Is the medium/large frame revolver obsolete for concealed carry?

2damnold4this · April 28, 2015, 06:57 AM

Is a medium frame or large frame revolver obsolete for concealed carry? Are there advantages a medium or large frame revolver might have over a semi auto? I like my J frames for concealed carry but does the medium or large frame revolver have a role in concealed carry?

*Inspired by a thread on another board

CWKahrFan · April 28, 2015, 07:30 AM

Ask Dirty Harry... ("Go ahead... Make my day...") It's all personal preference, isn't it?

https://video.search.yahoo.com/video...&hsimp=yhs-004

**OldMarksman** · April 28, 2015, 07:33 AM

Posted by 2damnold4this:

Quote:

Is a medium frame or large frame revolver obsolete for concealed carry? Are there advantages a medium or large frame revolver might have over a semi auto? I like my J frames for concealed carry but does the medium or large frame revolver have a role in concealed carry?

I would characterize a Colt Paterson as "obsolete", but a double action recover with a swing-out cylinder and simultaneous ejection would be highly effective, even though the first ones came out in 1892.

They are bulkier than a semi-autos and and harder to conceal for many of us.

Some of them only hold six cartridges. My S&W 686+ contains seven.

It does not fit my needs for concealed carry, but if there were circumstances in which I could reasonably dress around it, I would not hesitate to strap it on.

With suspenders.

I will readily admit that a 1911 would probably be a better choice most of the time. That is a very old design, too.

Many of us recognize the advantages of a more modern firearm with higher capacity.

Real Gun · April 28, 2015, 07:39 AM

What seems to be obsolete is good grooming, good taste, and reasonable tailoring quality. If you dress to conceal, the question becomes academic. Admittedly, ones circumstances can require real compromises short of being unarmed. I just think that if serious concealed carry is a priority, you probably dress differently than others and have some challenges in your shopping for clothing.

Doyle · April 28, 2015, 08:48 AM

Even before the advent of modern super-light autos and snubnosed revolvers, medium/large framed revolvers were never hugely popular for concealed carry. There is only so much you can do to conceal one of those things. When I strap my 2 3/4" Security Six on my belt, I know that it is going to stick out. It's bulky and heavy - I know it's going to show. That is why it only gets open-carry duty (In the woods. I don't open carry in public).

Grant D · April 28, 2015, 09:34 AM

With the shirts I wear, I can carry my K frame 4" barreled Model 19, or my N framed 3 1/2" Model 27 just as easy as my J frames.
But I also wear suspenders with all of them.

Deaf Smith · April 28, 2015, 09:37 AM

Quote:

Is the medium/large frame revolver obsolete for concealed carry?

Not where it is cold enough to wear a sports coat.

Now in hot Texas summers it might not be a good pick but fine under a light jacket.

Advantages?

Six POWERFUL shots. Six for sure shots. Simplicity of operation. And if you run out of ammo they make good saps.

While I'm a Glock man, I've packed my 3 inch GP 100 'Canadian' .357 and my 2 1/2 inch S&W K and L frames. But I do find my 3 inch 625 .45 acp a mite to much in the summer!

Deaf

Magnum Wheel Man · April 28, 2015, 10:49 AM

I built a custom Ruger stainless single snubbie in 45 Colt to carry once in a while... & have carried other "big" guns... there is no doubt they are tougher to carry... the full sized cylinder is "thick" 1 4" barrel even on a high ride holster can be challenging for someone who doesn't wear a sport jacket...

I still carry them on occasion, but when I do, It becomes plainly evident that my little TCP or LCR is much easier to conceal & are much lighter on the belt being there all day

2damnold4this · April 28, 2015, 11:02 AM

The revolver's ability to shoot powerful cartridges could be an advantage for someone carrying concealed. Someone living in an area where large animals could be a threat might choose a .44 magnum or larger cartridge for concealed carry.

**OldMarksman** · April 28, 2015, 01:17 PM

Posted by Doyle:

Quote:

Even before the advent of modern super-light autos and snubnosed revolvers, medium/large framed revolvers were never hugely popular for concealed carry. There is only so much you can do to conceal one of those things.

That's the real point, and the question of "obsolescence" is secondary.

hartcreek · April 28, 2015, 02:33 PM

Real Gun Nailed it. I used to carry a large frame under each arm. I still do if I feel the need and you walking up to me would not be able to tell that I was packing eight pounds of steel under my arms.

