Smith & Wesson 340PD: The World's Lightest 357 Magnum!

Published on January 28, 2021
Duration: 13:20

The Smith & Wesson 340PD is highlighted as the world's lightest .357 Magnum revolver, weighing just 11.2 oz due to its Scandium alloy frame and Titanium cylinder. While capable of firing potent .357 Magnum rounds, its extreme lightness results in significant recoil, making it challenging to manage. The review emphasizes its suitability for concealed carry but warns about the recoil impulse and the necessity of using heavier bullets (120gr+).

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson 340PD is the world's lightest .357 Magnum revolver, weighing just 11.2 oz thanks to its Scandium alloy frame and Titanium cylinder. However, this extreme lightness results in significant recoil, making .357 Magnum rounds challenging to manage. The manufacturer recommends using bullets of at least 120 grains.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro & Shooting Demonstration
  2. 00:23S&W 340PD Model Overview
  3. 01:05Materials & Unloaded Weight (11.2 oz)
  4. 01:56Concealed Carry Design & Barrel
  5. 02:18.357 Magnum vs .38 Special Ballistics & Recoil
  6. 03:48Comparison: 340PD vs S&W 442
  7. 05:29Ergonomics, Grips & Trigger Pull
  8. 06:51Comparison: 340PD vs S&W 640 (Weight)
  9. 07:38Revolver vs Semi-Auto Comparison (Glock 43)
  10. 08:41Sights: Notch vs XS Big Dot
  11. 09:44Price, Reliability & Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Smith & Wesson 340PD unique?

The Smith & Wesson 340PD is notable for being the world's lightest .357 Magnum revolver, weighing only 11.2 ounces unloaded. This extreme lightness is achieved through the use of a Scandium alloy frame and a Titanium cylinder.

What are the challenges of shooting the S&W 340PD?

Due to its very light 11.2 oz weight, the 340PD produces a significant recoil impulse when firing .357 Magnum ammunition. This makes it challenging to control for many shooters and requires practice.

What ammunition is recommended for the S&W 340PD?

The manufacturer strongly advises using bullets weighing no less than 120 grains when firing .357 Magnum ammunition in the S&W 340PD. Lighter loads may increase perceived recoil or pose other issues.

How does the S&W 340PD compare to heavier revolvers like the S&W 640?

The 340PD weighs significantly less (11.2 oz) than an all-steel model like the S&W 640 (approx. 23 oz). While the 340PD is easier to carry, the heavier 640 offers substantially better recoil management.

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