Some time back, I had my LGS put a new Model 43 C aside for me and a few days later, I picked it up, using my oil royalty check to pay for it.
The 43C is an eight-shot revolver in 22 Long Rifle made of either magnesium or aluminum alloy and the first thing I noticed when I picked it up was the weight, which was almost nothing. According to the S&W website, it weighs in at 11 ounces. Mine also sports Spegel-style boot grips.
The second thing I took note of was that there is no--repeat NO--lock. The internal lock is gone!! To be truthful, however, my understanding is that most, in fact, almost all, of the IL failures have been on Scandium framed magnum revolvers with full charge loads, so for me, they have never really been an issue. That said, I don't particularly like them, as the potential for unintended engagement is always there.
I took the little S&W out to my range and gave it a workout. The light weight, and the almost total lack of recoil in the rounds made the gun very pleasant to shoot and with the short barrel, combined with the light weight should make this gun a joy to carry in a pocket of the vest that a friend gave me.
This gun is intended for very close range work, and here it should serve admirably. As a BUG, it would be a good choice for some. Granted, the 22 LR is not a power-house, but it is cheap to shoot and this lack of expense will perhaps encourage some to practice. I think it will make it easier for me to do so.
It won't replace my K-, L-, and N-frames in more traditional (more powerful) calibers, but, like my 32's, it has its' niche and in this niche, it will serve quite well, as I can hide it in my hand and be ready to shoot with no one being the wiser. Plus, it won't frighten the sheep if I hide it in my hand, which is something that I can't do with my other, larger revolvers.
This is one 2" that I'd carry.
Plus, it is a lot of fun to shoot.
Last edited by a moderator:
