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Old 01-06-2012, 07:10 PM
Ron In MD Ron In MD is offline
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Default .45 ACP revolver as a carry gun?

OK, you guys have guessed it by now by the threads that I've been posting that I'm new to CC. Although I live in the not so free (or great state) of maryland I am going to get a non resident Utah and maybe Florida carry permit. Only because as I get older I realize I'm not as strong as I once was and am slowing down due to physical limitations. And knowing how thugs prey on older people I won't be a victim if I can help it. The wife and I travel a lot out of state and I/we will feel safer knowing that we are legally armed.

Now to my question:

Does anyone carry a .45 ACP Revolver as their primary carry gun? I've not seen one yet, but are they as big as an N frame 29/629?

Last edited by Ron In MD; 01-06-2012 at 07:11 PM. Reason: error
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Old 01-06-2012, 07:18 PM
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Sure. I like N-frame six-shooters, and .45ACP is a great round. Look at a fixed-sight 4" gun for carry. (smaller if possible)
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Old 01-06-2012, 07:24 PM
Double-O-Dave Double-O-Dave is offline
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Ron:

An N-framed S&W in any caliber is a big piece. I've been carrying concealed on a regular basis for several years now. While I was waiting for my CHL to arrive, my plan was to carry either my Model 625 (.45ACP) with 4.0 inch barrel, or my H&K P-7 (9mm), or either my Model 66 (.357 Magnum) with 2.5 inch barrel, or...in other words, a medium to large frame sidearm. I started amassing a collection of holsters and cover garments to accommodate my armory. The only "pocket gun" I owned at the time was a Seecamp (.32ACP). Shortly before the CHL arrived, I acquired a Model 642 (.38 Special) with the 2.0 inch barrel. To my great surprise, the weapon I found I carried the most was the 642. I don't think this will change in the future as I've really grown comfortable packing a J-frame in my strong side pocket, and either a Seecamp or another J-frame in the off-side pocket. When I posted a thread here asking other forum members for their advice for a good holster for an N-frame, before I saw the light, one member wrote that he respected me for wanting to carry a "cannon". I cannot shoot a .45ACP semi-auto anymore. If I felt the need to "carry heavy", I'm glad I have the 625. Carrying it concealed would definitely take getting used to.

Best of luck,

Dave
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Old 01-06-2012, 07:35 PM
Ron In MD Ron In MD is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Double-O-Dave View Post
Ron:

An N-framed S&W in any caliber is a big piece. I've been carrying concealed on a regular basis for several years now. While I was waiting for my CHL to arrive, my plan was to carry either my Model 625 (.45ACP) with 4.0 inch barrel, or my H&K P-7 (9mm), or either my Model 66 (.357 Magnum) with 2.5 inch barrel, or...in other words, a medium to large frame sidearm. I started amassing a collection of holsters and cover garments to accommodate my armory. The only "pocket gun" I owned at the time was a Seecamp (.32ACP). Shortly before the CHL arrived, I acquired a Model 642 (.38 Special) with the 2.0 inch barrel. To my great surprise, the weapon I found I carried the most was the 642. I don't think this will change in the future as I've really grown comfortable packing a J-frame in my strong side pocket, and either a Seecamp or another J-frame in the off-side pocket. When I posted a thread here asking other forum members for their advice for a good holster for an N-frame, before I saw the light, one member wrote that he respected me for wanting to carry a "cannon". I cannot shoot a .45ACP semi-auto anymore. If I felt the need to "carry heavy", I'm glad I have the 625. Carrying it concealed would definitely take getting used to.

Best of luck,

Dave
The 642 is on my list of guns to look at as is the 649 only because it's all SS. I'd probably mostly shoot .38+P in it but would have the option 0f .357 IF needed.

