if you own a revolver, what kind and why do you like it?

[shireen]

I've been taking the intro to firearms class and really enjoying it. Since I'm just starting out, I decided to get a revolver and get really good at using it before someday getting one of the more mechanically-complex semi-autos. One of my gun instructors thought it was a good idea. She recommended a .35 SP for home self-defense -- anything less may not have enough stopping power.

So, here I am, trying to decide what kind of revolver to get. Since I'm a bit wimpy, I don't want to get a light and short-barreled gun since the recoil is a bit too much for me. Out of the 3 guns I tried at the range, my fav. was the Smith & Wesson 686. I felt reasonably comfortable with it. Hand fatigue is a bit of an issue but one of my instructors assured me that it will get better with practice. I also heard that new guns have pretty stiff springs, and I may want to consider getting a used S&W that's already been broken-in. They're supposed to be very mechanically reliable and if I get it at the store where the classes were held, I'd be buying a gun that has been thoroughly inspected.

So, what kind of revolver do you like to play with & why do you like it (or don't like it)?


BTW ...
If you live in the Baltimore area and want to take a class, I highly recommend the classes at Continental Arms off Padonia Road in Lutherville. The instructors are really good and a lot of fun!

[SteveM]

1. Well, Shireen, I can't complain about your choice of revolvers.

I have an old Ruger Police Service Six in .357 mag. This caliber gun can also take the .38 Sp (was this the caliber when you mentioned a ".35"?) On the range, .38 sp kicks a lot less than .357 so you can practice more with it, using the heavier .357 at intervals. My gun was uncomfortable shooting the "full house" .357 loads, so I replaced the OEM wooden grips with after-market Hogues, a tough rubber-like grip. I'll try it out this weekend.

The Ruger I own was the first generation of Ruger double action revolvers and have since been retired from production in favor of new models. Nevertheless, it is very tough, durable and accurate. The action is not as smooth as some S&W guns, but there is truth to that notion that revolver actions tend to smooth out with use. I have also experimented with lubricants; of late I am using "Gunslick," a graphite "paste" which is very oily, yet it isn't oil. In this discussion group BenEzra has a long spread on the virtues of Mobil Synthetic oil which turns out to be good for guns, too.

The old Service Six does not have adjustable sights, so I shoot around them, so to speak. In the future, I'm thinking about getting a Ruger semi-auto .22, the old "space gun" Ruger first made in 1949. They are fun and feel good in the hand. And they are cheap to shoot!

The .357 (whatever the brand) with approx. 4" barrel is a rather big-framed gun and heavier than most .38s, so it will absorb more of the recoil and at the same time take the cheap, milder .38s. Old Rugers generally run less than comparable S&Ws. They are rather easy to disassemble as the manufacturing and assembly process is very different from other revolvers. Good luck.

[shireen]

2. THANKS, SteveM!

Yes, I meant .38 Sp. LOL!

I tried a Ruger at the last class, and found that particular model a bit uncomfortable. It was a smaller gun and the recoil felt uncomfortable, plus it was harder to get a steady grip on the smaller gun. As you said, bigger and heavier absorbs more recoil, but I also need to balance that against what I can comfortably hold and aim for however long it takes to fire a round. I also noticed that the S&W trigger was a bit easier to control, which is important to target shooting (or maybe it was because the gun was broken-in). Guess I need to try a few more models and sizes at the range before making a final decision.

Thanks for the advice!

[SteveM]

6. Let us know what you get and how you like it! (nt)

[shireen]

12. thank you, Steve. Now I have to go shopping!

Arggh! I hate shopping!

I may try to get a used 686, if I can find one with the right grip size for my hands. The brand new guns have stiff springs, so it may be helpful to get a gun that's already been broken-in. Continental Arms (Timonium, MD) sells used guns that have been inspected and cleaned, so I'll check with them first.

[spin]

37. If you consider buying a Ruger semi-auto .22...

get one with adjustable sights.

I owned a Ruger .22 Target model and decided that I would be a much better shot if I bought a much more expensive target pistol, so I spent the money for a S&W Model 41.



