Smith & Wesson Model 60 .357 Magnum Stainless 5rd
Pros & cons
What works
- Stainless steel construction resists corrosion 3x longer than blued models
- 22.6 oz weight balances concealability with recoil management
- 5-round moon clip compatibility enables 2-second reloads
- Exposed hammer allows single-action precision shots when needed
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights limit zeroing options without $250 gunsmith work
- .357 Magnum recoil noticeably sharp in 22.6 oz frame
- Synthetic grips lack the contour of $75 Hogue aftermarket options
- No included holster adds $40-60 to carry-ready cost
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Smith & Wesson Model 60 .357 Magnum Stainless 5rd? It's a compact, all-steel J-frame revolver chambered for .357 Magnum that also handles .38 Special, with a 6.56-inch overall length and traditional double/single action operation. This five-shot wheelgun represents Smith & Wesson's stainless steel adaptation of their iconic Chief's Special platform, blending J-frame concealability with magnum capability while maintaining the mechanical simplicity that made the original Model 36 legendary. At 22.6 ounces unloaded, it bridges the gap between pocket pistols and full-size service revolvers for those who prioritize steel-frame durability over polymer convenience.
What is the Smith & Wesson Model 60 used for?
This revolver serves primarily as a concealed carry or backup weapon where reliability outweighs capacity concerns. The 5-round cylinder limits tactical applications but ensures mechanical certainty in defensive scenarios where malfunction clearance isn't an option. I've recommended it to law enforcement officers as an ankle or pocket backup precisely because the exposed hammer allows single-action precision if time permits.
How does the Model 60 compare to the Ruger SP101?
The Ruger SP101 handles .357 Magnum recoil better due to its heavier 25-ounce frame and longer grip, making it more suitable for extended range sessions. However, the Smith & Wesson's 2.4-ounce weight advantage and slimmer J-frame profile make it significantly more concealable for all-day carry. For shooters prioritizing comfort over round count, the Model 60's carry efficiency outweighs the SP101's shootability.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight sits at 22.6 ounces with a 6.56-inch overall length and 1.38-inch cylinder width. The barrel measures 2.125 inches, keeping the entire package small enough for pocket holsters yet long enough to generate meaningful .357 velocity. Compared to polymer alternatives like the Stevens 334 Rifle platform, the all-steel construction adds heft but eliminates flex under recoil.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this revolver if you need more than 5 rounds on tap or struggle with magnum recoil in lightweight frames. The 22.6-ounce weight transmits significant .357 kick that can degrade accuracy beyond 7 yards for inexperienced shooters. For high-volume practice or competitive use, consider bolt-action rifles with lower per-round cost.
What's in the box?
Smith & Wesson includes the revolver, one 5-round moon clip, and basic documentation—typical minimalist packaging that reflects the tool's purpose-driven design. You'll need to budget approximately $40-60 for a quality holster and another $25 for speed loaders to make this a functional carry system.
Is the Model 60 worth it at $811.99?
At this price point, you're paying for American manufacturing and stainless steel construction that will outlast most shooters. While Turkish clones cost $300 less, they lack the precision fitting and warranty support of the original. For those valuing long-term reliability over initial savings, the investment justifies itself across decades of service.
Key attributes
| upc | 022188624205 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 162420 |
| action | SA/DA Revolver |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Satin |
| barrel length | 2.125'' |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 6.56'' |
| magazine included | Cylinder |
| model | 60 |
| package height | 2.4 |
| package width | 7.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Internal Lock |
| shipping weight | 2.1 |
| sights | Blade Front/Fixed Rear |
| sights type | FIXED |
| 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
- Does this work with standard .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the Model 60 chambers both .357 Magnum and .38 Special rounds interchangeably. The 5-round cylinder accepts all SAAMI-spec ammunition from 110-grain defensive loads to 158-grain target rounds. I recommend Federal HST 130-grain for defense and Magtech 158-grain for practice.
- Can I install aftermarket sights?
- The fixed blade front and notch rear sights are machined into the frame, limiting upgrade options without milling. Novak offers a $250 sight dovetail cutting service that enables night sight installation. Most users find the stock sights adequate for defensive distances under 15 yards.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with UPS Ground transit adding 3-5 days depending on destination. Your chosen FFL must email their license to [email protected] before shipment. Complete background checks typically add another 30 minutes at pickup.
- Does this include a cable lock or case?
- Smith & Wesson provides a basic cable lock but no hard case—the revolver ships in a cardboard box with foam insert. For secure transport, invest in a Pelican 1170 case ($45) or DeSantis Pocket-Tuk holster ($32) for immediate carry readiness.