The New S&W Model 19 Classic ~ A S&W Armorer's Review
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- Опубликовано: 15 окт 2024
- Get the true story from a factory trained Smith & Wesson Armorer of over 45 years experience, repairing and maintaining S&W wheelguns, and who competed with the venerable Model 19 in its heyday.
See what makes the the new Classic a distinguished gun that is vastly superior to its forerunner, and is truly a worthy upgrade in so many ways that leaves its predecessor, designed nearly 60 years ago on 100 year old technology, in the dust. GunBlue490 takes you inside this truly classic gun, part by part, as only a working S&W Armorer can appreciate!
The original Model 19 was a modification of a decades old platform and was presented before the Interstate highway system, when Television sets had 13" round screens. See how the new Model 19 Classic looks beautiful as ever, while running on 21st Century technology.
Living in Springfield way back in the day....Saw a 6 inch 19-3 in the local gun shop, taken in on a trade...the blueing was good, but the the gun had been abused..50 bucks and out the door,,cause the guy liked me..I call Smith and Wesson, thinking if I have to put some money into it I'm still ahead of the game.. Secretary asks me what's wrong with the gun, I tell her...she says "bring the gun over and we'll take a look at it"...I ride over, stop at the main gate, guard comes out,,say's "what's up"?...I hold the gun up and tell him the secretary said bring the gun over...He says "Wait here"...makes a phone call,,comes back out..say's "Go up to the main building..ask for "Fran"...I go in, Fran checks the gun out,,says "let me have this for a while"...20 minutes later, comes back..had replaced the firing pin bushing, straightened the ejector rod,,and checked the cylinder timing..I reach for my wallet...Fran hands gun back, says..."You're all set"...gun hasn't missed a beat since then,accurate as hell,,,loves 38 specials..
Fran Longton ? A great guy. I had a model 19 that bought on my lunch 45 minute break when I worked at Griffin & Howe at 589 Broadway in NYC. Bought it from John Jovino Co. I still own it, TT, TH, WO, RR. We used to call it "dressed." Difficult gun to get in the late '70s. Anyway, making a long story short, I eventually worked for JJ & Co.
and the one thing that bothered me about the piece was that the bluing on the barrel was "purple." I called Fran and told him about it and also that I had it for over a year (back then the warranty was only for 1 year). He said send it and let me take a look. I did and about 2 weeks later it came back with the most beautiful bluing I've ever seen. No charge.
Later on, working for a different company, Alpine Arms in Bklyn NY, I did warranty work for S&W and Colt. Miss that work.
@@patricklozito7042 Never got his last name, but I remember handing him the gun and as he ran his hand over it, checking this, checking that....I got the vibe of some SERIOUS knowledge and experience...but to your point,,my gun has all that stuff too..One of those guns you'd never give up....
Great story, Thank you for sharing
What year was that? :O
Back in the late 80's I mistakenly lent a good, BUT NOT CAREFUL, friend my 6" 586 (to hunt with). Unknown to me he put some of his reloads through it AND admittedly had a sqib followed by a double charge (357 Mag!). both projectiles lodged in the barrel producing a slight bulge. I sent the revolver back to S&W with the aforementioned full disclosure (voiding any warranty). They checked the revolver out, found no other issues other than the barrel, replaced the barrel & sent it back WITHOUT CHARGE including a warning letter concerning 'non-factory ammunition" and "hunting buddies". I was both impressed and very pleased as well as amused by the "hunting buddy" part. Obviously I'm a big fan. That service and little bit of humor sounds like your Fran guy.
Who, and/or where could you go to get such an in-depth professional commentary???
WITHOUT PAYING FOR IT...
I love this guy...
(especially the Nawlins Central Grocery apron he wears... home of the Muffaletta Sandwich)
Those sandwiches are outstanding.
I noticed that as well , I love this guy , he just validated my $926.00 purchase today
Although we’re from the same generation, when I watch your content I always feel like my father is speaking to me. That’s the best compliment I can give. Thanks for taking the time to do these; I’d watch them regardless of the length, and in fact enjoy the longer ones because there’s so much useful information in them. Stay healthy; you’re doing a much-needed service for gun owners across the globe.
...me too...
Finally nice to see somebody doing real gun content who knows what they are talking about
Great video! I looked and saw it was 50 minutes, I said to myself "I'm not gonna spend 50 minutes watching that!", but once I started I couldn't stop!
I have a new 19 and an old 19-4, I love them both.