Now this is one fine target pistol, but it is ammo sensitive. I practiced with it for a while and decided to see if indeed it was a better target pistol for me than the Ruger target Model.



One week I tried the S&W and the next the Ruger. I fired 30 rounds through each standing and using a two handed hold at 25 yards. The Ruger and the S&W scored very similar but the Ruger scored slightly higher in my hands.

The S&W Model 41 had better sights and a better trigger pull but for me the difference was negligible. The S&W was much easier to break down and clean, but the Ruger would run far more rounds with just running a patch down the barrel and a light chamber cleaning. The Ruger would digest everything I would feed it, but the S&W was very picky about ammo.

Both are great target pistols but the S&W will cost a LOT more.

[ManiacJoe]

3. I have two.

The first is a .357 by Colt(?) that I inherited from my father. Other than needing different grips for my hands (vs his), it is not a bad gun. I have been seriously thinking about getting a 686 though.

The second is a Smith and Wesson 617 in .22lr. Great target plinker, almost no recoil due to its weight. Eats any and all .22 ammo since it does not depend on the recoil to reload itself like the semi-autos do. Needs a trigger job to smooth it out and lighten it up. I use this gun to introduce the new-comers to the sport.

All my serious handgun work is done with my Beretta 92's.

[NightWatcher]

4. I like my Taurus 85 CHULT

it's a .38 spl with 5 shots, no exposed hammer and is very lightweight. I often cary it in my pocket.

[RedLetterRev]

18. I got to this forum late

I took my NC CCH course today and one of the participants who sat across the table from me had a Taurus nearly identical to this one; not titanium, but really, really nice. I really liked the weight and size of it, especially for carry.

I've got a Bersa 380 now (my first pistol), which I like well enough. It's really easy to work with, light enough, but not quite pocketable like the the Taurus. I'm pretty sure a Taurus will be my next one.

[Redneck Socialist]

5. Well, I'm more of a pistol guy, love my sigs...

but I've owned two Taurus revolvers and had problems with both. I'd avoid them. I only hear good things about Smith and Wesson and if you do have problems their customer service is reportedly excellent.

Be safe and happy shooting.

[benEzra]

7. I don't own one, but the S&W 686 is an excellent choice...

and will last several lifetimes if taken care of. I rented one at a range once (a .357 model), and it was a blast to shoot, literally and figuratively...

It's definitely a wise choice to try the gun out (as you did) before buying one, to ensure it fits your hands well. Taurus is another good choice at a somewhat lower price point. I think the choice of .38 Special is a good one.

Do be aware that all .357 Magnum caliber revolvers are designed to shoot not only .357, but also .38 Special (despite the nomenclature, the only difference is that the .357 has a slightly longer case). So if you think you might want to step up to a .357 at some point, you can get the .357 now and shoot .38's in it until you are comfortable with the .357's kick and muzzle blast.

S&W makes very fine handguns, IMHO. My own handgun is a Smith & Wesson 3913 Ladysmith (9mm).

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

8. What do you want it for?

For range shooting, S&W 686 is nice. Heavy enough to absorb some of the recoil. You can shoot it single-action or double-action. The sights aren't bad.

For carry, something like the S&W 642 would be good. Very light. But the sights aren't very good, tend to vanish in low light. And the recoil is sharp. The 642 is double-action only, since the hammer is enclosed. 642 only shoots 38sp or 38sp "+p" (a little more oomph). No 357 magnum.

[shireen]

11. for now, mostly range shooting.

I won't be carrying it around; Maryland requires a concealed gun permit, and I don't want to deal with that hassle. The original purpose was for home protection. But I'll probably end up using it most of the time for range shooting to improve my targeting skills. So the 686 seems like the way to go for both purposes.

[jeepnstein]

21. It's a good gun.

I don't have one anymore but they're affordable and extremely powerful. The .357 magnum is a fantastic defensive round. The only S&W revolver I like better is the one chambered for .45 ACP that shoots off of moon clips, 625 I think it is.

My personal favorite is a S&W J-frame in 9mm. It's not for play, though. About the only time I "play" with anything is when I'm shooting my AR15 or one of my .22's.

