SMITH & WESSON 18-3
Posted Jun 14, 2023
Introduction
Smith & Wesson’s 18-3 revolver is an iconic example of American handgun craftsmanship and the result of decades of refinement. Since its introduction in the early 1950s, the 18-3 has become a classic choice among gun collectors and shooters alike for its robustness, dependability, and classic looks. Since it is no longer being produced, the 18-3 has gained collector status and become a cherished piece of American gun history. In this review, I will take an in-depth look at the Smith & Wesson Model 18-3 revolver and the parts, construction, and features that make it such a legendary handgun.
Background
The Smith & Wesson Model 18-3 is a six-shot double-action revolver that was manufactured by Smith & Wesson from 1955 to 1974. It is chambered in .22 LR (long rifle) and features a 6-inch barrel with adjustable sights. The revolver was made with the iconic S&W quality and craftsmanship that has come to be so respected in the gun community. It is easy to see why the 18-3 has become so popular with gun enthusiasts over the years; it is reliable, accurate, and an all-around great handgun.
Design
The Smith & Wesson Model 18-3 is a six-shot, double-action revolver with a 6-inch barrel and adjustable sights. The 18-3 has a blued metal finish with hardwood grips, and it weighs in at just under two pounds. The frame is constructed of alloy steel and is forged, not cast. The frame and cylinder are highly polished and the sideplate is held in place with three screws. The 18-3 is a top-break design, which makes reloading and cleaning easy. The 18-3 has an exposed hammer and a smooth, double-action trigger pull. The barrel is tapered and octagonal, and the cylinder has six flutes. The revolver has a barrel length of 6-inches, a bore of .22-caliber, and an overall length of 9.5-inches. The 18-3 also features adjustable sights, allowing for more precise shooting.
Performance
The Smith & Wesson Model 18-3 is a highly dependable and accurate handgun. The double-action trigger pull is light and smooth, making it easy to fire accurately. The adjustable sights allow for more accurate shooting at longer ranges, although the 18-3 was primarily designed for close-range shooting. The revolver is reliable and its sturdy construction makes it a great choice for rugged outdoor use. The 18-3 is a great choice for competitive and recreational shooting, and it is also great for plinking and small game hunting.
Parts and Accessories
The Smith & Wesson Model 18-3 revolver is compatible with a variety of after-market parts and accessories. There are many aftermarket Grips available for the 18-3, including exotic woods, various metals, and plastics. There are also spare cylinders available for the 18-3 in various calibers, such as .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR), .38 S&W, and .41 Magnum. Additionally, there are replacement barrels and trigger guards available, as well as grips made to fit the frame of the 18-3.
Conclusion
The Smith & Wesson Model 18-3 is an iconic revolver and a cherished piece of American gun history. It is well-made, reliable, and accurate, and it stands out as one of Smith & Wesson’s finest handguns. The 18-3 is a great choice for recreational shooters, competitive shooters, and collectors alike. It is easy to see why the 18-3 has been so highly regarded in the gun community for so many years; it is a great handgun that will stand the test of time.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Highly accurate and reliable revolver
- Easy to use and maintain.
- Quality construction and durable
- Easy to find replacement parts
Cons:
- Less ergonomic handle can cause discomfort when shooting
- Not as well suited to newer, self-defense calibers
- Heavier than similarly sized revolvers
Who Should Buy
Smith & Wesson 18-3 is a classic, no-nonsense revolver chambered in .357 Magnum. It is ideal for shooters who prefer the traditional feel of the revolver or an experienced shooter looking for a proven and reliable sidearm.
The Smith & Wesson 18-3 is not suitable for inexperienced shooters or those that are uncomfortable with handling firearms. It is also not recommended for use for self-defense; it is better suited to target shooting or hunting applications.
Comparisons
| SPECIFICATION | SMITH & WESSON 18-3 | SMITH & WESSON 686-4 | SMITH & WESSON MODEL 57 | SMITH & WESSON 360PD AIRLITE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special | .357 Magnum | .41 Magnum | .357 Magnum |
| Barrel Length | 4” | 4” | 6” | 1.875” |
| Capacity | 6-round | 6-round | 6-round | 5-round |
| Weight | 35.2 oz. | 42.3 oz. | 36.6 oz. | 12.6 oz. |
| Finish | Blue | Satin Stainless | Blue | Matte Black |
Features / Specs
• .38 Special Caliber
• 6-Shot Revolver
• 6” Barrel
• Full Underlug
• Fixed Sights
• Target Grips
• Blued Finish
Popular Accessories
The most popular accessories for the Smith & Wesson 18-3 include: sights, recoil pads, speed loaders, grips, holsters, and cleaning kits.
Accuracy
The Smith and Wesson Model 18-3 is an extremely accurate gun. Designed for high accuracy, the 18-3 was not intended to win shooting competitions, but for police and law enforcement use. It features a ribbed top barrel and adjustable sights. This combination, along with proper techniques, makes the 18-3 extremely accurate for a handgun. In tests, the 18-3 has been documented to achieve group sizes of about 2.5-inches at 25 yards with quality ammo. You may even expect better accuracy at 15 yards, or even 10 yards with some practice. The 18-3 is very reliable when it comes to accuracy, and you can expect it to exceed your expectations given proper practice and great technique.
