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A Comprehensive Guide to Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum Models

The Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum is a legendary revolver, renowned for its power, reliability, and versatility. Introduced in 1935, it quickly became a favorite among law enforcement, hunters, and shooting enthusiasts. Over the decades, Smith & Wesson has produced numerous models chambered in .357 Magnum, each with its own unique features and intended purpose. This comprehensive guide will explore some of the most popular and significant Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum models, providing insights into their history, design, and performance.

The Iconic Model 27

The Model 27 holds a special place in the history of the .357 Magnum. It was the original .357 Magnum revolver, initially known simply as the “Registered Magnum.” Each Registered Magnum was custom-made to the buyer’s specifications and came with a registration certificate. In 1939, the Registered Magnum became a standard production model and was designated the Model 27. It’s built on Smith & Wesson’s large N-frame, known for its strength and durability, making it well-suited for handling the powerful .357 Magnum cartridge. The Model 27 is characterized by its high-polished blued finish, checkered top strap, and adjustable sights. It remains a highly sought-after collector’s item and a testament to the quality of early Smith & Wesson revolvers.

The Workhorse: Model 28 Highway Patrolman

Designed as a more affordable alternative to the Model 27, the Model 28 Highway Patrolman was introduced in 1954. It retained the same N-frame as the Model 27 but featured a more utilitarian finish and fewer cosmetic enhancements. The Highway Patrolman was intended for law enforcement officers who needed a reliable and powerful sidearm at a reasonable price. Its matte finish reduced glare, and its robust construction ensured it could withstand the rigors of daily carry. Despite its less refined appearance, the Model 28 offered the same performance and accuracy as the Model 27, making it a popular choice among police officers and civilian shooters alike. The Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum power was accessible to more people with this model.

The Classic: Model 19 Combat Magnum

The Model 19 Combat Magnum, introduced in 1955, was designed to be a lighter and more compact .357 Magnum revolver. Built on the medium-sized K-frame, the Model 19 offered a balance of power and portability. It was developed in collaboration with legendary lawman Bill Jordan, who sought a .357 Magnum revolver that was easier to carry and handle than the larger N-frame models. The Combat Magnum featured adjustable sights, a comfortable grip, and a choice of barrel lengths, making it a versatile option for both law enforcement and civilian use. The Model 19 quickly gained popularity for its accuracy and manageable recoil, solidifying its place as a classic .357 Magnum revolver. Many consider this Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum model the perfect balance.

The Stainless Steel Option: Model 66

The Model 66 is the stainless steel version of the Model 19 Combat Magnum. Introduced in 1970, it offered the same features and performance as the Model 19 but with the added benefit of corrosion resistance. The stainless steel construction made the Model 66 ideal for use in harsh environments where blued steel revolvers might be prone to rust. It was a popular choice among law enforcement officers working in coastal areas or other humid climates. The Model 66 retained the K-frame design, adjustable sights, and comfortable grip of the Model 19, making it a reliable and practical .357 Magnum revolver. Its durability and ease of maintenance made it a favorite among shooters who demanded a rugged and dependable firearm. This Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum variant offered improved longevity.

The Modern Marvel: Model 686

The Model 686, introduced in 1980, is a stainless steel .357 Magnum revolver built on the medium-sized L-frame. The L-frame was designed to be stronger than the K-frame, providing increased durability and allowing for the use of heavier .357 Magnum loads. The Model 686 quickly became a popular choice among competitive shooters and law enforcement officers. It featured adjustable sights, a full underlug barrel for improved balance, and a comfortable grip. The Model 686 is known for its accuracy, reliability, and smooth trigger pull. It remains one of Smith & Wesson’s most popular .357 Magnum models, with numerous variations and configurations available. The Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum Model 686 is a staple in modern shooting.