[montanto]

9. I've got a S&W 686 Combat Mag.

I love it. I've had it for almost 20 years. Bought it from a cop at a gun show in Oregon back in the day when you could buy that type of thing and walk out with it right then. This cop worked the insides of it over in a gun-smithing class: its got a very smooth, light action, very accurate, and fits my hands well, especially with the custom Pachmeyer grips. My wife likes it with 38s, I go with the magnums.

Its a great choice.

[shireen]

10. THANKS everyone! Your comments have been very useful

I'm 95% going to get the 686 (reserving the 5% for the unexpected dream gun. LOL!)

:yourock:

[Xela]

34. Ooops, I was late to the party...

Excellent choice :)

Xela

[Tim01]

45. I think a revolver is a perfect choice.

God forbid you get into a real gunfight, it is likely to look something like this.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVsYfyVy6pE

Under these conditions autos are likely to jam, where a revolver is likely to keep working. I know some real hard core auto guys who are looking at revolvers. They will probably stick with their autos, but they are no longer looking at revolvers as *less than*.

[old mark]

13. I think you are doing this the right way.

Try several makes and models and see what feels best to you-you will be shooting it, and handguns are very subjective.
Hard to go wrong with a Smith 686, very rugged, accurate and smooth, easy to learn to shoot well, an excellent revolver.

You might want to try an old Ruger Security Six-it is a large frame like the 686, different trigger feel, but again an excellent revolver, and they are very inexpensive, no longer made but have a strong following.

If it feels good to shoot, it's probably a good gun for you.

Enjoy yourself.

mark

[east texas lib]

14. I own a Smith&Wesson Model 25-5 DA revolver...

I like it because...It's accurate, has a very smooth action, is chambered for .45 Colt, has grips
that fit my hands nicely, and adjustable sights. However, .45 Colt ammo ain't cheap! But it's a
joy to shoot!

[old mark]

15. I'm a long time Smith & Wesson fan.

Shooting them for nearly 40 years. My all time favorite revolver is my Model 1917 Smith, designed for use in WWI. Mine is a commercial model made in about 1936. It is the large (N-frame) Smith, chambered for .45 ACP (Auto Colt Pistol) ammo. IT is made like a watch, lot of hand work, and a great shooting revolver.

I also just bought a Colt 1917 revolver, this one made in 1919. It is the Colt WWI .45 ACP revolver, a really big, heavy, serious looking gun, still locks up very tight. Have not shot it yet, may remedy that today.

I have owned maybe 60 or more S&W revolvers over the years, and think they are the best.

Have a great day.

mark

[tburnsten]

16. I like my two S&W revos best

I have a 6" 586 and a 4" 28-2 Highway Patrolman. They are both excellent revolvers, though I like the old Highway Patrolman much better due to its broken-in action and I just shoot it better. The 686 is a great revolver, 586 is the same gun but in blued steel. As far as newer guns having sitffer springs, they certainly do, the difference between my two is remarkable. One great way to break in a new 686 would be to fire it and dry fire it as much as possible.

[old mark]

17. Shireen, what ever happened? nt

[iiibbb]

19. 357 is a good choice. You won't go wrong with a SW 686

I have a very similar SW 66. Almost the same size as the 686.

Ruger GP100 is also a good choice.

Colt Python is the ultimate 357 in my opinion. Silky smooth trigger. A classic.

[spin]

20. Generally S&W revolvers have a good trigger pull...

which is why so many shooters prefer them. Some shooters like Ruger revolvers as they are exceptionally strong. Taurus revolvers have improved in quality over the years.

As other posters have stated, the S&W 686 is a fine weapon. I own two, one a 4" the other a 6". The 6" is one of my favorite weapons for target shooting at the range and has had thousands of rounds fired through it. It's very accurate and very easy to shoot when loaded with .38 special rounds. With a firearm of that weight, .357 mag rounds are easily managed.