Nothing like hearing the truth instead of the usual gun rumor nonsense. Like the reports from gun rental companies, your experience with actual maintenance and repair is invaluable.
Thank you and Merry Christmas!
Gun rental...? What?
@@darinharper5337 rental firearms get a ton of use so rental range operators know from experience which ones hold up and which parts break more often.
Machine guns in Vegas you’ll never regret it
back in the late 1970's, I began my career in law enforcement, as a deputy sheriff . My career was 30 years in length . My first weapon was a S&W 4 inch model 19 . Since then, I have also purchased a model 66-1 . I need to come up with one more, as all three of my sons each will have one . Great channel sir . From one retired LEO to another, enjoy your retirement, stay healthy, and keep up the great channel . 808 will be 10-42.
S&W marketing dept need to hire this man. I had no interest in the new model 19's. Now I want to get one!
I carried the old model 19 when I was a leo. I loved that gun. This new gun looks spectacular. I've started buying wheel guns again, my first was a Charter Arms 32 H&R magnum. This S&W model 19 will be my next. Thank you for a wonderful presentation. Have a Blessed Christmas...
@Cliff Yablonski Accounting for inflation, they've stayed pretty much the same price forever from the factory. Of course a modern polymer wonder 9 will be much cheaper to manufacture but Smith revolvers really are a bargain for the amount of work that goes into them.
Thank you for a great review! I too am a retired LEO, who carried a S&W from my first day on the job. I have a original 19 6” with pinned barrel, and a recessed cylinder that I competed with in the 70s that has over 200,000 rounds through it without a fail. I also have a K22 6” in a Gold box, a 2 1/2 mod 66 that I carried as a detective and a newer 66 6” w/o lock that I now use to give my original 19 a rest. I also have an original 60 and a new 60 2”, a 5906, a 3913, a 659 and I love them all and wouldn’t sell any of them.
The original 19 has been back to the factory to check for wear and metal fatigue and passed with a clean bill of health. I have never had to send any of my guns back to S&W for repair. I will tell you this back in the day they spent a lot more time on machining detail, like the ribs cut on the back straps and the barrels or the mortise for the adjustable sight being cut square to precisely fit the square sight as opposed to radiused to fit a round sight. The finish was always second to none. Many of the changes were cost cutting practices that kept S&W in business, The fact that they had to have their parts hand fitted also made them smoother and more desirable! I used to practice dry firing my old 19 by putting a dime on its front blade sight and see how many times I could dry fire without it falling off, that’s not possible with the newer guns until they have been reworked by an expert fitter like you. So there is a lot to be said for the old ways as well as the new!
Somewhere in Shooter's Heaven, Bill Jordan is smiling.
Elmer Keith too !!!
Wow am I happy that I found this channel! I carried a model 19 for 20 years as a federal agent and I always thought that the old guns were so much better. Much hype to drive up the prices of vintage guns. Thanks very much for your insight, terrific video!
@@ts440syour comment is nonsensical. A “fudd” would think the opposite, they would think only the old ones were any good.
I love old guns, if you averaged out the guns I own in my collection is probably 60 years old. That being said, new smith and Wesson revolvers are actually pretty darn nice in most cases, and I own several old ones.
So refreshing to hear this guy. I’m fairly new to shooting and my first gun was a brand new Smith & Wesson Model 10-14, which I love, and in which I take great pride. I bought a 9mm semiautomatic, and then I bought a brand new Smith and Wesson 686-6.
Since then, I’ve heard nothing but revolver shaming on RUclips for buying the new “Classic” models instead of seeking out vintage Smith and Wesson revolvers. It’s good to hear from an expert the new models are just as good and probably better than the old ones.
Smith & Wesson should pay you for promoting their gun. Very good detailed review, thanks
Sir, you are national treasure!
What brought me here? My father passed away last year. He was a competition shooter back in his day. My first big handgun shooting was his S&W Model 19 at 12 years old. I also have my own Model 29. We are a wheel gun, lever action rifle family all the way back to the beginning. We started with reloading because we *never* used store bought amunition. Then we went out and never shot under 25 yards. Sometimes we'd try up to 300 yards on an 18 in gong with the Model 19. We hit it a lot.
I just learned more about these guns (I own 4 wheel guns) than I've ever known before. How cool is that? I'm going to rewatch this several more times. It was that good. You brought me a lot of joy by creating this. Thank you.
I enjoyed your comments. Thank you!
GB490 has forgotten more information about guns than most gunsmiths will ever know...
