Smith & Wesson Model 60

Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 1965

Also known as: Chief's Special Stainless

Overview

The Smith & Wesson Model 60 is a compact revolver built on Smith & Wesson's J-frame, introduced in 1965. Chambered in .357 Magnum with a 5-round cylinder. Constructed with a stainless steel frame and cylinder, this revolver offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability for years of reliable service. The 3.0-inch barrel provides a good balance between concealability and sight radius for defensive applications. At 680g (24.0 oz) unloaded, this lightweight revolver strikes a practical balance between carry comfort and manageable recoil during shooting sessions. Smith & Wesson has been producing J-frame revolvers for over seven 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)680 g (24.0 oz)
Overall Length241 mm (9.49")
Barrel Length76.2 mm (3.00")
Height117 mm (4.61")
Width33 mm (1.30")
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 MaterialStainless Steel
Barrel MaterialStainless Steel
FinishSatin Stainless

Calibers

Features

Production

Production years: 1965-present

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Notes

The first stainless steel revolver ever produced. Modern versions are chambered in .357 Magnum and can also fire .38 Special.

Background

Revolutionary for being the first stainless steel production revolver, answering demand for corrosion-resistant handguns.