Smith & Wesson 43C – Ultra-Lightweight .22 LR Training/Everyday Carry Revolver

The Smith & Wesson 43C is an ultra-lightweight, compact revolver that is designed for portability enthusiasts, simplicity devotees, and reliability performers. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle (LR), this rimfire revolver offers shooters a low-cost, low-recoil training, plinking, or carry option.

Part of Smith & Wesson’s AirLite series, the 43C is built on a J-Frame and weighs just under 12 ounces, making it one of the lightest revolvers on the market today. Whether you’re a new shooter looking for an easy-to-handle firearm, or an experienced user wanting a dependable backup gun, the Model 43C delivers the legendary reliability of Smith & Wesson in a versatile and minimalist package.

The most notable feature of the Smith & Wesson 43C is its extremely light weight. Constructed with a Scandium alloy frame and aluminum cylinder, the revolver is built for deep concealment with simple all-day carry.

Though small in size, it is tough in construction and simple to maneuver. Featuring an enclosed hammer (double-action only), the 43C is snag-free and ideal for ankle or pocket holsters.

• Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

• Action: Double-Action Only (DAO)

• Capacity: 8 Rounds

• Barrel Length: 1.875″

• Weight: Approx. 11.5 oz (unloaded)

• Frame Material: Scandium Alloy

• Cylinder Material: Aluminum Alloy

• Finish: Matte Black

• Sights: XS Sights® White Dot Front, Fixed U-Notch Rear

• Grips: Synthetic

• Safety: Internal lock & internal hammer design

This revolver is great for shooters with small hands, those with a high recoil sensitivity, or for anyone seeking a low-maintenance reliable gun that can be taken anywhere.

The 43C may be small and light, but it does not come at the expense of performance. With the 8-round capacity, shooters get nearly 30% more rounds than from traditional revolvers. The .22 LR chambering produces little recoil, which makes it suitable for training purposes, especially for inexperienced shooters or working on trigger control.

Its DAO trigger is smooth for a J-frame revolver, and the high-visibility white dot front sight allows quick target acquisition, even in low-light situations.smith and wesson 43c for sale.

•✅ Concealed Carry / Backup Gun – Extremely light, snag-free design

•✅ Training & Plinking – Cheap ammo and low recoil

•✅ Recoil-Sensitive Shooters – Ideal for older or inexperienced shooters

•✅ Outdoor Recreation – Great for hiking, camping, and small pest control

•  ✅ Every Day Carry (EDC) – Wears comfortably all day, every day

Even though .22 LR is not usually the best self-defense option since it’s not as powerful, the 8-round magazine capacity of the 43C, its light weight, and its reliability make it a suitable backup or last resort defensive firearm. Shot placement and penetration are more vital than caliber in most defensive scenarios.

Any rimfire revolver, such as the 43C, should not be heavy dry-fired without snap caps because it can damage the firing pin and chamber edge. Only use .22 LR snap caps for dry fire practice.

Both are rimfire J-Frame revolvers, but the 317 has an exposed hammer (DA/SA) and has fiber-optic front sights, while the 43C is DAO with snag-free, concealed carry design in mind.

No. The 43C is only available in .22 LR, which is not available in +P loads. Only standard or high-velocity .22 LR from reputable manufacturers should be used. smith and wesson 43c review.

Not at all. The 43C is a snap to clean and maintain. Simply pay attention to keeping the cylinder, barrel, and firing pin area clean on a regular basis—especially with rimfire cartridges, which become dirty.

The Smith & Wesson 43C offers a unique blend of lightweight design, reliable function, and user-friendly operation. It’s a revolver built for those who want something compact, easy to carry, and affordable to shoot. Whether you’re introducing someone to firearms, looking for a backup gun, or simply want a no-fuss, dependable revolver, the 43C delivers.

Order your Smith & Wesson 43C today and experience the convenience of ultra-light carry, the reliability of Smith & Wesson design, and the classic straightforwardness of the revolver platform all in one precision-built package.