Why can't you shoot a .45ACP anymore may I ask?
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Old 01-06-2012, 07:55 PM
Double-O-Dave Double-O-Dave is offline
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Hi Ron:

I suffered injuries to my wrists that cause them to "unlock" under the recoil of a .45ACP semi-auto which results in my "weak wristing" the piece and causes an FTE (failure-to-extract). This is in the 1911 pattern semi-auto, and I really should try a 3rd Generation S&W one day to see if that could be an issue for me there. Experience and experimentation has shown that the largest caliber semi-auto I can fire competently and without causing FTEs is .40S&W - which for me, is plenty good medicine especially in the 180gr. loadings. I can and still use a .45ACP revolver without problems, and the .45ACP is one of my favorite calibers. Shortly after I got my 625 I was firing it at the range. An older gentleman stood by and watched me shoot for a while, and then asked me: "What kind of gun is that?" When I told him what it was, he asked: "Why in the world do you want to carry something like that?" My response was: "Well sir, a .44 is a little small, and they don't make a .46" I don't think he cared for my humor, as he packed up and left.

Best of luck,

Dave
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Old 01-06-2012, 08:05 PM
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All N frames are the same size. The problems
with N frames are size and weight. A good
holster and BELT will take of that. For ccw a
short barrel helps, but after a few hours you may get real tired of the weight or not. One of my carry guns is a 325PD Airlite Sc 2-3/4''
barrel 21.5oz. Great carry piece and I saw one for sale in the classifieds last week. The other one I like is a 325NG. Remember if it's uncomfortable to carry, it will be in the safe when you need it. Some people can carry an all steel N frame all day long with no problems, I don't like to. The older I get, the lighter my carry guns get. My other 45acp
carry is a Kahr PM45-sweet

Last edited by fisco; 01-06-2012 at 08:11 PM.
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Old 01-06-2012, 08:19 PM
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Default Yes, and Yes.

I often carry a .45 acp revolver, a S&W M325 Night Guard -



It has a Scandium Alloy Frame with a Stainless Steel Cylinder; weighing in at 28 onces, unloaded.

With a good belt and holster, such as the holster made by Lobo Gun Leather (Lobo Gun Leather - Home) in the above photo, it is pretty easy to conceal.

Note though that I more often carry either a S&W M642 .38 spl J frame, or a Kahr Arms PM9 9mm.

All the S&W .45 acp revolvers are the big N frames to my knowledge.
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Old 01-06-2012, 08:30 PM
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2007 M25-14 Lew Horton .45acp 3" barrel, simply rugged sourdough pancake worn OWB. It does have a lock, but have not had an issue with 300 or so rounds fired though it.

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Old 01-06-2012, 08:43 PM
P&R Fan P&R Fan is offline
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I am right now wearing the exact holster that ASA335 shows above from Lobo. I have worn it most of the day with a 4" M28-2 in it. In total comfort I might add.
I am wearing a sweatshirt, so concealment is not a problem. If you have a good belt, and a bit of room in your britches it is very simple. Try it, and I'm sure you will agree.
Jim
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Old 01-06-2012, 10:19 PM
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Default N frame for carry.

My carry is normally a Model 21 44 special or one of my Lew Horton 3" 44 magnums.
I have two model 21s. One is the Thunder Ranch the other is the run without the logo. They shoot to point of aim. I like the fixed sights. Much lighter than the 29/629 Lew Hortons.
I think you should consider a Model 21 in 44 special. I like the 45 acp in autos but I am not a fan of the moon clips. HKS speed loaders are a better way to go and I think the 44 special is one of the best and most accurate calibers.
My model 21s have the lock, never had a problem. I only shoot quality American ammo (Winchester, Federal, Remington etc). I have never had a problem with the lock. These are the only S&Ws I own that have a lock.
I have 3 different Kramer holsters for them, crossdraw, belt scabbard with FBI tilt and a vertical scabbard. We the proper holster you should have no problem with a N frame.
I never feel under gunned with a n frame revolver. I also always carry a S&W 640 as a bug (no lock).
All my S&W except for one have Kim Ahrends grips. They fit my hands best.

Last edited by zzclancy; 01-06-2012 at 10:32 PM. Reason: add more info
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Old 01-07-2012, 02:08 AM
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I've carried my 625 PC using a Galco Summer Comfort IWB and an El Paso Saddlery OWB with success. On a lark I've even experimented with my Model 22 (1917 reissue) with a 5.5 inch barrel, which worked for me I just haven't found the right holster yet. I've always carried a K frame Model 19 or 10 with a 4 inch barrel or a full size 1911 with no problems. In my opinion finding the right belt/holster and buying quality is the key.
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Old 01-08-2012, 12:50 PM
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The only time I carry my N-frame is jacket weather. I do it just because I can. They are big and heavy even in the lightweight models. Love them but for EDC it's a no go for me.

