Which of these revolvers for carry? - Page 2

Charlie98 · January 31, 2018, 09:58 AM

With the exception of the J-frame, those are all pretty big revolvers... heavy and bulky. You didn't specify if you were going to carry It concealed, because that's a factor.

I picked the J-frame because it was a better choice than the 686, and I don't buy Ruger revolvers anymore.

My perspective... I carried a 3" .38 J-frame for a while, it was a reasonable pistol but found I could not shoot it well in draw-and-fire situations. I also had a 4" 686, it was a fine revolver but putting grips on it to control the recoil of .357Mag cartridges made it outwardly bulky and I couldn't hide it.

jfruser · January 31, 2018, 04:47 PM

Howdy:

I chose "Other."

All those options seemed a bit off to me. I will add some and tell you why.

S&W K-frame 2" .38spl Round Butt
Ejector rod just fine for .38spl, thanks. Can be loaded with 148gr HBWC for super-low recoil that still gets enough penetration and crush cavity vs humans. Or hot +P Buffalo Bore/Underwood 158gr LSWC at 1000fps. Can also run BB/Underwood 158gr LSWC "woods" loads that ought to make 1000fps+ in a 2" bbl. Packs simply in a bitty yaqi/slide holster underneath an untucked polo shirt.

S&W 686 2.5" BBL
Not a fan of the 7-shot 686+. I prefer MOAR STEEL in my .357mag cylinders in case I want to shoot some crazy hunting load or whatnot. These make good carry revos and good woods / critter defense revos. Hardcast 158gr+ at 1000fps+ penetrates like crazy vs critters without .44mag recoil . And relatively cheap/oldtech Rem Express .357mag 158gr SJHP performs like all the high tech wunderbullets wish they could vs 2-legged varmints. Again, minimalist holster needed.

Of course, a K-frame .357mag would split the difference between my two options and be a fine choice.

Whatever you do, make sure you select a quality holst/belt/ammo carrier rig.

Real Gun · January 31, 2018, 05:28 PM

Reminding that the OP said OWB carry, those 2" guns are kind of wasting the opportunity to have a real barrel.

tubeshooter · January 31, 2018, 07:59 PM

I'm actually in a similar boat.

I have a 3" S&W Model 60, and while I like it fine the adjustable rear sight and ramp front sight are rather uncomfortable for IWB the way I carry. Also will not be fun to shoot with .357 loads (haven't tried it yet). The 3" SP101 in .357 I just gifted was much better on these fronts.

I have been taking a serious look at the 3" GP100 guns. Some of the distributor exclusives with the Novak sights are especially attractive. Just not sure if I want to carry that much weight around. On a related note, for the weight reasons the L-frame Smiths are probably out.

For OWB, none of this will matter nearly as much for the OP. Just about anything will work. I would say to determine how much weight you are willing to realistically deal with and go from there. When all is said and done, I may just buy another SP101 (2.25" or 3"). I have other full sized .357 guns that will work fine for the woods. Choosing a truly comfortable carry .357 is a bit harder.

Armybrat · January 31, 2018, 08:08 PM

SP101 .327 Federal 3" (6 shot) which was just reintroduced late last year:

Mastrogiacomo · January 31, 2018, 08:42 PM

Ruger SP101 DAO .357

Scout · January 31, 2018, 09:11 PM

Deleted by poster...reread OP's question...Sorry

Super Sneaky Steve · January 31, 2018, 09:54 PM

An SP101 in .357 would be great, but a Kimber K6S would give you an extra shot and could possibly be lighter.

Elliottsdad · January 31, 2018, 11:20 PM

Okay, these are all fantastic opinions, and I appreciate all of them! But let me thin the herd by being even more descriptive:
These are all guns that could stop an attacker, for sure. But I'm looking for a FUN revolver for the range, that could double as something to carry OWB from time to time for creatures that walk on two or four legs (with my good gun belt).
I currently have a single stack 9, and a double stack 9 for bumps in the day/night, but I'm looking for something for ventures elsewhere that can be carried OWB, stop a human threat, take fishing/camping for outdoor use, or plink/have fun with at the range.
I can do all of that with 9, but don't want something that replicates 9 performance in a given barrel length, either.
Is there a carry-friendly revolver that closely meets this criteria? I'm not shy about barrel length until it's longer than 4.5" (for the sake of maximizing ballistic potential)..

Charlie98 · February 1, 2018, 12:31 AM

Given your updated requirements.... L-frame 686.

