Description
Smith & Wesson Model 317 Kit Gun 22LR J-Frame Revolver
- Model: Model 317 Kit Gun
- Caliber: .22 LR
- Capacity: 8 Rounds
- Barrel Length: 3” / 7.6 cm
- Front Sight: HI-VIZ® Fiber Optic Green
- Rear Sight: Adjustable
- Grip: Synthetic
- Action: Single/Double Action
- Frame Size: Small – Exposed Hammer
- Finish: Matte Silver
- Overall Length: 7.19” / 18.3 cm
- Material: Aluminum Alloy Frame
- Aluminum Alloy Cylinder
- Weight Empty: 12.5 oz / 354.4 g
Smith & Wesson Model 317 Kit Gun .22 LR J-Frame Revolver — Lightweight Trail Precision with HI-VIZ Fiber Optic Sight
The Smith & Wesson Model 317 Kit Gun .22 LR J-Frame Revolver is a purpose-built ultralight companion designed for hikers, anglers, backpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want dependable rimfire capability without unnecessary weight. Built by Smith & Wesson, the 317 Kit Gun carries forward one of the most iconic utility revolver concepts ever created: a small, light, always-ready trail firearm.
Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, the Model 317 emphasizes portability, simplicity, and practical field use. At TASTYTSUNAMI, it is frequently discovered by users researching lightweight revolvers, including comparisons involving smith & wesson model 351pd 22, smith & wesson 351pd 22 magnum, and smith & wesson model 351 pd 22 wmr. While those models focus on magnum rimfire power, the 317 focuses on maximum shootability and ultra-light carry comfort.
The Kit Gun Philosophy: Always Ready in the Field
The “Kit Gun” concept dates back decades and is built around a simple idea: a small revolver carried as part of a survival or field kit.
The Model 317 continues that legacy with:
- Extremely lightweight construction
- Reliable .22 LR chambering for small game and pests
- Simple double-action operation
- Easy integration into outdoor gear kits
It is not a heavy defensive magnum—it is a precision utility tool for the outdoors.
Ultra-Light Alloy Frame Construction
The Model 317 uses advanced lightweight materials to achieve one of the lowest carry weights in the revolver category.
Key advantages:
- Minimal fatigue during long hikes
- Easy pocket or belt carry in minimalist setups
- Ideal for backpackers counting every ounce
- Comfortable as a constant companion firearm
This is where it contrasts sharply with heavier J-frames often associated with smith & wesson model 351 pd or smith & wesson 351 pd 22 magnum searches.
.22 LR Chambering: Practical Utility Over Power
Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, the 317 Kit Gun is optimized for:
- Small game hunting
- Snake and pest control
- Plinking and recreational shooting
- Survival and field utility tasks
While it does not offer the magnum energy of the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire found in the 351PD series, it excels in controllability, affordability, and accuracy.
HI-VIZ Fiber Optic Front Sight: Fast Target Acquisition
The HI-VIZ fiber optic front sight enhances usability in dynamic outdoor environments:
- Bright, high-contrast aiming point
- Excellent visibility in forest shade and daylight
- Faster sight alignment under stress
- Improved accuracy for small targets
This feature is especially valuable in wilderness settings where lighting conditions change frequently.
Designed for the Outdoors, Not the Range Counter
The Model 317 is best understood as a field utility revolver, not a heavy defensive handgun.
Ideal applications include:
- Backpacking and hiking
- Fishing and camping trips
- Emergency survival kits
- Lightweight backcountry carry
Its purpose is reliability in remote environments where simplicity matters most.
J-Frame Simplicity and Familiar Operation
The 317 uses classic Smith & Wesson J-frame mechanics:
- Double-action trigger system
- Swing-out cylinder loading
- Manual ejection rod
- Simple, reliable lockwork
This makes it intuitive for anyone familiar with Smith & Wesson revolvers, including those researching smith & wesson model 351 pd 22 wmr or other J-frame variants.
Accuracy and Field Performance
Despite its lightweight build, the 317 delivers strong rimfire accuracy:
- Excellent performance at short to moderate distances
- Consistent point of impact with quality .22 LR ammunition
- Stable sight picture thanks to HI-VIZ front sight
It is more than capable for small-game harvesting and pest control.
Comparing the 317 to the 351PD Series
Many shoppers researching:
- smith & wesson model 351pd 22
- smith & wesson model 351pd 22 wmr
- smith & wesson 351pd 22 magnum
- smith & wesson model 351 pd
are looking for rimfire J-frames with different priorities.
| Feature | Model 317 Kit Gun | 351PD |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 LR | .22 WMR |
| Weight | Ultra-light | Ultra-light |
| Purpose | Utility / field / survival | Defensive carry |
| Recoil | Minimal | Noticeable |
| Cost of shooting | Very low | Moderate |
The 317 is the utility specialist, while the 351PD is the defensive magnum option.
Durability and Maintenance
The Model 317 is designed for long-term outdoor use:
- Corrosion-resistant construction
- Simple cleaning after field use
- Minimal moving parts for reliability
- Rimfire-friendly maintenance cycle
It is built to function in rain, dust, and extended field exposure.
Typical Specifications Overview
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Frame: Lightweight alloy J-frame
- Action: Double-action revolver
- Capacity: 8 rounds (typical)
- Sight: HI-VIZ fiber optic front
- Use Case: Hiking, survival, small game, utility carry
Why Shooters Choose the Model 317 Kit Gun
Common reasons include:
- Extremely lightweight carry for long hikes
- Low-cost shooting with .22 LR ammunition
- Reliable mechanical simplicity
- Excellent outdoor visibility with HI-VIZ sights
- Proven Smith & Wesson J-frame design
It is often described as the revolver you “forget you’re carrying—until you need it.”
The TASTYTSUNAMI Perspective
At TASTYTSUNAMI, the Model 317 Kit Gun is positioned as the ultimate lightweight field companion. While models like the 351PD series emphasize magnum defensive capability, the 317 focuses on utility, efficiency, and all-day comfort in the outdoors.
It is the revolver for people who live outside the range and need a tool that simply works.
Final Thoughts
The Smith & Wesson Model 317 Kit Gun .22 LR J-Frame Revolver with HI-VIZ Fiber Optic Sight is a purpose-built survival and field utility firearm that prioritizes weight, simplicity, and reliability above all else.
For users exploring the broader smith & wesson model 351 pd family or comparing rimfire J-frames, the 317 stands apart as the lightest, simplest, and most practical outdoor companion revolver in the lineup.
