The Smith & Wesson Model 360 offers you a potent combination of power and portability in a compact revolver. You’ll get a lightweight 15.3-ounce frame built from scandium alloy, paired with a durable stainless steel cylinder and 1.88-inch barrel. It’s chambered for both .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P rounds with a 5-round capacity. The double-action trigger pulls at 15.5 pounds, while single-action reduces to 4.5 pounds. There’s much more to discover about this defensive carry option.
Key Takeaways
- Lightweight snub-nose revolver with Scandium alloy frame and stainless steel cylinder, weighing only 15.3 ounces.
- Versatile ammunition compatibility, accepting both .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P cartridges in a 5-round cylinder.
- Compact dimensions with 1.88-inch barrel and 6.31-inch overall length, making it ideal for concealed carry.
- Features double-action trigger (15.5 pounds) and single-action trigger (4.5 pounds) with internal lock system.
- Available at retail for $670, with potential savings through Explorewards pricing at $569.50.
Description
The Smith & Wesson Model 360 stands as a highly compact revolver, combining a scandium alloy frame with a stainless steel cylinder to achieve its remarkably light 15.3-ounce weight.
You’ll find this J-frame revolver chambered in both .357 Magnum and .38 Special, featuring a 1.88-inch barrel and 6.31-inch overall length. The matte black finish and fiber optic sights enhance its functionality as a personal defense weapon.
Price Range
Despite its premium build quality and advanced materials, pricing for the Model 360 remains competitive in the compact revolver market. You’ll find this revolver’s price varies based on several factors:
| Price Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $770 |
| Retail | $670 |
| w/Explorewards | $569.50 |
| FFL Fee | +$15 |
Before purchasing your Model 360 revolver with its Scandium frame and stainless steel cylinder, check the online product gallery for specific model variations and current dealer pricing.
Specifications
The Smith & Wesson Model 360 combines lightweight design and robust construction, featuring a scandium alloy frame and stainless steel cylinder that brings the total weight to just 15.3 ounces. You’ll find the revolver’s compact 1.88-inch barrel contributes to an overall length of 6.31 inches, making it ideal for concealed carry applications. The Model 360 handles powerful .357 Magnum cartridges with a 5-round capacity, while incorporating modern features like the Hi-Viz fiber optic front sight for enhanced target acquisition.
| Feature | Specification | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 15.3 oz | – |
| Barrel Length | 1.88 inches | Stainless Steel |
| Frame | – | Scandium Alloy |
| Cylinder | 5 rounds | Stainless Steel |
Weight
Weighing just 11.8 ounces unloaded and 13.8 ounces when loaded, Smith & Wesson’s Model 360 revolver delivers exceptional portability for concealed carry applications.
This lightweight revolver’s overall weight of 14.9 ounces combines with its slim 1.2-inch maximum grip thickness and 1.8-inch frame front strap height to create a light weight, unfluted cylinder design that’s easy to handle and carry.
Barrel Length
Measuring 1.88 inches in length, the Model 360’s barrel complements its lightweight frame while maintaining effective close-range accuracy. This snubnose revolver features a matte black stainless steel barrel that’s optimized for concealed carry applications.
While you’ll sacrifice some ballistic performance compared to longer-barreled models, the compact barrel design makes this revolver an ideal choice for personal defense situations.
Material Made Out Of
Built around a robust scandium alloy frame, the Model 360 combines exceptional strength with minimal weight in its construction.
You’ll find a stainless steel cylinder featuring a protective PVD black finish, while the 1.88-inch stainless steel barrel completes the metal components. The revolver’s synthetic grips come in flat dark earth color. At just 14.9 ounces unloaded, it’s remarkably lightweight.
Chambered In
The Model 360 revolver accepts both .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P cartridges, offering versatile ammunition options for different shooting needs.
The 5-round cylinder allows you to load either cartridge type interchangeably, giving you flexibility in ammunition selection. When choosing between .357 Magnum or .38 Special +P, you’ll need to consider factors like recoil management and intended use.