I see no problem with buying a used revolver, especially if it has been inspected. Most people who own a firearm probably only shoot a few boxes of ammo through it. If you do encounter a problem, most gunsmiths are very familiar with S&W revolvers and you will have no problem getting ti fixed.

[iverglas]

22. If you own a bicycle, what kind and why do you like it?

So what kind of bicycle do you like to play with & why do you like it (or don't like it)?

(Sorry, I know that makes no sense, but I didn't make it up.)

What? What do you mean that question doesn't belong here?


Discussion of gun-related public policy issues or the use of firearms for self-defense belong in the Guns Forum.

Personal-interest discussion about guns and weaponry should be posted in the Outdoor Life Group. By "personal interest" I mean, any discussion that is unrelated to public policy, such as: Posting pictures of guns or discussing the leisure activities of hunting or shooting.


Well huh. I guess I should have read that post at the top of the forum ...

[57_TomCat]

25. Looks to me that the topic was inclusive of "home defense"...

as stated later in the thread. Home defense would be appropriate for this forum. Choosing a personal revolver with home defense in mind is a point made by many of the respondents.

I think this is a "Fine" place to have the OP and I gather the forum rules are quite acceptable for it as well.

[57_TomCat]

26. And I forgot to add that...

I like the Specialized brand for my bicycle and the Specialized Rockhopper in particular. A great daily commuter with road wheels and fun off the road as well. :)

I have a great holsterbag for it as well. Carries the Model 19 Combat magnum perfectly as well as several speed loaders for those zombies on the trail. :) Four point mounting on the frame and solid as a rock.

[tburnsten]

30. Moderators moved it here from Outdoors

So there.

[iverglas]

31. so here, so there

Gosh. Maybe it just doesn't have a real home here at DU ... no matter how many times someone dredges it up from the depths of the Guns forum ...

[57_TomCat]

32. Gosh. Maybe it does have a real home here at DU ...

maybe a housewarming gift is in order. :)

[aikoaiko]

23. My go to carry revolver is a Taurus 651 titanium.

ETA: I assumed this would be a concealed carry gun, but if its strictly for home defense then I would choose a 4 inch, all steel revolver. I keep a four inch steel Taurus .357/.38 in a lock box on top of my piano in the living room for general home defense. If I had some more money, I would get a S&W 686 in 4 inch or the Model 627 in 4 inches (8 rounds).

I've been very happy with this revolver. The major benefits are that it shoots .357 magnums (or 38 sp, if you wish), very light in weight, small in size, allows for single action with a shrouded hammer,)and very reliable. Sadly, I see Taurus has discontinued it, but they still might be around retail or used. You can find the same features in a S&W, but you will pay a little more.



SPECIFICATIONS
Model: 651SHC
Caliber: .357 MAG
Capacity: 5
Barrel Length: 2"
Action: DA/SA
Finish: Shadow Gray Titanium
Grips: Rubber
Weight: 17.3 oz
Construction: Titanium
Frame: Small
Front Sight: Fixed
Rear Sight: Fixed
Trigger Type: Smooth
Length: 6-1/2"
Width: 1.378"
Height: 4.28"
Rate of Twist: 1:16.50"
Grooves: 6
Safety: Transfer Bar
UPC: 7-25327-34145-1
Order #: 2-651121SHC
MSRP: $650.00 (I got mine for just over $500 IIRC)
Status: Discontinued

I almost bought this Taurus 817 for my wife. Its a little heavier and only shoots .38 special, but its still light overall, holds 7 rounds, and has room for the pinky on the grip. Plus its much less expensive.



Model: 817B2UL
Caliber: .38 SPL +P RATED
Capacity: 7
Barrel Length: 2"
Action: DA/SA
Grips: Ribber
Weight: 21 oz
Construction: Ultralite-Alloy
Frame: Compact
Front Sight: Fixed
Rear Sight: Fixed
Trigger Type: Smooth
Length: 6.625"
Width: 1.531"
Height: 5.10"
Rate of Twist: 1:16"
Grooves: 5
Safety: Transfer Bar
UPC: 7-25327-32098-2
Order #: 2-817021UL
MSRP: $436.00
Status: Available

[57_TomCat]

24. Smith and Wesson Model19 Combat Magnum.

The S&W model 19 (or model 66 in stainless steel)is a classic model with a excellent pedigree. It is on the medium "K" frame of the line and the original K frame was introduced in 1899 as the .38 Hand Ejector. That basic revolver has been made continuously since then.

