Open heart surgery

Don P · February 3, 2018, 12:02 PM

As the title states, I had open heart surgery 2 weeks ago. To the members that have been through this and for the rest I ask what would be your choice of self/home defense firearm for you recovery time at home??. I am curious as to what folks would choose and why they choose that particular firearm.
My choice is a model 10 snub nose revolver

Onward Allusion · February 3, 2018, 12:21 PM

Congratulations and good luck on your recovery. I had my quad almost 5 years ago and it was one of the scariest things that ever happened in my 48 years.

I did not carry all the time prior to my quad. However, I felt the need to because I was at my weakest post-surgery and for probably a good year and a half years after.

My go to carry was a Kel-Tec P32 at the time. It went with me every where. Back pocket carry when I was out and about. In a tiny Fobus OWB at home. The key for me was being armed at all times because a 12 YO could have kicked my butt in the first 6 months.

Post surgery I was really recoil sensitive. I'm not sure if a 38 Snub would have been a good choice for me at the time. That's why I carried a little 32 ACP. It all depends on where you are physically right now. Just gotta remember, almost any gun is better than no gun. Even a 22LR would work. If you feel good enough for a 38 Snub, I'd say go for it.

Good luck and stay positive 'cause having the right attitude is more than half the battle.

T. O'Heir · February 3, 2018, 01:29 PM

You're still in the "No lifting more than 10 pounds." stage. (Laughed at 'em when they said that to me. Told 'em I could lift 10 pounds with my tongue.) Mine was a quad by-pass too. No big deal really. Was kind of slow walking out of the hospital after 8 days of really crappy food. Up until then I thought only the Army could screw up an egg.
Surgeon also told me it'd just be aspirins. Still taking 10 pills for breakfast, 5 years later.
Anyway, as unlikely as a home invasion would be, a .38 would do. But you'd have to have in on your person all the time, because you won't be doing anything fast for another couple weeks at least.

UnkBK · February 3, 2018, 02:12 PM

Had my quad bypass 3 months ago. I feel your pain.
My choice was my S&W 360 with 158 gr SWC. No problem lifting a 13 oz pistol

In The Ten Ring · February 3, 2018, 03:29 PM

Read the title and thought it was a sarcastic story of a bad guy getting shot in the heart.

Well brother, I hope you recover fully and quickly. As to what gun, well, whatever you feel comfortable with.

If it hurts to use your upper body muscles much, then a revolver is the better bet. Perhaps a single action revolver.

Get some books and read as much as you can. When I was laid up for a month with a badly sprained ankle and broken leg, I read 8 books in about a month, including Uncle Tom's Cabin. The book was nothing like public school suggested it was.

2damnold4this · February 3, 2018, 04:52 PM

No advice from me but good luck with your recovery.

Calisnaps · February 3, 2018, 05:10 PM

Wishing you a speedy recovery.

DaleA · February 3, 2018, 07:04 PM

Quote:

My choice is a model 10 snub nose revolver

If that's what you have and that's what you like go for it.

I certainly wouldn't think you were 'under gunned' in any way shape or form.

Personally I'd like a little more capacity so it would be a semi-auto for me but if you got a couple of speed loaders for your gun I'd say you were definitely good to go.

And like everyone else here I wish you the best on your recovery.

FITASC · February 3, 2018, 07:34 PM

NO gun - a GOOD guard dog

Get well soon!

jpx2rk · February 3, 2018, 07:55 PM

Get well soon, speedy recovery. DO what the doctors/nurses tell you to do regarding the recovery process. It does work. Being stubborn or "he-man" will usually just prolong the recovery process.

briandg · February 3, 2018, 08:20 PM

I understand your problem here. You can't afford a jolt, I think that the biggest problem might be taking a jolt to the shoulder. But if you get something new, who will test fire it?

If you can afford to, I might suggest getting a full sized .380, not an ultra compact one. the 90 grain bullets are far less energetic than a 9mm, but if you had a heavy 9mm pistol already, maybe you could get the same results with a 115 grain 9mm round that was a special reduced load, or subsonic.

I understand your predicament. I am truly glad that you are doing well, bypass surgery isn't a good thing. I had brain surgery for an abscess a couple years ago, and I'll be the first to say that it was probably much less dangerous and less painful than bypass surgery. But, like you, there was a risk of damage in case of an impact. A clot, a bleed, both the things that you need to worry about.

