Smith & Wesson 386PD

Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 2001

Also known as: Airweight Sc

Overview

The Smith & Wesson 386PD is a medium-large Personal Defense revolver built on Smith & Wesson's L-frame, introduced in 2001. Chambered in .357 Magnum with a 5-round cylinder. The frame is constructed from scandium alloy, significantly reducing weight compared to traditional steel-framed revolvers of similar size. The 2.5-inch barrel provides a good balance between concealability and sight radius for defensive applications. At 503g (17.7 oz) unloaded, this lightweight revolver strikes a practical balance between carry comfort and manageable recoil during shooting sessions. Smith & Wesson has been producing L-frame revolvers for over four decades, continuously refining the platform with improved metallurgy, ergonomics, and manufacturing techniques while maintaining the fundamental reliability and accuracy that has made their double-action revolvers the benchmark against which all others are measured.

Specifications

Weight (empty)503 g (17.7 oz)
Overall Length241 mm (9.49")
Barrel Length63.5 mm (2.50")
Height140 mm (5.51")
Width38 mm (1.50")
Firing MechanismDouble Action Single Action
Trigger TypeDouble Action Single Action
Trigger Pull20 N (4.5 lbf)
Magazine Capacity5 rounds
Magazine TypeRotary
Muzzle Velocity440 m/s (1444 fps)
Muzzle Energy784 J (578 ft·lbf)
Effective Range25 m (27 yd)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist476 mm (18.74")
Number of Grooves5
Frame MaterialScandium Alloy
Barrel MaterialTitanium
FinishMatte Black

Calibers

Features

Production

Production years: 2001-present

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Notes

One of the lightest .357 Magnum revolvers ever produced. The titanium cylinder further reduces weight compared to stainless steel versions.

Background

The 'PD' Personal Defense designation marks this as one of S&W's scandium alloy revolvers, which were so light when first introduced that many shooters couldn't believe a revolver chambered in .357 Magnum could weigh so little without sacrificing durability.