Smith & Wesson's Model 940, originally a compact 9mm revolver, had a moment in the sun from 1991 to 1998 before being unceremoniously put out to pasture. Despite its short run, this little J-frame, with its quirky need for moon clips, carved out a devoted following among firearm fanatics who appreciate a bit of history. It was a peculiar beast, resembling the company's own Model 640 but with a chambering that made it a bit of an outcast. For years, the 940 was a ghost, a whispered legend, a gun that collectors would hunt for at exorbitant prices. All that time, the clamor from its small but vocal fanbase for its resurrection grew louder.

Fast forward to 2025, and it seems the persistent nagging paid off. Davidson’s, a firearms distributor with a penchant for bringing back the forgotten, teamed up with Smith & Wesson to produce an exclusive encore performance for the Model 940. This wasn't just a simple rerun; it was a revival with a facelift. The idea was to bottle the essence of the original's collector's appeal while giving it a modern makeover. They wanted to make the new version something that both the nostalgic crowd and the current concealed carry market could appreciate.

The new 940 is still a J-Frame, the smallest of Smith & Wesson's revolver platforms, which keeps it petite and easy to hide. It's built entirely from stainless steel, a material choice that's both durable and a breeze to clean, all while keeping a slick, no-nonsense look. Its 2.17-inch barrel and 23.52-ounce weight give it a heft that feels substantial enough to manage recoil without being a boat anchor on your hip. It's an exercise in balance, a sort of Goldilocks approach to a concealed carry gun—not too big, not too small, but just right for everyday carry.

This revolver operates in a strictly double-action-only (DAO) mode, a feature that might make some purists clutch their pearls. The hammer is completely internal, a design decision that eliminates any potential snag points on clothing or holsters. This makes for a smooth draw, which is a key consideration for any concealed weapon. With an overall width of 1.31 inches and a height of 4.375 inches, it's a slender and discreet package. Essentially, this handgun is designed to stay out of sight and out of mind until it's needed.

The sighting system received a notable upgrade. Gone are the days of squinting to align tiny metal bumps. The new model pairs a serrated U-notch rear sight with a front blade that features an XS Tritium night sight. This provides a considerable advantage in low-light conditions, which is often when a defensive firearm is most needed. The revolver also comes dressed to impress with VZ Diamond Black Cherry grips, which are not only comfortable but also cleverly designed to be friendly to the moon clips essential for the gun's operation.

Just like its ancestor, the 2025 Model 940 relies on moon clips to load and unload its five-shot cylinder. Since 9mm rounds are rimless, these clips are not a suggestion but a necessity, serving as the extractor for spent casings. This system allows for all five spent casings to be ejected simultaneously, a speedy process that is a welcome alternative to fumbling with individual cases. Each new 940 comes with three of these handy clips, so owners have a few to get started.

In a move that’s sure to please many aficionados, this new version has a few modern-day weight-saving features, such as fluted barrels and cylinders. Most importantly, Smith & Wesson has thankfully left out the internal lock mechanism that has been a controversial staple on many of their recent offerings. The lock, often seen as an unnecessary complexity, has been a thorn in the side of many a revolver enthusiast. Its absence here is a clear nod to the preferences of the discerning collector and a welcome return to a cleaner, simpler design.

With an MSRP of $999, the Model 940 is positioned as a premium option in the concealed carry market. Davidson’s is quick to point out that real-world prices will likely be lower through their extensive network of retailers and their website. This pricing places it squarely in a category for buyers who are serious about their gear and are willing to pay for a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality. It's a choice for both those who appreciate the legacy of a classic revolver and those who simply want a reliable, high-end concealed carry weapon.

Early buzz surrounding the new 940 suggests it's a hit. Collectors are excited to get their hands on a new-in-box version of a cult classic, while concealed carry practitioners are intrigued by its blend of concealability and modern enhancements. The partnership between Smith & Wesson and Davidson’s and the decision to bring back the 940 is a perfect example of a broader trend: giving the people what they want by reviving popular, discontinued models with contemporary features. It’s a win-win, blending the best of both the past and the present.