I don't know much about the Scandium J-frames, but have been looking for something for front pocket carry. My only revolver at the moment is a Ruger Speed Six in 357 Magnum.

I found a 340PD with a Crimson Trace grip that was a rental gun at a local shop. From what I can tell from a short inspection, the gun is in good mechanical condition.

I spoke with the shop's gunsmith, and he said it hasn't been shot very much, and he went over the whole gun, and replaced the springs. He assured me it is mechanically perfect.

They are only asking $499, which I think is a good deal (correct me if I am wrong), BUT; the finish on the gun looks absolutely HORRIBLE. Scratches and peeled off protective coating all around the weapon.

1) Does this have any detrimental effect other than looking bad? I want the gun for a carry piece, and my price limit is shaping up to be about $500, so I won't (can't) go with a new one, but I don't want a rusty piece of junk in a couple years either.

2) Can the Scandium frames be refinished, and if so what does it cost?

3) Am I better off forgetting the laser and the Scandium and getting a Ruger LCP 357 (which I worry may be too heavy for front pocket carry) or Smith 442 (which again, is a bit heavier and leaves no MV 357 option.)

I'd say if you're on a $500 budget consider this:Smith & Wession 360 357mag Liquidation Item $483.00 SHIPS FREE. Same gun as the 340pd minus the titanium cylinder, it's listed as carbon steel but is in fact stainless. I have an M&P 340 with the CT grips. 357 magnum is pretty stout in such a light weight gun. I don't care too much for the CT grips, but that's just me. I had a 38 LCR, but the M&P is easier to conceal in the pocket.

Product: Model 360 .357 Magnum®

I'd go with the 442, they can be had for less than $400 NIB shipped. The extra weight doesn't affect pocket carry, it's still a light gun. The extra few ounces also help soak up a little recoil too. You, likely, don't need .357 Magnum in a little J-frame for pocket carry. My $0.02...good luck with whatever you choose.

Not the same gun...the 360 is a Chief's Special (SA/DA) while the 340 is a Centennial (DAO). The Centennial would be better for front pocket carry.

You can always bob the hammer and it would be fine. I would go for it if you really like the crimsons because there 200 themselfs. If you havent shot a 357 in it yet then i recomed you give it a spin before you buy. Some people cant hit the braod side of a barn with 357 in this gun and complain about hand pain. If this fits your experiance, save some bucks and buy a minty 442.

A 340PD should have a black finish. Nothing to peel off. Touchup is easy with Birchwood Casey Aluminum Black, and the factory will refinish it for about $100.

Examine the face of the cylinder, if there are any lines, scores or nicks pass. I think the stainless or carbon steel cylinder are a much better choice in this type of revolver.

Thanks... but I'm aware of the difference between a 340 and a 360. I was simply recommending a comparable scandium alloy frame. The OP could always bob the hammer if needed.