I use a J frame mod 60 357 with a 3 inch barrel for belt work and a mod 638 with C/T lasers for pocket work.
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Old 01-08-2012, 09:23 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ASA335 View Post
I often carry a .45 acp revolver, a S&W M325 Night Guard -



It has a Scandium Alloy Frame with a Stainless Steel Cylinder; weighing in at 28 onces, unloaded.

With a good belt and holster, such as the holster made by Lobo Gun Leather (Lobo Gun Leather - Home) in the above photo, it is pretty easy to conceal.

Note though that I more often carry either a S&W M642 .38 spl J frame, or a Kahr Arms PM9 9mm.

All the S&W .45 acp revolvers are the big N frames to my knowledge.
I'd like to get that same holster... What model is that on his website?
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Old 01-08-2012, 10:52 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ride View Post
I'd like to get that same holster... What model is that on his website?
1-SL pancake snap loop
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Old 01-11-2012, 10:14 AM
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I carry both a Power Custom Combat 625 in 3" as well as a 310 Night Guard, which is the 10mm/40 S&W version of the 45acp 325 Night Guard. I conceal carry the 310 Night Guard all the time. It is light weight, and carrys well. I carry the 625 in a Lobo Model 1 Pancake with optional Inner Hammer shield, as well as being detail boned. I carry the 310 in the Enhanced Pancake set up the same way. If I drop in size I go to either my LCR 357 with XS 24/7 Tritium front sight, or my S&W 638.

If you decide on a 45 acp revolver, I am sure the 325 Night Guard would make you a very good concealed carry handgun. The Night Guard Series have app. 2-1/2" barrels. The front sight is an XS 24/7 Tritium night sight. The rear sight is a Cylinder & Slide Extreme Duty with the correct size trough for the front sight.

I am very happy with my 310 Night Guard.

Bob
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Old 01-11-2012, 10:57 AM
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I think the .45 ACP is a great round for self defense. I have carried a 1911 for many years. I think the 1911 is probably one of the easiest handguns to conceal. However, I found myself getting tired of carrying around all of that weight. Just this past month, I bought a Pro Series 640, 2" barrel, along with a 2 slot open top Looper holster. I think this is probably one of the best moves I have made in CC. Extremely easy to conceal. Stay with a very good gun belt and no more sagging belt lines. I hardly even notice it is there. Chambered in .357 magnum if you feel the need for going "heavy". I am keeping this one loaded with .38 sp +P. Cut for moon clips which makes for easier reloads. Tritium night sights, front and rear.
Good luck on your search and have fun exploring all of your options.
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Old 01-19-2012, 08:04 AM
Ron In MD Ron In MD is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by StanNm19 View Post
I think the .45 ACP is a great round for self defense. I have carried a 1911 for many years. I think the 1911 is probably one of the easiest handguns to conceal. However, I found myself getting tired of carrying around all of that weight. Just this past month, I bought a Pro Series 640, 2" barrel, along with a 2 slot open top Looper holster. I think this is probably one of the best moves I have made in CC. Extremely easy to conceal. Stay with a very good gun belt and no more sagging belt lines. I hardly even notice it is there. Chambered in .357 magnum if you feel the need for going "heavy". I am keeping this one loaded with .38 sp +P. Cut for moon clips which makes for easier reloads. Tritium night sights, front and rear.
Good luck on your search and have fun exploring all of your options.

At this time I too opted for the 640 in 357, I like that it's all steel.

But a .45 is still in my future, semi auto or revolver? I like the look of the Colt New Agent but haven't had one in hand yet to see how the grip fits my hand.
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Old 01-19-2012, 09:23 AM
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Ron,
I know Very few folks that carry a N frame for their CC gun.
( actually I can only think of one)
Personally I carry a 2 " M-60 J frame most of the time. It weights just a little more than my M-642. Which I don't seem to notice much when I carry it on my belt ( not pocket carry) .
Plus I like the feel and seem to be more accurate with the 60.
Big heavy guns feel like carrying a brick towards the end of the day...
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Old 01-19-2012, 09:44 AM
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From time to time I'll carry this 325PD:



and I have carried my 1917 Brazilian; I am still looking for a holster that I can use with my 25-12:

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Old 01-19-2012, 12:37 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Ron In MD View Post
At this time I too opted for the 640 in 357, I like that it's all steel.

