The S&W Governor isn’t just an attempt to horn in on the Taurus Judge, it’s a whole new ball game in handgun versatility.
I’ll admit, I wasn’t too excited about a “New” revolver when I first got my hands on it, but it has really grown on me. With a smaller chamber (only accepts 2 1/2″ .410 shells), the Governor seems more limited than the larger-chambered Judge, but on a price-point level, the smaller chamber works quite well. Sure, at $500-$600 it’s a bit more expensive than the Judge, and you can’t buy the “home defense” packs of 3″ shells and .45 Long Colt that are designed for the Judge, but so what? As a home defense weapon, the Governor has the Judge beat hands down. Not only can you get .410 shot in the 2 1/2″ length, the Governor will also accept the cheaper .45 ACP using standard S&W moon clips or the included 2 round partial clips (3 each). That’s right, with the Governor you can practice your shooting with cheaper ammo and be set for home defense by mixing and matching .410 shot and .45 ACP.
Did I mention the included tritium sights just in case a home invader decides not to come calling in broad daylight? If you don’t like those sights, the Governor also has optional Crimson Trace grips from the factory, though my sample did not, and I have yet to see them offered as a separate product.
Yeah, but how does it shoot?
Quite well.
I am a self-admitted poor shot, being disabled and half blind, but with the Governor I was able to consistently put 6 holes in the little black area of the NRA 25 yd. target (at 30 ft., but still). Moreover, I was able to do this over and over without breaking the bank by having to decide between only .410 and .45 LC. (My accuracy may or may not have been improved by the super comfortable factory Hogue grip and minimal recoil provided by the Governor’s large frame)
I mentioned versatility, and I meant it. Though large framed, the Governor conceals well as an IWB or fanny pack carry weapon. It’s tritium sights scream home defense, while it’s .45 LC and .410 Slug options say “Meh” to bear country/ wilderness trails. In fact, the Governor would be my first choice for an all-around boating, hunting, hiking, etc. carry gun.
Anyway, this has been my attempt at reviewing the S&W Governor. Go get yours today. At the very least, you’ll be able to smugly tell your friends that you have Governor in your pocket when they joke about having a paid Judge around.
By: Benjamin Blatt
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