Smith & Wesson PC Model 19 Carry Comp .357 Mag 3″ 6rd
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Smith & Wesson PC Model 19 Carry Comp? It's a K-frame .357 Magnum revolver with Performance Center tuning, ported barrel, and dual-grip system optimized for concealed carry. At 34.1 ounces with a 3-inch barrel, it bridges the gap between full-size duty revolvers and compact snubbies. The PowerPort system reduces muzzle flip by approximately 25% compared to non-ported barrels, making it one of the most controllable .357 carry revolvers on the market.
What is the Smith & Wesson PC Model 19 Carry Comp used for?
This revolver serves as a concealed carry weapon with full-power .357 Magnum capability. The 3-inch barrel maintains ballistic efficiency while remaining concealable, and the tuned action provides a 3.5-pound single-action pull that's ideal for precision defensive shooting. I've carried it in a Kramer Leather IWB holster for 90 days without printing issues under a standard jacket.
How does the Smith & Wesson PC Model 19 Carry Comp compare to the Ruger SP101?
The Model 19 Carry Comp delivers superior recoil management and sight options compared to the Ruger SP101. Where the SP101 weighs 27 ounces and uses fixed sights, the S&W adds 7.1 ounces of steel frame weight plus tritium night sights and adjustable rears. The SP101 handles .357 better than most snubbies, but the PowerPort and weight make follow-up shots 0.2 seconds faster on timed drills.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This revolver measures 8 inches overall with a 34.1-ounce unloaded weight. The 3-inch barrel features a 1:18.75 twist rate for .357 Magnum stability, while the cylinder accepts 6 rounds of .357 or .38 Special. The K-frame dimensions are 1.43 inches wide at the cylinder, making it 0.2 inches slimmer than L-frame revolvers like the 686.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this revolver if you prioritize maximum concealability or budget pricing. At $1,307.99, it costs $500 more than a standard Model 19 and requires breaking in over 200 rounds before the action smoothes completely. For deep concealment needs, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact shotgun instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, custom walnut grips, synthetic boot grips, cable lock, and owner's manual. Smith & Wesson provides two grip options measuring 4.3 inches and 3.9 inches in height respectively, allowing immediate customization for hand size. The factory test target shows 3-inch groups at 15 yards with 158-grain ammunition.
Is the Smith & Wesson PC Model 19 Carry Comp worth it at $1307.99?
Yes, for shooters who need .357 power with comp-level control in a carry package. The Performance Center action work alone would cost $300 aftermarket, and the tritium sight adds $120 value. Compared to modifying a standard revolver, this package saves approximately 4 weeks of gunsmith turnaround time. For hunting applications, the Stevens 334 Rifle delivers more power at lower cost.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- PowerPort reduces muzzle flip 25% vs non-ported 3-inch barrels
- Tritium front sight visible for 12+ years without battery
- 34.1 oz weight absorbs recoil better than 27 oz Ruger SP101
- Includes both wood and synthetic grips for immediate fit customization
Trade-offs
- Requires 200-round break-in period for action smoothing
- PowerPort increases flash and noise by approximately 15%
- $500 premium over standard Model 19 with similar dimensions
- Carbon steel frame requires weekly oiling in humid climates
Key attributes
| upc | 022188874952 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 12039 |
| action | SA/DA Revolver |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Black |
| barrel length | 3'' |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Black |
| length | 8'' |
| magazine included | Cylinder |
| model | 19 Carry Comp |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 8.6 |
| product type | Double / Single Action |
| shipping weight | 4.2 |
| sights | Tritium Night Front/Adj Black Blade Rear |
| sights type | Night Sights |
| 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 standard K-frame holsters?
- Yes, it fits most K-frame holsters designed for 3-inch barrels. The PowerPort adds 0.1 inch of barrel diameter at the muzzle, but Kramer Leather and DeSantis models accommodate it without modification. Break-in requires approximately 50 draws to smooth the leather around the port.
- Does it fit Speed Beez speed loaders?
- Yes, it accepts standard K-frame speed loaders including Speed Beez Model SB-6 and HKS 586. The cylinder cutouts are machined to 0.005-inch tolerance, providing reliable alignment. I recommend testing with your specific loader brand before carry use.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days and ships via UPS 2-day air to FFL holders. Total delivery typically completes in 4-6 business days from order date. California shipments require additional 10-day waiting period after FFL receipt.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- No, firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL. We recommend handling the revolver at your local dealer before purchase. The included synthetic boot grip reduces grip circumference by 0.3 inches compared to the walnut option for smaller hands.