The model 19 being on the same size frame as that original 1899 Hand Ejector, shoots the .38 Special round that revolver introduced with ease. It has a heavy barrel and deluxe adjustable sights. It is very easy to carry on a belt for duty or concealed for personal protection. It has the advantage of chambering the more powerful .357 Magnum cartridge for the ultimate in personal packing power. It is in my opinion the perfect handgun as it does everything well. It is a true jack of all trades. If I were to be limited to only one handgun then the Model 19 Combat Magnum would be it with a 4" barrel.

Other handguns both revolver and semi-auto can do some things better but none can do so much as well. :)

The S&W model 586/686 Distinguished Combat Magnum is supposedly an improved model and built on the slightly larger "L" frame. Many like it but to me the extra weight and size is more than I want. It is however an excellent revolver and is still being made. The model 19/66 has regrettably been discontinued and must be found on the used market.

The Ruger GP 100 is comparable to the S&W "L" frame in size and built like a tank. It is an outstanding revolver and very close to the model 19 in my opinion. Even so I am a S&W snob and will keep my Model 19. :)

[Xela]

33. My vote: 586/686

I don't currently own a revolver, but I've handled the 686 with a 4 inch barrel and boy it was sweet.

I personally don't think there is a lot of difference in the size of the frame, but I have been told I have long hands and long fingers.

The newer ones come with a capacity of 7 shots, not too bad either.

Xela

[TxRider]

27. Don't have a revolver at the moment...

But I'm probably going to pick up a Ruger Blackhawk in .45LC

Though I'll probably be picking up an SKS rifle first, and a few crates of ammo, before the new weapons bans go in.

[Xela]

35. Any luck with the SKS?

They seem to have dried up in our pawnshops in these here parts (D/FW, TX).

It used to be at one time that every pawnshop had at least one in their shelves. Not anymore.

Xela

[rhett o rick]

48. "before the new weapons bans go in." Are you a Democrat? What bans? nm

[iverglas]

49. you dredged up this ancient thread to put this question

to someone who likely hasn't been seen since?

Why?

Oh well. My chance for a stroll down Guns forum memory lane ...

[rhett o rick]

50. I asked the question directly to TxRider. How did you happen upon it?

TxRider agenda seems to me to lean to the right quite a bit.

[iverglas]

51. you've noticed how these forums work?

In the list of threads, those with recent posts are up at the top.

The agenda of just about every poster in this forum (there being quite a high turnover rate) leans way to the right. Do have a browse!

(see post 31)

[rd_kent]

52. I do not see how standing up for a Constitutional right is "leaning" toward the right. n/t

[rhett o rick]

54. Ahh, strawman time. You are implying that someone here has stated that standing up for a

Constitutional right is leaning right, when no one has said such a thing. In fact standing up for Constitutional rights is very admirable. But standing up for just one particular Constitutional right might be leaning to the right, when all the right-wingnuts stand together on that one right. Not saying that everyone is a right wing-nut and not saying you are a right wing-nut. However, when a poster says the code words, "before the new weapons bans go in." he is implying that it is a fact that they are going into effect, when there is no such indication. This is typical of right wing-nut scare tactics. "The government is going to take away your guns, be scared, vote republican."

[rd_kent]

56. "The agenda of just about every poster in this forum leans way to the right"

Uh, there it is. I do not agree with the poster who said "before the gun bans kick in" at all.

[iverglas]

58. Uh, there what is?

I say:

"The agenda of just about every poster in this forum leans way to the right"

and you say:

"I do not see how standing up for a Constitutional right is "leaning" toward the right."

and you think you've said something meaningful. So much so that you repeat what I said as if it somehow settles the issue when someone else points out that what you said in response to it was not meaningful.