But, IMO, your greatest worry shouldn't be a new gun. It's any impact. drive very little. Stay away from places and activities that may lead to a whack on your body. stay off of stairs. be careful on your treadmill or other equipment.

In a survival situation, if such a situation arises, the probability that you will be badly injured during an attack has just skyrocketed. Make your plans accordingly.

TXAZ · February 3, 2018, 08:30 PM

+1 on the dog.

There also is a stress issue involved so I might wait until the Dr says your back up for sports.

And stay away from rifles.

gw44 · February 3, 2018, 08:55 PM

I had mine 17yrs ago and I am still going strong, I had a 38+p S&W by my side, good luck and get well soon !!!

Don P · February 4, 2018, 12:40 PM

Quote:

If it hurts to use your upper body muscles much, then a revolver is the better bet

My point exactly. The thought of trying to rack a slide makes my breast bone and muscle hurt. It ain't happening any time soon. Those who have had the surgery Know what i'm talking about. Which is why I selected a revolver.

Quote:

a GOOD guard dog

We are renting, no pets period.

Quote:

Get well soon, speedy recovery. DO what the doctors/nurses tell you to do regarding the recovery process. It does work. Being stubborn or "he-man" will usually just prolong the recovery process.

Absolutely, macho man attitude has be checked at the door.

Quote:

If you can afford to, I might suggest getting a full sized .380, not an ultra compact one. the 90 grain bullets are far less energetic than a 9mm, but if you had a heavy 9mm pistol already, maybe you could get the same results with a 115 grain 9mm round that was a special reduced load, or subsonic.

See my first reply in this post.( breast bone cut in half, muscles cut)

Quote:

Why do so many of you guys say "get a dog."

That's just like the guys who tell us to move to better neighborhoods

On point.

Quote:

And if you live in that crappy of a neighborhood, why wouldn't you consider moving to someplace safer?

I'm not sure where this was going to or who it was intended for but moving is totally out of the question. Remember the "no more than 10#" rule. Also all of us should understand and remember that bad things happen in good places. No matter where we choose to live something bad can happen.

Thanks to all for the well wishes.

Hawg · February 4, 2018, 01:23 PM

I had a triple 6 years ago. Use whatever requires the least amount of strength if you really feel you need one. If you break those wires holding your chest together you're going to regret it.

fredvon4 · February 4, 2018, 02:30 PM

I does make a diff* what age the OP is..... but I think his choice is good

* only from a fully back to functional point of view

I was badly damaged in a helicopter accident in 1991 only 36 at the time.... self defense while recovering was not any concern at the time because a soldier well trained wife was present during my walker and wheel chair time...fully functional within 100 days

2014 I wrecked a motor cycle putting me back to no shape for personal self defense at age 59... still same wife and well trained for SD

I am NOT yet fully recovered 3 years later.....but more and more get out and about in the communities

I can not properly run any of my Pistols

needed some concealed carry gun that with my limitations could comfortable bring to bear and shoot accurately.. Up to this point it was always semi autos.... A detective special .38 works for me real good right now

Jleonard · February 4, 2018, 03:17 PM

Get well soon!!

manta49 · February 4, 2018, 03:24 PM

Personally if i had open heart surgery guns would be the least of my concerns, hope you get well soon.

briandg · February 4, 2018, 06:06 PM

You do make a good point about use of a slide, and a double action revolver may be good, but it depends on the revolver. Getting a full sized (k or j frame equivalent) and bypassing the compact ones would be a reasonable choice. Getting one used should not be difficult. The .38 match wadcutters are very low recoil and even with the low velocity, they still offer good performance. The flat point cuts a cleaner hole than other types. The full frame revolver isn't easy to carry, but it is perfect for home defense.

Glenn E. Meyer · February 4, 2018, 07:55 PM

I deleted the posts about moving as irrelevant.

Question, is this for a purchase or from guns you already have?

A simple revolver is a good suggestion.

Of course, best wishes from TFL for a healthy and speedy recovery!!

ms6852 · February 4, 2018, 08:56 PM

I had abdominal surgery a few years ago and moving fast was not possible for a while. I have a 642 with crimson laser grips zeroed to 10 yards. This became my primary self defense gun as it allowed me to shoot from a lying down position using either hand. For backup next to me in bed was my 1911 and my colt python and 686. Fastest reload is a loaded gun.

gw44 · February 4, 2018, 11:38 PM

Well we have went a round the horn on this one !!!

briandg · February 5, 2018, 12:48 AM

The bottom line of the list:

He needs a gun that weighs less than a gallon of milk.
Doesn't have a slide that will strain his muscles or healing tissues.
Has minimal recoil.
Will be able to use as a carry piece.

That's what I believe I have read.

Even a single action Blackhawk Fed with low power.38 rounds could work, it still comes down to what works for the individual.

Imo, one of the important points is that unless money is tight, it would be smart to get one that fits the need rather than making do with something already in the safe that isn't right.

458winshooter · February 5, 2018, 07:25 AM

Hey been there done that , October 26, I had a double bypass and just got released to go back to work this past week. I would have to say that a long gun of any kind would be too much recoil for at least another month unless your going down to a 22.It will need to be a handgun of some sorts.The numbness has yet to go away for me and my strength is just coming back as of late.If it was like mine your sternum was wired back together and it will move if you strain yourself.Heavy recoil from shotgun or high-powered rifle will move it around not a good thing.Its hard to do I know but you have to take it slow and give yourself some time.It was hard for me to.

Don P · February 5, 2018, 11:01 AM

Quote:

I deleted the posts about moving as irrelevant.

I thought so myself.

Quote:

Question, is this for a purchase or from guns you already have?

No not looking for a purchase. I have a big enough selection to choose from.

Quote:

A simple revolver is a good suggestion.

That is why I chose my model 10. My other revolvers are set up for competition and federal primers. Also ease of operation nothing to manipulate was a big deciding factor. So the semi-autos rest quietly.

Quote:

Of course, best wishes from TFL for a healthy and speedy recovery!!

Thank you for all the well wishes

February 3, 2018, 12:02 PM	#1
Don P Senior Member Join Date: December 17, 2005 Location: Swamp dweller Posts: 6,187	Open heart surgery As the title states, I had open heart surgery 2 weeks ago. To the members that have been through this and for the rest I ask what would be your choice of self/home defense firearm for you recovery time at home??. I am curious as to what folks would choose and why they choose that particular firearm. My choice is a model 10 snub nose revolver __________________ *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 3, 2018, 12:21 PM	#2
Onward Allusion Senior Member Join Date: November 17, 2009 Location: Back in a Non-Free State Posts: 3,133	Congratulations and good luck on your recovery. I had my quad almost 5 years ago and it was one of the scariest things that ever happened in my 48 years. I did not carry all the time prior to my quad. However, I felt the need to because I was at my weakest post-surgery and for probably a good year and a half years after. My go to carry was a Kel-Tec P32 at the time. It went with me every where. Back pocket carry when I was out and about. In a tiny Fobus OWB at home. The key for me was being armed at all times because a 12 YO could have kicked my butt in the first 6 months. Post surgery I was really recoil sensitive. I'm not sure if a 38 Snub would have been a good choice for me at the time. That's why I carried a little 32 ACP. It all depends on where you are physically right now. Just gotta remember, almost any gun is better than no gun. Even a 22LR would work. If you feel good enough for a 38 Snub, I'd say go for it. Good luck and stay positive 'cause having the right attitude is more than half the battle. __________________ Simple as ABC . . . Always Be Carrying

February 3, 2018, 01:29 PM	#3
T. O'Heir Senior Member Join Date: February 13, 2002 Location: Canada Posts: 12,453	You're still in the "No lifting more than 10 pounds." stage. (Laughed at 'em when they said that to me. Told 'em I could lift 10 pounds with my tongue.) Mine was a quad by-pass too. No big deal really. Was kind of slow walking out of the hospital after 8 days of really crappy food. Up until then I thought only the Army could screw up an egg. Surgeon also told me it'd just be aspirins. Still taking 10 pills for breakfast, 5 years later. Anyway, as unlikely as a home invasion would be, a .38 would do. But you'd have to have in on your person all the time, because you won't be doing anything fast for another couple weeks at least. __________________ Spelling and grammar count!

