WOULD have bought a J frame S&W today

[Nick96]

I'd pretty much decieded to treated myself to buying a light weight J frame S&W. My travels took me to an out of town gun shop where most all handguns are reasonably priced - and if they had what I wanted, I would have bought it. I've been thinking some time about getting an alloy frame S&W J frame (enclosed striker or shrouded hammer model - leaning more to the ugly, hump back shrouded hammer model) - in .38 Spl only (no interest in the .357's or other calibers). But alas, they didn't have one in the display case - so I walked on by.

For about a decade now, I've carried a 2.25" Ruger SP 101 .357. I've been very satisfied with it, and have complete confidence that it will perform as I expect if needed. But as I age, and am prone to avoid situations where maximum "sledge down" power is really needed. I've been hearing the siren's song of something lighter, a bit more compact to carry around, but still with a reasonable degree of "knock out" power.

Anything heavier than about 16 ounces is out (might as well stick with the power & performance of the SP101). The Kel-Tec's are appealing - but no auto has performed as reliably as a revolver for me - so they are pretty much out - and KT performance seems a bit spotty from what I've read.

So I guess my real question is - who amoung you have reached that station in life where a personal protection handgun is still desireable, but you aren't really interested in the latest technoligy & maximum fire power instrument out there. But rather, an adequate and reliable instrument that is convenient to carry around - and that you've decieded to to settle on for day in and day out use?

Some additional conditions - 16 ounces or less, completely (99%) reliable with any ammo of the caliber, small enough to fit in a pocket, power enough to effect 60%+ one shot stops, 3 " point of aim accurate to about 20 feet, at least 5 rounds and safe to carry ready to go with just a trigger pull.

 

[JNewell]

The J-frames are hard to beat for a light, compact, reliable carry. 642/442/342 (the last now discontinued) in +P are very adequate for their intended defensive purposes. In fact, the 640/940 are not out of bounds for pocket or similar carry if you are wearing a belt.

I like the Centennials because, for defensive purposes, I just don't see needing the SA option offered by the Bodyguard 38/638 models.

Add a couple of speedstrips or Comp 1 speedloaders for reloads (you must practice with these!) and you've covered probably any defensive situation that those of us on the other side of 40 who keep our situational awareness tuned to 'high' would ever need, at least as long as we're not on duty as an LEO.

 

[Airboss]

Don't know if I'm old enough

Don't know if I am old enough(58) but I'll give you what works for me.
My two "Go to the store guns" are a 649 38 spec and a 640 ported .357 When I run to out to the store,out for a quick lunch ect.I'll grab one of the two and a couple of speed loaders the 649/640 goes in my right pocket and the speed loaders in my left.If i have to make a trip to Houston or down to Beaumont I'll go ahead and either go for my 21/2"625 .45ACP or a 3".45 LC 625 in a good holster and belt either are confortable and work for me YMMV

 

[Nick96]

Airboss,

You're definetly old enough - and better still, you're a South Texas boy. You know what it's like to carry when it's 95 degrees and 90 % humidity. No problem this time of year - but come May to October - light garments are a must - not an option. Unfortunatally, the threat level goes up with the temperature & humidity. So you understand my delima.

 

[PX15]

J-frame Smith

If you insist on a a revolver I would recommend the J-Frame model 638.. It's the new "ugly" bodyguard with the nice target trigger and is a real step up in "shootablity" (if there is such a word) from the identical but older model 49 bodyguard. I have both, and the reason I purchased the new 638 is because I liked the model 49 so much but wasn't satisfied with the trigger action. I also have a set of CTC laser grips on the 638 and i think it makes the small revolver about as good it can get. I recommend to anyone who carries a J-frame to consider the Crimson Trace laser grips. They make a tremendous difference in ability for shot placement over the iron sights. Now, having made my suggestion, I have relegated my 638 to the closet for awhile as I purchased a KelTec P11 and I carry it now. More than twice the firepower in the same size and weight package. I have shot over 500 rounds thru the P11 and it has NEVER (knock on wood) failed to function properly with very good accuracy from 5-7 yards. It's not any more accurate than the 638, but is as accurate and 11 beats 5....... But, hey whatever floats your boat is the firearm to buy. I love automatics and revolvers. I don't know how much more reliable a pistol can be other than to go bang every time you pull the trigger. Both my S/W and my KelTec are great little weapons. JMHO

 

[FPrice]

Nick96...

Look here, just above your post.

