Smith & Wesson Model 25 Classic .45 LC 6.5in 6-Round Blued
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 42 oz (1190g) — provides a stable, recoil-dampening platform for precise shooting
- 6-round capacity with full-moon .45 Colt cartridge clearance — allows for traditional lead bullet reloads without length restrictions
- Micro-adjustable rear sight — offers precise 1/4 MOA per click adjustments for windage and elevation at 25 yards
- Bright blued carbon steel finish — shows a higher level of final polish than standard matte or parkerized finishes
Trade-offs
- No factory-threaded barrel — adds a $150+ gunsmithing cost for suppressor use
- Unloaded weight of 42 oz — makes it 12 oz heavier than a comparable 4.2" barrel S&W 686+, unsuitable for sustained carry
- Standard-pressure .45 Colt only — cannot safely fire higher-pressure 'Ruger only' loads, limiting power for some hunting applications
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Smith & Wesson Model 25 Classic .45 LC? It's a modern-built, large-frame revolver that faithfully replicates the classic N-frame S&W design. Chambered in .45 Long Colt, it combines vintage aesthetics with updated manufacturing for a purpose-built precision platform. This isn't a compromise piece; it's a specialized tool for specific shooters.
What is the Smith & Wesson Model 25 Classic used for?
This revolver is engineered for slow-fire precision target shooting and deliberate hunting applications. The 42-ounce weight over a 6.5-inch barrel provides a stable shooting platform that dampens the moderate recoil of .45 Colt. It's exceptionally well-suited for handloaders working with traditional lead bullet profiles in a single-action mode for groups under 2 inches at 25 yards with match-grade ammo.
How does the Smith & Wesson Model 25 Classic compare to a Ruger Blackhawk?
The Model 25 Classic offers superior adjustable sight ergonomics and a more traditional double-action capability, whereas the single-action-only Ruger Blackhawk is often the stronger choice for maximum-pressure hunting loads. For the majority of shooters using standard-pressure .45 Colt rounds for target work, the Smith & Wesson’s micro-adjustable rear sight and smoother double-action pull provide a significant advantage for precise windage and elevation corrections between strings of fire.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 42 ounces (2 pounds, 10 ounces, or 1190 grams), with an overall length of 11.9 inches from the muzzle to the rear of the grip frame. The cylinder width measures 1.73 inches at its thickest point, and the barrel shank is .812 inches in diameter where it meets the frame. This results in a balance point approximately 2.25 inches forward of the trigger guard.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not for anyone seeking a lightweight trail gun, a high-capacity defensive firearm, or a platform for +P or Ruger-only level .45 Colt loads. The all-steel construction and 42-ounce heft make it unsuitable for all-day carry, and its six-round capacity is eclipsed by most modern semi-autos. Handloaders must strictly adhere to standard-pressure data; this is not a framed-for-.454 Casull gun like the the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win is for its cartridge.
What's in the box?
The revolver ships from the factory with one owner's manual, one security cable lock, and a single plastic six-round speed loader compatible with .45 Colt rimmed cartridges. Unlike many modern firearms, it does not include a hard case; expect a cardboard box with foam inserts. Spare parts like additional front sight blades or grip panels are not included and must be sourced separately from Smith & Wesson's performance center.
Is the Smith & Wesson Model 25 Classic worth it at $1,204.99?
At this price point, it represents a fair value for a buyer specifically seeking a modern N-frame with a bright blued finish and target-grade adjustable sights. The cost reflects the labor-intensive polishing required for the bluing and the hand-fitting of the walnut grips. If your use case is casual plinking or you prioritize a synthetic finish, a Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun review provides more utility per dollar for many shooters.
Key attributes
| upc | 022188133578 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 150256 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 6.50" |
| caliber/gauge | 45 Colt (Long Colt) |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Blue |
| length | 12'' |
| magazine included | Cylinder |
| model | 25 |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 9.5 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Internal Lock |
| shipping weight | 4.6625 |
| sights | Patridge Front/Adj Rear |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (guam) | NO SALE TO GUAM |
| state restriction (pr) | NO SALE TO PUERTO RICO |
| state restriction (vi) | NO SALE TO VIRGIN ISLANDS |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket Picatinny rails?
- No, the top strap is drilled and tapped for scope bases only, not directly for Picatinny rails. To mount a red dot, you must install a dedicated revolver scope base (Part #10766 from Weigand is compatible), which then accepts standard rings. Direct-mount solutions like those for Glocks will not work without significant gunsmithing.
- Does this fit a standard S&W N-frame holster?
- Yes, it will fit most leather or kydex holsters molded for a 6.5-inch barreled S&W N-Frame, such as those for the Model 29. Confirm the cylinder width specification with your holster maker; at 1.73 inches, it matches vintage N-frame dimensions. Avoid holsters for the smaller K or L frames, as they will not accommodate the cylinder.
- How long does shipping to an FFL take?
- Processing time is 1-3 business days after order verification, with ground shipping transit times of 3-7 business days to most continental U.S. FFL dealers. All shipments require a signed copy of the receiving FFL's license on file before dispatch, which can add 24-48 hours to the initial processing window.
- Can I return it if there's a mechanical issue?
- Returns for defects must be coordinated directly with Smith & Wesson's warranty service, not through the retailer. S&W's standard policy is to provide a prepaid shipping label and a typical repair turnaround of 4-6 weeks. Cosmetic issues like minor finish blems are generally not considered a defect by the manufacturer and are not grounds for return.
- Does this work with .45 ACP ammunition using moon clips?
- No, the Model 25 Classic in .45 Long Colt is not machined for moon clips and cannot accept .45 ACP cartridges. The cylinder is chambered specifically for the longer, rimmed .45 Colt case. Attempting to fire .45 ACP without a properly machined cylinder and clips will result in catastrophic headspace failure.
- Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
- No, the 6.5-inch barrel is not threaded. The muzzle is crowned in a traditional recessed target style. Threading would require a professional gunsmith to remove approximately 0.625 inches of barrel length and cut 5/8"-24 or .578"-28 threads, costing roughly $150-$200 plus refinishing.