February 3, 2018, 07:34 PM	#9
FITASC Senior Member Join Date: December 6, 2014 Posts: 6,446	NO gun - a GOOD guard dog Get well soon! __________________ "I believe that people have a right to decide their own destinies; people own themselves. I also believe that, in a democracy, government exists because (and only so long as) individual citizens give it a 'temporary license to exist'—in exchange for a promise that it will behave itself. In a democracy, you own the government—it doesn't own you."- Frank Zappa

February 3, 2018, 08:20 PM	#11
briandg Senior Member Join Date: May 4, 2010 Posts: 5,468	I understand your problem here. You can't afford a jolt, I think that the biggest problem might be taking a jolt to the shoulder. But if you get something new, who will test fire it? If you can afford to, I might suggest getting a full sized .380, not an ultra compact one. the 90 grain bullets are far less energetic than a 9mm, but if you had a heavy 9mm pistol already, maybe you could get the same results with a 115 grain 9mm round that was a special reduced load, or subsonic. I understand your predicament. I am truly glad that you are doing well, bypass surgery isn't a good thing. I had brain surgery for an abscess a couple years ago, and I'll be the first to say that it was probably much less dangerous and less painful than bypass surgery. But, like you, there was a risk of damage in case of an impact. A clot, a bleed, both the things that you need to worry about. But, IMO, your greatest worry shouldn't be a new gun. It's any impact. drive very little. Stay away from places and activities that may lead to a whack on your body. stay off of stairs. be careful on your treadmill or other equipment. In a survival situation, if such a situation arises, the probability that you will be badly injured during an attack has just skyrocketed. Make your plans accordingly. __________________ None.

February 3, 2018, 02:12 PM	#4
UnkBK Member Join Date: February 19, 2012 Posts: 29	Had my quad bypass 3 months ago. I feel your pain. My choice was my S&W 360 with 158 gr SWC. No problem lifting a 13 oz pistol

February 3, 2018, 03:29 PM	#5
In The Ten Ring Senior Member Join Date: January 26, 2018 Posts: 380	Read the title and thought it was a sarcastic story of a bad guy getting shot in the heart. Well brother, I hope you recover fully and quickly. As to what gun, well, whatever you feel comfortable with. If it hurts to use your upper body muscles much, then a revolver is the better bet. Perhaps a single action revolver. Get some books and read as much as you can. When I was laid up for a month with a badly sprained ankle and broken leg, I read 8 books in about a month, including Uncle Tom's Cabin. The book was nothing like public school suggested it was.

February 3, 2018, 04:52 PM	#6
2damnold4this Senior Member Join Date: August 12, 2009 Location: Athens, Georgia Posts: 2,526	No advice from me but good luck with your recovery.

February 3, 2018, 05:10 PM	#7
Calisnaps Junior Member Join Date: January 1, 2018 Posts: 7	Wishing you a speedy recovery.

February 3, 2018, 07:55 PM	#10
jpx2rk Senior Member Join Date: December 29, 2015 Posts: 387	Get well soon, speedy recovery. DO what the doctors/nurses tell you to do regarding the recovery process. It does work. Being stubborn or "he-man" will usually just prolong the recovery process.

February 3, 2018, 08:30 PM	#12
TXAZ Senior Member Join Date: September 5, 2010 Location: McMurdo Sound Texas Posts: 4,322	+1 on the dog. There also is a stress issue involved so I might wait until the Dr says your back up for sports. And stay away from rifles. __________________ Cave illos in guns et backhoes

February 3, 2018, 08:55 PM	#13
gw44 Senior Member Join Date: March 15, 2015 Location: Michigan Posts: 311	I had mine 17yrs ago and I am still going strong, I had a 38+p S&W by my side, good luck and get well soon !!!

February 4, 2018, 01:23 PM	#15
Hawg Senior Member Join Date: September 8, 2007 Location: Mississippi Posts: 16,190	I had a triple 6 years ago. Use whatever requires the least amount of strength if you really feel you need one. If you break those wires holding your chest together you're going to regret it.