But a .45 is still in my future, semi auto or revolver? I like the look of the Colt New Agent but haven't had one in hand yet to see how the grip fits my hand.
Great choice Ron. I carry my 640-1 more than any of my others. That said, I do bring along a 45acp revolver when the mood hits, and the weather permits. One of these two.


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Old 01-19-2012, 04:17 PM
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Are you saying that Maryland will recognize out-of-state permits even though you are a MD resident?
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Old 01-19-2012, 04:48 PM
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from what I understand the smith version of the M1917 is the version to go for if you've got a thing for the original .45 acp revolver

S&W Model 1917 45acp WWI Revolver - YouTube

as the colts are actually not as nice nor as well made as the smith version

and theres some some brazilian contract ones out there that are dirt cheap yet were still made by smith and wesson at about the same time roughly and thus are the exact same gun as the american ones for about half the price

the other one would be the N frame 1955 target model, the model 25 and its derivatives and I believe theres a few companies out there like charter arms that still make revolvers in .45 acp

one thing though these guns require moonclips for the most part so just like a carry semi auto I would have two sets of magazines/clips, one for carry that you hardly use and take good care of and another for practice as the practice bit is what wears out magazines, not keeping them loaded and never using them and ditto for moonclips.

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Old 01-06-2013, 09:12 PM
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The 325 NG is discontinued, but budsgunshop.com has them in stock for $880
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Old 01-06-2013, 10:48 PM
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Are you saying that Maryland will recognize out-of-state permits even though you are a MD resident?
Oldfed,No MD will not honor the permit,however some other states will.
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Old 01-07-2013, 08:14 PM
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Default Weak wrists

Quote:
Originally Posted by Double-O-Dave View Post
Hi Ron:

I suffered injuries to my wrists that cause them to "unlock" under the recoil of a .45ACP semi-auto which results in my "weak wristing" the piece and causes an FTE (failure-to-extract).{snip}
Years ago I had a CS45 which had persistent stove-pipe jams for me, but none of the guys I had try it. I was holding it as rigidly as I could and the jams persisted.

Then I realized maybe part of it was that the guys I had trying it had wrists about as big as my ankles. I eventually traded it for a beautiful model 1955 25-2, which is a real tack driver and never jams. 8-) Not exactly concealable, so I've been making do with a teensy Kel-tek P32. Not much power, but VERY easy to conceal.

I've never had a problem with a 1911 jamming, and my CZ97 works just fine thank you. But, these are all two-pound plus pistols and I'm not nearly big enough to conceal one except in a purse.

Now, I'm thinking about getting a subcompact 9mm for something more feasible to practice with than my .32 mouse gun, and wonder if that might not be a problem with these too.

Any small-framed ladies out there shooting M&P Shields or smaller guns?

I hope this doesn't count as a thread hijack.
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Old 01-07-2013, 08:47 PM
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I carry a 325 PD in 45 ACP with an action job and a pair of Badger Grips

In his pic it is shown with a Galco Combat Master Holster







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Old 01-08-2013, 03:11 PM
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I had a 325 Night Guard that hid well in a Sparks Versa Max II. However, there was just no practical way for me to hide a couple of spare moon clips. I now carry a Glock 30 and a spare magazine with much more ease and convenience. The Night Guard went away.
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Old 01-08-2013, 06:53 PM
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I stopped in here today to inquire about carrying a .45 revolver and what do I find????

A great thread with most of my questions answered.
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Old 01-08-2013, 11:06 PM
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I do not even own a holster for any of my N Frames. I have on a RARE occasion carried my L Frame into the woods but those times can be counted on one hand. The only guns I routinely carry are my M60-7, M65, M63. Once in a blue I will carry a Colt 1911 but that's usually when I intend on actually shooting it at the Range. The N's are just too big and heavy IMHO. If I used a Handgun for Hunting that would be a different story.

