Smith & Wesson Model 351PD
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 2004
Also known as: 351PD AirLite, 351 Personal Defense
Overview
The Smith & Wesson Model 351PD is the exposed-hammer variant of the Model 351C lightweight J-frame revolver chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire. The PD designation indicates Personal Defense, featuring an aluminum alloy frame paired with an exposed hammer for both double-action and single-action shooting capability. Introduced in 2004 alongside the hammerless 351C, the 351PD provides shooters who prefer traditional hammer operation with the same ultra-lightweight .22 WMR platform. Weighing approximately 11 ounces empty, identical to the 351C, this seven-shot revolver is built on Smith & Wesson's compact J-frame with a 1.875-inch stainless steel barrel. The 351PD features a HI-VIZ fiber-optic front sight that provides excellent visibility in varying light conditions, paired with a fixed U-notch rear sight for rapid target acquisition. The exposed hammer allows single-action shooting for precision work and enables manual cocking for lighter trigger pulls, while still offering double-action capability for rapid defensive shooting. The aluminum alloy frame construction provides the strength necessary for .22 WMR's 24,000 PSI operating pressure while keeping weight to an absolute minimum. The matte black finish distinguishes it from the matte silver 351C and reduces glare. Like its hammerless sibling, the 351PD offers seven-round capacity, giving users 40 percent more ammunition than traditional five-shot J-frames. The combination of minimal recoil, high capacity, and extremely light weight makes the 351PD suitable for extended carry, backup gun applications, and shooters who find centerfire magnum recoil excessive.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 312 g (11.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 159 mm (6.26") |
| Barrel Length | 48 mm (1.89") |
| Height | 110 mm (4.33") |
| Width | 33 mm (1.30") |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Pull | 48 N (10.8 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 7 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Rotary |
| Muzzle Velocity | 540 m/s (1772 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 378 J (279 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 30 m (33 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 356 mm (14.02") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire · primary — also known as .22 WMR, .22 Magnum, 5.6x27mmR
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Transfer Bar
- Features: J Frame, Hiviz Fiber Optic Front Sight, U Notch Rear Sight, Aluminum Alloy Frame, 7 Shot Cylinder, Exposed Hammer, Lightweight, Synthetic Grips
Base model
Production
Production years: 2004-present
Personal Defense variant of the 351 series with exposed hammer
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The Model 351PD was designed for shooters who prefer the versatility of an exposed hammer while maintaining the benefits of ultra-lightweight construction and .22 WMR chambering. The ability to cock the hammer manually for single-action shots provides a significant trigger pull advantage for precision shooting, with single-action pulls typically measuring 4-5 pounds compared to 10-11 pounds in double-action mode. The exposed hammer design adds virtually no weight compared to the hammerless 351C, as both use the same internal hammer mechanism-the 351PD simply leaves it exposed and accessible. The HI-VIZ fiber-optic front sight represents a significant upgrade over the standard white-dot sight of the 351C, gathering ambient light to create a bright aiming point that remains visible in low-light conditions. From the 1.875-inch barrel, .22 WMR ammunition achieves velocities around 1,100-1,200 feet per second with 40-grain projectiles, delivering approximately 250-300 foot-pounds of muzzle energy. While this represents roughly half the energy of .38 Special +P, the minimal recoil allows for rapid follow-up shots and high accuracy even from the short-barreled platform. The aluminum frame requires care to avoid damage but proves durable with proper maintenance. The 351PD has found favor among outdoorsmen for trail use, small game hunting within its effective range, and as a ultra-lightweight plinker. Many experts recommend the 351PD over the 351C for users who will practice regularly, as the exposed hammer facilitates easier manipulation during loading and unloading.
Background
The 351PD became the preferred choice of wilderness guides and outdoorsmen who needed an ultra-lightweight trail gun for dispatching injured game or discouraging aggressive small predators. Weighing less than a box of ammunition, it could ride in a chest holster all day without fatigue, and the exposed hammer meant it could be carefully placed for humane shots when necessary.