Capacity
With its compact design, the Smith & Wesson Model 360 features a 5-round cylinder capacity that accommodates both .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P cartridges.
The five shots available in the cylinder give you reliable firepower for self defense situations. You’ll have flexibility in ammunition selection, allowing you to load either .357 Magnum rounds or .38 Special +P cartridges based on your specific needs.
Trigger Pull
Featuring dual trigger modes, the Model 360’s double-action pull peaks at 15.5 pounds through 3/4 inch of travel before dropping to 4.5 pounds for the final 1/8 inch.
You’ll find the single-action pull requires just 4.5 pounds of pressure, offering superior accuracy and control. While the heavy double-action trigger pull serves as a safety feature, especially with +P loads, you’ll achieve better precision by manually cocking the hammer to single-action mode.
Safety?
Safety features on Smith & Wesson’s Model 360 include an internal lock system accessed by key and a hammer block mechanism that prevents firing unless the trigger is fully pulled.
When firing double-action, you’ll experience a 15.5-pound trigger pull that drops to 4.5 pounds at break. Single-action requires just 4.5 pounds of pressure.
You’ll find no additional external safeties, though the revolver’s exposed hammer spur allows for both double-action and single-action operation.
Action
The Smith & Wesson Model 360’s action system offers both double-action and single-action operation in a compact J-frame design. You’ll find traditional double-action capability for continuous trigger pull through hammer cock and release, while the single-action mode allows for precise shot placement with a lighter trigger pull.
This versatile action system integrates seamlessly with the revolver’s .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P chambering options.
Optic Ready?
Unlike modern striker-fired pistols, you won’t find optic mounting provisions on the Model 360’s topstrap. This special 5-round cylinder revolver features a traditional fixed sight configuration, combining a red fiber optic front sight with a fixed notch rear sight.
While optics aren’t an option, the sight arrangement provides quick target acquisition for personal protection and duty applications within the revolver’s compact 6.31-inch overall length.
Review
The Model 360’s key strengths lie in its ultralight scandium frame and versatile ammunition compatibility, though you’ll need to manage the substantial double-action trigger pull.
You’ll find better accuracy and control using .38 Special +P loads rather than full-power .357 Magnum rounds, which can be challenging to shoot in such a lightweight platform. The fixed sights, combat grips, and reliable five-shot cylinder make this revolver a practical choice for concealed carry, provided you’re willing to invest time mastering the trigger characteristics.
Pros
Featuring a remarkably light scandium alloy frame at just 14.9 ounces, Smith & Wesson’s Model 360 revolver delivers impressive portability without compromising functionality. You’ll appreciate the reliable performance with .38 Special rounds, including +P hollow point loads.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Scandium Frame | Ultra-lightweight carry |
| PVD Black Finish | Enhanced durability |
| Serrated Hammer | Intuitive operation |
| Internal Lock | Added security |
| .38 Special +P | Controlled accuracy |
Cons
Despite its impressive portability, handling the Model 360 presents several notable challenges.
| Challenge | Impact |
|---|---|
| Heavy double-action trigger | 15.5-pound peak pull causes accuracy issues |
| Trigger control | Risk of unintentional discharge |
| .357 Magnum recoil | Brutal and difficult to manage |
| Frame weight | Light scandium alloy intensifies felt recoil |
| Operating mode | Requires single-action for best accuracy |
You’ll need to carefully manage the stout double-action trigger and significant recoil. The lightweight scandium frame, while convenient for carry, amplifies the .357 Magnum’s substantial kick. For optimal accuracy, you’ll want to operate in single-action mode.
Reliability
Testing proves the Model 360’s exceptional reliability, delivering consistent 3-inch groups at 7-yard self-defense distances. You’ll find the revolver cycles flawlessly through 150+ rounds of various .38 Special loads.
The scandium alloy frame and stainless steel cylinder ensure durability, while the synthetic grip aids in managing recoil when firing .357 Magnum rounds. Five-star reliability ratings confirm its dependable performance.
