Model 637 versus Ruger LCR

bitstream · #1 10-17-2010, 02:32 PM

I'm looking at getting my wife a revolver for her purse. She was with me at our LGS and really liked the Ruger LCR in her hand (she's very sensitive to the grip, but doesn't mind recoil, she shoots my .40 without complaint).

Today, I see in the Bass Pro Shops circular an ad for the Ruger for $479.99 and next to it is the S&W M637 for $429.94 (after the $50 rebate). The grip on the S&W is fairly similar, but what does the forum think? They're both 38 Special, etc. Other than the S&W warranty, what other reasons to go with the 637 over the LCR (or vise-versa)?

Another suggestion entirely?

Rule3 · #2 10-17-2010, 03:08 PM

Ruger will warranty their gun just like S&W will. They just do not publish it.

You are comparing apples and oranges. A SW metal revolver vs a a polymer revolver. For concealed carry the Ruger has the enclosed hammer and really nice trigger. Most BP shops have the darn trigger locks so you can not pull it and see how good it really is.

That being said, I had the Ruger and the only reason I sold it was I wanted another gun and have enough 38's. I honestly think the Ruger has a much better trigger even after changing the springs and polishing on my S&W. Having the nice smooth trigger it was more accurate and easy to shoot. The grip with the sorbathane padding really absorbs felt recoil.
IMO the Ruger is much nicer to shoot and think your wife would find so also. But it's plastic vs metal, it's nice though which one does she like?

If I had some money to burn I would get the new 357 version.

OH: and the internal lock on the Ruger (under the grip is a much simpler and I think a better design. Little to no chance of it "locking up" All it does is prevent the hammer strut from going down. Well designed.

Old cop · #3 10-17-2010, 03:20 PM

My preference would be for the S&W 637. Both are well built and will probably outlast most of us (I have a 637). I cannot get past the ugly look of the LCR. Fit and finish is always superior in the S&W and their service is excellent. Anyhow, my two cents worth . . .

RAMS · #4 10-18-2010, 01:56 AM

I owned both. Get her the 637 with some recoil-reducing grips like Presentation Pachs (or whatever brand she likes); it then can be fired SA while she learns to fire it DA and will allow more shots per session than the LCR before discomfort sets in. All DAO guns are difficult to shoot accurately for casual shooters.

moxie · #5 10-18-2010, 08:19 AM

The LCR. Better sights. Better trigger. Less felt recoil. Stick with the .38/.38 +P. The .357 is not for everyone.

safearm · #6 10-18-2010, 09:53 AM

I have a 637 that was converted to 9mm moonclips. It's sturdy enough for its intended purpose without any excess weight. I have smooth grips and a T-grip on it for pocket carry, and the recoil from even +P rounds is manageable, although not pleasant.
I prefer having the SA capability, although I rarely use it. I also find the hammer spur does not detract from carrying, or drawing from a pocket (I use a DeSantis Nemesis pocket holster).
I would not want to try a .357 Magnum from a lightweight revolver such as this, no matter which company makes it.
I do have a Ruger LCP, but I think the LCR is plain ugly.

HAWKEYE10 · #7 10-18-2010, 09:54 AM

I agree with all the above post. In other words either gun will be a good choice. The S&W 637 with the rebate might be the the best buy. Also think about a used gun. You can find some good deals as the market is down right now. Don

madstabber · #8 10-18-2010, 09:51 PM

i have a 642 which is hammerless just like the lcr. the lcr does have a nice smooth trigger better than the smith. i have a trigger job done on my smith from the factory that makes them pretty even, but outa the box the ruger has the better trigger.

Maximumbob54 · #9 10-19-2010, 09:08 AM

You will have a better selection of available grips to change to in the 637 but the LCR comes with a very good grip. It really comes down to what she feels better with in her hands. The LCR has no metal to dig into her hand under recoil though where the smith would need a change in grips to offer the same. The LCR has a pinned in removable sight if you ever wanted to change it. The 637 can have some sight paint applied to try and match that. I do believe the 637 is slightly more compact for a similar weight gun.