Thinking about an EDC revolver.

[MissiontoMars]

i have my Arizona CCW and I'll likely be travelling in 2021 to a handful of states. I have my 9mm Shield which works great for a CCW, and I have my PC carbine that breaks down and packs away really easily. Was thinking about grabbing a compact revolver to put back into the rotation too, simply because of the reliability factor of a revolver, and the ability to carry just the load and a couple quick strips in my pocket. I'm only carrying 13 rounds with the Shield, so 15-18 with a revolver and two quick strips is pretty comparable.

Assuming I could find one on the rack, what would you recommend? (allowing for the fact that supply is very limited on some items.)

1. I'd love a Smith 642, I think, having rented and fired one a while back. Something about the design/grip just fits me better than the LCR and makes it more tolerable to shoot (not comfortable, mind you, just tolerable)

2. Also, have a chance at mint Smith 64-2 stainless snubby from a family member. Weight would be the same as the SP101, and though it'll only take .38specials, I feel like i could run +P's and be just fine?

3. Any other good options in the $500-600 range? Should I give the LCRx a looksee? a 3" barreled, hammered version might improve my accuracy, and would add a bit of heft over the 13oz original LCR I had, but not as much as the steel options?

have owned an SP101 and a LCR, both didn't fit me for one reason or another and both got sold. i LOVE my Victory pre-model 10 and so I think the 64-2 might be a good option, other than the weight for all day carry.



Thoughts?

[9Cal_OC]

I’d stick with a hammer less revolver. JMHO

How about a GP100?

If I carried a revolver, I’d want a little weight. Since you’ll be out of state, deep concealment isn’t a big issue (some print is okay).

[Kestryll]

I like my S&W 638, all the benefits of a 642 (snag free) but I can still cock the hammer if I need to.

[hambam105]

Dupe for a Dope.

[hambam105]

A Model 64 is a K Frame six shot that is clearly heavier than the five shot J frames. As for revolver weight, a J frame
will always be smaller and lighter than a K frame.

For whatever reason, the SP101 never caught on, and the longevity & Market desirability of the LCRs are still
in question. Charter Arms owners remain loyal and have really never fallen out of love with any of their snub 38s
even after the revolvers break. Taurus doesn't say their revolvers work. Tarsus promises to fix.

The few shooters that I've know who became very good using a snub had a few qualities in common. First, they wore out
more than one J frame. The owners simply sent them back to the factory for overhaul without complain or scorn in much
the same they sent their early 1970s automobiles in for a oil change. They just purchased a duplicate S&W revolver
during the periodic maintenance schedule. Secondly, for their primary carry snub, they carried a 6 shot Colt Detective Special.

These men had easy access to shooting range facilities and used them often. They used the same ammo for practice as they
did for carry: 158 grain standard pressure round nose or semi wadcutter ammo. No doubt the Colts needed overhaul as well.
The owners carried the S&Ws for business and packed the Colts for other reasons.

[Fatcat]

If you’re willing to up your budget, I’d consider the Kimber K6 models. I shot a Kimber K6 and felt the trigger was excellent for a stock revolver. They make a 3” model which I would go for. But it doesn’t have a full length ejector rod. Can’t have every thing.

A new model S&W 66-7 (?) w/ 2 3/4” barrel is a bigger gun for about the same $$$. Triggers are horrendous and need to be worked over (more $$$).

[axhoaxho]

[jstert]

taurus 85 5-shot or 856 6-shot. steel to absorb recoil. hammer for single & double action shooting. lifetime warranty. inexpensive and reliable.


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[AFTII]

Well, there is the 642's cousin the 442. I had a 442 on my CCW. I replaced it with a 640 Pro. While I do not own one, I agree that the Kimbers have a better DA trigger than the J-frame Smiths - even if the Smiths have an Apex duty kit installed. I'd definitely take a look at the Kimber if I was in your position.

[MissiontoMars]

hammerless is definitely what I'm leaning towards.

GP100's are AWEsome, but too heavy/big for what i'm looking for. Likely will be wearing shorts and t-shirts on these trips. I have a bigger wheelgun I could use - looking for a wee beasty.

[MissiontoMars]

Very nice! I'll have to check these out.

[MissiontoMars]

I like my S&W 638, all the benefits of a 642 (snag free) but I can still cock the hammer if I need to.

Just watched a Hickok45 review on these comparing them to the 642, very cool option I think.

[MissiontoMars]

Well, there is the 642's cousin the 442. I had a 442 on my CCW. I replaced it with a 640 Pro. While I do not own one, I agree that the Kimbers have a better DA trigger than the J-frame Smiths - even if the Smiths have an Apex duty kit installed. I'd definitely take a look at the Kimber if I was in your position.

Going to google the 442 and the 640 pro, not familiar with those. Thanks!

[bergmen]

Going to google the 442 and the 640 pro, not familiar with those. Thanks!

Wife has a 642, I have a 442 (also an LCR with laser). I absolutely love the 442 and the 642 is my wife's favorite.

The Airweights (442, 642) are lightweight, comfortable in the hand (I put a full size Hogue grip on mine since I don't like a dangling pinky, it doesn't get in the way of concealability) and quite accurate. A real joy to shoot so I practice regularly.

In the warmer months I wear shorts and T-shirts as well. The 442 drops into my right front pocket using a simple pocket holster. Very comfortable.

Dan

[Title1guy]

I would recommend that you check out a used S&W M&P 340 stainless cylinder (13 oz) or 340PD titanium cylinder (11.4oz). You will not want to shoot .357 magnums out of them, which is why you can generally find them used in excellent shape; but you will find them to be the best carry snubs around. You can immobilize or delete and plug the lock in them (some come without the lock), and add an Apex trigger kit to reduce the trigger weight. Add a CT 405LG grip for laser and recoil management, if desired. The 340 PD with the CT grips loaded is around an ounce more of weight of an LCP with a 7-round mag loaded. Once you carry one, you will be spoiled for lightweight, pocket carry of a snub. Good luck.