SMITH & WESSON 340 PD
Posted May 19, 2023
Introduction
The Smith & Wesson 340PD is a compact, ergonomically designed, and powerful double action revolver. It is an ideal choice for concealed carry, home defense, law enforcement, and even recreational shooting. It is made from high-quality materials and has proven to be reliable and accurate, even after prolonged use. The 340PD has a variety of features that set it apart from other similar revolvers, including a light weight, short barrel, and shrouded hammer. In this review, we'll take a closer look at the Smith & Wesson 340PD and discuss its features, advantages, and disadvantages.
Design
The Smith & Wesson 340PD is part of the company's lightest series of revolvers, with an overall weight of just thirteen ounces. This is possible due to its compact size, which measures just under six inches in length and one and a half inches in width. Despite its small stature, the revolver is still able to hold an impressive five rounds of .357 magnum ammunition. This design makes it a great option for concealed carry, as its small profile can be easily hidden beneath clothing and bags.
In terms of materials, the Smith & Wesson 340PD has an aluminum alloy frame and a stainless steel barrel. This combination of materials is durable and strong enough to handle whatever comes its way. In addition, the revolver has a synthetic rubber grip, making it more comfortable to hold and reduce shooter fatigue. The Smith & Wesson 340PD also has a double action trigger system which allows for a faster firing rate.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Smith & Wesson 340PD is an accurate and reliable revolver. The double action trigger system allows for a smooth and consistent trigger pull, aiding accuracy in rapid fire situations. The shrouded hammer helps ensure the same trigger pull each time the trigger is pressed, as well as allowing for a quicker second shot since the hammer does not need to be cocked manually. The gun is also capable of firing .357 Magnum rounds, enabling it to take down larger targets.
The Smith & Wesson 340PD also has an adjustable rear sight, allowing shooters to make quick adjustments for accuracy when needed. In addition, the revolver features a Picatinny rail on top of the frame which makes it easy to attach scope mounts and other accessories. This feature makes it versatile for use in different shooting situations. Lastly, the Smith & Wesson 340PD also has a fiber optic front sight, allowing for an even brighter sight picture in dim environments.
Advantages
One of the biggest advantages of the Smith & Wesson 340PD is its small size and light weight. This makes it extremely easy to conceal and carry by law abiding citizens. It is also an excellent choice for home defense due to its five round capacity, fast follow up shots, and accuracy. The adjustable rear sight is also a great feature, as it allows shooters to quickly make adjustments if needed.
The revolver also has a strong and durable frame and barrel which can withstand repeated use. Additionally, the synthetic rubber grip makes it more comfortable to use, even after extended periods of shooting. Lastly, the Picatinny rail and fiber optic sight add versatility to the Smith & Wesson 340PD, allowing it to be used in many different shooting scenarios.
Disadvantages
The Smith & Wesson 340PD is not perfect, however, and there are a few disadvantages to consider. The most notable limitation is its five round capacity, which may not be enough for some users. Additionally, since the revolver is a double action design, the trigger pull is slightly longer than that of a single action revolver. This can make shooting a bit slower than with a single action.
Another potential issue is the Picatinny rail. While this is a great feature, the frame may be slightly too small for some larger accessories, such as larger scopes. Ultimately, the Smith & Wesson 340PD is a great choice for concealed carry, but may not be the best choice for long range shooting.
Conclusion
The Smith & Wesson 340PD is an excellent choice for concealed carry and home defense. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to conceal, while its five round capacity is enough for most scenarios. The double action trigger system enables quick follow up shots, while the adjustable rear sight and fiber optic front sight allow for accurate shooting in low light conditions. The Picatinny rail also adds versatility to the revolver, allowing for the attachment of accessories. Despite its limitations, the Smith & Wesson 340PD is an overall reliable revolver that performs well and can be trusted when the situation arises.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-Lightweight design
-Small, easy to carry
-Capable of firing six rounds of .357 magnum ammunition
-Excellent trigger for a revolver
-Rubber grips provide superior handling in various weather conditions
-Excellent accuracy for a short range self-defense gun
Cons:
-Snub-nosed barrel makes it difficult to accurately shoot at long range
-Recoil can be severe with .357 magnum rounds
-Lack of available grips
-High cost of ammunition
-The fixed sights may be difficult to use in low light conditions
Who Should Buy
The Smith & Wesson 340 PD is a lightweight, small-framed revolver specifically designed for concealed carry and personal defense. It is ideally suited for those with a valid concealed carry permit who wish to protect themselves and their families from harm. The 340 PD should not be purchased by those who are inexperienced with firearms or those who do not possess a valid concealed carry permit, as this handgun is intended for professional and responsible users only. In addition, buyers should ensure that they have access to appropriate ranges and/or instructors that are qualified to teach safe gun handling and shooting techniques.
Comparisons
Features / Specs
• Stainless Steel Construction
• Double-Action Revolver
• 357 Magnum & 38 Special Caliber
• 5 Round Cylinder
• Ultra-Lite Aluminum Alloy Frame
• Concealable Boot Grip
• 1.875" Barrel Length
• 14.5oz Unloaded Weight
• Glowing Orange Front Sight
Popular Accessories
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Common accessories for the Smith & Wesson 340PD include: spare cylinders, grip adapters, rubber grips, automatic trigger reset assemblies, adjustable rear sights, magazine loaders, recoil reducers, holsters, and replacement grips.
Accuracy
The Smith & Wesson 340 PD is an extremely accurate handgun. It is designed with an effective combat-style grip that offers a comfortable fit for most shooters. The lightweight design makes it easy to handle and great for target shooting. It also features a factory porting system to reduce muzzle flip and felt recoil. This combination of features helps the 340 PD deliver pinpoint accuracy and performance. The fixed sights are spot-on and the gun is incredibly comfortable to shoot. With practice, you are sure to achieve tight groupings at short to medium range distances.