Similar Models
Several notable Smith & Wesson revolvers share design elements with the Model 360. The Model 340PD handles powerful .357 Magnum loads while weighing just 13 ounces with its scandium frame.
You’ll find similar lightweight designs in the Model 642 and 442, both featuring .38 Special chambers and aluminum construction. The Model 638 Bodyguard offers a shrouded hammer design, while the Model 649 delivers magnum capability with a front-facing 2-inch barrel.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
While the Model 360 stands out in Smith & Wesson’s lineup, other manufacturers offer comparable lightweight revolvers worth considering.
You’ll find the Ruger LCR with its polymer frame in matte black, and the Colt Cobra featuring an exposed hammer spur in stainless steel. The Kimber K6s provides a 6-round capacity, while the Taurus 856 offers an economical alternative in flat dark earth finishes.
For non-revolver options, consider the polymer-framed Kahr MK40.
Maintenance
To maintain optimal performance of your Model 360 revolver, regular cleaning and proper lubrication are essential after each use.
Begin by removing the cylinder following manufacturer’s guidelines. Clean the barrel and cylinder bore thoroughly with appropriate solvents and brushes. Apply lubrication to all moving parts, including the trigger, hammer, and cylinder release.
Check the action and verify proper trigger pull weight during routine maintenance.
History
The Smith & Wesson Model 360 revolver traces its heritage back to the innovative J-frame Airweight series introduced in the 1950s. Initially featuring aluminum frames and cylinders, early J-frame models encountered durability issues, leading to steel cylinder integration.
Today’s Model 360 evolves this legacy with modern scandium alloy construction, maintaining the classic J-frame profile while incorporating contemporary front sight and rear sight configurations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Smith and Wesson Revolvers Hold Value?
Yes, you’ll find that Smith & Wesson revolvers maintain strong value retention. The average resale price typically stays at 60-80% of original retail when properly maintained.
Long-term collectibility remains high due to the brand’s reputation and quality construction. The condition impact on value is significant – keeping your revolver well-maintained, with original parts and finish intact, will maximize its resale potential.
Their lifetime service policy and parts availability further support lasting value.
What Model Revolver Did Dirty Harry Use?
With a muzzle energy of over 900 ft-lbs, Dirty Harry’s famous Smith & Wesson Model 29 in .44 Magnum was significantly more powerful than any .38 Special or typical concealed carry revolver.
You’ll recognize this iconic six-shooter from the famous “Do you feel lucky?” scene. While today’s shooters might prefer lighter options with better shooting accuracy improvements, Harry’s Model 29 represented raw power and intimidation, though it’s important to note its substantial recoil requires extensive training to master safely.
What Is the Rarest Smith and Wesson Gun?
The Smith & Wesson Model 29 .44 Magnum is widely considered the rarest and most valuable S&W firearm you’ll encounter. Due to its limited production numbers and historical significance from “Dirty Harry,” you’ll find it’s an exceptionally sought-after collector’s item.
When you’re evaluating authentic Model 29s, particularly the 6-inch and 8-inch barrel variants from the early production runs, you’re looking at some of the most prized specimens in Smith & Wesson’s history.
What Revolver Did the FBI Carry?
The FBI primarily carried the Smith & Wesson Model 36 “Chief’s Special” as their standard issue handgun from the 1950s through the 1980s. You’ll find this .38 Special revolver was one of the most popular federal agents’ preferred revolvers due to its reliability and concealability.
The Model 36’s success among law enforcement helped establish it as a benchmark for service revolvers, leading many other agencies to adopt similar models for their officers.
Conclusion
The S&W Model 360’s 11.4-ounce weight places it among the lightest .357 Magnum revolvers ever produced. You’ll find its scandium alloy frame provides exceptional durability while reducing carry fatigue. When you maintain this J-frame properly, following Smith & Wesson’s recommended cleaning schedule, you can expect 50,000+ rounds of reliable service. For safety, you’ll need proper training to manage the significant recoil inherent with this ultra-light magnum platform.
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