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=68294

 

[tbeb]

I carry an old model Charter Arms Undercover .38 with 2" barrel. I carry it in a front pants pocket in a Mika pocket holster. Gun is the size of a S&W "J" frame, empty weight is 16 ounces, and it hold 5 rounds. You should be able to find a blue one in excellent condition for $150-$175. Holster made by Robert Mika cost me $15.00 one-year ago. I really like this combination.

 

[Airboss]

Summer time

You are right about the summers in our part of the world.
The 640 and the 649 get carried a lot more in the summer more because of ease of carry(ie.less clothes)
Carry the 640 with 125gr JHP and have been carrying the 649 with NiClads but may have to go to something else if I run out of them.
I don't feel under guned with either one.If I had to go with just one I think I would look for the 649 in .357 but I am happy with these two now.

 

[dinosaur]

I`m 58 also and I`m tired of heavy recoiling guns. I carried a Colt DS off duty & later on a S&W Model 10 3"RB.

Our summers aren`t as long or as hot as yours but it does get warm. In T shirt weather I carry a Kahr MK9 Elite IWB with an extra mag on my belt. The Colt is a good substitute but I just prefer the Kahr.

In the winter it`s a S&W Model 65 3" RB IWB or on the belt with a speed loader on the belt & another in my vest pocket all with .357 mag loads. I like a heavy all steel gun.

I could substitute my Model 27 with the 3 1/2" barrel but the 65 just right. Or I could carry my Browning BDM with 15 rounds of 9mm. Or I could......., well you get the idea.


Concealment is not a problem at all in the cold weather.

I`ve owned a couple of polymers and I don`t care for them.

For LEOs who carry 24/7 it`s pretty simple. You carry what`s authorized and as you get older towards retirement you start to pick and choose.

For someone who`s a new CCW holder it`s more trial and error. As you get older you do have more of a choice as a certain gun isn`t mandatory but then you need money.

If you find a gun that fits your hand, feels good and you can hit your target consistently I`d say stay with it. You can always save up and buy another.

Btw, besides getting older means not liking heavy recoil, one does start to ramble. :banghead:

 

[ceestand]

I think I've hit the mark a bit early (26), but I have no interest in carrying (or shooting for that matter) any magnum round.

I carry a S&W model 10 and a model 36. Somethimes together, sometimes seperately. I don't even feel a need to carry +P ammo. My guns are loaded up with Magtech 148gr SJHPs in the standard velocity. I figure the .38 has been killing bad guys dead for over a century now, I should be just fine with it. The fact that it's cheaper and more pleasant to shoot has me spending more time at the range practicing shot placement.

 

[Brian Williams]

I have to chime in with my vote for the centennial line of S&W, particularly the 940. With the capabilities of the 9mm round and a small solid package. I carry mine with Speer 124 gr +p's and 1 or 2 moonclips of reloads in my pocket and I am set togo most anywhere.

 

[Coltdriver]

I carry a Model 38.

The advantage to the hump back with the shrouded hammer is that you can cock it in your pocket and a pull of the trigger assures a round comes out of the barrel.

No issue with the cylinder or a hammer hanging up on clothes.

The 38 is very light, very manageable and effortless to carry.

 

[Greybeard]

51 here and began moving to the "lightweights" several years ago, due largely to desire of decent-caliber "always gun" and Texas weather. On-bod now is Kahr PM9. It starts out around your minimum of 16 ounces, but goes loaded with 6+1 at 19.4 ounces.

If the PM9 is not on me, a S&W 340 usually is. Yea, it's one of those "extreme" humpback .357s that starts out at 12 ounces. I promptly installed CT overmoulded grip and it does a far better job of taking the "bite" out of 357s than the little factory grips. But, the 340 can be of course be carried with .38s as well, which I've often done in at least the first 4 holes. Loaded with 125 grainers, it goes in the pants or ankle holster at only 15 ounces. Bianchi speed strip with 6 more carries flat in front pocket.

With this pair of lightweight "carry guns" and holsters for each, it typically does not take long to decide which one gets the "go" for the day. A little trigger work on the 340 got it to almost identical pull of what the PM9 had from the factory - fairly long, but smooth. PM9 chosen for today due to the fact that I needed to wear boots and jeans. With ankle holster, PM9 grip is a little less bulky than the CT grip on 340.

 

[VictorLouis]

..who amoung you have reached that station in life where a personal protection handgun is still desireable, but you aren't really interested in the latest technoligy & maximum fire power instrument out there. But rather, an adequate and reliable instrument that is convenient to carry around - and that you've decieded to to settle on for day in and day out use?

Doesn't that apply to pretty much ANY revolver carry?
That said, any J-frame is a fine choice in an EDC gun.