Thank you once again for giving us all this valuable information for free... You are national treasure!
Outstanding video. Your best ever in my opinion. You've sold me on the new Smith & Wesson Model 19. :)
One of the joys of RUclips is running across a true expert in his field. These experts are getting more difficult to find, with all the white noise, and posers, but they are out there. This guy is a perfect example. Thanks for the truly informative video.
He is the real deal for sure!!! Have learned a great deal from him, we are lucky he shares these videos. Truly a diamond in the rough!
Having handled and dryfired a mix of wheel guns at gun shows, S & W was always hands down the best for smoothness and quality of trigger pull!
In 1992 I sent my Smith & Wesson Model 625 in for an "Action Package". It cost me $122.00. The best investment I ever made! The double action trigger pull was smooth as silk. Who knows, maybe you worked on the revolver. Your videos are terrific. I get an education every time I view one.
Carried an S & W on duty for many years and it never let me down.
CALL ME "OLD SCHOOL" BUT HAVING SPENT TIME WITH COL. JEFF COOPER, A REVOLVER WILL NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE! WISHING YOU AND YOURS, A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Wasn't Cooper a 1911 guy?
HE WAS A 1911 GUY! BUT WHEN MANY DEPARTMENTS WERE ISSUING 9 MM SEMI AUTOS, THAT'S WHEN HE TOOK A STANCE IN SUPPORT OF THE REVOLVER.
When I was young I was a woods bum to the extreme. If I was not fishing I was hunting. My thing was to get into remote areas of Maine NH and Vermont. I quickly determined angry moose and hungry black bears in remote areas were not nearly as afraid of humans and I bought a 66-1 the day I turned 21. I shot a ton of small game and a few fish if I was really hungry with that revolver on many adventures. Fast forward I inspected that old gun that I still use against your 51 point checklist and it is beginning to show the start of several of the problems you pointed out. Since it is really a classic and I wanted to preserve it I bought a 66-8 based on what you say in this video. It really is a much improved design.The round butt, smooth trigger and pinned front sight (now a Dawson precision fiber optic) are worth the upgrade by themselves. I also like the internal lock. Sometimes you cant always keep your gun on you when traveling, so having a way to disable it appeals to me.
You've confirmed everything I have abided by when it came to purchasing the evolution of design rather than chasing vintage handguns that do not employ the sort of engineering improvements in the modern S&W revolvers, many that you pointed out here. More people should watch this video and I am sure many will be swayed to buy a new classic over the vintage revolvers without the evolutionary improvements. Well done !!!
Excellent video! I love when someone speaks from experience, and you certainly seem to have that.
The Model 19 was my side arm when I was a deputy. Also, I was able to shoot 1st place master state champion. I just ordered a new model 19. Looked at the expensive old ones. So glad you explained how improved the new ones are. Thank you, Sir
You're quite welcome! Glad to have helped.
Hope you are enjoying it! 🎯🇺🇸
I have the model 19 classic. What a fine shooter. And now I know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that it’s a keeper. Thanks and I hope Benny is rockin’ along in good health.
Thank you young man. Brings to mind my 19-3, circa 1975, which I still have. After a friend and I goofed it up, I had the good fortune that the State Patrol armorer lived in the same town. WOW! It did and still does ' sing'!
HBWC's took many a gopher.
Thanks again.
I greatly appreciate you sharing your knowledge, through your videos, thank you. This video sealed the deal for me on this revolver, I ordered on yesterday and it is due in next week. The back story is that I owned a M19 for 35 years and loved that revolver, as did our son. Sadly the M19 went out of time and I put it in the safe a few years ago. I decided to call S&W and see about getting it repaired. I was impressed with the way they treated me and I sent the gun back to them, fully expecting to wait 6-8 months. I included a letter explaining the issue and that when returned, I would be giving it to our son as part of his commissioning gift as a 2nd LT in the US ARMY, upon completing ROTC. I got a call from S&W and the nice gal told me that "Jake" read my letter and wanted to work on the M19 himself. Turns out that Jake is the head gunsmith at S&W and liked my M19 as much as I did. Two weeks later, yes two weeks later, it was returned to me as good as new and with all new springs to boot. The gun was like new and i was eternally grateful. I sent a thank you letter to S&W. Our son now owns that M19 and he loves it as much as i did. Forgive the long post, however I am so excited to get the new replacement. Thank you for a fine YT presentation each and every time. Be well sir.
That's a wonderful story. Thanks for sharing.
