself.
 
Would that imply that it is possible to order guns directly from Smith and Wesson?
Click to expand...

No. You will have to go to a dealer.

However, you can send your Smith into the PC for them to do gunsmithing for you.
 
gnystrom said:
Depending on the luck of the draw, I find there to be very little difference. I have had PC guns that needed an action job and stock guns that were great right out of the box.
Click to expand...

I have two P.C. hunting revolvers, a P.C. 629 and a P.C. XVR. Both have outstanding triggers and features that only come outta the P.C. shop. I don't believe all P.C. models have trigger work. Those that do generally state it in the description.
 
MarkCO said:
For the PC, S&W gets more of your money.

Unless there is a configuration you are willing to pay more for that is not available otherwise, I find it best to buy a non-PC S&W and have the work done by a respected gunsmith, or if you are competent, yourself.
Click to expand...

Now you have the cost of paying a gunsmith and possibly shipping both ways.
 
What does "Performance Center" indicate in the context of S&W?
e.g. "Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus 357 Magnum Performance Center Revolver"
Click to expand...

It means some amount of QC was added before the gun left out the factory door. :rolleyes:

And you paid a premium for it to boot.:eek:
 
When first introduced the PC label meant a better gun. Lately I don't think it is any assurance of quality, just of a higher price. Smith ain't the company they used to be, even a few years ago.

YMMV,
Dave
 
I don't know.

My Performance Center 627 has the best double action trigger of any revolver I have shot.

It's much better than any standard S&W.
 
I like my 627 PC also. With the link provided by JC I found out the classic series is from the PC. My 2012 29-10 6 1/2" barrel is top notch. I also have a 586 classic from last year and a recent 29-10 4" Classic. The last two mentioned are very nice, my only complaint would be the double action trigger on both.
 
PeteCress said:
What does "Perfromance Center" indicate in the context of S&W?

e.g. "Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus 357 Magnum Performance Center Revolver"
Click to expand...

You get a gun manufactured with the amount of care and QA applied to it that S&W should be applying to all it's guns, but don't.
 
It used to mean something, now I do not know. I just recently purchased a "Performance Center" model 41 and have yet to enjoy it. It would not feed a variety of rounds. Seems that the pride of people working for such a fine establishment is lacking as is their quality control. I own several of their revolvers which work flawlessly and this is my first semi-auto I purchased from them, even though there were warnings on some gun forums about the newer 41's not being as good as the older models I still bought it. I am regretting my decision in buying the new model 41.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top