 

[Standing Wolf]

So I guess my real question is - who amoung you have reached that station in life where a personal protection handgun is still desireable, but you aren't really interested in the latest technoligy & maximum fire power instrument out there.

At 55, I've seen the latest and greatest come and go so many times, I've lost count. I'm sticking with a plain Jane .357 magnum J frame revolver—pre-agreement, of course—because a.) it's enough gun to get the job done with, and b.) I can still handle it. If the arthritis gets a lot worse, I may have to start loading it with .38 special ammunition.

 

[Stephen A. Camp]

Hello.

http://www.hipowersandhandguns.com/Snubnose.htm

Best.

 

[Nick96]

Well folks, the Moon, Planets & Stars must be in the right alignment - because I went and got a S&W 642-2 J frame .38 revolver. Summer is coming on here in south Texas - and the thought of lugging around my trusty (but heafty) 2.25" Ruger SP101 .357 through another hot & humid summer was too much.

Haven't shot it yet, but my expectations are purposely low. If I can point & hit a 3" diameter spot on a paper target at 7 yards consistantly - I'll be satisfied. The Ruger .357 SP101 gives me 3" diameter free hand DA groups at 15 yards with full house .357 loads - pretty darn good for a short barreled, small frame .357 (for me anyway). If the S&W J frame comes in at similar accuracy at 7 yards - I'll be satisfied.

A plus I've noticed with the S&W is the trigger pull is very similar to the Ruger (all be it the Ruger has 10 years of stout .38 & .357's run through it). Somewhat heavy (which I like) and smooth (which I really like). There is a prounounced hitch before let off, like the Ruger - but it's much lighter in the S&W (kind of sneaks up on you if cycling too fast). And there's going to be some getting used to not seeing that hammer rock back. But I'll adjust.

All in all, I think I'm going to like this light & compact little revolver. It's certainly more likely to accompany me in the hot & humid south Texas days of summer than my trusty Ruger SP101 .357.

For those of you that carry the S&W 642 (or similar "Airweight" J frame S&W's) - what loads do you like? I'm kind of "old school" and favor the 158 grain LSWHP +P .38. I'm used to shooting hard kicking, heavy blasting .357 small frame revolvers - so I'm open to any suggestions.

 

[denfoote]

Summertime carry

You are right about the summers in our part of the world.

Hey you, Texas boys!!
Come to Arizona right about mid July or August!!
Dewpoint temprature of 60 degrees (we don't screw around with relative humidity measurements) and a temp if 110!!!!
In times past, I carried a Kahr MK9 or a Glock 36, but this year it's gunna be my Taurus M650. I like the versitility of the magnum pistol. Rather than change guns, I can just change ammunition to meet the expected threat level: 357MAG or .38spl. I still go into areas where gangsign is prevalent, so want extra firepower!!!

 

[JERRY]

with a descent loading............... the taurus or s/w light weights are good guns.

i like the fact that my taurus ti 850 cia is light and powerfull enough with cor-bon loads... and the ported barrel makes it easy to shoot.

in cooler times, i can fire it til empty from inside a coat pocket. cant say that for a semi auto or an exposed revolver with absolute reliabilty.


while no where as quick to reload as a semi auto, it is more reliable as a pocket gun based on the revolver vs. semiauto argument that is older that i.


good luck with whatever you choose, its almost a no loose situation.

 

[fastbolt]

Well, I'm not retired yet ... only sneaking up on 51 next month ... but I hope to retire next year and enjoy a real life again.

In the meantime, after a reasonable number of years of lugging around all of the "full size" weapons I've been issued, and have privately purchased, I finally reached the point where lightweight and "ease of carry" ... especially in summer weather on my motorcycles ... have become an important consideration to me. Not all the time, but an increasing amount of time. Sometimes, I still naturally reach for a larger weapon ...

Now, I've owned a few steel framed J-frames, and still have a nice 649 .38 "semi-retired" in my safe ... AND I have a nicely modifed short-barreled SP-101 DAO, with a MagNaPort Quad-Ported barrel, which is VERY accurate and controllable with full power Magnum ammunition. Both of those guns just aren't "pocket guns", for me, and the SP-101 is especially more suited to a belt holster.

I finally quite trying to balance on the fence and ordered a 642-1 a few years ago. Now, I PRACTICE with it a lot. I mean, I spend a lot of range time with it ... along with shooting a 442 & 640, which are range "training guns" ... (When I'm lazy, and don't want to get my own gun dirty)

I also had to paint the front sight with some bright, neon orange sight paint, so I could "SEE" the sight alignment in varying light conditions. (I think the tritium front sight, or the Big Dot front sight, on a J-frame would be something I'd like to try ... but I'm satisfied with things as they are right now. Maybe someday ... In the meantime, I simply reapply the sight paint after successive cleanings.

