Triple-caliber readiness in a compact, purpose-built revolver
Some tools earn a place on the nightstand or in the go-bag because they solve problems cleanly. This one does it by giving you options without adding bulk or drama.
SMITH & WESSON GOVERNOR
At its core, this is a six-shot double-action/single-action revolver chambered for .410 2.5-inch shotshells, .45 Colt, and .45 ACP. That triad unlocks defensive flexibility, simplified logistics, and real utility from bedside to backcountry. With a 2.75-inch barrel, an overall length of about 8.5 inches, and an unloaded weight around 29.6 ounces, it balances authority with carryable mass—quick into action, steady under recoil, and not a burden to stage or transport.
Why this revolver matters
In the revolver category, choice of caliber usually happens at the gun counter. Here, you decide at the cylinder. The Governor fires three distinct types of ammunition without barrel swaps or conversion kits. That means you can tailor your loadout to the mission—be it home defense with .410 defensive shotshells, deep-penetrating .45 Colt, or economical, plentiful .45 ACP for training and carry.
Caliber versatility, explained
.410 2.5-inch: Defensive shotshells out of a handgun-sized chassis bring pattern-based terminal effects to short ranges where most defensive shootings occur. They’re not magic wands; shot placement still rules. But inside typical home distances, they provide a forgiving pattern and reliable threat-stopping performance with the right loads.
.45 Colt: This classic big-bore round delivers authoritative momentum and controllable recoil in a revolver tuned for defensive accuracy. In a 2.75-inch barrel, expect solid velocity with heavy-for-caliber bullets that carry energy and penetration where it counts.
.45 ACP: With the included moon clips, you get fast loading, consistent ignition, and clean extraction using a cartridge that’s widely available and generally more affordable for practice. The Governor ships with two 6-round and three 2-round moon clips—good starter kit for both training and defensive staging.
Build that’s light where it should be, strong where it must be
The frame is scandium-alloy, keeping the unloaded weight to about 29.6 ounces—impressively light for a big-bore wheelgun. That matters when you’re carrying it for long hours or staging it in a quick-access safe where weight and footprint add up. The cylinder uses a stainless steel body with a PVD coating for corrosion resistance and durability, a smart pairing with the scandium frame for longevity under mixed-caliber use.
Finish options include matte black over the scandium frame and a stainless variant, so you can choose a look and corrosion profile that fits your environment and maintenance habits.
Sights that work when the lights don’t
Up front, a dovetailed tritium night sight puts a bright dot on target when ambient light falls off. In back, the fixed rear sight minimizes snag risk and keeps the profile clean. Trade-off: a fixed rear is simple and robust, but you won’t be dialing different loads for precise point of impact shifts. In practice, with defensive ranges and a bold front sight, it does what it needs to do—fast alignment, repeatable hits.
Controls, trigger, and handling
Double-action for immediate response, single-action for precision—this is the classic revolver advantage. The trigger press in DA is deliberate, helping mitigate negligent discharges under stress, and SA breaks cleanly for more refined shots. The 2.75-inch barrel keeps it maneuverable in tight spaces, while the 6-round cylinder gives you a meaningful capacity for a large-caliber revolver.
Moon clips: do it right
The Governor runs .45 ACP with moon clips—by design. Using the correct clips is non-negotiable for reliable ignition and extraction. The included clips (two 6-round, three 2-round) set you up, but keep extras on hand and test your specific ammunition with your clips. Wrong or missing clips will turn loading and extraction into a hassle. For .45 Colt and .410, moon clips aren’t required.
Use cases that make sense
Home defense
This is where the Governor earns its keep. With defensive .410 shells or heavy .45 Colt, it delivers reliable performance at typical indoor distances. The fixed rear sight won’t snag on holsters or bedding, and the tritium front gives you a clear aiming reference when the room is dim. Keep your loading plan simple: don’t mix calibers in the same cylinder. Under stress, you’ll want consistency in recoil, point of impact, and terminal behavior.
Recreational training and range work
Stretch your dollar with .45 ACP on moon clips and drill the fundamentals. The DA press will build discipline; the SA break will refine your sight work. You’ll feel differences between .410, .45 Colt, and .45 ACP—log them, learn them, and keep notes on which loads hit to your sights at your typical practice distance.
Versatile carry and utility
In the woods or on the road, having both pistol rounds and small shotshell options covers a broad set of tasks. The scandium-alloy frame cuts weight on the hip, while the stainless PVD-coated cylinder shrugs off sweat and weather. For survival or general utility, adaptability is insurance.
Practical considerations
- Capacity: Six rounds, all business.
- Length/Weight: ~8.5 inches overall; ~29.6 ounces unloaded—carryable and controllable.
- Sights: Tritium front, fixed rear—fast, durable, low snag.
- Maintenance: Stainless PVD cylinder and scandium frame handle hard use; keep it clean, especially when alternating shotshell and pistol calibers.
- Accessories: Comes with moon clips (2 x 6-round, 3 x 2-round); comes as pictured and does not include box or papers.
Accuracy and effective range
Defensive accuracy at short range is the standard, and the Governor delivers. With .45 ACP and .45 Colt, expect tight, repeatable groups at common practice distances. With .410, pattern and load selection matter—pattern your chosen defensive shell at 3, 5, and 7 yards and verify your point of aim vs. point of impact. Fixed rear sights won’t let you mechanically adjust for every load, so pick ammo that prints to your front sight and stick with it.
View product details and pricing
Price, value, and who it’s for
At $749.99 on our shop page, you’re paying for engineering that solves multiple problems with one gun. If you want a single revolver that covers bedside defense, economical practice, and backcountry utility, this fits. If you’re chasing tiny groups at 25 yards with a micrometer-adjustable rear sight, look elsewhere. If you prioritize readiness, reliability, and options in a featherweight big-bore platform, this is the lane.
Field notes from the holster
Load discipline
Don’t mix calibers in the same cylinder. Each round recoils, patterns, and penetrates differently. Pick your lane for the task at hand. Label your speed strips or carriers accordingly.
Carry and staging
With the fixed rear sight and compact 2.75-inch barrel, the draw is clean and the presentation is fast. For staging, pair it with a quick-access safe and keep moon clips loaded and organized. With .45 ACP, stick to proven defensive loads and verify reliability with your clips. With .410, confirm that your chosen defensive shell feeds and patterns properly from this specific cylinder.
Maintenance rhythm
After running .410, scrub the chambers thoroughly before switching back to .45 ACP or .45 Colt to ensure smooth extraction and consistent ignition. The PVD-coated stainless cylinder resists fouling, but carbon and plastic wad residue can stack up if ignored.
Why the Governor earns a slot
Smith & Wesson built this revolver to be more than a range novelty. The blend of a scandium-alloy frame, stainless PVD-coated cylinder, tritium front sight, and triple-caliber capability adds up to a tool you can count on when time is tight and choices matter. It’s light enough to carry, stout enough to trust, and simple enough to master.
Quick spec recap
Calibers: .410 (2.5-inch), .45 ACP, .45 Colt; Capacity: 6; Action: DA/SA; Barrel: 2.75 inches; Overall length: ~8.5 inches; Weight: ~29.6 oz; Frame: Scandium-alloy; Cylinder: Stainless with PVD; Sights: Fixed rear, tritium front; Included: Moon clips (2 x 6-round, 3 x 2-round); Finishes: Matte black scandium or stainless; Category: Revolver.
People Also Ask
What makes this product stand out from competitors?
This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Is this product suitable for beginners?
Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.
What warranty or support is available?
The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.
How does this compare to similar products in its price range?
This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.
What maintenance is required?
Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.
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