Which J frame?

[nikki#2]

I would seriously consider a 351-PD in .22 Magum with its 7 shot cylinder. I don't want to start a caliber debate, but all pistol calibers are poor at producing involuntary stops,
and it may be worth it to some to have an extra two trigger pulls for a slight loss in muzzle energy especially with how cumbersome revolver reloads are under stress.
I'm looking into buying one for carry within the next year.

Good suggestion, looking at the 351-PD for my GF. Prefer S&W to Ruger, plus 7-shot vs the LCR's 6. Fairly rare and expensive.

What's holding me back are reviews of the stiff trigger impacting accuracy + feedback that swapping springs produces 'light strikes' and is not recommended by S&W.

I've experienced 'light strikes' with my rimfire revos with spring swaps... and I know that swapping springs + action work on my 638 resulted in a BIG improvement to accuracy,
so I'm torn at the moment on how to proceed.

[ChuckDizzle]

Nikki, I pulled the trigger on one and didn't think it was as bad as I was led to believe. Of course I'm a big fat guy who likes to deadlift for fun and have been shooting DA revolvers for most of my life. If I was lacking in hand strength it may be an issue. Maybe because I was expecting worse I was pleasantly surprised.

I know that it took me a while to get used to my 637 after years of shooting a buttery smooth Model 19. So maybe with enough practice with the heavy pull the groups will significantly tighten. If I needed to make a true precision shot with a J-frame I would probably cock it to SA anyways.

[nikki#2]

Chuck.... Thanks!

Would you feel comfortable giving it to your 'newbie' significant other who wants to carry a handgun for personal protection?
She can have anything she wants. At this point, she's played with my subcompacts (next step is the range), and I cringed when
she handled the J-frame and said, "Definitely, I want this one".

That's concerning when it's yet to be determined that she enjoys shooting period.

[ChuckDizzle]

That's a tough decision to make Nikki and a very personal one. It seems like you have the hardware to at least get her out and on her way to some kind of personal preference after firing. Of course many ladies seem to like small guns, but it is often counter intuitive when recoil is considered.

You might want to try for a range that has something like the Sig P238 for rent. For me it has been one of the most pleasant sub-compacts to shoot, very accurate, 1911 manual of arms, and a decent capacity.

However, I still find a J-frame to be easier and more versatile to conceal. I think starting her with .38 special in a snubby might turn her off to shooting before she even gets started. Even something like a Ruger LCR in .22 LR might not be a bad place for her to start. It's still a gun and many folks have successfully defended themselves with similar pistols.

[nikki#2]

Thanks, great advice.

I'll add the P238 to the arsenal at her disposal (+ Ruger LCP .22LR, G42). I'm turning her 1st range session over to a Pro. He can deal with her.
She's wants small, lightweight w/ Crimson Trace laser (runs by herself in remote areas).... Told her she's going to hate it.

That's where the 351-PD comes in. Lighter than the Ruger LCP and holds another round... plus it's an S&W. I'd have the action worked over.

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm..........

[farmerjoe]

I have two Ti J Frames, a 360 PD and a 360 CS. As previously said, they're a handful with full .357 loads but manageable with 38 +p's. Never had an issue with hammers and I usually carry one in my pocket or an IWB holster.

That said, you can't go wrong with one. Get the best model within your budget, you're making an investment that'll sat a lifetime.

[Sunday]

I have a few J frames and 1 on my permit which is my usual carry piece. The 442 or 642 can be picked up on sale sometimes at Sportmans Warehouse there isn't any need for a fancier J frame for carry. One of my friends has a Ruger LCP and is surprisingly nice. They are really not nice to shoot tons of ammo in one session.

[hermosabeach]

hammerless....

If you want stainless or black... it does not really matter...

as others implied or stated... the J Frame is difficult to shoot well....
...many are amazed how much the J frame will torque in your hand with hotter ammo....

[Thesource161]

642 has my vote.

[Can't buy anything here]

I like my 642, excellent gun. Once Gemini Customs did a full package on it it became more excellent! Since then though I have found a BNIB '77 Colt Detective Special that is currently at the Gunsmith being super tuned, so I may end up selling the 642.

I wouldn't get rid of that 642 so fast. I have one along with the detective special. The DS is a bit heavy for ankle and a little big for pocket. You might find yourself switching off now and then...I even have a Colt Cobra which is the best of both worlds but I will never dump my little j-frame...



Cobra.....

[GMG]

Bought this 36 no dash off a member here, did a trigger job. This will never be sold by me.

[IMG][/IMG]

[ronyama]

642-1

Just purchased a 642-1, no lock at Retting in Culver City. Great revolver.