If I had said:

"Just about every poster in this forum comes from Texas"

then presumably you would have said:

"I do not see how standing up for a Constitutional right is "coming" from Texas."

[rd_kent]

59. Sorry, iver, but that post was not directed or intended for you. n/t

[iverglas]

60. tell ya what, then

Stop quoting me and pretending I said something I didn't say.

When you do that, your post is directed straight AT ME, pal.

[rd_kent]

61. How can I pretend you said something when I quote you?

and I am not your pal. How about you just put me on ignore.

[iverglas]

62. show your work

How does what I said demonstrate what you said?

When you use MY WORDS to make a false claim, you are directing your posts at me.

How about YOU put ME on ignore -- and make very very sure not to direct any of your words at me or my words thereafter.

[rd_kent]

63. Pffft! Take a hike, I am done with you.

[iverglas]

57. they're concerned

They're very concerned.

;)

[rd_kent]

55. self delete

[TxRider]

64. Christ last October?

I have no idea...

I assume I was being sarcastic what with the election coming up and all the talk of Obama wanting to take our guns away spewing about....

I still haven't picked up a blackhawk yet though, or an SKS, they want too much for them now, prices are through the roof if you can even find one.

I should have bought 4-5 in October I could have a couple thousand selling them easily.

[TxRider]

28. BTW can't go wrong with that S&W

I might look at a .38 though, that can also handle 357 if you ever want more power.

[TxRider]

29. BTW can't go wrong with that S&W

I might look at a .38 though, that can also handle 357 if you ever want more power.

[slackmaster]

36. I own several - My personal favorite is a Dan Wesson .357

With interchangeable grips and barrels. It's like 12 guns in one.

[BigBluenoser]

38. S&W 686 and Ruger GP 100

Are good choices for full-size .357s

My revolver of choice is a S&W Model 28 N frame .357 You can still get these used for approx $375 - $400 bucks (I've also seen them way overpriced at $600 as well!). They weigh nearly 43oz at 4" so 38spl rounds feel like .22s and even .357s are pretty light. It is however a heavy gun, with a heavy double action pull, so accurate shooting requires a strong right index finger :)

It feels good, shoots good and is nigh indestructible.

I use this gun in IDPA & IPSC comps despite the fact it is very inefficient for competition. I load .38 spl brass with 158gr cast bullets to major power level and go at it. (Don't worry, I do not have a .38spl revolver to accidentally drop these into!).

[BigBluenoser]

40. Damn... someone necro'd this thread and fooled me..

My above advice still stands :P

[Xela]

43. My bad, sorry ladies and gents...ntxt

ntxt

[one-eyed fat man]

39. I own a bunch of them........

but the revolver I carry is a a 50 year old Colt Cobra.

[BigBluenoser]

41. Beautiful gun...

Even if the cylinder rotates the wrong way!!:hide:

[yay]

42. I prefer K-frame S&W Models

I would buy one chambered for .357 because not only is .357 a versatile and effective self defense round but you can also shoot .38 special out of it(good if you can't handle full power .357 loads). Both are commonly available rather cheap and actually in stock.

Practice using the double action pull. Since this is going to be a self defense weapon you don't want to use the single action pull(I;E cocking the hammer back).

I'd also look at ruger revolvers. Not quite as nice as S&W but they are cheaper and still nice.

[RamboLiberal]

44. Personally I think you really ought to reconsider the semi-autos

The modern ones are not very complex. Models like the Glock, Sigs, S&W M&P, Springfield XD, etc. are super-reliable, almsot never jam with factory ammo and resist limp wristing. I've been shooting all the above for years competitively and almost never have a jam. BTW I'm female and know a ton of ladies who love their semi-autos.

They are IMHO easier to practice with and easier except for the snubbie revolvers to conceal. And you won't suffer the hand fatigue. The triggers are also a lot lighter except if you'd cock the hammer back and go single action on a revolver.

The only reason I bought a S&W lightweight snubbie was for pocket carry.

Semi-autos and revolvers are both good options, but my preference is the semi-auto if I'm going to do a lot of practicing or taking a class. For home-defense though a revolver is a good choice.

