The Smith & Wesson Model 317 is a popular choice among concealed carry enthusiasts and target shooters alike. This airweight revolver, chambered in .22 Magnum, offers a unique blend of portability and power. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, and overall suitability for various applications, examining its strengths and weaknesses to provide a comprehensive understanding.
What Makes the Smith & Wesson 317 Stand Out?
The 317's primary appeal lies in its lightweight design. Its aluminum alloy frame significantly reduces weight compared to steel-framed revolvers, making it exceptionally comfortable for concealed carry. This lightweight nature doesn't compromise its reliability; it's known for consistent performance even under demanding conditions. The .22 Magnum cartridge, while smaller than many common handgun rounds, delivers impressive stopping power for its size, particularly with hollow-point ammunition.
Key Features of the Smith & Wesson 317:
- Airweight Aluminum Frame: Significantly reduces weight for comfortable concealed carry.
- .22 Magnum Chambering: Offers a potent cartridge for its size, providing good stopping power.
- Five-Shot Cylinder: Provides sufficient ammunition capacity for self-defense or target practice.
- Double-Action/Single-Action Capability: Allows for both quick draw and more precise aimed shots.
- Adjustable Sights: Enables customization for improved accuracy at various ranges.
- Compact Size: Extremely easy to conceal, making it ideal for everyday carry.
Performance and Handling: A Practical Perspective
The 317's lightweight design contributes to its snappy recoil. While not excessively forceful, it's noticeable, especially for shooters with less experience. This recoil can slightly affect accuracy during rapid firing. However, with practice, many shooters develop a smooth shooting style that minimizes this effect. The small grip, while conducive to concealment, may not be suitable for all hand sizes. Shooters with larger hands might find the grip less comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
Ammunition Considerations:
The .22 Magnum cartridge offers a balance between power and manageable recoil. However, the choice of ammunition significantly impacts performance. Hollow-point ammunition generally provides better expansion and stopping power than full metal jacket rounds, making it the preferable choice for self-defense. It's crucial to experiment with different ammunition types to find the best performing load for your individual firearm.
Table 1: Ammunition Comparison (Approximate Data)
| Ammunition Type | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) | Expansion |
|---|---|---|---|
| .22 Magnum FMJ | 1000-1200 | 150-200 | Minimal |
| .22 Magnum Hollow Point | 950-1100 | 130-180 | Significant |
The Smith & Wesson 317: Ideal Applications
The Smith & Wesson 317's strengths make it well-suited for several roles:
- Concealed Carry: Its lightweight and compact design makes it an excellent choice for everyday concealed carry.
- Backup Gun: Its small size and light weight make it a perfect secondary firearm.
- Target Shooting: While the recoil is noticeable, it's manageable enough for enjoyable target practice.
- Trail/Backpacking Gun: Its compact size and lightweight design make it an ideal choice for outdoor activities.
Potential Drawbacks
While the 317 boasts many advantages, it also has some limitations:
- Recoil: The snappy recoil, though manageable, may be a deterrent for some shooters.
- Small Grip: May be uncomfortable for users with larger hands.
- Limited Capacity: The five-shot cylinder is relatively small compared to many other revolvers.
- .22 Magnum Availability: .22 Magnum ammunition may be less readily available than some more popular calibers.
Conclusion: Is the Smith & Wesson 317 Right for You?
The Smith & Wesson 317 offers a compelling combination of portability, firepower, and reliability. Its lightweight design makes it exceptionally easy to conceal, while its .22 Magnum chambering provides potent stopping power for its size. However, the noticeable recoil and smaller grip size may not be suitable for everyone. Careful consideration of your individual needs and shooting preferences is crucial. If you prioritize concealability and a manageable .22 Magnum cartridge, the Smith & Wesson 317 is a strong contender. If you prefer less recoil or a larger grip, other options might be more suitable. Ultimately, handling and testing the firearm will be crucial to determining your personal experience and assessment.