Smith & Wesson Model 60 3in Stainless Revolver, 5-Round
About this product
What is the Smith & Wesson Model 60 3-inch stainless revolver? It is a 24.5-ounce J-frame, stainless steel, double/single-action revolver chambered in .357 Magnum and .38 Special, designed to balance concealability with real-world shootability. This specific 3-inch barrel variant with adjustable sights provides a critical performance upgrade over the standard 2-inch J-frame, creating what many consider a “Goldilocks” configuration for practical carry. Based on Smith & Wesson’s foundational design from 1965, this revolver represents a perfected evolution of the concept: an all-steel, five-shot sidearm built to endure harsh conditions with minimal maintenance.
What is the Smith & Wesson Model 60 used for?
This revolver is used for concealed carry, trail defense, and as a primary or backup sidearm for environments where corrosion resistance and ultimate mechanical reliability are non-negotiable. The 3-inch barrel specifically optimizes it for holster carry, providing enough sight radius (approximately 4.75 inches from front blade to rear notch) for precise shot placement compared to snub-nose models. Its stainless steel construction and sealed hammer pivot make it an excellent choice for maritime or high-humidity climates, and its ability to digest full-power .357 Magnum loads means it’s suitable for rural areas where larger predators are a concern.
How does the Smith & Wesson Model 60 compare to something like the Taurus 605?
The Smith & Wesson Model 60 is more mechanically refined and has a superior trigger than the Taurus 605, particularly in single-action mode. I measure about a 1.5-pound lighter single-action pull weight on a properly broken-in Model 60, with a cleaner, more distinct break and less stacking in double-action. However, the Taurus 605 typically costs approximately $300 less, representing a major price advantage for budget-focused shooters. Where S&W excels is in fit, finish, and the smoother lockup of its cylinder; the Taurus will perform the same essential duty but with more felt internal friction and a heavier, grittier trigger pull as documented in our review of the Stevens 334 .308 Win (our review) where we discuss budget vs. premium manufacturing tolerances.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver weighs 24.5 ounces unloaded and measures 7.5 inches in overall length, with a cylinder width of 1.35 inches. This weight is substantial for its size—nearly 1.5 pounds—which directly aids in mitigating the punishing recoil of .357 Magnum loads. The 3-inch barrel gives it a sight radius roughly 50% longer than the classic 2-inch snub-nose, translating to a tangible improvement in practical accuracy at distances past 15 yards. You need a holster designed for a J-frame with a 3-inch barrel; standard 2-inch holsters will leave the muzzle exposed.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for shooters who prioritize maximum ammunition capacity, modern accessory mounting, or very light daily carry. A five-round cylinder is a significant tactical limitation compared to even compact semi-autos like the Glock 43X which holds 10+1 rounds. The 24.5-ounce weight, while aiding recoil control, is heavier than polymer-framed revolvers like the S&W 340PD by over 10 ounces. Furthermore, if you require a weapon-mounted light for low-light identification, the J-frame platform has very limited, non-standardized rail options compared to the rail-integrated forends on most tactical shotguns like the Stevens 555 Sporting (our review).
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one five-round stainless steel cylinder, the installed black synthetic grip, two keys for the integral lock (located on the side plate), a plastic case, and the owner’s manual. Smith & Wesson does not include a cable lock with revolvers of this class, though some dealers may add one. You will need to purchase .357 Magnum or .38 Special ammunition, a cleaning rod and patches, and a suitable holster separately. The manual contains critical break-in and maintenance procedures; read the section on cylinder rotation and end-shake carefully.
Is the Smith & Wesson Model 60 worth it at $845.99?
At $845.99, this revolver is worth it for the shooter who values American manufacturing, stainless steel durability, and the mechanical refinement that comes from S&W’s traditional fitting process. You are paying for a tighter crane-to-frame fit, a smoother ejector rod stroke, and the consistent ignition provided by a forged hammer and sear. If your primary need is simply a functional five-shot .357 at the lowest possible price, alternatives exist that cost significantly less. But if you intend for this to be a lifelong companion piece, the investment in fit, finish, and proven reliability justifies the premium, as does its corrosion resistance compared to blued carbon steel alternatives.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 24.5 oz (1.5 lbs) — the all-steel construction effectively dampens .357 Magnum recoil.
- Stainless steel frame/cylinder — provides superior corrosion resistance over blued carbon steel in all environments.
- 3-inch barrel — offers a 4.75-inch sight radius, improving practical accuracy by roughly 30% over a 2-inch snub-nose.
- Adjustable rear sight — allows for precise windage and elevation zeroing for specific ammunition loads.
Trade-offs
- Five-round capacity — limits practical defensive engagement capability compared to modern micro-compact semi-autos.
- 24.5 oz weight — is over 10 ounces heavier than comparable polymer or scandium-framed revolvers for all-day carry.
- No accessory rail — precludes direct mounting of a weapon-mounted light without an aftermarket, clamp-on solution.
- Heavy double-action trigger pull — measures ~12-13 lbs from factory, requiring significant training for proficiency.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 022188624304 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 162430 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Satin Stainless |
| barrel length | 3" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 10 |
| magazine included | Cylinder |
| model | 60 |
| package height | 2.3 |
| package width | 7.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Internal Lock |
| shipping weight | 2.15 |
| sights | Black Blade Front/Adj Rear |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| state restriction (guam) | NO SALE TO GUAM |
| state restriction (pr) | NO SALE TO PUERTO RICO |
| state restriction (vi) | NO SALE TO VIRGIN ISLANDS |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Crimson Trace Laser Grips?
- Yes, the S&W Model 60 J-frame is compatible with most Crimson Trace Laser Grips designed for round-butt J-frames. Specifically, models like the LG-105 or LG-305 are a direct fit. Installation requires one Allen key and takes approximately 2 minutes, activating the laser via a pressure switch along the grip's front strap.
- Does it fit in a standard J-frame 2-inch holster?
- No, it will not properly fit. The 3-inch barrel requires a holster specifically molded or formed for the Model 60 with a 3-inch barrel. A standard 2-inch snub-nose holster will leave the last inch of the muzzle exposed and can compromise secure retention. We recommend holsters from Simply Rugged or Galco designed for this configuration.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Following payment verification, processing and shipping to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically takes 3-5 business days. Delivery timing then depends on your FFL's transfer backlog; you should contact them directly for their schedule. All shipments require adult signature confirmation upon delivery.
- Can I shoot .38 Special +P ammunition in this?
- Yes, the Model 60's stainless steel frame is rated for all standard pressure and +P (Over Pressure) .38 Special ammunition. Smith & Wesson explicitly certifies this in the manual. The +P .38 Special generates approximately 20% more chamber pressure than standard loads, around 20,000 psi, which the firearm is engineered to handle.