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Old 01-09-2013, 01:47 PM
MaximumLawman MaximumLawman is offline
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Too big. Get a smaller caliber revolver or a semi-auto if you're going to carry .45 acp. I have cc holsters for my 3" 29 and 4" 625 and never use them. I should probably sell them....I thought I'd like carrying my 29 around....But I hated it and usually revert to my 649...Sometimes my Glock 27 or Colt Officer's .45 but not often.

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Old 01-09-2013, 03:14 PM
JParanee JParanee is offline
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The exotic materialed versions carry very well do to there light weight
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Old 01-09-2013, 08:34 PM
Double-O-Dave Double-O-Dave is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Janet L. View Post

Any small-framed ladies out there shooting M&P Shields or smaller guns?

I hope this doesn't count as a thread hijack.
Janet L.:

I'm not a small-framed lady, I'm a short, stocky guy, but I've had a number of injuries to my back, neck and both arms that don't leave me in the "he-man" department anymore. While I don't have any experience with Shield, I do have a M&P 40C (compact) that I also have a 9mm barrel and magazines for. It is not a pocket pistol, but it conceals nicely in a coat pocket or in a shoulder holster (I definitely need a cover garment with this). I've included a photo of it alongside my Model 60-7 to give you an idea of its size. I've added Crimson Trace laser grips and Tru Glo combination fiber optic and night sights to the 40C as well as a S&W Micro-90 flashlight to make it my nightstand pistol.

Best of luck,

Dave
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Old 05-01-2013, 03:03 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ASA335 View Post
I often carry a .45 acp revolver, a S&W M325 Night Guard -



It has a Scandium Alloy Frame with a Stainless Steel Cylinder; weighing in at 28 onces, unloaded.

With a good belt and holster, such as the holster made by Lobo Gun Leather (Lobo Gun Leather - Home) in the above photo, it is pretty easy to conceal.

Note though that I more often carry either a S&W M642 .38 spl J frame, or a Kahr Arms PM9 9mm.

All the S&W .45 acp revolvers are the big N frames to my knowledge.
Looking at S&W website seems like they stopped production of the .45acp nightguard. Any idea why?
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Old 05-01-2013, 03:45 PM
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I like the idea till ya get to the cylinder.
You could wax coat an N frame cylinder and lay up epoxy fiberglass on it, using it as a form, to make a life time supply of trash cans for around the home and shop.
Honestly, thats the only reason I rotated my N frames out of CCW service in favor of autos.
They are, however, part of the HD strategy as well as car guns.
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Old 05-01-2013, 11:26 PM
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Quote:
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Looking at S&W website seems like they stopped production of the .45acp nightguard. Any idea why?
No idea. Looks like they've dropped the whole Nightguard line from the current catalog.
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Old 05-02-2013, 05:49 PM
jdf1966 jdf1966 is offline
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K-T PF-9, has a good hold & is easy CC
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Old 05-02-2013, 05:54 PM
ohiobuckeye ohiobuckeye is offline
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Ron, I too am old, set in my ways, and prefer to carry a caliber that begins with 4. When S&W came out with the model 696 L frame 3 inch 44 spl., I jumped right on it and love it. It's somewhat smaller than the N frames but still packs a punch with Winchester silver tips.
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Old 05-02-2013, 06:11 PM
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Although all N frames are big they're not as big as a Redhawk? I own and shoot .45 ACPs in both revolvers and semiautos but, my choise for CC would be my 27-2 with 3 & 1/2" barrel with service grips and grip adapter.
Steve
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Old 05-02-2013, 10:18 PM
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I used ot have a lovely 4" "Model of 1989" that I foolishly let go. If I had it today, damn right I'd carry it.

But then again...if I ever get that Colt SAA (now that US Firearms is defunct) I'd happily carry a 4 3/4 .45 Colt....
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Old 05-03-2013, 10:38 AM
PC HOTROD PC HOTROD is offline
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I carry a 325 PD Scandium / Titanium daily in a Galco Holster. It can be well concealed and is light enough. The 325 PD can be found for sale but in most cases, it will be used and from $800.00 and up. Unloaded the 325 PD is about 21 oz.
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Old 05-03-2013, 01:07 PM
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I wish Smith and Wesson would manufacture a 5 shot,45 acp, 2 inch barreled, fixed sighted, revolver along the lines of the discontinued Taurus model 455. If it was in a light weight frame that would be nice but I would take one any way they chose to make it. The 5 shot 455 is only slightly larger than a J frame but not near as large as a N frame.