Real Gun · February 1, 2018, 09:37 AM

If attracted to the idea of 7 shots and only occasional carry, good at the range, then it's really just Smith versus Ruger. You'll have more and maybe better, even cheaper, choices if sticking to 6 shots.

rodfac · February 1, 2018, 10:15 AM

I like Smith's Model 60 with a 3" tube...I'm carrying one right now in point of fact...for beating about the farm here, it's generally loaded with Skelton's old load (158 gr LSWC GC'd and 2400 powder) at 1050 fps. This is an authoritative load for outdoor use that I've used to put down two wounded deer, one horse, and a variety of barn raiding possums and raccoons.

I carry it in an OWB of my own make...basically a Tom Threepersons open top with the cylinder's rear rim about even with the top of my belt making it easy to conceal with all but a swim suit on. The gun's light, easy to control even with the Skelton load, but still carries plenty of punch. And...the adjustable sights allow me to zero for the rounds I'm actually using. While some decry adj. sights on a defensive gun, I find them easy to use, and have never had a hang up during presentation...

For trips to town, I load up with Remington or Federal factory .38 Spl +P 125 gr JHP's as I prefer factory loads for true CC/defensive use. For my neck of the woods, and social situation, it's about perfect for CC carry plus a little more.

HTH's, Rod

jfruser · February 2, 2018, 09:46 AM

Yep, give the revised rqts, S&W L-frame 686 with a 4" bbl is what the doctor ordered.

If I could own only one handgun, that would be it.

K_Mac · February 2, 2018, 10:21 AM

Based on the new information and your selected options, the 4" GP 100 gets my vote. I have the 6 shot version and it is a fine gun for your purposes. I haven't shot or handled the 7 shot version. I have used the 686+ and it takes a little getting used to compared to the 6 shot.

I think a 4" .357 revolver is a great choice, and S&W or Ruger would certainly be my choice. Mild .38s for plinking or target shooting or full bore .357 for anything most of us will ever encounter in the woods. Enjoy!

Real Gun · February 2, 2018, 10:35 AM

Quote:

Is there a carry-friendly revolver

I weighed my 4" 686-6 empty and it was nearly a pound heavier than my empty 3" SP101. "Occasional" carry indeed, because I think the typical person would find the 4" 686 quite a load.

In The Ten Ring · February 2, 2018, 11:12 AM

All of those would be OWB carry but even my compact guns like the Kahr 45 are OWB for me! LOL

I only own a couple full-sized revolvers and the only one I would consider for carry would be the (not-yet-received) S&W 66.

2ndtimer · February 3, 2018, 11:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mk70ss

Ruger SP101 2 1/2 inch barrel .357 5 shot

Ditto.

jaremt · February 3, 2018, 11:44 AM

Well it's said that placement is everything. I mostly carry a Taurus M85 Ultralite. .38 +P. I've (with witnesses) been able to put 3 rounds in the same hole at 7 yards. It's so light that you can forget you are carrying. Accompanied with a couple of speed strips (My paranoia), i feel that I'm good to go for most situations.

Real Gun · February 3, 2018, 12:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mk70ss
Ruger SP101 2 1/2 inch barrel .357 5 shot

Ditto.

Loaded with 38s. The gun is just too small for being commonly considered for OWB. It is not on the list.

Jayhawkhuntclub · February 13, 2018, 09:04 PM

Quote:

Not a fan of the 7-shot 686+. I prefer MOAR STEEL in my .357mag cylinders in case I want to shoot some crazy hunting load or whatnot.

The 7 shot cylinder is actually stronger than the 6 shot because of the location of where the notches are cut. Seems unlikely, but it's true.

BTW, I've carried the 3" 686 and while it is heavy, it conceals well in a pancake and is comfortable with a good gun belt.

shurshot · February 13, 2018, 09:20 PM

Pick a powerful, dependable weapon that fits your hand and body frame pertaining to your ability to conceal it. In cold weather, clothes and a sturdy belt / holster combo can hide ALLOT of Iron. I often wear a S&W 29-10 4" .44 Mag in an Azula leather OWB holster, high and tight @ 3:30, under a fleece pullover / vest or shirt combo and its virtually unoticible. In fact, for such a big N frame Magnum, I often forget I'm carrying it. Decide what you want to carry and just chose your carry belt / holster and clothes to fit the gun. Forget about the weight, one gets used to it after awhile. I read something once, I think it was Ayoob, that stated (and I'm paraphrasing from memory), "the weapon isn't supposed to be comfortable, but comforting". Makes sense! A .25 ACP Beretta pistol may be quite comfortable in the pocket, but no where near as COMFORTING as a Colt 1911A1 .45 ACP in a paddle holster in today's society.

