The Smith & Wesson Performance Center Pro 60: A Masterclass in Compact Revolver Performance

For discerning shooters who demand precision, reliability, and power in a compact package, the Smith & Wesson Performance Center Pro 60 stands as an exemplary choice. This isn't just another J-Frame revolver; it's a meticulously crafted tool designed to excel in scenarios ranging from concealed carry to targeted self-defense and even precision plinking at the range. Available through reputable dealers like DEGuns, this firearm represents the pinnacle of Smith & Wesson's legendary craftsmanship combined with the specialized enhancements of their Performance Center.

Why Choose a Compact .357 Magnum Revolver? Understanding Its Role

Many individuals exploring personal defense options often ask, "What's the best compact firearm for self-defense?" or "Is a revolver still a viable option for concealed carry?" The Smith & Wesson Performance Center Pro 60 directly addresses these questions, offering a compelling blend of attributes that make it an ideal solution.

Revolvers like the Pro 60 are renowned for their unwavering reliability. Unlike semi-automatic pistols that can be susceptible to malfunctions related to ammunition feeding or spent casing ejection, a revolver's simple operating mechanism makes it incredibly dependable in high-stress situations. For those who prioritize "point-and-shoot" simplicity and absolute trustworthiness, a quality revolver is often the preferred choice.

Furthermore, the .357 Magnum cartridge is a formidable round, offering significant stopping power. While some might question its utility in a smaller firearm, the 3-inch barrel of the Pro 60 strikes an excellent balance, allowing the .357 Magnum to achieve substantial velocity and energy while keeping the overall package manageable for everyday carry. It also provides the versatility to comfortably shoot the milder, more controllable .38 Special ammunition for training or reduced recoil needs. This dual-caliber capability makes the Pro 60 an exceptionally adaptable firearm.

Key Features and What They Mean for You

The Smith & Wesson Performance Center Pro 60, model 178013, is distinguished by a suite of features that elevate it above standard production models. These enhancements are not merely cosmetic; they are engineered to improve performance, handling, and overall shooting experience.

1. Performance Center Tuned Action: At the heart of any great revolver is its trigger. The Performance Center, Smith & Wesson's elite division, is known for its custom hand-tuning. On the Pro 60, this translates to a significantly smoother double-action pull and a crisp, light single-action break.

• Benefit for Shooters: This refined trigger pull facilitates greater accuracy, especially during rapid fire or when taking precise shots. Shooters will immediately notice the difference, leading to improved confidence and tighter groups on target. It answers the question, "How can I improve my revolver's accuracy?" by providing a superior foundation from the factory.

2. 3-Inch Slab-Sided Stainless Steel Barrel: The 3-inch barrel length is a strategic choice for this J-Frame. It's longer than a typical snub-nose (1.875" or 2.125") but shorter than a service-sized revolver.

• Benefit for Shooters:
  • Enhanced Ballistics: The extra barrel length compared to a snub-nose allows the .357 Magnum cartridge to achieve higher velocities, maximizing its ballistic potential for self-defense.
  • Improved Sight Radius: A longer barrel means a greater distance between the front and rear sights, which inherently aids in aiming precision.
  • Reduced Muzzle Flip: The added weight of the 3-inch stainless steel barrel helps mitigate the recoil and muzzle flip often associated with powerful cartridges in lightweight revolvers, making follow-up shots faster and more accurate.
  • Distinct Aesthetic: The slab-sided design gives the Pro 60 a unique, sleek appearance while maintaining robust strength.

3. Durable Stainless Steel Construction with Satin Finish: The entire revolver, including the frame, cylinder, and barrel, is constructed from high-quality stainless steel. The satin finish provides a low-glare, attractive look that is also highly practical.

• Benefit for Shooters: Stainless steel offers exceptional corrosion resistance, making the Pro 60 incredibly durable and easy to maintain, even in harsh environments. This material choice ensures a long service life and reliable performance, contributing to the firearm's overall longevity and enduring value.

4. Elegant Wood Grip: The Pro 60 comes equipped with a beautifully crafted wood grip. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, a well-designed grip is crucial for control and comfort.

• Benefit for Shooters: The ergonomic design of the wood grip ensures a secure and comfortable hold, which is vital for managing recoil, especially when firing full-power .357 Magnum loads. It also adds a touch of classic sophistication, appealing to those who appreciate traditional firearm aesthetics.

5. Five-Round Capacity: As a compact J-Frame, the Pro 60 holds five rounds.

• Benefit for Shooters: While some might desire more capacity, the five-shot cylinder is standard for this frame size and contributes directly to the revolver's slim profile and concealability. For most self-defense scenarios, five well-placed shots are more than sufficient. The reliability of a revolver means that each of those five shots is highly likely to fire when needed.

6. Adjustable Sights: Unlike many fixed-sight compact revolvers, the Pro 60 features adjustable sights.

• Benefit for Shooters: This allows the shooter to fine-tune the point of impact for different ammunition types or shooting distances, ensuring optimal accuracy. It's a significant advantage for those who want to maximize their precision at the range or zero the firearm perfectly for their chosen defensive load.

Who is the Smith & Wesson Performance Center Pro 60 For?