I have the mod 19 in the detective version and now I have to have one of the new one's. That was a great job on the internal workings its what I've been waiting to see to make my mind up. You always have great and informative videos. Thanks
This maybe is the best gun review on youtube. Thank you sir for sharing your knowledge with us! So refreshing to hear somebody appreciating the new Smiths instead of whining about the lock. Greetings form the old continent.
Thank you for another wonderful video. I think that you hit the nail on the head regarding the debate over old vs new Smith and Wessons. A lot of people think that old is automatically better than new, and although this can be true, many times it is not. Harley Davidsons produced from about the late '60s through the early '80s were a byword for garbage. You probably remember well how AMF nearly destroyed Harley Davidson, with bikes that would leak oil on showroom floors and break down minutes after being bought and driven down the road. A new Harley is miles ahead of anything theh made during the AMF era. The 1960s and 1970s were the era of conglomerates, and you probably remember that Smith and Wesson was owned by Bangor Punta for quite some time. I read in a gun magazine once that probably 50% of Smiths made during the Bangor Punta era had to be fixed at the dealer by a gunsmith. I own a four inch 586 Classic, and I have no doubt about it being a better built gun than its predecessor. The accuracy is phenomenal and runs like a clock. And the wood stocks are beautiful. A new Ford Mustang is undoubtedly a better built car than a Mustang from 1968. New skis made by Rossignol or Völkl or K2 are going to be leagues better than skis from the '70s. Vintage products are cool, and fun to have, but I think most people don't realize that back in the day there was a lot of fixing and upgrading the stuff that the guys at the factory missed or let slip through. A new Winchester Model 70 made by FN will outshoot any of the old pre-'64 guns, yet we still overpay for a pre-'64 M70 that is not even a Super Grade, just the plain Jane model in a super common chanbering like .270 Winchester or .30-06 SPRG. CNC machining was a huge game changer, and we have better guns and vehicles for it. Thanks again for a great video, I was wondering if you would be willing to do a comprehensive video on the great Sako rifles of Finland one day? I quite enjoy the Finnish rifles and would be interested in learning about the history of the company and the various models. My Dad used to own two Finnbears, one in .30-06 and one in .300 Winchester Magnum, and he told me they were the finest rifles he's ever owned. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
I may do that, as I have owned a number of Sako rifles, all wonderfully made. Your observations of product improvement are exactly correct. As a Smith and Wesson armorer, I can attest that they routinely shipped poorly made guns that I was required to repair before they could be issued. I was told by them that they trained armorers free of cost (all other S&W courses cost police departments big bucks), because it allowed us to handle the repair load, not them! The gun world was rife with bad products, and no companies offered customer service or support of any kind. The notion that guns were superior in those days is nostalgic fantasy that bears no semblance of reality. Caveat emptor...buyer beware, was the byword of the 20th Century, no matter what you bought. You owned it.
Thank you for the thorough and informative walk thru.
Merry Christmas 2019. Hope to see more content from you in 2020
I Owned a S&W Model 19 back in 1982 and it was Stolen from me. Believe it or Not, this Loss has Pained me Ever since. Not a Year goes by My Heart doesn't hurt from that loss. I was Young and purchased it on a Lay-Away Plan, I paid on it every week until I had it paid for. It was about a Year later a person who called himself my Friend, Stole my gun. I have looked for years to never see another one. Back in 2009 I tried to Order a New Model 19 but was Informed it was No Longer Produced, Again it induced the Pain of my loss. Thanks to Your Video, I will now begin looking for a New Model S&W Model 19. You have provided me Much Joy knowing this Gun is now available again. I have Subscribed your Channel and look forward to seeing more of your Videos. Thank You for Great Videos.
Sold my 67 no dash and bought one of these. No regrets before this video, and definitely none after. You just reassured my purchase. Thank you.
I carried a revolver for the first 20 yrs of my career, which included three on-duty shootings, so I was one of those who believed the old guns were better. This has been a real education, thank you.
Happy New Year GunBlue490, Five years ago I purchased 43 acres in Maine not far from the North Conway border. Happy to here someone on RUclips from close by. For the last five years i have been developing the land and now want to start hunting in 2020. i don't meet to many people that are as knowledgeable like yourself. I just purchased a Winchester 308 model 70 and after watching your video on scopes for shooting in the woods I bought a low powered from Cabela's. in one of your videos I thought you mentioned people Email you about doing specific videos and i did not find any address to do so. Thank You for sharing your knowledge ! God Bless
I visited Springfield several times in the late ‘70’s, with a fellow LEO. We brought a few guns to have worked on and had lunch with Franie Longtin, Franie was The Boss and a good friend to my detective buddy. A great time, sadly both have gone west. Great video, thanks. S&W revolvers rule.