[tortoise1956]

46. Ruger GP-100 .357 w/6 inch barrel...

that I use for target shooting. It felt good in my hand when I picked one up years ago, and I finally broke down and bought it. Definitely more accurate than I am!

For home defense, however, I have a Springfield XD 3-inch .40 sitting in my nightstand, along with teh Mossberg 12 gage next to the headboard. If you wonder why, my next door neighbor had two drive-bys within a month. Even though he left the area, I figured I'd rather be safe than sorry.

Don't lock yourself into a revolver. A .357, even with .38 Spl rounds, can be a bit much to handle if you're not used to it. A semi-auto gives you a much better choice of calibers. If you absolutely HAVE to have a wheel gun, consider buying a Ruger SP-101 in 9 mm (if they still make it), and spend the money on Hydra-Shoks or Glaser safety slugs, or something similar.

Edited for the correct model number (SP-101)

[scrinmaster]

47. Cheapo Nagant 1895.

Interesting from a historical standpoint, but pretty much useless. I've got a box of Hot Shot 7.62x38r for it, and two boxes of .32 SW Long, that sort of works. The trigger in double action is terrible, and once you've fired your seven shots, you'd be better off throwing at your enemy than trying to reload it. But it only cost me $60 + $20 shipping, thanks to my 03 FFL.

[rd_kent]

53. I have a Ruger .45 ACP, but my wife wants a revolver.

Personally, I like having more rounds available, but its too big for the wife's hands. Ideas for a compact revolver that will fit smaller hands?

[Katya Mullethov]

65. M1855 Colt-Root revolving carbine

I'm not well healed enough for a Paterson , yet .

Takes a while to load , and that's a good thing for me .
But mostly , it's just cool as hell . And that includes last October ,
the 155 previous Octobers , and next October too .

[doc03]

66. I have three single action Rugers

a .22/.22 Mag., a .44 Mag and a 45 Cal. cap and ball. I like the single actions because of old west nostalgia and a nice light trigger pull.

[spin]

67. I own a bunch of S&W revolvers...

that include firearms in the following calibers: .22, 9mm .38, .357 mag and .44 mag. My daughter uses two of my revolvers in .22 mag and .45 acp.

S&W is the way to go. (Note I also own several 1911 colt .45 autos and a Ruger .22 cal target pistol.)

Boy, this thread has returned from the dead.

[Euromutt]

68. Ruger SP101, 3 1/16" barrel, chambered for .357 Mag

Because I'm left-handed, I don't do revolvers for self-defense, but if I did, my choice would be the Ruger SP101, chambered in .357 Mag. Since you can safely load and fire .38 Spl from a revolver chambered for .357 Mag, you can practice and carry using .38 Specials, possibly +Ps, and work your way up to .357 Mag if you so desire (only downside is that you'll need to clean the cylinder chambers a lot). The SP101 is "built like a tank" according to people who own them (and they are a bit on the heavy side), but they're cheaper than the offerings from S&W; you can also get Crimson Trace laser grips for them, of which I'm a big fan. I'd go with the 3 1/16" barrel, which is not much more difficult to conceal than the 2", while more barrel length is generally a good thing.

[spin]

69. I owned one of those for years...

fine weapon and as you say "built like a tank" which is true of all Ruger products.

Mine was one of the original Ruger SP101s and had a short cylinder. When firing .357 rounds, often the recoil would cause the bullet to pull out from the case and lock the firearm up. Ruger later produced the SP 101 with a longer cylinder which corrected this problem. My Sp 101 had the 3 1/16" barrel and was very accurate.

I put thousands of 38 special rounds and hundreds of .357 rounds downrange with the SP 101. Eventually I acquired a S&W model 642 for my primary carry weapon as it is extremely light and is easy to carry in a pocket holster in my front pocket. It has a nasty recoil even with 38+P rounds and while it is accurate, it's hard to shoot at any significant range. It's a great close quarters weapon. I also purchased a Model 60 S&W with a 3" barrel. While not as sturdy as the Ruger SP101 it has a superior trigger pull and this particular firearm is extremely accurate. The other shooters at the range were impressed and I got a couple of offers for this firearm. While this weapon can be carried in a pocket holster, I prefer to carry it in an inside the waistband holster.




