NRA Gun of the Week: Smith & Wesson 351c Revolver

by
posted on October 3, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

The .22 WMR has often been discredited as a worthy self-defense cartridge. In fact, the .22 WMR exhibits ballistics comparable to those of a .380 ACP. And when it comes to concealed carry, the objective is concealment and reliability.

Enter the Smith & Wesson 351c—a Centennial family pistol built on the “J-frame”—a seven-round-capacity, double-action only (DAO) revolver weighing in at 11 ozs. empty with an overall length of 6.25”. Smith & Wesson appropriately labels the hammerless revolver "AirLite," and the gun serves well tucked into an ankle holster, pocket or purse.

The aluminum frame 351c features a composite barrel shroud with a 1 7/8” steel barrel liner that saves on weight. The grip frame, wrapped in rubber stocks, yields ample purchase during handling. Its DAO trigger staggers the scale at around 15 lbs. of breaking pressure—a far cry from any precision trigger on the market today. The significant trigger pull should be considered an added safety benefit. Sighting the pistol is provided by a U-notch at the top rear of the frame and an installed XS Big Dot up front, designed to stand out and be easy to find during high-stress situations.

Suggested retail is $689. For more, and to see the gun fired on the range, watch this video hosted by American Rifleman's Mark Keefe. 

For more, visit smith-wesson.com

Specifications
Model: S&W 351c
Manufacturer:  Smith & Wesson
Caliber: .22 WMR
Action Type: rimfire revolver
Frame: aluminum
Barrel: 1 7/8”, composite with a steel barrel liner
Rifling: six-groove, 1:18¾" RH twist
Cylinder Capacity: seven rounds
Sights: U-notch rear, XS Big Dot front
Trigger: double-action only; 15-lb. pull
Overall Length: 6.25"
Width: 1.31"
Height: 3.75"
Weight: 11 ozs.
Accessories: owner’s manual, lockable case, lock
MSRP: $689

 

Latest

Gotw Xbolt2 Speed Spr Web
Gotw Xbolt2 Speed Spr Web

Gun Of The Week: Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR

On this episode, we’re taking a closer look at the latest version of one of the most popular bolt-action rifle platforms out there. This is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 29, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Bullpup Your AR-15: The A3 Industries Triad Modular Bullpup Chassis

This chassis kit provides a handy way for AR fans to try a bullpup carbine on for size.

Hillsdale College & The Shooting Sports

Hillsdale College has invested in the Second Amendment and the shooting sports in a way that few schools have. At its John A. Halter Shooting Sports Education Center, collegiate shotgun and action pistol teams compete and build their firearm-handling skills.

Thompson/Center Arms Acquires Green Mountain Rifle Barrel Company

Thompson/Center Arms announced it has acquired the Green Mountain Rifle Barrel Company.

Teaching Liberty: Hillsdale College & The Second Amendment

At Hillsdale College, students don't just learn about the fundamental truths behind the Second Amendment. They also learn the practical side of the right to keep and bear arms.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.