I've always used the 158gr LSWCH +P, nowadays sometimes called the LHP +P ... although I've been experimenting again with the 125gr +P Gold Dot, and the 130gr +P SXT ... and I have several boxes of the new 135gr +P GD on order, so we can try them through several of our lightweight J-frames.

Yep, several of our agency instructors have, at one time or another, also "rediscovered" the inherent advantages of the Airweight guns, especially now that the latest models are produced so that they're rated for +P ammunition, or even .357 Magnum in many of the models. That's a bit too much for my tastes, however, and I didn't care for the 125gr .357's through a friend's new Sc/Ti J-frame.

Bodyguard versus Centennial? Do you still want the ability to thumb-cock the hammer? These guns are much more accurate than many folks would believe, or are willing to train to become proficient in taking advantage of ... but your choice of having an external hammer may be affected by your preference to retain the ability to fire a SA shot. Your choice ...

Personally, I've worked with my 642-1 toward being able to make "precision" (head) shots at reasonable distances ... 20-30 yards ... and still hit a standard size pepper popper with acceptable consistency at 50+ yards ... But, my primary focus is on reasonable accuracy at 3-11 yards. These small revolvers have some inherent "disadvantages" that make shooting them a bit more difficult, and so they require more practice and effort at developing and maintaining the relevant skills to effectively use them.

I think that devoting the time and effort to becoming proficient with them not only makes them a viable choice for many folks for lawful defensive carry purposes, but it can also potentially benefit some of our skills with larger weapons.

I've been doing a lot of practice which involves shooting my 642 at "small targets", requiring a reasonably high level of trigger control, sight alignment stability (SHORT sight radius), and a consistent grip. In plain talk, my target of choice has been small wooden clothespins on some of our cardboard & wooden framed target boards. (This can be done safely at our range ... although I'm NOT recommending this for anyone else. Check with your own range, rangemaster, RSO, etc. for permission ... Disclaimer done)

Recently, while engaged in some friendly competition with another instructor, I was able to hit 5 clothespins with 5 shots, at approx. 7 yards. Now, as I said, I've been spending a lot of range time working on my skills with the little snubguns, and this seems to indicate some level of success.

However ... yesterday, while I was helping one of my friends at work with his 1911 skills ... at one point I wanted to check the sights on his pistol, and not wanting to affect the bullseye target we were using for his training, I used a couple of clothespins on an adjacent back board which lacked a target. I fired 2 shots and watched 2 clothespins disappear, and then heard my friend's loud laughter from behind me. Oops ...

Fortunately, he realized I wasn't trying to show off or make him feel badly about his performance up to that point ... we were alone on the range ... but it also apparently removed the excuse of his "sights being off", and he happily knuckled down to business and reduced his groups from several inches down to a couple of inches. (We were shooting at both 7 & 10 yards, and I forget which distance I was at when I shot the clothespins).

My point is that until I'd started to focus on improving my skills with the harder-to-shoot 642 in the last couple of years, I wouldn't have been able to casually hit such small targets at even such close distances. Sure, I've noticed in recent months that I've been able to get past a personal "plateau", but it hadn't really struck me that one of the reasons for my improvement might have been the increased effort I'd been devoting to the snubguns. Hmmm ...

I might even get another couple of J-frames before I retire ... I wouldn't mind having one of the newer 649's, and may a spare 642 ...

 

[Standing Wolf]

The latest and greatest technology in firearms is often not only a complete waste of money, but a long step backward. No plastic for me. No super-duper special safety triggers. No loaded chamber and cocking indicators. I pack a pre-agreement Smith & Wesson model 60 because it works.

 

[Curley]

I bought a new S&W 337PD at a gun show last weekend and plan to take it to the range tomorrow. The thing that sold me on it -- other than a revolver's inherent reliability -- was the weight, only 10.65 ounces unloaded, probably a little over 13 ounces loaded. It feels like a toy.

I also have a Kel-Tec P3AT, which I often carry in a front pocket. It weighs about 10 ounces loaded and can be carried just about anywhere. I also keep a Kel-Tec P11 in the car. With the attached belt clip, I can slip it inside my waistband any time I need to, and it holds 11 rounds of 9mm. Weighs about 21 ounces loaded. (Plus, if it gets stolen, I'm only out $220, as opposed to $510 for the 337PD.)

But I wanted something in between the P3AT and P11. The 337PD fit the bill. I plan to carry it IWB. It's light enough and short enough that it won't bug me. I also like the SA/DA option.