I'm thinking there is a market for this. Big bore snubbies in 45 acp are very cool. I have a Taurus 455 , it's OK, but it is not a Smith & Wesson by any means.

Gary
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Old 05-03-2013, 02:59 PM
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Depending on the weather etc I would carry an N frame. Most of the time I am dressed in such a manner that pocket carry of my G33 is the best choice.
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Old 05-03-2013, 06:40 PM
A.T.Bowen A.T.Bowen is offline
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Default .45 ACP revolver carry gun

Many law enforcement officers carried cut down N frame revolvers in the 20's and 30's particularly in the Southwest. I also know one Cowboy Action Shooter who has a 3 inch SAA w/birds head grip as his civilian carry gun. Rather than butcher a Classic N frame, I would start with a S&W "Mountain Gun" in .45 ACP. Mine has a short barrel and birds head grip, fixed sights and shoots like a dream. The stainless finish holds up well carried next to the body.
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Old 05-03-2013, 10:55 PM
warrior2442 warrior2442 is offline
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For those looking for a different way to carry extra rounds, consider a 2x2x2 pouch, using 2 round clips to pair up rounds in the pouch. Ray @ Lobo makes some nice ones. They keep close to the body, easy to conceal, and just look like a horizontal cell phone pouch anyway. Using 2 round clips keeps it easy to top off should you need to, 2 rounds at a time, reloads are fairly quick.

Full moonclips are great for the range, but you can bend them if you toss them in your pocket (not super likely, but it can happen). Also, should you ever need to use the firearm (hopefully not), given the low round count, it's easy(er) to top off if you've got it loaded with 2 rd clips or 45 auto RIM, then have 2 clipped ready to go in a pouch.

I have a 325 Night Guard as well. My understanding is they were discontinued because of lack of interest due to high cost to manufacture and subsequent final selling price vs. what customers were willing to spend. They're great revolvers if you can find them. I love mine. I put dark rosewood S&W combat grips on it, and carry it in a OWB Lobo pancake holster (winter carry). It conceals well with a good pancake, and hugs the body fairly tight.

Oh, and I've also carried full moonclips in a remora single mag pouch. You can fit 2 full moonclips in one of those. Helps to protect the rounds and clip from being bent. Still not ideal, but it works (have also done this to just have a few extra rounds in a messenger bag or backpack).




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Old 05-04-2013, 12:35 AM
wry762 wry762 is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by JParanee View Post
I carry a 325 PD in 45 ACP with an action job and a pair of Badger Grips

In his pic it is shown with a Galco Combat Master Holster







Those are some great looking grips, but I don't see them on the Badger site - do you know if they're still made?

Thanks,

-Warren-
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Old 05-04-2013, 10:01 AM
Brian41 Brian41 is offline
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I've carried my 629 in three inch but it's a pretty heavy gun and gets tiring towards the end of the day. I've also carried my 325PD and it's hardly even noticed on my belt. I usually only carry it with a cover garment as they still are big and a little harder to conceal.
What I'd really like though is an L frame in .41 mag or .45 acp, probably one of each really.
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Old 05-12-2013, 09:28 PM
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I've carried a 325sc for years. I added the Crimson Trace laser grips. It makes a nice light weight package. Immediate action drill is as easy as pulling the trigger, and handles my reloads with out complaint.
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Old 05-17-2013, 07:36 PM
Ivan the Butcher Ivan the Butcher is offline
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I some times carry a 1917 (Brazilian contract) with smooth military grips and a Tyler T-Grip adapter. In warm weather, it's open carry around the farm. In cold weather the coats I wear will cover it. I'm looking at making full moon clip pouches based on the Galco design, where the moon clip/speed loader straddle the belt, I can do it in Kidex or leather. Or a combo, flash light/moon clip holder in Kidex. Ivan
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Old 05-18-2013, 08:27 AM
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CCW: S&W "N" frame .45acp w/4" barrel in a "Lobo" dual carry pancake holster. This holster allow "Strong Side" or "Cross Draw" carry
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Old 05-25-2013, 06:14 PM
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I've run the entire gambit I think, of what I've carried since getting my GA concealed carry permit years ago. And, in the beginning they were larger, and heavier handguns. Let's see . . .