This is the only true gun channel in my book. Blue is truly a gifted man with an incredible amount of knowledge. Documenting his life's work will solidify his legacy forever, and greatly help future generations understand and appreciate firearms on a whole new level.
Awesome job explaining about the Model 19. I was hesitant to buy the new Model 19 Classic, I have heard the scuttlebutt but no facts. Now with your awesome review I feel confident getting a new one. Thanks again
Rance here. I was recently perusing your video channel site and came across this video which addressed the exact issue which interested me. This was such a good video that I was so impressed with all of the genius changes S&W made in this revolver manufactor and the millions of dollars required to bring this to fruition, all for a gun type that is not their main revenue producer. This truly has to be a customer focused company. Thanks for sharing your knowledge of firearms with us. Also thank you for being bold and strong in our Christian faith. I did see the religious photo of our Jesus on background wall.
My Grandpa served in Vietnam, seldom talked about firearms - he passed this time last year. I stumbled upon your channel looking for some information on revolvers, considering getting my first firearm for a conceal carry/open carry and found your channel. Thanks for your wisdom and warm personality.
I recently found a Mod 19-3 in 98% condition from a deceased collector's estate. I couldn't not shoot it. Since I hand-load everything but defensive carry ammo I shot light magnums and +p 38s. I've already decided to designate it a 38 Special only. After about 100 rounds the cylinder bound up. The ejector rod was loose as you mentioned. I was never an Armorer but I have a nice library and have the Kuhnhausen S&W book and the old Brownells S&W tool kit. Just enough to get me in trouble. I really appreciate your experience and insights. I've already learned more from you than I did from the books. Back in the 50's my Dad carried the Chiefs Special as a Detective in his department. Personally I'm a 686 fanboy but the 19 was always on my radar. As an old man I can finally afford my toys. Thanks again!
Thank you 😊. I learned so much. Own old cop gun Smith . $100 40+ yrs. Ago and family even named it Charlie. People just sell but know nothing really about revolvers. I like being informed.😊
I have been thinking of buying either this or the 66. Thank you for the in depth information. I’m now assured it will be a great purchase.
I absolutely love that cold black walnut sheen that stands out so profoundly that even the camera captures its beauty. What a tremendously elegant firearm. Thank you for the tour. Absolutely perfect!
wow Sir you opened my eyes, by forcing me to open my ears... greatly appreciated ... I found your video because I am researching the S&W Model 19 Classic ... well after this ordered mine thank you so much...
I really appreciate your opinion on the newer S&W revolvers. I've heard so much bashing but I love my 586 Classic and I've never had a problem with it.
Agreed. My 586 classic is truly a masterpiece. The finish is like obsidian glass and the trigger straight off the production line is the best trigger I’ve ever pulled in 30 years. Excellent piece indeed.
Another great video... such a wealth of knowledge that we so desperately need today. You sir have one of the best gun channel on RUclips. God bless.
I really appreciate your videos. Good details and decades of knowledge. Keep it up sir!
I've been lucky enough to have inherited a model 19.4 in mint condition it slept in a bank deposit box for all of its 46 years of existence, I've never owned a revolver so after doing the research on my inherited gun,its becoming a family heirloom, watching your video I've decided to purchase a new model 19 because just like you said it's not a classic remade it's a new gun with the looks of old. It's like having a restore vehicle with a modern suspension and engine package. Who doesn't love that? Thank you for this fantastic video. Defenetly buying this new 19 for sure.
Why? Because revolver looks great, and the status it brings as a daily carry can't be beat.
I have gone out n got myself a No 19-5......just picked it up on the weekend....... looking fwd to shooting this baby at the range in a few weeks.......thks mate for an interesting video......Stay Safe .......from AUSTRALIA!!!!!
Will try! Thanks mate. Have fun and stay safe!
Thank you for giving me a gunblue fix. Excellent video! The safety has certainly gotten a lot of attention from gun channels. I’m with you. It’s really not a big deal.
I love your knowledge of firearms and have learned a lot! I'm 63 and have been around firearms all my life but have been awakened by your videos to things I've done wrong over the years. I have a Model 66 (1986) and is one of my favorite guns. I think it's in really good shape, very little cylinder / yoke movement and it sings. Probably less than 750 rounds through it. I did replace the original grips with a 1986 Pachmyer grip but still have the grips on the original box. Love that gun! Rob in GA.
