New for 2021: Smith & Wesson M648

by
posted on March 14, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Smith & Wesson is poised to offer its Model 648 for 2021 with a revamped iteration of the original design first introduced in 1989. For 2021, the 648 will include stainless steel construction, eight-round capacity and chambered for .22 WMR.

The Model 648 is built on the legendary company’s K-Frame, a medium-format revolver frame that was first introduced more than 130 years ago. Needless to say, the design has been refined greatly since then, and the new 648 revolver is engineered to deliver flawless DA/SA operation. Rubber stocks that contain finger grooves wrap the stainless-steel frame for added control of the 46-oz. revolver. Smith & Wesson provides a 6” barrel attached and supplies a full, rounded underlug. A target-style crown is supplied at the muzzle for unobstructed function.

The trigger and hammer feature contrasting, color-case-hardened finishes that not only added aesthetic value; durability and functionality of the components is increased. Cut checkering is supplied on the wide hammer spur to enhance ease of operation. Additionally, the eight-round-capacity, fluted, swing-out cylinder features knurling on the ejector rod. As well, the cylinder latch is checkered to improve shooter purchase.

Target-style sights top this latest wheelgun; a fully adjustable rear sight containing a square notch was added in conjunction with a Patridge-style front that presents a square, flat face. The sight faces are serrated to reduce glare during target acquisition. Watch our New for 2021 video above to see the Smith & Wesson 648 in action.

Stay tuned to AmericanRifleman.org for more guns and gear.

Latest

Springfield Armory SA-35 4"
Springfield Armory SA-35 4"

Review: Springfield Armory SA-35 4"

Springfield Armory has made its SA-35 High Power clone even more appealing to those interested in a compact, concealed-carry pistol with a new 4-inch barreled version of its SA-35.

Legacy Sports International Expands Howa Bolt-Action Rifle Lineup

Japanese-made Howa M1500 rifles continue to be some of the best value-for-the-money bolt-actions on the market, and for 2026, the company is adding two new models, along with a new chambering.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 17, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Skills Check: The Tabula Rasa Method

Too many shooters step onto the range carrying the emotional residue of every missed shot, every bad stage and every ugly drill from the last six months like a tactical backpack full of disappointment. The Tabula Rasa method is designed to change that relationship.

Canadian Law Enforcement Agencies Select Federal Ammunition

Federal Ammunition will supply the Canadian Department of National Defense and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with rifle and shotgun ammunition, respectively.

Shooting Surplus: Finding Affordable Mil-Surp Ammo in 2026

Today, the market for mil-surp ammo is vastly different than it was even just a few years ago. If you're a military-surplus collector and shooter, what should you look for in 2026? Here's our guide.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.