Smith & Wesson Model 396 Nightguard

Originally introduced in 2008, the S&W Model 396 Nightguard in .44 Special was discontinued two years later. Now Lipsey’s has re-introduced the Nightguard as an Exclusive offering. It’s built on the L-frame platform, has a scandium frame, 3-inch stainless-steel barrel with an aluminum shroud, PVD coated stainless-steel cylinder, adjustable rear sight, and XS tritium night sight in the front, plus Hogue Bantam grips. Overall length is 8.1 inches and it has an empty weight of 23.4 oz. Notable features include a beefed-up forcing cone, hardened steel blast shield on the top-strap above the barrel/cylinder gap, and titanium pins in the action. The entire package has a matte black finish. During the T&E some 110 rounds of .44 Special defensive-type ammunition was used from five different manufacturers. From the bench at 10 yards, the best 5-shot group measured 1.52 inches. A 30-round Double Action Drill was also performed to evaluate reliability and practicality. The MSRP is $1269.00, with no street pricing as yet.