Don P · February 13, 2018, 09:25 PM

S&W 649 or S&W model 10 snub nose

Danoobie · February 13, 2018, 09:29 PM

Kimber K6S. Solid, six shot, everything you want, including great
sights, nothing you don't.

You have a very nice list of pistols there, with the right holster,
any of them would do nicely.

tony pasley · February 14, 2018, 12:21 AM

On the rare occasion I carry a revolver I have a Charter Arms Bulldog that I got back in the mid 1970s.

tallball · February 14, 2018, 11:22 AM

For carry I prefer 2", 2.5", or maybe 3". I also prefer hammerless or a shrouded hammer. 32 magnum, 38sp, and 357 are all good. I find 4"+ barrels annoying to carry, and for SD I don't feel that longer distances are at all likely.

View Poll Results: Which of these for OWB carry
Ruger SP101 .357 mag (5 shot) 4.2" bbl	15	12.93%
Ruger SP101 .327 Fed mag (6 shot) 4.2" bbl	8	6.90%
Ruger GP100 .357 mag (7 shot) 4.2" bbl	11	9.48%
S&W 686+ .357 mag (7 shot) 3" bbl	20	17.24%
S&W 60 .357 mag (5 shot) 3" bbl	31	26.72%
Other (please specify)	31	26.72%
Voters: 116. You may not vote on this poll

January 31, 2018, 09:58 AM	#26
Charlie98 Senior Member Join Date: September 6, 2006 Location: Great state of Texas Posts: 1,077	With the exception of the J-frame, those are all pretty big revolvers... heavy and bulky. You didn't specify if you were going to carry It concealed, because that's a factor. I picked the J-frame because it was a better choice than the 686, and I don't buy Ruger revolvers anymore. My perspective... I carried a 3" .38 J-frame for a while, it was a reasonable pistol but found I could not shoot it well in draw-and-fire situations. I also had a 4" 686, it was a fine revolver but putting grips on it to control the recoil of .357Mag cartridges made it outwardly bulky and I couldn't hide it. __________________ _______________ "I have this pistol pointed at your heart!" "That is my least vulnerable spot."

January 31, 2018, 04:47 PM	#27
jfruser Senior Member Join Date: April 6, 2006 Location: Texas Posts: 350	Howdy: I chose "Other." All those options seemed a bit off to me. I will add some and tell you why. S&W K-frame 2" .38spl Round Butt Ejector rod just fine for .38spl, thanks. Can be loaded with 148gr HBWC for super-low recoil that still gets enough penetration and crush cavity vs humans. Or hot +P Buffalo Bore/Underwood 158gr LSWC at 1000fps. Can also run BB/Underwood 158gr LSWC "woods" loads that ought to make 1000fps+ in a 2" bbl. Packs simply in a bitty yaqi/slide holster underneath an untucked polo shirt. S&W 686 2.5" BBL Not a fan of the 7-shot 686+. I prefer MOAR STEEL in my .357mag cylinders in case I want to shoot some crazy hunting load or whatnot. These make good carry revos and good woods / critter defense revos. Hardcast 158gr+ at 1000fps+ penetrates like crazy vs critters without .44mag recoil . And relatively cheap/oldtech Rem Express .357mag 158gr SJHP performs like all the high tech wunderbullets wish they could vs 2-legged varmints. Again, minimalist holster needed. Of course, a K-frame .357mag would split the difference between my two options and be a fine choice. Whatever you do, make sure you select a quality holst/belt/ammo carrier rig. __________________ Regards, jfruser "Books and bullets have their own destinies."----Bob Ross

January 31, 2018, 05:28 PM	#28
Real Gun Senior Member Join Date: May 19, 2004 Location: SC Posts: 2,743	Reminding that the OP said OWB carry, those 2" guns are kind of wasting the opportunity to have a real barrel. __________________ Not an expert, just a reporter.