I'm so glad you did this review on the new classic model 19! Thank you so much! I have been seriously thinking about buying a older 19 but I was so afraid of over paying for a problem gun that would cost me even more to get it functioning properly. I'm not a collector so the new one is perfect for me. I'm so glad to hear that the 19 is better than ever. After watching your series on how to shoot a handgun well I wanted to get a nice revolver. I think the 19 will be perfect for me. I love the old school look and the flexibility of being able to shoot 38 or 357 mag. Thanks again you saved me a lot of time and money and stress.
I was a scottish police officer in the 80's and whilst we were not armed I was a competetive pistol shooter. The S and W 19 being my first revolver. It was a lovely gun and served me well in comps including the British Police championships in Bisley, England.Very accurate and well made. It was until I had a double discharge and the chambers exploded due to my bad reloading !! I then bought a 586L and whilst it was a fine revolver it was just not the same action as on my 19. Amazing video , great storyteller and nice to see an old officer recounting his halycon days.
I am a 70 yr. young Canadian. Had handguns when I was in my 20’s and planned to own more and take up the shooting sport in retirement. When hearing about our governments 2022 plan to permanently ban the sale and transfer of all handguns and being interested in taking up target shooting as a hobby, I found myself faced with having to try and purchase all the handguns I might like to own and shoot during the balance of my days. Watched a bunch of video and read many blogs about the superiority of pinned and recessed S&W revolvers and the poor quality of more recent versions. I ended up with a couple of older revolvers and a couple of Classics including a 4.25” (4” is banned in Canada) model 19 and a 6” 586. Really appreciate this very informative GunBlue4 video comparing the old to the new. Very informative! God bless America.
Thx for the video! Been considering a model 19 and after seeing your video, I don't see why a new 19 classic won't fit my needs for virtually the same money as an older one that has possibly been buggered up over the years.
I appreciate your videos and the time you take and the effort you put in. Thank you so much for all of it. This one in particular was much needed.
My dad has a Model 65 that I purchased back in 1994. I have always loved the S&W revolvers. I've wanted one for years, but the prices have been ridiculous for them. While I am not an expert, my time as a LEO taught me how to really look at a firearm, and I agree that most of the ones out there are not worth the price asked. Watching your video has really inspired within me the desire to buy one of these new Combat Magnums. My father carried one on duty back in the day, and I remember him cleaning it in his bedroom, and putting it in his duty holster before leaving the house. You cannot beat a quality revolver, and I am so happy to see that S&W has improved the quality of its wheel guns. Man, it sounds soo smooth at the end. I wish I could reach into the screen to try it out.
Sorry, sir, but better made doesn't mean better, especially in the collectors' world. If you made this whole gun electronic but looks the same would you like more 🤔 answer that truthfully and you will understand why prices are what they are.
I've watched a lot of gun channels, but enjoy only a few. YOU are the kind of resource that I can appreciate. You're not a 30 year old dude with lots of opinions, but zero experience. You've been a cop, an armorer, a competitive shooter... you have a ton of knowledge and real world experience. Plus, you have a personable, conversational manner. Thumbs up on the video and I'm subscribing to your channel.
Just bought a model 19 classic last week and it is a very well made firearm indeed. This coming from an "old" owner of S & W models 586, 66, 686 and 629. Very impressed with the new revolver.
Dear Sir, I really appreciate your discussion’s of Smith & Wesson revolvers as you truly know what you are taking about. It is a pleasure to watch.
Gotta love it when someone who knows what they're talking about puts out content. Old stuff was not necessarily better. It was worked on by hand because the machinery wasn't as good as what we have now. Great video. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you. You are entirely correct. People at benches were required to adjust, file, hammer, and pick assorted parts to fit and correct the wide tolerances created by antiquated machines that S&W had been using since the 1800s. The vastly better quality made possible by robotics (though they replaced too many people's wages) cannot be compared. Modern CNC machine work has literally eliminated the concept of tolerance. That's quite evident to anyone who owned a car 40 years ago that didn't start, broke down, and was a challenge to reach 80,000 miles before the junk yard.
I recently got back to my first love - S&W revolvers. I was shocked. I had sold mine and thought they would just be there as always. I know better than to do any real work on the metal but spent a lot of time with the Jerry Kunhausen manuals. I was glad to see the rebound slide still there. The redundant safeties are great. I could not believe it when I saw that floating sear. And that trigger lever. I do notice a hump in the middle when cocking single action. Does not bother me.
