J-Frame: New or Old?

[bratch]

I am seriously considering picking up a J-frame for an anywhere/pocket gun. I am currently looking into picking up a new 642. At $350 it seems like a decent deal. However lots of people are advocates of the older models.

1: Should I spend the time trying to track down a used revolver? I have no loyalties at this moment.

2: What should I look for in an older revolver? I've browsed the "Revolver Checkout" thread and am looking more for models and years type info.

3: Can the older guns hold up? I shoot weekely and would probably put about 50 rounds a trip through it.

4. Are they rated for +P ammo? This would probably be my carry ammo.

Any other advice you could give me would be great.

Thanks

 

[P5 Guy]

Many used guns are not really "used". Most that you will find have been sitting in draws or closets for years and have been fired very little. I feel that these "used" guns are great buys for some one that has a basic knowledge of firearms. As for J frame Smiths I would avoid the alloy ones for +P.

 

[Standing Wolf]

Many used guns are not really "used".

Yep. I've bought used guns that obviously hadn't had a hundred rounds' use. If you shop around and buy cautiously, you'll come out both dollars and quality ahead.

 

[Marshall]

Just kind of depends what you want, I like revolvers with exposed hammers, it's just my preference. If you want a DAO J Frame I thing the 642 is one of the best! If you want an older J Frame, a .38sp Chief Special Model 60 or Model 36 would be a nice find.

 

[JoeHatley]

The new ones are just fine.



Could be the perfect pocket gun. $350 is a good price. I paid $330 for this one, but that was just over a year ago.

Good Luck...

Joe

 

[deputy tom]

I paid $389.00 plus tax for my 642 approx. three yrs. ago. $350.00 sounds like a deal to me.tom.

 

[bratch]

Local Academy has them for 349.99 with the UM grips. Local gun store has them for 369.99 with what appears to be larger grips. I will probably drop the 20 spot so I can fondle it a Kel-Tec and a Kahr before any final choices.

Thanks guys

 

[Ala Dan]

My friend Marshall nailed it on the head; as any old Smith
model 36 or 60 in LNIB condition would be considered an excellent
find! As an example, in OCT. of '98 I found a 60 (.38 Special) for
$249.95; needless to say, it came home with me, and its one of
my "special purpose" weapons of choice.

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member

 

[Citadel99]

I picked up a 642 at a gunshop during it's Veteran's Day sale for $319! Love the pistol and ordered a pocket holster from Mika holsters.

Mark