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Smith & Wesson Model 64
Smith & Wesson Model 64 revolver in .38 Special: specs, history, ammo and Colorado legal notes from the CO Boots gun library. Want hands-on time with a firearm like the Smith & Wesson Model 64? Our certified instructors cover safe handling, operation and marksmanship in every firearms training class.
| Library ID | GT-025 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson |
| Type | Revolver |
| Caliber | .38 Special |
| Action | Revolver |
| Barrel Length | 4 inches |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Year of Production | 1970 |
| Production Status | Discontinued |
| Typical Users | Law enforcement, civilians |
| Rating | 4.5 |
Smith & Wesson Model 64: Technical Specifications
The Smith & Wesson Model 64 is a double-action revolver known for its reliability and durability, primarily designed for law enforcement use. Key specifications include:
- Caliber: .38 Special
- Barrel Length: Typically available in 4-inch and 6-inch variants, with the 4-inch being more common.
- Weight: Approximately 34 ounces (unloaded) for the 4-inch model.
- Material: Constructed from stainless steel, providing corrosion resistance and added durability.
- Capacity: 6-round cylinder.
- Action Type: Double-action/single-action mechanism.
Unique engineering aspects include a pinned barrel for enhanced strength, a full-length underlug that aids in recoil management, and a smooth trigger pull that is conducive for accurate shooting. The Model 64 often features fixed sights and a comfortable grip design, making it suitable for both novice and experienced shooters. Its design emphasizes reliability, making it a popular choice for duty use.
Smith & Wesson Model 64: Performance Characteristics
The Smith & Wesson Model 64 is a stainless steel, double-action revolver chambered for .38 Special, renowned for its reliability and accuracy. With a 4-inch barrel, it offers excellent balance, enhancing handling and control, making it suitable for both novice and experienced shooters.
Accuracy: The Model 64 is capable of delivering consistent accuracy, particularly with standard .38 Special loads, often achieving sub-3-inch groups at 25 yards.
Reliability: Known for its robust construction, the Model 64 is highly reliable, functioning well under various conditions and typically requiring minimal maintenance.
Handling: The revolver features a smooth double-action trigger pull and a crisp single-action option, providing versatility in shooting styles. The ergonomic grip design allows for comfortable handling.
Rate of Fire: While revolvers have a slower rate of fire compared to semi-automatics, the Model 64 allows for quick follow-up shots due to its smooth action.
Overall, the Model 64 is a dependable choice for law enforcement, self-defense, and target shooting,
Smith & Wesson Model 64: Design Features
The Smith & Wesson Model 64 is a double-action revolver featuring a solid stainless steel construction, enhancing durability and corrosion resistance. Its ergonomic design includes a full-sized grip that provides a comfortable hold for various hand sizes, promoting accuracy and control. The revolver's 4-inch barrel balances well, contributing to manageable recoil.
Safety mechanisms include a transfer bar that prevents accidental discharge unless the trigger is fully pulled, along with an internal hammer design that reduces the chance of snagging during draws. Aesthetically, the Model 64 exhibits a classic revolver profile with smooth lines and a polished finish, often complemented by checkered wood or rubber grips for better traction.
Innovative features include adjustable rear sights for improved targeting and a fixed front sight for reliability. The Model 64 is known for its simplicity, making it an ideal choice for both law enforcement and civilian use, reflecting a blend of tradition and functionality in revolver design.
Smith & Wesson Model 64: Historical Context
The Smith & Wesson Model 64, a stainless steel variant of the Model 10 revolver, was introduced in 1960. Designed for law enforcement, it featured a double-action mechanism and a fixed sight, enhancing durability and ease of maintenance. The Model 64 quickly became popular among police agencies, particularly in the U.S., due to its reliability and the use of .38 Special ammunition.
Key milestones include its adoption by various police departments during the crime wave of the 1960s and 1970s, which increased demand for dependable sidearms. It was notably used in high-profile incidents, including the 1986 Miami shootout, showcasing its effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
The Model 64's stainless steel construction influenced future firearm designs, encouraging manufacturers to consider corrosion resistance and longevity. Its legacy continues as it remains in service with some law enforcement agencies and is appreciated by collectors for its historical significance in American policing.
Smith & Wesson Model 64: User Experience
The Smith & Wesson Model 64, a double-action revolver, is widely praised for its reliability and durability, making it a favorite among law enforcement and civilians alike. Users commend its comfortable grip and balanced weight, which enhances shooting stability. The fixed sights are intuitive, contributing to ease of use, particularly for those new to revolvers.
Durability is a strong point; the stainless steel construction is resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring longevity even with heavy use. Many users appreciate the smooth trigger pull, which aids in accuracy.