So many of who love these guns did not know what to think about all the changes.
This is priceless knowledge.
@GunBlue490
35 year old Army Vet / Unenthusiastically a Millennial / Daily carry Soulless Tupperware
I've spent a lot of time reading about old school revolver pros, like Clint Smith, Massad Ayoob, Jim Cirillo, and OG's like Elmer Keith. I've spent even more time shooting revolvers and learning how they work. Theres something so alluring about revolvers, particularly when blued and with walnut; they are the Stick Shift's of the gun world.
I look forward to watching the rest of your content, as you clearly have a lot of knowledge to share. It's times like these that social media redeems itself.
Thanks for the content!
Thank you again sir for the benefit of your vast experience. I wish you, your family and of course Benny a joyous Christmas and may we see more of you next year. Best wishes from Australia.
Thank you so much for the complete factory tour good sir. I have the new 19 and it’s companion the performance center 19 k carry comp. I absolutely love them and they hold the number 1 and number 2 spots in my collection of 10 Smith & Wesson revolvers that span back to 1988. I agree with you regarding the new techniques and advancements in both parts and manufacturing are indeed improvements over the older gun production methods. As a professional scientist, it is in my DNA to accept and appreciate innovation. I appreciate you taking the time to clearly describe and provide evidence of your claims. Your knowledge does not fall on deaf ears, and although I’m only 46 years old I have been around the firearms circuit for each of those years and have been carrying one or more smith and Wesson’s on a daily basis since 1992. Your insight on weaponry and just being a good guy make your videos wholesome and trustworthy. I look forward to seeing more material from you with hopes of perhaps some range footage so we can see the legend in action. Would you ever consider doing an at the range video for us?
Thank you for what you do and what you did, love S&W revolvers, only own a 29-10, 610 4", 28-2, 686+, 64-5, 65-5, and soon to pick up a 686-3 2 1/2" and 648 6" . Never bother me about the lock now even less concerned. Thanks for posting.
I was only aware of some of the changes in the new Model 19, so I appreciate the detailed look at the many improvements. The one feature I absolutely detest in the new gun is the reshaped frame which was necessitated by the incorporation of a manual lock. This is purely a cosmetic concern, but it has kept me from acquiring one of the new revolvers. I still own a highly tuned Model 19 that master gunsmith Bob Day rebuilt for me in the early 1980s. It's a safe queen these days, though I have long babied it. After watching your video I may force myself to overlook the cosmetic difference and get a Model 19 that is truly mechanically superior and more shootable than mine. Thanks for the detailed analysis.
My grandfather’s personal favorite revolver. I remember shooting a model 19 earlier generation a lot when I was younger. Often in a 125 grain loading from Remington.
The keyhole must go!
There are lock delete kits, I’ve installed several. A bit finicky but not that bad. First one took me about 45 min.
I just purchased a new S&W 19 Classic and thrilled to add it to my collection. Thanks for your expertise and keep up the good work!
You hear something enough it becomes so-called fact, who hasn't heard how crappy new Smith guns are, and how great the tolerances of the old. This video is saved!
You're back!..Merry Christmas! As always, informative and educational video..The Best on RUclips.
Agreed. Best on you tube!!!
I just purchased a S&W 686 plus Pro Series and I started my journey in law enforcement, in 1991, when the semiautomatic pistol was the norm. When some people see a revolver, the think old and out dated, but as the old saying goes, "be aware of the man with one gun, he may know how to use it!" The awesome power of the .357 magnum, is not to be taken lightly.
Years ago, I knew a deputy sheriff, who carried an M16-A1, looking for a murder suspect, who had escaped from jail. From a distance of 300 yard, the deputy dropped the escape, with one round, on a dirt road, suspect was shooting at other deputies. That's when I learned the...be aware of the man who owns one gun, because he may know how to use it.
Love your videos!
I had the pleasure of wearing old issue model 10 out. As well as having armouriers course, was a blast
Were you in the John Contos era?
@@GunBlue490 it was some years ago, late 80 s, early 90 s. Lead instructor was named john, i do not recall his last name. I went there as a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted police, with hopes of getting into armourer course Regina, Sask. Great bunch of fellows on the course.
@@mertonsilliker3686 👍 love the model 10
@@mertonsilliker3686Instead of signing, John Contos stamped his name in 1 inch block letters on the armorer certificate, if you might recall that. He was a rather funny guy with dry humor.
