The S&W 625 gets consistent praise for its build quality and smooth action. The blued finish is a draw for collectors and traditional-leaning shooters who prefer the look over stainless. The .45 Colt caliber is well-regarded for its terminal performance, and the 4.75-inch barrel gives it enough reach for target work without being unwieldy.
Accuracy comes up often in a positive light. With quality ammunition the 625 tends to shoot tight groups. The DA trigger pull is smooth for an N-frame revolver, and the SA pull is crisp.
On the downside, weight is the most common complaint. The N-frame is a big, heavy platform, which gets tiring during extended range sessions or if you're trying to carry it. Some users also note that revolver capacity and reload speed put it at a disadvantage compared to semi-autos for defensive use, though that's a format tradeoff rather than a flaw in the gun itself.
Overall the 625 has a solid reputation among revolver enthusiasts who appreciate its craftsmanship and the .45 Colt cartridge, with most criticism reflecting the inherent limitations of the platform rather than any defect in this particular model.
AI-generated insights derived from customer reviews and discussions on popular gun-enthusiast forums.