An analytical study of the plane-strain dynamic response of a circular, cylindrical shell is presented. The shell is subjected to a radially directed concentrated impulse acting on its surface. Solutions are presented within the framework of (a) membrane theory, (b) Flu¨gge theory, and (c) improved theory (including shear deformation and rotatory inertia). A quantitative study of the initial motion of the shell indicates major differences in response prediction of the three theories. An explanation of these differences is offered.