Trying to decide on my first carry revolver

KABA1791 · February 8, 2013, 12:09 AM

Ok. I've read some of the other threads concerning choosing a revolver. I've Googled & YouTubed till I'm blue in the face. I'm just trying to make as much of an informed decision as possible. I'm supposed to receive my carry permit in a couple of weeks, so obviously, I'm new to carrying. Seems like the S&W j-frames and LCRs are the ones I hear/read about the most, but don't have any first-hand experience with either. Reading differing views about .357 vs. .38 +P as it relates to "knock down" power. Also, I'm short, stubby, and have small hands, so the size of the revolver is an issue as well.

Any help would be much appreciated!

jason_iowa · February 8, 2013, 12:20 AM

Knock down power is a made up term not supported by physics.

38+p is about the minimum I would suggest anyone carry and is a fine option. Not that you mentioned it but I would stay away from laser sights I think should the worst ever happen they look bad to the jury.

I don't care for the LCR I appreciate a bit more heft but they seem like a quality gun and many people like them.

Smith J frame o the two would be my choice. I would go with the 357 over the 38+p simply because you can use both rounds in the same gun. I like a heavier bullet and a heavier gun though.

I would find a place or people who has them and will let you shoot them and see which you like best. Between the two choices you outlined I honestly don't think you can make a bad decision.

Fleabag · February 8, 2013, 12:29 AM

640 or 642 snubbie. I would get the lightest S&W snub .38 in the stable. It's ment to be carried a lot and shot a little. 5 .38+P rounds will dampen anyones day in a hurry.

harathor · February 8, 2013, 01:26 AM

I would look at the smith and wesson model 36 if you want a snub nose as it is a bit heavier so easy to shoot but still easy to carry, or a K frame with a 3 in barrel. But that is just me.

**Mike Irwin** · February 8, 2013, 07:18 AM

Please post your question in only one forum, not all three.

February 8, 2013, 12:09 AM	#1
KABA1791 Junior Member Join Date: February 4, 2013 Posts: 4	Trying to decide on my first carry revolver Ok. I've read some of the other threads concerning choosing a revolver. I've Googled & YouTubed till I'm blue in the face. I'm just trying to make as much of an informed decision as possible. I'm supposed to receive my carry permit in a couple of weeks, so obviously, I'm new to carrying. Seems like the S&W j-frames and LCRs are the ones I hear/read about the most, but don't have any first-hand experience with either. Reading differing views about .357 vs. .38 +P as it relates to "knock down" power. Also, I'm short, stubby, and have small hands, so the size of the revolver is an issue as well. Any help would be much appreciated!

February 8, 2013, 07:18 AM	#5
Mike Irwin Staff Join Date: April 13, 2000 Location: Northern Virginia Posts: 41,380	Please post your question in only one forum, not all three. __________________ "The gift which I am sending you is called a dog, and is in fact the most precious and valuable possession of mankind" -Theodorus Gaza Baby Jesus cries when the fat redneck doesn't have military-grade firepower.

February 8, 2013, 12:20 AM	#2
jason_iowa Senior Member Join Date: July 30, 2011 Posts: 686	Knock down power is a made up term not supported by physics. 38+p is about the minimum I would suggest anyone carry and is a fine option. Not that you mentioned it but I would stay away from laser sights I think should the worst ever happen they look bad to the jury. I don't care for the LCR I appreciate a bit more heft but they seem like a quality gun and many people like them. Smith J frame o the two would be my choice. I would go with the 357 over the 38+p simply because you can use both rounds in the same gun. I like a heavier bullet and a heavier gun though. I would find a place or people who has them and will let you shoot them and see which you like best. Between the two choices you outlined I honestly don't think you can make a bad decision.

February 8, 2013, 12:29 AM	#3
Fleabag Member Join Date: November 1, 2011 Posts: 70	640 or 642 snubbie. I would get the lightest S&W snub .38 in the stable. It's ment to be carried a lot and shot a little. 5 .38+P rounds will dampen anyones day in a hurry.

February 8, 2013, 01:26 AM	#4
harathor Member Join Date: January 28, 2013 Posts: 18	I would look at the smith and wesson model 36 if you want a snub nose as it is a bit heavier so easy to shoot but still easy to carry, or a K frame with a 3 in barrel. But that is just me.