Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips Review

The Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips Made a Bold First Impression

The Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips, simple as they may seem, are a vital accessory for anyone owning a Smith & Wesson 940 revolver. These unassuming metal circles promise faster reloads and enhanced reliability, a claim I was eager to verify after years of fumbling with loose 9mm rounds in a revolver. After a particularly frustrating range day trying to load individual rounds into my 940 during a timed drill, I knew I needed to find a better solution.

Unboxing these clips was hardly a dramatic affair; they’re presented in a no-frills package, true to their utilitarian nature. Initial inspection revealed sturdy construction, with each clip exhibiting a reassuring heft that belied its small size. I’ve used similar moon clips for .45 ACP revolvers, and these seemed comparably robust, though significantly smaller. My first impression was one of cautious optimism: a simple solution, potentially elegant in its execution.

While there aren’t direct competitors making moon clips specifically for the Smith & Wesson 940, speed loaders offer an alternative. I’ve tried speed loaders for other revolvers and often found them bulky and prone to malfunction in adverse conditions. The moon clip system promised a more streamlined and reliable solution, provided it lived up to its claims. I chose the Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips for their simplicity and potential for increased speed and ease of use.

My initial reaction was more intrigued than excited. The concept is sound, but the proof is in the pudding. Would these clips actually make a noticeable difference in reload speed and reliability? Only range time would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test took place at my local outdoor shooting range. I was keen to see if the Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips lived up to their promise of faster reloads. Conditions were typical for a late summer afternoon: warm, sunny, and slightly dusty.

Loading the clips themselves was surprisingly easy. The 9mm rounds snapped into place with a satisfying click. At the range, I quickly realized the benefit of carrying multiple pre-loaded clips. I practiced several rapid reloads, finding a significant improvement over loading single rounds. The clips definitely sped up the reload process, and eliminated much of the fumbling. There was a noticeable reduction in reload time, possibly cutting it in half compared to individual rounds. The clips also kept the cartridges clean and readily accessible.

After a few cylinders, I noticed that the clips could become slightly bent after ejecting the spent casings. This wasn’t a major issue, but it required careful straightening before reloading. Otherwise, the first range session was a success, demonstrating the potential of these clips.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of using the Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips, I’ve gained a better understanding of their strengths and limitations. I’ve used them in various range sessions and even during a few informal shooting competitions. They have held up surprisingly well, considering their relatively thin construction.

While they do show some minor signs of wear, such as slight bending and scratches, none of the clips have broken or become unusable. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a cloth is usually sufficient to remove any powder residue. Compared to my previous experience with single rounds, these clips have dramatically improved my shooting enjoyment and efficiency. They are far more reliable than attempting to fumble individual cartridges into the cylinder under pressure.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips

Specifications

• Caliber: 9mm. This is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson 940 revolver, which is chambered in 9mm.
• Material: Steel. The clips are constructed from steel, providing durability and resistance to bending.
• Quantity: Typically sold in packs of three. This allows for multiple reloads at the range or in a competition.
• Function: Facilitates simultaneous loading and ejection of all cartridges in the cylinder. This is a critical aspect of improved reload speed.
• Compatibility: Designed exclusively for the Smith & Wesson 940 revolver. They will not work with other firearms.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and reliability of the clips. The steel construction ensures durability, while the specific design guarantees proper fit and function within the Smith & Wesson 940.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips perform their job admirably. They drastically reduce reload times and improve the overall shooting experience with the 940 revolver. The simultaneous loading and ejection of cartridges streamline the process, making it much faster and more efficient.

The primary strength of these clips is their ability to facilitate rapid reloads. A minor weakness is their susceptibility to bending, requiring occasional straightening. Overall, they meet and exceed expectations, transforming the Smith & Wesson 940 from a slow-reloading revolver into a much more practical firearm.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips is simple yet effective. The steel construction provides durability, and the circular shape ensures a snug fit within the revolver’s cylinder. The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable burden to the firearm.

The clips are user-friendly and require minimal learning curve. Simply snap the cartridges into the clip, and you’re ready to load. The design prioritizes functionality over aesthetics, resulting in a practical and efficient accessory.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips should last for a considerable time. The steel construction resists wear and tear, but the clips can bend if subjected to excessive force. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove powder residue.

Repair is generally not an option; a bent clip is best straightened or replaced. The simplicity of the design contributes to its overall durability and ease of maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips do not offer any customization options in the traditional sense. There are no different colors or materials available. The primary “accessory” is simply purchasing more clips to have a ready supply for extended shooting sessions.

Aftermarket tools exist to aid in loading and unloading the clips, but these are not essential. The clips are designed for simple, straightforward use.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips

Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips?

Perfect for: Owners of the Smith & Wesson 940 revolver who want to improve reload speed and reliability. Also ideal for competitive shooters using the 940 in revolver divisions. They are also useful for anyone who uses their Smith & Wesson 940 for self-defense and prioritizes fast reloads.

Who should skip this product? Anyone who does not own a Smith & Wesson 940 revolver. Also, individuals who are content with loading single rounds and are not concerned with reload speed.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A moon clip loading and unloading tool can be helpful but is not strictly necessary.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips

The Smith & Wesson 9mm 940 Full Moon Clips are an essential accessory for anyone who owns a Smith & Wesson 940 revolver. They dramatically improve reload speed and reliability, transforming the shooting experience. At a price of $5.99, the value proposition is undeniable.

I would wholeheartedly recommend these clips to any Smith & Wesson 940 owner. They are a simple, affordable, and effective way to enhance the performance of your firearm. If you own a 940 and haven’t tried these, you’re missing out. Go ahead and grab a few; you won’t regret it!