Smith & Wesson M&P 340
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 2007
Also known as: Model 340 PD, 340 AirLite, M&P340
Overview
The Smith & Wesson M&P 340 is an ultra-lightweight, five-shot, double-action-only revolver chambered for .357 Magnum, built on a J-frame with a scandium-enhanced aluminum alloy frame and titanium cylinder. Introduced in 2007 as part of the M&P (Military & Police) product line, the Model 340 represents one of the lightest .357 Magnum revolvers ever produced, weighing only 12 ounces (340g) unloaded. The revolver features an internal hammer design to prevent snagging during concealed carry, a 1.875-inch barrel with stainless steel liner, and a matte black finish. The scandium alloy frame combined with the titanium cylinder creates an extremely lightweight package while maintaining the structural strength necessary to handle the powerful .357 Magnum cartridge. The Model 340 can also fire .38 Special and .38 Special +P ammunition for reduced recoil during practice. HiViz green dot sights are standard equipment, providing excellent visibility in various lighting conditions.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 340 g (12.0 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 383 g (13.5 oz) |
| Overall Length | 159 mm (6.26") |
| Barrel Length | 48 mm (1.89") |
| Height | 102 mm (4.02") |
| Width | 31 mm (1.22") |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Type | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Pull | 49 N (11.0 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Rotary |
| Muzzle Velocity | 380 m/s (1247 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 585 J (431 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 15 m (16 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 457 mm (17.99") |
| Number of Grooves | 5 |
| Frame Material | Scandium Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- .357 Magnum · primary — also known as .357 Mag, .357 S&W Magnum, 9x33mmR
- .38 Special — also known as .38 Spl, .38 S&W Special, 9x29mmR
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Hammer Block Safety, Cylinder Latch
- Features: J Frame, Scandium Frame, Titanium Cylinder, Internal Hammer, Five Shot Cylinder, Dual Caliber Capability, Ultralight Construction, Concealed Carry Design, Hiviz Sights
Service history
Operators
- Civilian Concealed Carriers
- Off-Duty Law Enforcement
- Backup/Secondary Weapon Users
Production
Production years: 2007-present
Current production ultra-lightweight defensive revolver
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The M&P 340 is one of the lightest centerfire defensive handguns available, making it extremely popular for deep concealment and backup gun applications. However, the ultra-light weight comes with significant tradeoffs in shootability. The combination of light weight and powerful .357 Magnum ammunition results in substantial recoil and muzzle blast, making the 340 challenging to shoot accurately, especially in rapid fire. Most users practice with .38 Special ammunition to reduce recoil and carry .357 Magnum for defensive purposes. The short 1.875-inch barrel significantly reduces the velocity potential of .357 Magnum ammunition compared to longer-barreled revolvers. The scandium-aluminum alloy frame was developed specifically for Smith & Wesson's ultra-light revolvers and provides excellent strength-to-weight ratio. The titanium cylinder is necessary to handle the pressures of .357 Magnum while keeping weight minimal. The internal hammer design means the revolver can only be fired in double-action mode with no single-action capability. The Model 340 is designed to be carried often and shot occasionally, prioritizing concealability over extended shooting comfort.
Background
The M&P 340 was designed for users who prioritize absolute minimum weight and maximum concealability, accepting the tradeoff of punishing recoil in exchange for a revolver that can be carried all day without notice.