Smith & Wesson Model 60

The Smith & Wesson Model 60 revolver is a 5-shot revolver that is chambered in either .38 Special or .357 Magnum calibers. It was the first revolver produced from stainless steel.

Design

The Model 60 has a swing-out cylinder, and features an exposed hammer. It has been in production since 1965, and holds the distinction of being the first regular production all stainless steel revolver ever made. The 1965 model's stainless steel production proved so popular that there was a waiting list at gunshops for up to six months to purchase one. At that time the Model 60 featured a 1.875" barrel and was chambered solely for the .38 Special. In 1996, the stronger J-Magnum frame was introduced and the cylinder was lengthened to support the .357 Magnum round, (as well as the .38 Special). The new model replaced the .38 Special-only version and is available in either a 2.125" or a 3" barrel, with a 5" barrel introduced in 2005.

Sight Systems

Older versions of the Model 60 were produced with only fixed sights; modern productions are typically made with an adjustable rear sight (3" and 5") and a fixed sight (1.875" and 2.125") in front. Despite the reduction in effective range due to the short barrel and consequently reduced sight radius, the 2" barrel version is one of the preferred backup and concealed carry weapons for law enforcement officers and civilians alike to this day.

Variants

• S&W Model 60 Chief's Special: .38 Special, J-frame, 5-shot revolver
• Smith & Wesson Ladysmith: .38 Special, 357 mag (60-14), J-frame, 5-shot revolver; known as Chief's Special LadySmith

External links

• Modern Firearms page
• Smith & Wesson official page
• The Snubnose Files
• Shooting Times review