Sgt127 · April 28, 2015, 03:29 PM

When the average cop issue gun was a 4" K frame, most officers chose a 2" 36 for their off duty. (replace a 6 series for either one of those once stainless became more popular)

Although a few Officer chose to carry their duty gun off duty, the J frame (or, slightly less common Detective Special) was considered enough gun off duty and, a status symbol of being a detective.

Then the 3" guns became a bit popular. Often not because it did both jobs well, but, you only had to buy one gun. (NYPD as an example)

And, the FBI issued the 2 1/2" model 10 and then the 3" 13 for their agents.

A K frame is alot easier to shoot than a J frame, even with a short barrel. Just more to hold onto and index. A 3" is a great compromise.

Andy Blozinski · April 28, 2015, 08:59 PM

The cylinder of the Rhino is pared down to a hexagon to decrease its width. The only problem I have concealing the 4" barrel model with the full sized grip is the grip.

**OldMarksman** · April 28, 2015, 09:07 PM

Posted by Sgt127:

Quote:

When the average cop issue gun was a 4" K frame, most officers chose a 2" 36 for their off duty.

Many whom I knew carried a Colt Cobra or Detective Special, for that "all important sixth shot".

Quote:

A K frame is alot easier to shoot than a J frame, even with a short barrel. Just more to hold onto and index. A 3" is a great compromise.

Yes indeed.

Nick_C_S · April 28, 2015, 09:11 PM

I cooler weather, when I can put on a windbreaker here in sunny California, I carry this. . .

Sgt127 · April 28, 2015, 10:21 PM

Quote:

Many whom I knew carried a Colt Cobra or Detective Special, for that "all important sixth shot".

I would tend to agree but, around here (the Dallas area) S&W reigned. Although Dallas was allowed to carry pretty much whatever they wanted, I'll bet there were 200 model 19's and 66's for every Python. Model 25-5's were the hot item for awhile too. All the LE dealers here carried Smiths, and, they were much more reasonable than the Colts! Smith on duty? Smith off duty and BUG.

I think it's a regional thing. East coast, a lot more Colts seemed the norm.

Model12Win · April 29, 2015, 12:13 PM

I don't know what you'd consider a Charter Arms Bulldog .44 special, but it's my EDC and I like it's compact size and devastating manstopping power.

Deaf Smith · April 29, 2015, 04:34 PM

Quote:

Many whom I knew carried a Colt Cobra or Detective Special, for that "all important sixth shot".

The 'all important' shot is the first.

Yes I'd love it if my 640 held one more round but it sure ain't the sixth, or tenth or fifteenth shot that is the most 'important' one.

And while I'm a Glock man, my Ruger 3 inch 'Canadian' .357 I would have no qualms carrying.

Deaf

John D · April 29, 2015, 04:37 PM

I carry a model 66 with a 2-1/2" barrel under a loose shirt all the time.

lamarw · April 29, 2015, 05:49 PM

Always has been for me as far as an "on my person" carry. Otherwise, concealed carry in my glove boxes or on one of my boats is a different story.

tallball · April 29, 2015, 07:40 PM

I like to carry a medium framed snub 44 special in colder weather, but it isn't that suitable for concealing on a hot humid Texas day.

2afreedom · April 29, 2015, 09:06 PM

As long as the weather dictates that I am wearing anything other than a t-shirt, I can carry my Model 65 with a 3 inch barrel quite well. The K frame trigger is smoother than the snub nose and the gun is just easier to shoot in general than a J frame. With a speedloader in my pocket, I figure I can handle whatever comes my way short of a gang war.

Real Gun · April 30, 2015, 11:05 AM

Quote:

As long as the weather dictates that I am wearing anything other than a t-shirt, I can carry my Model 65 with a 3 inch barrel quite well. The K frame trigger is smoother than the snub nose and the gun is just easier to shoot in general than a J frame. With a speedloader in my pocket, I figure I can handle whatever comes my way short of a gang war.

Is that a speedloader in your pocket, or are you just glad to see her? How about a speedstrip maybe?

Mike_Fontenot · April 30, 2015, 03:16 PM

"Is the medium/large frame revolver obsolete for concealed carry?"

