TFB Review: Smith & Wesson Model 350 – A Different Kind of X-Frame
Smith & Wesson’s X-Frame revolvers have long been associated with massive power and equally massive recoil. The newish (2022) Model 350, chambered in .350 Legend, breaks that mold. After sending over 100 rounds downrange through this seven-shot behemoth, I discovered something unexpected: an X-Frame that’s actually fun to shoot, while still maintaining serious hunting credentials.
Specifications: Smith & Wesson Model 350
The Model 350 builds on the massive X-Frame platform but adds some interesting twists, including a seven-shot fluted cylinder – a first for the platform. The beefy 7.5-inch barrel features porting to help tame recoil, though as we’ll see, that might be more about tradition than necessity with this chambering.
Action: Single/Double ActionCaliber: .350 LegendCapacity: 7 roundsBarrel: 7.5″ stainless steel, portedOverall Length: 13.5″Weight: 71.5 ozFrame Material: Stainless SteelFinish: Satin StainlessSights: Red ramp front, adjustable rearGrips: Synthetic Hogue
At $1,679, the Model 350 carries a premium price tag that actually exceeds its bigger brothers – the .500 S&W ($1,569) and .460 ($1,639). While this might raise eyebrows, engineering a rifle cartridge into an existing platform represents significant development costs. Smith & Wesson could have designed an entirely new frame, but that would have pushed the price point much higher. Still, this represents a substantial investment for what some might view as just a range novelty – though that overlooks its legitimate hunting applications, particularly in areas where straight-wall cartridge restrictions make this a practical choice.
“When you hear Smith & Wesson, one of the first things that comes to mind is revolvers. Delivering maximum power for avid handgun hunters, Smith & Wesson engineers created the massive “X-Frame” which serves as the basic design for the most powerful production revolver, the S&W500. Smith & Wesson is back to turn heads with the release of the M350 Legend X Frame, the first production revolver to shoot the efficiently designed 350 Legend hunting calibers.”
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First Impressions: Smith & Wesson Model 350
Picking up the Model 350, you immediately notice it’s actually heavier than its .500 caliber sibling, thanks to less metal being removed from the cylinder. The fit and finish are exactly what you’d expect from Smith & Wesson’s premium revolver line, with tight lockup that requires a bit more persuasion than usual to release the cylinder – a characteristic of the X-Frame’s multi-point lockup system.
The X-Frame grip, while substantial in my large hands, provides excellent control and comfort. The forward weight bias, created by that 7.5-inch barrel, actually aids in controlling the already modest recoil. Sighting equipment is traditional but effective – the adjustable rear sight pairs well with the orange-highlighted front ramp, providing a clear sight picture even in overcast conditions.
Range Time: Smith & Wesson Model 350
Testing involved approximately 100 rounds across several ammunition types: Federal Power-Shok 180gr, Hornady Custom FTX 165gr, Winchester Target 145gr, and Nosler Whitetail 180gr. The shooting took place on a brisk 30-degree overcast day, which made for perfect testing conditions – and spectacular fireballs from the unburnt powder of these rifle-length cartridges meeting a pistol-length barrel.
The single-action trigger deserves special mention. The break is clean and crisp, averaging around 4 pounds, with no take-up. This level of trigger control adds to both the fun factor at the range and practical accuracy potential in the field.
The most surprising aspect was the recoil – or rather, the lack thereof. Despite its rifle cartridge chambering, the Model 350 kicks about like a .38 Special in a gun a third its size. This makes for an incredibly shootable platform that you can enjoy for extended range sessions without developing a flinch. While some might see this as just a fun factor, it’s worth noting that mild recoil in a hunting handgun means faster follow-up shots if needed and less tendency to develop bad habits during practice.
Accuracy testing at 25 yards, and shooting from bags, revealed some interesting results. The Federal Power-Shok ammunition produced the tightest groups, while Winchester and Hornady loads were less consistent but still serviceable. One notable issue arose with the Nosler ammunition, which experienced consistent light primer strikes. This likely stems from harder primers designed for AR-platform rifles rather than revolver hammers.
The front-heavy balance proves beneficial for steady holding, particularly important for hunting scenarios where you might be shooting from a rest or offhand. The X-Frame’s mass, combined with the excellent Hogue grips, helps maintain stability through the entire trigger pull, whether in single or double action.
The moon clip system deserves special mention. While not strictly necessary for chambering and firing, the clips prove essential for reliable extraction since they provide the surface for the ejector to engage. The factory-supplied clips performed well, showing none of the reported fragility issues some users have mentioned. However, new users might need some practice with the loading and unloading process.
Final Thoughts: Smith & Wesson Model 350
The Smith & Wesson Model 350 represents an interesting evolution of the X-Frame platform. Instead of chasing maximum power, it delivers a surprisingly pleasant shooting experience in a package that maintains the platform’s legendary build quality. For hunters in straight-wall cartridge restriction areas, this revolver offers a legitimate and practical option that happens to also be enjoyable to shoot.
The mild recoil, impressive accuracy with the right ammunition, and yes, those addictive muzzle fireballs make this a gun that’s actually fun to practice with – something you might not expect from an X-Frame. While the price point places it firmly in the premium category, the combination of hunting capability and range-day enjoyment makes a strong case for those who can justify the investment.
In closing, I want to say thank you to Smith & Wesson for allowing The Firearm Blog and myself the opportunity to try out their Model 350. That is greatly appreciated. Also, we would like to know what all of you guys and gals think, might this comfortable hand cannon be for you?