The Smith & Wesson Model 640 Black Edition is a Performance Center DAO revolver on the J-Frame platform, chambered in .357 Mag and .38 Special +P. It has a 2.125-inch fluted stainless steel barrel with a Cerakote Black finish, a Black PVD cylinder, and a concealed hammer. Capacity is 5 rounds, and night sights are included. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Smith & Wesson 
• Model: Model 640 Black Edition 
• Caliber: .357 Mag / .38 Special +P 
• Action: Double Action 
• Capacity: 5rd 
• Barrel Length: 2.125 in 
• Color/Finish: Cerakote Black 
   

Detailed Features 

• DAO J-Frame with concealed hammer for snag-free carry 
• 2.125-inch fluted stainless steel barrel with Cerakote Black finish 
• Black PVD cylinder 
• Performance Center tuned action 
• Night sights for low-light use

Owners of the Model 640 Black Edition most often reach for it as a dedicated carry revolver, and the all-black Cerakote finish gets consistent praise for both durability and appearance. The concealed hammer design draws particular approval from those who carry in a pocket holster, since there is nothing to catch on the draw.

The DAO trigger is the topic that splits opinions most clearly. Performance Center buyers expect a smoother pull than a standard 640, and most agree they get it, though a subset of shooters finds the long, consistent pull less intuitive than a traditional double-action/single-action arrangement. The 5-round capacity in .357 Mag is accepted as a trade-off on a J-Frame, not a surprise.

On build quality, the fluted barrel and PVD cylinder finish are well-received as touches that distinguish the Black Edition from the base model. The common pushback is on price relative to capacity: spending Performance Center money for a 5-round revolver requires commitment to the J-Frame carry philosophy, and buyers who go in knowing that tend to be satisfied.