Certainly not, for me. I carry either my 10mm Kimber Eclipse 1911, or my .44mag S&W69 5-shot L-Frame, about 50-50. In homemade under-the-shirt vertical shoulder holsters. Both conceal very well, and are comfortable and convenient to carry (full-time, from pajamas-off until pajamas-on).

BigJimP · April 30, 2015, 04:00 PM

No, I think a Medium sized S&W ...K Frame...in .357 Mag ( like a model 19 or 66 )....in a 2 1/2" or even a 4" barrel is just fine for carry.

I think the K frame revolver is easier to carry than any of the double stack semi-autos out there...and while its heavier.../ its easy to carry in an IWB holster...like a Kramer, horsehide, with a forward FBI Tilt...( at least for me )....and its pretty easily concealed like most any semi-auto under a "vest" or a windbreaker...or a large shirt that hangs properly.

Carrying anything inside waist band in really hot climates has its issues...

April 28, 2015, 06:57 AM	#1
2damnold4this Senior Member Join Date: August 12, 2009 Location: Athens, Georgia Posts: 2,526	Is the medium/large frame revolver obsolete for concealed carry? Is a medium frame or large frame revolver obsolete for concealed carry? Are there advantages a medium or large frame revolver might have over a semi auto? I like my J frames for concealed carry but does the medium or large frame revolver have a role in concealed carry? *Inspired by a thread on another board

April 28, 2015, 07:30 AM	#2
CWKahrFan Senior Member Join Date: November 3, 2010 Posts: 2,016	Ask Dirty Harry... ("Go ahead... Make my day...") It's all personal preference, isn't it? https://video.search.yahoo.com/video...&hsimp=yhs-004 __________________ What did Mrs. Bullet say to Mr. Bullet? ... "We're having a BeeBee!"... IF THE SHOE FITS, WEAR IT!... IF THE GUN FITS, SHOOT IT! "Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it." Last edited by CWKahrFan; April 28, 2015 at 07:39 AM.

April 28, 2015, 10:49 AM	#8
Magnum Wheel Man Senior Member Join Date: July 26, 2006 Location: Southern Minnesota Posts: 9,333	I built a custom Ruger stainless single snubbie in 45 Colt to carry once in a while... & have carried other "big" guns... there is no doubt they are tougher to carry... the full sized cylinder is "thick" 1 4" barrel even on a high ride holster can be challenging for someone who doesn't wear a sport jacket... I still carry them on occasion, but when I do, It becomes plainly evident that my little TCP or LCR is much easier to conceal & are much lighter on the belt being there all day __________________ In life you either make dust or eat dust...

April 28, 2015, 09:11 PM	#15
Nick_C_S Senior Member Join Date: March 21, 2013 Location: Idaho Posts: 5,524	L-frame S&W 686+ 3" bbl I cooler weather, when I can put on a windbreaker here in sunny California, I carry this. . . __________________ Gun control laws benefit only criminals and politicians - but then, I repeat myself. Life Member, National Rifle Association

April 30, 2015, 03:16 PM	#24
Mike_Fontenot Senior Member Join Date: March 7, 2009 Posts: 568	"Is the medium/large frame revolver obsolete for concealed carry?" Certainly not, for me. I carry either my 10mm Kimber Eclipse 1911, or my .44mag S&W69 5-shot L-Frame, about 50-50. In homemade under-the-shirt vertical shoulder holsters. Both conceal very well, and are comfortable and convenient to carry (full-time, from pajamas-off until pajamas-on). Last edited by Mike_Fontenot; April 30, 2015 at 03:26 PM.

April 28, 2015, 07:39 AM	#4
Real Gun Senior Member Join Date: May 19, 2004 Location: SC Posts: 2,743	What seems to be obsolete is good grooming, good taste, and reasonable tailoring quality. If you dress to conceal, the question becomes academic. Admittedly, ones circumstances can require real compromises short of being unarmed. I just think that if serious concealed carry is a priority, you probably dress differently than others and have some challenges in your shopping for clothing.

April 28, 2015, 08:48 AM	#5
Doyle Senior Member Join Date: June 20, 2007 Location: Rainbow City, Alabama Posts: 7,167	Even before the advent of modern super-light autos and snubnosed revolvers, medium/large framed revolvers were never hugely popular for concealed carry. There is only so much you can do to conceal one of those things. When I strap my 2 3/4" Security Six on my belt, I know that it is going to stick out. It's bulky and heavy - I know it's going to show. That is why it only gets open-carry duty (In the woods. I don't open carry in public).