When I moved from Tampa, I sold the SP101 to a close friend who wanted to buy it for his wife to carry concealed. He was aware of the problem with .357 ammo and felt that .38+P would be adequate for self defense.

[Euromutt]

70. Glad to know I'm not talking through my hat ;) (n/t)

[spin]

71. Your comment on barrel length was right on...

Barrel length makes a big difference in the ability to be accurate at range. While a short snub nosed revolver can be extremely accurate, the short sight radius between the front and rear sights makes good sight alignment a challenge.

Also a longer barrel length allows more time for powder to burn and causes an increase in velocity of the round. Some recently produced ammo is designed for snub nosed revolvers and the powder burns more thoroughly in the short barrel.

But the difference between a 1 7/8" and a 3" barrel is not that important when talking about concealment.

I would rate the SP 101 as one of the best self defense weapons for concealed carry. True my S&W Model 642 is much lighter and easy to carry, but experienced shooters who asked to try it only asked once. The S&W 642 has a nasty recoil where the SP101 is much more manageable.

[SteveM]

72. My Ruger is for home defense (it has fixed sights)...

I bought a Police Service Six in .357 at a gun show, replaced the original wood grip panels with Hogues -- big improvement in absorbing recoil of the .357s. I also found a momentary jam with some brands of .357 (ye old Monarch, the cheapest). Using .38 hollow-points, this does not happen. Quite reliable and pretty good ergonomics. Trigger is heavier and not as smooth as a Smith, but it serves my purposes.

I like the idea that I can stack .357s with .38s in the same cylinder. I don't know if there is an advantage in this, but I have two of the former followed by four of the latter.

[old mark]

73. I used to carry revolvers a lot, and enjoy them, but I have been carrying autos

for several years now, mostly 1911 and PPK types. I own a few revolvers, 3 Smiths, one Colt 1917,an old High Standard .22 and 2 SAA cowboy .45 LC's, both imported.
I am thinking of selling some of them, but I'm not sure.

mark

[Francis Marion]

74. Get a 357 Magnum, that way you can...

...also shoot low-recoiling 38 special for routine practice. Since you have decided to own a pistol, and if you're not yet very familiar with using guns, I think the revolver is a very good choice due to its simplicity of design and intuitive function.

The demand the revolver places on the shooter to operate and reload is light and easy. My wife likes wheel guns for this reason, and she finds automatics require too much finger strength for her to operate the slide. Now that's her particular case, but in general, ladies usually don't have significant problems with auto loaders. Police issue arms being one example.

So, the 357 revolver is great from an operational standpoint and that of an introductory level of familiarity.
For home defense, you can load it with 357 magnum ammunition. And your regular practice should include some 357 magnum ammunition, but also plenty of 38 special ammunition. The 38 special will allow you to focus on perfecting technique without the distraction of heavy recoil. With practice, though, you'll handle the 357 loads just as well as you do the milder 38 special. The phenomenon of recoil is in large part affected by how you choose to perceive it, as it bears upon your shooting. If you choose to be scared of it, your shots will go all over the place. No surprise. But if you see recoil as a harmless, natural product of lighting off a round, no more traumatic than a vigorous hand shake, then you're on the right track to good shooting as you choose to manage the outcome of the shot. Let it flow past, and return the sights to the target, repeat. Nothing to it (with a little practice), even with 357. Just a handshake.

I think it would be also very beneficial to seek some coaching from credentialed pistol instructors, or from somebody who knows what they're doing, like a cop. The best thing to do is to start out learning sound technique, and thus minimize bad habits that may creep in without coaching. I think your choice of a Smith is also good in terms of quality of materials and workmanship- I'd recommend a 4 inch barrel if you pland to use the pistol for target shooting and home defense instead of a shorter barrel. That barrel will be both accurate and energy efficient in terms of sending your shot out the barrel faster than a short barrel allows. A concealed carry gun, however, you'd want something small, short barreled.