This extraordinary revolver is perfectly suited for a variety of users and applications:

• Concealed Carry Permit Holders: Its compact size, combined with the power of .357 Magnum, makes it an excellent choice for everyday carry. The 3-inch barrel provides a better balance of power and concealability than shorter snub-nose options. Those wondering, "What is a good compact revolver for concealed carry?" will find the Pro 60 an answer.
• Home Defense: For home defense, the Pro 60 offers robust stopping power, simplicity of operation, and undeniable reliability—critical attributes when seconds count. Its ability to fire .38 Special loads also makes it more manageable for less experienced shooters or for scenarios where over-penetration is a concern.
• Backwoods and Outdoor Enthusiasts: The durable stainless steel construction makes it resistant to the elements, ideal for hiking, camping, or as a reliable sidearm in the wilderness. Its power is sufficient for potential animal threats.
• Revolver Enthusiasts and Collectors: Given its Performance Center pedigree and classic J-Frame design, the Pro 60 is a highly desirable piece for collectors and those who appreciate finely tuned firearms. It's an example of "What makes a Performance Center firearm special?"
• Individuals Seeking a Dependable Backup Gun: Its compact size and legendary reliability make it an excellent choice as a secondary firearm.
• Shooters Seeking a Versatile Range Gun: While compact, the 3-inch barrel and adjustable sights allow for satisfying precision shooting at the range, whether practicing with .38 Special or pushing the limits with .357 Magnum.

The J-Frame Legacy: A Foundation of Excellence

The Smith & Wesson J-Frame has been a cornerstone of personal defense since its introduction in 1950. Originally designed as a lightweight, compact revolver for concealed carry, it quickly gained a reputation for its robustness and reliability. The Model 60, introduced in 1965 as the first all-stainless steel revolver, further cemented this legacy, offering unprecedented corrosion resistance.

The Performance Center Pro 60 builds upon this established foundation, taking a proven design and elevating it through specialized tuning and enhanced features. It demonstrates how a classic design can be continually refined to meet modern demands for performance and quality. When considering "The history of Smith & Wesson J-Frame revolvers," the Pro 60 stands as a modern testament to its enduring relevance.

Why Invest in a Performance Center Firearm?

The "Performance Center" designation isn't just a label; it signifies a commitment to excellence. When you choose a Performance Center firearm like the Pro 60, you're investing in:

• Hand-Fitting and Tuning: Each Performance Center firearm undergoes a meticulous hand-fitting and tuning process by skilled gunsmiths. This includes refining the trigger, ensuring optimal cylinder timing, and checking overall function to a higher standard than mass-produced models.
• Premium Components: Often, Performance Center models utilize upgraded components or materials that contribute to enhanced performance and durability.
• Superior Accuracy: The sum of these enhancements is a firearm that consistently delivers superior accuracy and a more refined shooting experience. It's about getting the absolute best out of the platform.
• Collector's Value: Due to their limited production and enhanced quality, Performance Center firearms often hold their value well and are sought after by collectors.

The Smith & Wesson Performance Center Pro 60 is an answer to the question, "What sets Performance Center guns apart?" It's the attention to detail, the elevated craftsmanship, and the commitment to delivering a truly superior product.

Ammunition Considerations for Your Pro 60

Owning a .357 Magnum/.38 Special revolver offers fantastic versatility in ammunition choice.

• For Training and Practice:
  • .38 Special Wadcutters: These low-recoil, highly accurate rounds are excellent for target practice and developing fundamental shooting skills.
  • .38 Special Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): Affordable and reliable for general range use, mimicking the feel of some defensive loads without the cost.
• For Self-Defense:
  • Premium .38 Special +P Hollow Points: If recoil is a significant concern, modern .38 Special +P (Plus P) loads offer improved ballistic performance over standard .38 Special while generating less recoil and muzzle blast than .357 Magnum. Look for loads designed for short-barrel performance.
  • Quality .357 Magnum Hollow Points: For maximum stopping power, well-regarded .357 Magnum defensive loads are unparalleled. It's crucial to test different brands and bullet weights to find what performs best in your specific Pro 60 and what you can manage accurately under stress.

Remember, consistent practice with your chosen defensive ammunition is crucial. The Pro 60's design, particularly the wood grip and 3-inch barrel, helps manage the powerful .357 Magnum recoil, but practice is key to proficiency.

Caring for Your Smith & Wesson Pro 60

Maintaining your stainless steel revolver is straightforward. Regular cleaning after each shooting session will ensure its longevity and reliable function.

• Cleaning: Use a quality bore cleaner, brushes, and patches to clean the barrel and cylinder chambers. Pay attention to the forcing cone and the area under the extractor star, where carbon tends to build up.
• Lubrication: A light coat of gun oil on moving parts, such as the cylinder pin, ejector rod, and trigger mechanism, is sufficient. Avoid over-lubricating, as it can attract dirt.
• Inspection: Periodically inspect your revolver for any signs of wear, damage, or loose screws.
• Storage: Store your firearm unloaded, in a secure location, away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

The Smith & Wesson Performance Center Pro 60 is a testament to the enduring appeal and modern relevance of the revolver. Its blend of classic design, Performance Center enhancements, and versatile caliber options make it an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a high-quality, reliable, and powerful compact firearm. For those ready to experience this exceptional revolver, it is readily available at DEGuns.

Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model	Smith & Wesson Performance Center Pro 60
Manufacturer ID	178013
Caliber	.357 Magnum / .38 Special
Capacity	5 Rounds
Barrel Length	3 Inches
Barrel Type	Slab-Sided
Frame Size	J-Frame
Action	Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA)
Material	Stainless Steel Frame, Cylinder, Barrel
Finish	Satin Stainless
Grip	Wood Grip
Sights	Adjustable Rear, Interchangeable Front
Weight	Approximately 23 oz (Unloaded)
UPC	022188147321
Special Features	Performance Center Tuned Action, Recessed Crown Barrel