ccw revolver

[cbright1]

My wife has passed her 2nd interview for a ccw and is just waiting while they do the background check. Because she has a documented threat, the sheriff told her is was a slam dunk. She already owns a M&P Shield, but she feels that her normal daily dress is a skirt and top, so she doesn't think she would ever be holstering. She feels that in the event she needs to defend herself, it would most likely be a "through the purse" shot. Since Semi-autos don't do well in a purse due to jamming and limp wristing, we were thinking about a hammerless, lightweight revolver. I have never owned a revolver so I really don't know what to look for, or of any "stay away from this model". I am asking for recommendations, and if the ladies out there that are maybe doing the same thing, please pipe in with your thoughts.

[brianm767]

S&W 442 642 cant beet it, also we just picked up a Ruger LCR, and honestly, hard as it is to admit, we seem to like the Ruger better, much lighter trigger pull, better grips out of the box.

Taurus revolvers have had some issues with cylanders locking up, as well as others, but the shop i buy from had two new out of the box Taurus model 85's lock up on them.

I would look for a S&W 442 Blue, 642 Stainless or Taurus LCR, probaly the most popular carry revolvers out there, S&W also makes the .38 bodyguard, I have no experiance with it, but probably a fine gun as well.

[kygen]

I like my S&W 442, putting it on my application in case I get accepted. But make sure she gets one that is +P rated, so she doesn't limit herself to normal target loads.

[heidad01]

Ruger sp101 with 2" bbl.

[dfletcher]

My wife has passed her 2nd interview for a ccw and is just waiting while they do the background check. Because she has a documented threat, the sheriff told her is was a slam dunk. She already owns a M&P Shield, but she feels that her normal daily dress is a skirt and top, so she doesn't think she would ever be holstering. She feels that in the event she needs to defend herself, it would most likely be a "through the purse" shot. Since Semi-autos don't do well in a purse due to jamming and limp wristing, we were thinking about a hammerless, lightweight revolver. I have never owned a revolver so I really don't know what to look for, or of any "stay away from this model". I am asking for recommendations, and if the ladies out there that are maybe doing the same thing, please pipe in with your thoughts.

The 2" J framed Smith alloy with concealed hammer will work well. The Model 38 has a concealed but not fully enclosed hammer like the 442. I have the all steel version (Model 49) and my only gripe is that the slot between the frames gets a bit dusty. I suppose in a woman's purse something could get caught, so perhaps the fully concealed hammer is best.

I would tend to stay away from Taurus, Rossi, Charter Arms. Their guns are OK but QC is spotty. Ruger makes great guns, I have a few to include the SP101. But it's too heavy. Their LCR with concealed hammer would be a good choice and it comes in a variety of calibers - 22 WMR to 357 IIRC.

[SkyHawk]

I'd go Ruger LCR in .357 if weight is a concern and shooting comfort is not. If shooting comfort is of some concern and weight less so, then SP101 .357 with 2.25" bbl. The LCR in 9mm will hopefully be added to the roster soon which may be handy if you already own 9mm pistols. Any small S&W revolver would also be a solid choice.

Consider carrying 110grain or 130grain .38 +P defense ammo, like PDX1 or Ranger bonded. Also look at the Speer Gold Dot short barrel specific ammo. If she is very (very) comfortable shooting, then go ahead and load it up with .357 Mag but in a lightweight snub it is a hell of a ride.

[44fred]

I have a Smith 340PD that is with me during my work week. I couldn't think of a better option.

[sealocan]

smith 442(black) 642 (silver) it is the same gun design or Ruger LCR.

[GW]

Just go hammerless with whatever you choose.
Less likely to catch on things when she draws.
I vote 442

[flyerq68]

My wife has carried a Colt Agent 38 special for years in an ankle holster. It has worked well for her but it does have a hammer.

[farmerjoe]

Hammerless S&W J-Frame.

[desertjosh]

Ruger LCR. I have the .357. Awesome gun. Great trigger, good ergos (for a snub), and really accurate. I loaded up some wadcutters that are actually fun to shoot with it. .357 is a bit snappy however lol

[ZirconJohn]

I have a Smith 340PD that is with me during my work week. I couldn't think of a better option.

This is what I carry; the SW 340PD -- It's very lightweight, only 12 oz. unloaded. This model is rated for .357 magnum - However, because It is a titanium cylinder... very expensive.

The SW 442 is about half the price of the 340PD and is rated for +P .38 spl. Very powerful, more than you need really. Besides, it's a blow-out -- may as well just load standard .38's -- This is a great gun.

[44fred]

Yes they are pricy.
I was lucky and found one with only 5 rounds through it for $500. A LGS sold it to the original owner with a box of 357 shells. Less than an hour after the guy picked it up, he returned it along with 45 unspent cartridges.
Ten minutes later I called looking for a used 340PD, well.......

[Dvrjon]

30-some year old S&W 649-2 wanders around with me on many occasions.

.38 Special is enough for the short barrels and close work. Heavier loads don't have time to burn to maximize performance. This creates a greater muzzle blast to go along with a louder report and greater recoil.

That's why guys like 44fred stumble into deals.