Smith & Wesson Model 386
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 2004
Also known as: 386 Sc/S, 386 Night Guard, 386 PD
Overview
The Smith & Wesson Model 386 is a subcompact semi-automatic pistol chambered in .357 Magnum, introduced by Smith & Wesson in 2004. The pistol features a scandium alloy frame, providing a durable platform designed for years of reliable service in both duty and civilian applications. The 2.5-inch barrel keeps the package compact for concealed carry while still providing adequate velocity from the .357 Magnum cartridge for effective terminal performance at defensive distances.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 601 g (21.2 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 742 g (26.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 191 mm (7.52") |
| Barrel Length | 64 mm (2.52") |
| Height | 127 mm (5.00") |
| Width | 37 mm (1.46") |
| Sight Radius | 114 mm (4.49") |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Trigger Pull | 44 N (9.9 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 7 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Rotary |
| Muzzle Velocity | 400 m/s (1312 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 648 J (478 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 476 mm (18.74") |
| 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: L Frame, Fixed Rear Sight, Ramp Front Sight, Rubber Grips, Seven Shot Cylinder, Dual Caliber Capability, Scandium Frame, Lightweight, Round Butt
Service history
Operators
- Civilian Concealed Carry
Production
Production years: 2004-present
Various configurations produced
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The Model 386 comes in several variants with different weights: the 386 Night Guard weighs 24.5 ounces, the 386 Sc/S weighs 21.2 ounces, and the 386 PD (with titanium cylinder) weighs as little as 17.5-19 ounces. The lightweight construction makes recoil more pronounced, especially with full-power .357 Magnum loads. Many shooters prefer .38 Special +P ammunition for carry use to manage recoil while still maintaining adequate defensive performance. The seven-round capacity is achieved through the slightly larger L-frame compared to the J-frame, while still maintaining concealability. The loaded weight estimate includes seven .357 Magnum cartridges at approximately 20.2g each. Base specifications are for the standard 386 Sc/S variant with 2.5-inch barrel.
Background
The Model 386 represents Smith & Wesson's effort to create a lightweight .357 Magnum carry revolver with increased capacity. The seven-shot cylinder gives it a capacity advantage over traditional J-frame snubnose revolvers while the scandium construction keeps weight manageable for all-day carry.