Why Aren't There More Small Frame 6 Shot Revolvers?

[Old Fuff]

I wish Smith & Wesson could change the lookwork up slightly to have the cylinder stop offset like on the Colt DA in order to fit 6 rounds of .38 special in a smaller gun than the K-frame.

That might require more then a "slight change," and they would have to inventory 2 different small frames. Right now I suspect that 5-shot/.38 and .357 Magnum sales are strong enough "as is," and an additional 6-shot version wouldn't add substantially to it.

From a manufacturer's point of view the market is rapidly shifting toward polymer frame/striker fired/compact and sub-compact pistols. They may not be everyone's cup of tea, but they are more profitable for the manufacturer then more-expensive-to-make revolvers.

In the highly unlikely event that sales of their small frame/5-shot snubbies should slacken they might reconsider the 6-shot option, but I doubt it.

Historically, S&W .38 pocket revolvers' have been 5-shooters, going well back into the 1800's.

 

[Edarnold]

A vote for the Colt Detective Special and Agent. My wife's Agent, with Pachmyr grips, is the finest example of a snubby .38 Special revolver I've owned. In particular, the double-action lock work feels like a miniature Python, as compared with the fairly rough pulls of the typical J-frame. As far as durability, Colt's policy was that the "new" Agent was good for +P loads, though after 5,000 rounds of such the gun might loosen up and require service. Anyone firing 5,000 +P loads through this 12ounce revolver would be whole lot more into pain than is healthy.
As for the .357 chambering in guns of this class, it raises the question: " You can, but why? "

 

[ArchAngelCD]

FACT, Colt is having financial difficulties.
Since there is a market for the Colt D frame size 6 shot revolvers I think bringing back their small DA revolvers could really help them stay afloat. Of course they would have to bring us a quality product but IMO they would sell because of the allure of the Colt name. Once buyers take a close look at their guns again it just might create more interest for their other guns too.

I could be wrong, it's just me thinking out loud...

 

[sgt127]

As usual, Colt will consider this idea...research it...do a few round table discussions....have the engineers do a feasibility study...ask marketing if its a good idea and the table it for several years until a few other companies come out with the same thing.

They will then come out with a cheesy version that's overpriced and that gets a lukewarm response.

 

[Drail]

That's a fairly accurate description of how Colt has been doing business since WW II. My preference for a small compact revolver have always been a J frame S&W or a Charter Bulldog. If you're willing to go with 5 rounds may as well make them big ones. I've been packing an old Charter Bulldog since 87. I still like it very much. Using a 5 shot revolver WILL make you count your rounds diligently and concentrate hard on getting good solid hits.