February 4, 2018, 02:30 PM	#16
fredvon4 Junior member Join Date: January 18, 2010 Location: Lampasas Texas Posts: 154	I does make a diff* what age the OP is..... but I think his choice is good * only from a fully back to functional point of view I was badly damaged in a helicopter accident in 1991 only 36 at the time.... self defense while recovering was not any concern at the time because a soldier well trained wife was present during my walker and wheel chair time...fully functional within 100 days 2014 I wrecked a motor cycle putting me back to no shape for personal self defense at age 59... still same wife and well trained for SD I am NOT yet fully recovered 3 years later.....but more and more get out and about in the communities I can not properly run any of my Pistols needed some concealed carry gun that with my limitations could comfortable bring to bear and shoot accurately.. Up to this point it was always semi autos.... A detective special .38 works for me real good right now

February 4, 2018, 03:17 PM	#17
Jleonard Member Join Date: October 27, 2015 Location: Florida Posts: 40	Get well soon!!

February 4, 2018, 03:24 PM	#18
manta49 Senior Member Join Date: July 15, 2011 Location: N Ireland. UK. Posts: 1,809	Personally if i had open heart surgery guns would be the least of my concerns, hope you get well soon. Last edited by manta49; February 4, 2018 at 03:30 PM.

February 4, 2018, 06:06 PM	#19
briandg Senior Member Join Date: May 4, 2010 Posts: 5,468	You do make a good point about use of a slide, and a double action revolver may be good, but it depends on the revolver. Getting a full sized (k or j frame equivalent) and bypassing the compact ones would be a reasonable choice. Getting one used should not be difficult. The .38 match wadcutters are very low recoil and even with the low velocity, they still offer good performance. The flat point cuts a cleaner hole than other types. The full frame revolver isn't easy to carry, but it is perfect for home defense. __________________ None.

February 4, 2018, 07:55 PM	#20
Glenn E. Meyer Senior Member Join Date: November 17, 2000 Posts: 20,064	I deleted the posts about moving as irrelevant. Question, is this for a purchase or from guns you already have? A simple revolver is a good suggestion. Of course, best wishes from TFL for a healthy and speedy recovery!! __________________ NRA, TSRA, IDPA, NTI, Polite Soc. - Aux Armes, Citoyens

February 4, 2018, 08:56 PM	#21
ms6852 Senior Member Join Date: April 3, 2010 Location: Texas Posts: 1,394	I had abdominal surgery a few years ago and moving fast was not possible for a while. I have a 642 with crimson laser grips zeroed to 10 yards. This became my primary self defense gun as it allowed me to shoot from a lying down position using either hand. For backup next to me in bed was my 1911 and my colt python and 686. Fastest reload is a loaded gun. __________________ ONLY TWO DEFINING FORCES HAVE GIVEN UP THEIR LIVES FOR YOU. ONE IS JESUS CHRIST FOR YOUR SOUL AND THE OTHER IS THE AMERICAN SOLDIER FOR YOUR FREEDOM.

February 4, 2018, 11:38 PM	#22
gw44 Senior Member Join Date: March 15, 2015 Location: Michigan Posts: 311	Well we have went a round the horn on this one !!!

February 5, 2018, 12:48 AM	#23
briandg Senior Member Join Date: May 4, 2010 Posts: 5,468	The bottom line of the list: He needs a gun that weighs less than a gallon of milk. Doesn't have a slide that will strain his muscles or healing tissues. Has minimal recoil. Will be able to use as a carry piece. That's what I believe I have read. Even a single action Blackhawk Fed with low power.38 rounds could work, it still comes down to what works for the individual. Imo, one of the important points is that unless money is tight, it would be smart to get one that fits the need rather than making do with something already in the safe that isn't right. __________________ None.

February 5, 2018, 07:25 AM	#24
458winshooter Senior Member Join Date: June 16, 2008 Location: Transplanted to Ridgeland,SC Posts: 606	Heart surgery Hey been there done that , October 26, I had a double bypass and just got released to go back to work this past week. I would have to say that a long gun of any kind would be too much recoil for at least another month unless your going down to a 22.It will need to be a handgun of some sorts.The numbness has yet to go away for me and my strength is just coming back as of late.If it was like mine your sternum was wired back together and it will move if you strain yourself.Heavy recoil from shotgun or high-powered rifle will move it around not a good thing.Its hard to do I know but you have to take it slow and give yourself some time.It was hard for me to.