Smith & Wesson Model 340PD

About the Smith & Wesson Model 340PD

The Smith & Wesson Model 340PD is the hammerless, double-action-only variant of the Model 340 ultra-lightweight .357 Magnum J-frame revolver, introduced in 2001 as part of the Personal Defense series. The PD designation indicates Personal Defense, featuring Smith & Wesson's lightest .357 Magnum configuration with a scandium alloy frame, titanium cylinder, and enclosed hammer design optimized for snag-free pocket carry. Weighing approximately 11.5 ounces empty (some sources list as low as 11.2 ounces), the 340PD is among the lightest centerfire magnum revolvers ever produced for commercial sale. Built on the compact J-frame with a 1.875-inch barrel and corrosion-resistant stainless steel liner, this five-shot revolver eliminates the external hammer to prevent snagging during draws from concealment and simplifies the action to double-action-only operation. The hammerless design, technically featuring an internal hammer shrouded by the frame, provides a smooth profile ideal for ankle holsters, pocket carry, and other deep concealment applications where any protruding component could catch on clothing. The 340PD features fixed sights with a red ramp front sight and integral U-notch rear sight, synthetic grips designed for maximum concealability rather than shooting comfort, and the same scandium-titanium construction that makes the standard 340 revolutionary. The matte black finish on both frame and cylinder provides a non-reflective surface and distinguishes it from the matte silver finish of the standard 340. Chambering .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P, the 340PD delivers serious defensive capability in a package light enough to carry continuously without physical fatigue.

The 340PD earned a reputation as 'the revolver you can carry anywhere' among law enforcement and concealed carriers. At 11.5 ounces loaded, it weighs less than most smartphones, making it the ultimate backup gun that officers and citizens could carry all day in a pocket without noticing the weight-until they fired it and discovered why it's nicknamed 'the hand grenade.'

Smith & Wesson Model 340PD specifications

The Model 340PD represents the absolute minimum weight achievable for a .357 Magnum revolver using current production materials and manufacturing techniques. The double-action-only trigger pull typically measures 12-13 pounds, heavier than the standard 340's double-action but eliminating the possibility of single-action operation for enhanced safety during stressful defensive situations. The hammerless configuration prevents the hammer from snagging on clothing, pockets, or holster material during rapid deployment. Some users report the 340PD being nearly ounce lighter than the standard 340 due to the enclosed hammer design reducing overall metal mass. The extreme light weight combined with full-power .357 Magnum ammunition generates substantial felt recoil, leading many experts to recommend .38 Special +P as the practical defensive load for this platform. The short 1.875-inch barrel produces significant muzzle flash with magnum loads, particularly in low-light conditions. The 340PD is optimized for close-range defensive encounters at distances under 25 feet, where the fixed sights and heavy trigger pull are less limiting factors. The revolver lacks Smith & Wesson's internal lock system in earlier production models, though later variants include it. Many shooters consider the 340PD the ultimate backup gun or ultra-deep concealment option, accepting the harsh recoil and limited sight radius as acceptable trade-offs for unparalleled portability.