April 28, 2015, 09:34 AM	#6
Grant D Senior Member Join Date: August 14, 2011 Location: Brazos County, Texas Posts: 1,038	With the shirts I wear, I can carry my K frame 4" barreled Model 19, or my N framed 3 1/2" Model 27 just as easy as my J frames. But I also wear suspenders with all of them.

April 28, 2015, 11:02 AM	#9
2damnold4this Senior Member Join Date: August 12, 2009 Location: Athens, Georgia Posts: 2,526	The revolver's ability to shoot powerful cartridges could be an advantage for someone carrying concealed. Someone living in an area where large animals could be a threat might choose a .44 magnum or larger cartridge for concealed carry.

April 28, 2015, 02:33 PM	#11
hartcreek Junior member Join Date: April 22, 2014 Location: Washington Posts: 1,549	Real Gun Nailed it. I used to carry a large frame under each arm. I still do if I feel the need and you walking up to me would not be able to tell that I was packing eight pounds of steel under my arms.

April 28, 2015, 03:29 PM	#12
Sgt127 Senior Member Join Date: May 13, 2002 Posts: 1,053	When the average cop issue gun was a 4" K frame, most officers chose a 2" 36 for their off duty. (replace a 6 series for either one of those once stainless became more popular) Although a few Officer chose to carry their duty gun off duty, the J frame (or, slightly less common Detective Special) was considered enough gun off duty and, a status symbol of being a detective. Then the 3" guns became a bit popular. Often not because it did both jobs well, but, you only had to buy one gun. (NYPD as an example) And, the FBI issued the 2 1/2" model 10 and then the 3" 13 for their agents. A K frame is alot easier to shoot than a J frame, even with a short barrel. Just more to hold onto and index. A 3" is a great compromise.

April 28, 2015, 08:59 PM	#13
Andy Blozinski Senior Member Join Date: August 31, 2013 Posts: 525	The cylinder of the Rhino is pared down to a hexagon to decrease its width. The only problem I have concealing the 4" barrel model with the full sized grip is the grip.

April 29, 2015, 12:13 PM	#17
Model12Win Junior member Join Date: October 20, 2012 Posts: 5,854	I don't know what you'd consider a Charter Arms Bulldog .44 special, but it's my EDC and I like it's compact size and devastating manstopping power.

April 29, 2015, 04:37 PM	#19
John D Senior Member Join Date: October 24, 2000 Location: No. Arizona Posts: 436	I carry a model 66 with a 2-1/2" barrel under a loose shirt all the time.

April 29, 2015, 05:49 PM	#20
lamarw Senior Member Join Date: April 12, 2010 Location: Lake Martin, AL Posts: 3,311	Always has been for me as far as an "on my person" carry. Otherwise, concealed carry in my glove boxes or on one of my boats is a different story.

April 29, 2015, 07:40 PM	#21
tallball Senior Member Join Date: October 17, 2014 Posts: 2,444	I like to carry a medium framed snub 44 special in colder weather, but it isn't that suitable for concealing on a hot humid Texas day.

April 29, 2015, 09:06 PM	#22
2afreedom Senior Member Join Date: April 29, 2007 Location: Southern by the Grace of God Posts: 266	As long as the weather dictates that I am wearing anything other than a t-shirt, I can carry my Model 65 with a 3 inch barrel quite well. The K frame trigger is smoother than the snub nose and the gun is just easier to shoot in general than a J frame. With a speedloader in my pocket, I figure I can handle whatever comes my way short of a gang war.

April 30, 2015, 04:00 PM	#25
BigJimP Senior Member Join Date: February 23, 2005 Posts: 13,195	No, I think a Medium sized S&W ...K Frame...in .357 Mag ( like a model 19 or 66 )....in a 2 1/2" or even a 4" barrel is just fine for carry. I think the K frame revolver is easier to carry than any of the double stack semi-autos out there...and while its heavier.../ its easy to carry in an IWB holster...like a Kramer, horsehide, with a forward FBI Tilt...( at least for me )....and its pretty easily concealed like most any semi-auto under a "vest" or a windbreaker...or a large shirt that hangs properly. Carrying anything inside waist band in really hot climates has its issues...