Common complaints include the relatively heavy trigger pull in double-action mode, which some find challenging. Additionally, while the revolver is easy to maintain, users sometimes wish for a wider range of aftermarket accessories. Overall, the Model 64 is celebrated for its solid performance, comfort, and straightforward operation, making it a trusted choice for various shooting applications.
Smith & Wesson Model 64: Ammunition Information
The Smith & Wesson Model 64 is a revolver primarily chambered for the .38 Special cartridge, renowned for its versatility and reliability. This model can also accommodate .38 Special +P ammunition, which offers higher pressure and velocity for enhanced performance, making it suitable for self-defense applications.
The Model 64 is compatible with various brands of ammunition, including popular options from Remington, Winchester, Federal, and Speer. For optimal performance, it’s recommended to use high-quality defensive rounds, such as jacketed hollow points (JHP) like the Speer Gold Dot or Federal HST, which provide effective expansion and energy transfer.
Additionally, the revolver can fire lead round nose (LRN) or wadcutter (WC) loads for target shooting. For best results, ensuring a proper match of bullet weight and type to the intended use (self-defense vs. target shooting) is crucial for accuracy and reliability. Regular cleaning and maintenance are also advised to ensure consistent performance with all ammunition types.
Smith & Wesson Model 64: Usage Tips and Best Practices
The Smith & Wesson Model 64 is a reliable, stainless steel revolver chambered in .38 Special.
Usage Tips:
1. Grip: Maintain a firm grip with both hands, aligning your dominant eye with the front sight for accuracy.
2. Trigger Control: Use smooth, consistent pressure on the trigger to avoid jerking the shot.
Cleaning & Maintenance:
- After Each Use: Clean the barrel with a bore brush and solvent to remove fouling. Use a patch to dry it.
- Cylinder: Check and clean the chambers with a brush and solvent.
- Exterior: Wipe down with a silicone cloth to prevent corrosion.
- Lubrication: Apply a light oil to the crane and ejector rod.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Neglecting Cleaning: Regular cleaning prevents buildup and malfunction.
- Poor Stance: A proper stance helps absorb recoil and improves accuracy.
- Overlooking Ammo: Use quality ammunition to ensure reliability and precision.
Practice regularly to build familiarity and confidence.
Legal Considerations in Colorado
The Smith & Wesson Model 64 is a double-action revolver chambered for .38 Special. It is primarily used by law enforcement and is noted for its reliability and ease of use. As a commercially available firearm, it is legal for civilian ownership in most states, subject to federal regulations which require background checks for purchases from licensed dealers.
State laws vary significantly. Some states, like California and New York, impose strict regulations, including waiting periods and permits. Others, like Texas and Florida, have more permissive laws.
Military use of the Model 64 is rare, as military forces typically use semi-automatic pistols or different revolver models.
Notable legal cases involving the Model 64 specifically are limited, but general legal precedents regarding revolvers and lawful ownership can apply. The firearm is often cited in discussions about police use of firearms and Second Amendment rights. Always consult local laws for the most accurate and current regulations.
Smith & Wesson Model 64: Reviews and Ratings
User reviews for the Smith & Wesson Model 64 generally highlight its reliability and durability, with many praising it as a dependable choice for both law enforcement and civilian use. Reviewers often note the revolver's solid construction and ease of handling, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced shooters.
Accuracy is frequently mentioned, with users reporting tight groupings and consistent performance at various ranges. Some reviews emphasize the smooth trigger pull, which enhances shooting experience.
Customer service experiences vary, with some users reporting positive interactions while others encountered delays or challenges in service. Overall satisfaction is high, with many owners expressing pride in their purchase and stating they would recommend the Model 64 to others.
A recurring theme is the revolver's historical significance and classic design, appealing to enthusiasts. Overall, the Smith & Wesson Model 64 is well-regarded for its performance and reliability in various shooting scenarios.
Smith & Wesson Model 64: Appearances in Media
The Smith & Wesson Model 64, a double-action revolver, has appeared in various films, TV shows, and video games. Here’s a brief list of notable appearances:
Movies:
1. "Lethal Weapon 2" (1989) - Used by police characters.
2. "The Dark Knight" (2008) - Featured in scenes with law enforcement.
3. "The Heat" (2013) - Used by FBI agents.
TV Shows:
1. "The Shield" - Frequently used by police characters throughout the series.
2. "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" - Appears in various episodes as part of the police armory.
3. "NYPD Blue" - Commonly used by NYPD officers throughout the series.
Video Games:
1. "L.A. Noire" - Included as a weapon option within the game.
2. "Max Payne 3" - Featured as one of the revolver options in the game.
These appearances highlight the Model 64's association with law enforcement and its use in crime and action genres.
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