Ruger LCRx 22LR vs S&W 317 AirLite 22LR: Kit Gun Comparison; Pros and Cons

This video compares two of the best kit guns on the market; the Ruger LCRx .22 LR vs. the Smith & Wesson [S&W] 317 AirLite .22 LR [.22 long rifle]. They are both lightweight with a 3" barrel and an 8-shot cylinder. Lets see how their features stack up. Then, lets take them out to the range for a quick accuracy/function check and take a look at the cleaning and maintenance process.

SHORTCUTS:

Barrel/cylinder [B/C] gap comparison: 3:33
Trigger pull weight comparison: 5:51
Accuracy and reliability testing: 12:35
Cleaning, maintenance and torque specs: 19:13
Fixing S&W sticky chambers: 23:23

We'd love to hear your thoughts: Which revolver do you like better? What type of “kit” do you want a “kit gun” for? What is your kit gun of choice? What is your ideal kit gun cartridge/caliber?

We take a look at the specs of each revolver; size, weight, grips, sights, cylinder, finish, barrel, trigger, action, components, etc. We test the accuracy and reliability using a variety of .22 long rifle ammo. We fired 176 rounds through each gun on this range session; all rounds fired and ejected. We had zero malfunctions in either gun. The S&W developed sticky chambers after about 6-7 cylinders and loading/extraction became difficult.

We go through the cleaning and maintenance process of each gun, including torque specs, lube points, etc. We also cover how to address the sticky chambers in the S&W 317, and how to change the site picture to a standard POA=POI on the Ruger.

Thus far, we have run over 1,000 rounds through the Ruger and about 4,000 through the S&W. So, this is not some premature “unboxing” review. We wanted to make sure we know the ins and outs of each before making a video about them.

*PRODUCT LINKS:

Versachem 1.5 oz. grinding/polishing/cutting compound: https://ebay.to/2n0aMeO

Wheeler Torque Wrench: https://ebay.to/2lXDGvA

Find our awesome citrus-powered synthetic CLP at: https://adigaarmory.com/shop/

FIREARMS USED:

Ruger LCRx .22 [mod 5435]
S&W 317 AirLite [sku 160221]