Excellent tutorial, I agree the new version is better than the old design, you proved this.. I had a model 19 that was very accurate and a pleasure to shoot for 15 years and it was used when I bought it, unfortunately it was stolen.. I have thought about replacing it, however, I have other models of the S&W and semi autos, so I never followed though. After learning the refinements the new model has I'm interested again.. Thank you, God bless and Merry Christmas...
Thanks for the detailed information. Now I am more confident in purchasing a new model. Well done "Blue" from Wyoming -- I will be purchasing a 41 mag. Just like dads in the 80's.
My first gun in police work in 1981 was the S&W model 19. Over time, like you, as a low paid cop I had to give it up to move on to semi auto. I purchased a model 19 Classic and am awaiting its arrival. Your video was the instrument in clearly defining my choice as I have been looking at the older models for quite some time. It seems the nostalgia drives the price, but this one is worth every penny. Thank you for your hard work and expertise.
Fascinating video. Very interesting to hear about the reality of the old guns, when they were used and abused in quantity and not just obsessed over by collectors.
Thank you for taking the time to explain the differences between the old and the new Smith and Wesson Model 19, I really appreciated the information. I believe I will be buying the new one some day.
Very educational. I felt like I was back in school. I own a significant amount of the old smiths. I have a few new ones. This was outstanding and your knowledge is irreplaceable. I’m rarely humbled. You’re skill is a dying art. Thanks for posting these videos. You have a new subscriber. 👍🏻
Thank you for posting this. I learn so much about both the past and present history of Smith & Wesson revolvers in those 50 min. Please continue to share your knowledge on these firearms.
Thank you for this video. While I own and love many 70's & 80's S&W revolvers (29, 625, 66 snub, 686, 19) since new, I have refused to purchase any with the trigger lock. While it is not fun to admit drinking the cool aid, you have convinced me to try a "new" model with my next purchase. Your faith is an inspiration to me as well. Many blessings and years of good health to you, your family & Benny of course!
Thank you very much! I am the proud owner of the performance center model 19-9 concealed 3” model with the ported barrel. It does have the trigger stop. I wonder why? Your presentation was superb and very informative.
Finally, a man on the internet that knows what he is talking about!! Great video, cheers friend!
I'am glad to see you again,love your videos. Greetings from Norway
I just learned so many things, Thank You
What the man says may be true. BUT: the revolvers from the early production still have heart and soul in my opinion. They are even more craft. It's the same why some people prefer a '68 Camaro over a 2020 model - even though the new one might be more reliable.
I appreciate you very much Mr.Gunblue. You are such an inspiration to me. I love firearms, and the knowledge you have taught me is priceless. Thank you so much for everything! I pray for you, your family and Benny boy. Have a very Merry Christmas!
Fantastic video!!! Thank you for this professional's take on a subject that needed this clarification. I've always been of the mind that the new Smith & Wesson revolvers are indeed better and more robust than the "vintage" models. Naturally a well cared for example of an old model that's in good working order is gonna be sought after from a collector's standpoint. But, these new ones are fantastic!!! I love all of the new Smiths I have and have zero complaints. They are more burly and rugged now than their predecessors.
My 1978 19-4 will perform as well or better that the Classic. My 19-5 isn't as good.
I wish I could meet you. What an honor that would be. You have forgotten more than most people have ever learned. God Bless.
Thank you. You restored my faith in S&W revolvers. The new cylinder is beautiful.
Excellent presentation of the new S&W Model 19 Sir. Thank you. Merry Christmas
Super! I was considering a used old model, and now I'm ready go modern. Many thanks.
Mr. GunBlue490 just wanted to say in my opinion our are one of the most knowledgeable gun guys on the internet I like your videos and i always learn something.
I'm happy to see this video because I recently purchased a model 66-8 and I saw all the internet chatter about the bad manufacturing on the modern ones and it had been on my mind since, but I really wanted a classic style revolver and just accepted that I would probably never have the craftsmanship of the old style gunsmithing. After watching this video my mind is at ease, thank you for this.
Another great review, picking PDP-F up today for my wife at the gun range Love Walther guns and especially there triggers.
Thanks 👍👍
Thank you for that detailed look at the new S&W revolvers! I have a small collection of some of their older models, and love them all. I had been put off by the new models with all the changes, but now that I understand better why those changes were made, I might have to add a new one to my collection in the future.