The Smith & Wesson Model 60 is a legend among revolvers, and the 3-inch barrel variant offers a compelling blend of concealability and shootability. This isn't just another review; it's a comprehensive look at what makes this snub-nosed masterpiece tick, delving into its strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for various roles.
A Timeless Design: Build Quality and Features
The Model 60's enduring appeal stems from its robust construction. Smith & Wesson's reputation for quality is well-deserved, and this shines through in the solid feel of the revolver. The stainless steel frame offers excellent resistance to corrosion, a crucial feature for a concealed carry piece that might face less-than-ideal conditions. The 3-inch barrel provides a sweet spot between concealability and manageable recoil, a significant factor for many shooters. Key features worth highlighting include:
- Durable Construction: The stainless steel construction ensures longevity and reliability, even with frequent use.
- Compact Size: The 3-inch barrel makes it ideal for concealed carry, fitting comfortably in various holsters.
- Smooth Action: While individual examples may vary slightly, the Model 60 generally boasts a smooth double-action trigger pull. This is often refined further through proper break-in and, in some cases, professional tuning.
- Reliable Performance: This revolver is known for its dependability, a crucial aspect for a self-defense firearm.
Shooting Experience: Recoil, Accuracy, and Handling
The 3-inch barrel of the Model 60 delivers a manageable recoil, even with relatively potent .38 Special +P ammunition. While it's not a target pistol, the inherent accuracy of the design allows for surprisingly precise shots at close to medium ranges. Handling is another strong point; the compact size allows for easy one-handed operation, an important consideration in a self-defense situation. However, the short sight radius can impact accuracy at longer ranges.
- Recoil Management: The weight of the revolver effectively mitigates recoil, making it suitable for various shooters.
- Accuracy Considerations: While accurate at close range, the short barrel and sight radius limit long-range precision.
- Handling and Concealability: The compact design ensures easy concealment and comfortable handling, even for those with smaller hands.
The Model 60 in Different Roles: Concealed Carry, Backup Gun, and More
The S&W Model 60 3-inch shines as a concealed carry weapon. Its size and weight make it an excellent choice for everyday carry, discreetly tucked away in a waistband or pocket holster. It also serves well as a backup gun for law enforcement or security personnel. While not ideal for hunting or target shooting, it's reliable and capable in close-quarters self-defense scenarios.
- Concealed Carry Excellence: The compact size and manageable recoil make it a top choice for concealed carry.
- Backup Gun Capabilities: Its reliability and easy handling make it suitable for backup use.
- Limited Applications: It's not ideal for activities requiring high precision or long-range accuracy.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
No firearm is without its drawbacks. The short sight radius can make precise shooting more challenging at distances beyond close range. Some users have reported issues with the trigger pull, although this can often be addressed through proper break-in or professional gunsmithing. Finally, the capacity of only five rounds necessitates careful shot placement.
Conclusion: A Worthy Investment?
The Smith & Wesson Model 60 3-inch is a highly regarded revolver with a proven track record. Its robust construction, manageable recoil, and excellent concealability make it an outstanding choice for concealed carry and backup applications. While it has limitations regarding long-range accuracy, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses for its intended purposes. If you're looking for a reliable, durable, and compact revolver, the Model 60 is definitely worth considering. However, responsible gun ownership includes proper training and understanding of your firearm's capabilities and limitations.