The Snub-Nose: Model 60

For those seeking a compact and concealable .357 Magnum revolver, the Model 60 is an excellent choice. It is a small-frame, stainless steel revolver that is available in both .38 Special and .357 Magnum. The Model 60 is known for its lightweight and compact design, making it easy to carry concealed. While its short barrel reduces its effective range, it is a powerful and reliable option for self-defense. The Model 60 is a popular choice among concealed carry permit holders who want a potent and easily concealed handgun. Despite its small size, the Model 60 can deliver the full power of the .357 Magnum cartridge, making it a formidable defensive weapon. The Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum power in a small package.

The Scandium Alloy: Model 340PD

The Model 340PD is an ultra-lightweight .357 Magnum revolver built on the small J-frame. It features a scandium alloy frame and a titanium cylinder, resulting in a remarkably light weight of just 12 ounces. The Model 340PD is designed for deep concealment and is a popular choice among those who prioritize weight and portability. However, its light weight also means that recoil is significantly increased, making it more challenging to shoot accurately with .357 Magnum loads. The Model 340PD is best suited for experienced shooters who are willing to trade comfort for concealability. While its recoil can be punishing, its lightweight design makes it a practical option for everyday carry. This Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum is not for the faint of heart.

The Performance Center: Model 627

Smith & Wesson’s Performance Center produces enhanced and customized versions of their standard revolvers. The Model 627 is an eight-shot .357 Magnum revolver built on the N-frame. It features a stainless steel construction, a tuned action, and custom grips. The Model 627 is designed for competitive shooting and hunting, offering exceptional accuracy and reliability. Its eight-round capacity provides a significant advantage in shooting sports, and its smooth trigger pull enhances accuracy. The Performance Center’s attention to detail and quality craftsmanship makes the Model 627 a top-tier .357 Magnum revolver. This Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum offers enhanced performance.

Understanding the .357 Magnum Cartridge

The .357 Magnum cartridge is a powerful and versatile round that has been used for a variety of purposes, including hunting, law enforcement, and self-defense. It was developed in the 1930s as a response to the need for a more powerful handgun cartridge. The .357 Magnum is essentially a lengthened .38 Special cartridge, loaded to higher pressures. This increased pressure results in significantly higher velocities and greater energy, making it a more effective round for stopping threats. While the .357 Magnum is a potent cartridge, it also produces significant recoil, which can be challenging for inexperienced shooters. It is important to practice with a .357 Magnum revolver to become proficient in its use. [See also: Choosing the Right Ammunition for Your Revolver]

Choosing the Right Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum for Your Needs

With so many different Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum models available, choosing the right one for your needs can be a daunting task. Consider the following factors when making your decision:

Intended Use: Will you be using the revolver for self-defense, hunting, target shooting, or collecting?
Size and Weight: Do you need a compact and lightweight revolver for concealed carry, or are you willing to carry a larger and heavier model for improved accuracy and recoil management?
Frame Size: Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum revolvers are available on K, L, and N frames. K-frames are smaller and lighter, while N-frames are larger and more robust. L-frames offer a balance between the two.
Material: Blued steel revolvers are more traditional, while stainless steel revolvers offer improved corrosion resistance. Scandium alloy frames are ultra-lightweight but produce more recoil.
Features: Consider features such as adjustable sights, full underlug barrels, and custom grips.

By carefully considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose the Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum model that best suits your individual needs and preferences. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and seek professional instruction before using any firearm. The Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum remains a top choice for many firearm enthusiasts.

The Enduring Legacy of the Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum

The Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum has left an indelible mark on the world of firearms. Its power, reliability, and versatility have made it a favorite among law enforcement, hunters, and shooting enthusiasts for nearly a century. From the original Registered Magnum to the modern Model 686, Smith & Wesson has continued to innovate and refine its .357 Magnum revolvers, ensuring their continued relevance in the 21st century. Whether you are a seasoned shooter or a novice firearm owner, the Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum offers a compelling combination of performance, history, and craftsmanship. This Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum has stood the test of time. [See also: The History of Revolvers]