January 31, 2018, 08:42 PM	#31
Mastrogiacomo Senior Member Join Date: October 10, 2002 Location: Boston, MA Posts: 1,297	Ruger SP101 DAO .357 __________________ "Luctor et Emergo" - Struggle and Emerge

January 31, 2018, 07:59 PM	#29
tubeshooter Senior Member Join Date: December 10, 2000 Posts: 228	I'm actually in a similar boat. I have a 3" S&W Model 60, and while I like it fine the adjustable rear sight and ramp front sight are rather uncomfortable for IWB the way I carry. Also will not be fun to shoot with .357 loads (haven't tried it yet). The 3" SP101 in .357 I just gifted was much better on these fronts. I have been taking a serious look at the 3" GP100 guns. Some of the distributor exclusives with the Novak sights are especially attractive. Just not sure if I want to carry that much weight around. On a related note, for the weight reasons the L-frame Smiths are probably out. For OWB, none of this will matter nearly as much for the OP. Just about anything will work. I would say to determine how much weight you are willing to realistically deal with and go from there. When all is said and done, I may just buy another SP101 (2.25" or 3"). I have other full sized .357 guns that will work fine for the woods. Choosing a truly comfortable carry .357 is a bit harder.

January 31, 2018, 08:08 PM	#30
Armybrat Senior Member Join Date: May 10, 2009 Location: Round Rock, Texas Posts: 976	SP101 .327 Federal 3" (6 shot) which was just reintroduced late last year:

January 31, 2018, 09:11 PM	#32
Scout Senior Member Join Date: August 9, 2009 Location: Central Florida Posts: 510	S&W Deleted by poster...reread OP's question...Sorry __________________ God bless the U.S. Cavalry

January 31, 2018, 09:54 PM	#33
Super Sneaky Steve Senior Member Join Date: August 9, 2011 Posts: 1,249	An SP101 in .357 would be great, but a Kimber K6S would give you an extra shot and could possibly be lighter.

January 31, 2018, 11:20 PM	#34
Elliottsdad Senior Member Join Date: November 23, 2010 Location: Glenwood, Iowa Posts: 238	Okay, these are all fantastic opinions, and I appreciate all of them! But let me thin the herd by being even more descriptive: These are all guns that could stop an attacker, for sure. But I'm looking for a FUN revolver for the range, that could double as something to carry OWB from time to time for creatures that walk on two or four legs (with my good gun belt). I currently have a single stack 9, and a double stack 9 for bumps in the day/night, but I'm looking for something for ventures elsewhere that can be carried OWB, stop a human threat, take fishing/camping for outdoor use, or plink/have fun with at the range. I can do all of that with 9, but don't want something that replicates 9 performance in a given barrel length, either. Is there a carry-friendly revolver that closely meets this criteria? I'm not shy about barrel length until it's longer than 4.5" (for the sake of maximizing ballistic potential).. Last edited by Elliottsdad; January 31, 2018 at 11:37 PM.

February 1, 2018, 12:31 AM	#35
Charlie98 Senior Member Join Date: September 6, 2006 Location: Great state of Texas Posts: 1,077	Given your updated requirements.... L-frame 686. __________________ _______________ "I have this pistol pointed at your heart!" "That is my least vulnerable spot."

February 1, 2018, 09:37 AM	#36
Real Gun Senior Member Join Date: May 19, 2004 Location: SC Posts: 2,743	If attracted to the idea of 7 shots and only occasional carry, good at the range, then it's really just Smith versus Ruger. You'll have more and maybe better, even cheaper, choices if sticking to 6 shots. __________________ Not an expert, just a reporter.

February 1, 2018, 10:15 AM	#37
rodfac Senior Member Join Date: January 22, 2005 Location: Kentucky Posts: 3,623	I like Smith's Model 60 with a 3" tube...I'm carrying one right now in point of fact...for beating about the farm here, it's generally loaded with Skelton's old load (158 gr LSWC GC'd and 2400 powder) at 1050 fps. This is an authoritative load for outdoor use that I've used to put down two wounded deer, one horse, and a variety of barn raiding possums and raccoons. I carry it in an OWB of my own make...basically a Tom Threepersons open top with the cylinder's rear rim about even with the top of my belt making it easy to conceal with all but a swim suit on. The gun's light, easy to control even with the Skelton load, but still carries plenty of punch. And...the adjustable sights allow me to zero for the rounds I'm actually using. While some decry adj. sights on a defensive gun, I find them easy to use, and have never had a hang up during presentation... For trips to town, I load up with Remington or Federal factory .38 Spl +P 125 gr JHP's as I prefer factory loads for true CC/defensive use. For my neck of the woods, and social situation, it's about perfect for CC carry plus a little more. HTH's, Rod __________________ Cherish our flag, honor it, defend it in word and deed, or get the hell out. Our Bill of Rights has been paid for by heros in uniform and shall not be diluted by misguided governmental social experiments. We owe this to our children, anything less is cowardice. USAF FAC, 5th Spl Forces, Vietnam Vet '69-'73.