1. S&W Model 65 revolver .357 (3" barrel version)
2. S&W Model 686 .357 4"
3. Colt Combat Elite .45 ACP (5" full size 1911, customized for competition, then later with tritium nightsights for carry)
4. S&W 25-2 in .45 ACP (3 1/4" custom shortened barrel)
5. Browning BDM Limited in 9mm (4 1/2 barreled auto, 15+1 cap.)

Eventually I realized that I wasn't carrying all the time when it was legal . . . because big steel handguns "print" and make it very hard to do so. THAT'S NOT GOOD, because trouble comes when you look the most vulnerable.

Thus I sold off the big Colt 1911 and bought a brand new (in early 2000) Kimber Custom Ultra CDP . . . a big dollar 3" officer's sized 1911 with aluminum frame. BOY, the weight difference was thus quite noticable!!! It also concealed much better so I began to carry much more often, and this was a revelation!

After shooting several years of handgun competition, and in all the various calibers, I learned that I did my very best shooting though with REVOLVERS. In my area I was virtually unbeatable in matches with my revolvers. It was then, based on time, accuracy, stress and performance that I changed what I carried.

The first thing I did was go "automatic carry-free" for a month. Boy, was THAT weird giving up extra rounds and easy to conceal extra magazines. I survived! LOL

Then I started carrying smaller sized revolvers than the N frame. Survived that too!

Finally, I bought my first J frame S&W . . . for my WIFE, but she didn't like it so I stuck it in MY pocket and was amazed. At 25 oz. or so it was as light as my Kimber Ultra CDP, yet easier to conceal. Also, it put the very first three rounds dead into a tiny 1" target, at ten yards (standing/unsupported)!!! I finally had a little "pocket rocket" in .38 Spl. that could be instantly be popped into my front pocket (in a pocket holster), and I started carrying virtually all the time!

BOTTOM LINE . . . WHAT GOOD IS A CCW LICENSE AND A BIG, HEAVY GUN IF THIS MEANS YOU CAN'T BE PACKING ALL THE TIME?!!!

The final step . . .

I next bought my wife a little Model 37 J-frame, a lightweight aluminum-framed revolver with a rarer 3" barrel. SHE LOVED IT, for it was light AND had a barrel long enough for her to shoot really well! I WAS STUNNED HOW LIGHT IT WAS IN THE POCKET, SO I GOT MY OWN (but with the snubbie barrel)!

TODAY, my ALWAYS (on me) concealed handgun is my Model 37 Airweight snubbie in .38 Special. Like all S&W revolvers, I can drive tacks with it but it weighs almost nothing. I can even pop it in my front pocket of exercise shorts to mow the lawn or run in the local convenience store.

Yep, my ALWAYS gun . . . the gun that will probably be the one to save my life if trouble shows up.

NOW WHEN I CAN WEAR OTHER GARMENTS TO CONCEAL A BIGGER GUN . . .
1. My 37 Airweight is STILL in my front pants pocket! But . . .
2. I MIGHT also strap on my big chopped barrel Model 25-2 in .45 ACP, or the 3" Model 65. But, if these are a tad too big to conceal with my wardrobe, I'll wear a Model 36 J frame on a belt holster to augment the Model 37.

Frankly though, I shoot the M37 better than most folks shoot big, long-barreled handguns and I feel quite well armed with just the Model 37.

BOTTOM LINE . . .

You are new to concealed carry so I'd expect you to do exactly like almost all of the rest of us have done . . . carry heavy guns with lots of punch and firepower first.

But, over time please don't be surprised if you move into lightweight handguns that are fast to put on and easy to conceal, for you'll soon begin to learn that there are many times you are out when the big, heavy guns get left behind.

Here's my preferred combo to carry today, and it includes one of the choices you're considering (a short-barreled N frame in .45ACP). Combine the big N frame with an Airweight J frame and you'll have a fantastic combination!



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