February 2, 2018, 09:46 AM	#38
jfruser Senior Member Join Date: April 6, 2006 Location: Texas Posts: 350	Yep, give the revised rqts, S&W L-frame 686 with a 4" bbl is what the doctor ordered. If I could own only one handgun, that would be it. __________________ Regards, jfruser "Books and bullets have their own destinies."----Bob Ross

February 2, 2018, 10:21 AM	#39
K_Mac Senior Member Join Date: September 15, 2010 Posts: 1,850	Based on the new information and your selected options, the 4" GP 100 gets my vote. I have the 6 shot version and it is a fine gun for your purposes. I haven't shot or handled the 7 shot version. I have used the 686+ and it takes a little getting used to compared to the 6 shot. I think a 4" .357 revolver is a great choice, and S&W or Ruger would certainly be my choice. Mild .38s for plinking or target shooting or full bore .357 for anything most of us will ever encounter in the woods. Enjoy! __________________ "Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain and most fools do." Benjamin Franklin

February 2, 2018, 11:12 AM	#41
In The Ten Ring Senior Member Join Date: January 26, 2018 Posts: 380	All of those would be OWB carry but even my compact guns like the Kahr 45 are OWB for me! LOL I only own a couple full-sized revolvers and the only one I would consider for carry would be the (not-yet-received) S&W 66.

February 3, 2018, 11:44 AM	#43
jaremt Junior Member Join Date: February 2, 2018 Location: Miami, Fl Posts: 2	Well it's said that placement is everything. I mostly carry a Taurus M85 Ultralite. .38 +P. I've (with witnesses) been able to put 3 rounds in the same hole at 7 yards. It's so light that you can forget you are carrying. Accompanied with a couple of speed strips (My paranoia), i feel that I'm good to go for most situations.

February 13, 2018, 09:20 PM	#46
shurshot Senior Member Join Date: August 25, 2006 Posts: 1,819	Pick a powerful, dependable weapon that fits your hand and body frame pertaining to your ability to conceal it. In cold weather, clothes and a sturdy belt / holster combo can hide ALLOT of Iron. I often wear a S&W 29-10 4" .44 Mag in an Azula leather OWB holster, high and tight @ 3:30, under a fleece pullover / vest or shirt combo and its virtually unoticible. In fact, for such a big N frame Magnum, I often forget I'm carrying it. Decide what you want to carry and just chose your carry belt / holster and clothes to fit the gun. Forget about the weight, one gets used to it after awhile. I read something once, I think it was Ayoob, that stated (and I'm paraphrasing from memory), "*the weapon isn't supposed to be comfortable, but comforting". Makes sense! A .25 ACP Beretta pistol may be quite comfortable in the pocket, but no where near as COMFORTING as a Colt 1911A1 .45 ACP in a paddle holster in today's society. Last edited by shurshot; February 13, 2018 at 09:38 PM.*

February 13, 2018, 09:25 PM	#47
Don P Senior Member Join Date: December 17, 2005 Location: Swamp dweller Posts: 6,187	S&W 649 or S&W model 10 snub nose __________________ *NRA Life Member, NRA Chief Range Safety Officer, NRA Certified Pistol Instructor,, USPSA & Steel Challange NROI Range Officer, ICORE Range Officer, ,MAG 40 Graduate* *As you are, I once was, As I am, You will be.*

February 13, 2018, 09:29 PM	#48
Danoobie Senior Member Join Date: April 27, 2017 Posts: 351	Kimber K6S. Solid, six shot, everything you want, including great sights, nothing you don't. You have a very nice list of pistols there, with the right holster, any of them would do nicely.

February 14, 2018, 12:21 AM	#49
tony pasley Senior Member Join Date: April 13, 2006 Location: western north carolina Posts: 1,641	On the rare occasion I carry a revolver I have a Charter Arms Bulldog that I got back in the mid 1970s. __________________ Every day Congress is in session we lose a little bit more of our Liberty.

February 14, 2018, 11:22 AM	#50
tallball Senior Member Join Date: October 17, 2014 Posts: 2,444	For carry I prefer 2", 2.5", or maybe 3". I also prefer hammerless or a shrouded hammer. 32 magnum, 38sp, and 357 are all good. I find 4"+ barrels annoying to carry, and for SD I don't feel that longer distances are at all likely.

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