Colt Detective Special vs S&W Chiefs Special?

Protected One · #51 12-05-2017, 11:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Erich

I've had a few of both . . . only ones I kept were S&Ws. The lockwork makes sense to me and I'm not scared of tearing them down.

As to strength, both have offset bolt cuts in the cylinder - they should both be perfectly adequate for a lifetime of +P use (assuming a steel frame). The D-frame has a longer length-of-pull (which is a good thing - they're easier to hit with for men with regular sized hands) and has a barrel that's 2 1/8" long vs. the J-frame's 1 7/8" barrel. The D-frame cylinder is a tiny bit thicker than the J's, but it's really not a big issue, even IWB or in the pocket.

Colt did a remarkable job in packing six rounds into very darned near the same space as the later 5-shot Chiefs. Honestly, firepower is not really the issue for me with these anymore, since any modern micro-nine is going to best both in a smaller package (and that's what I generally wind up carrying).

And then there's my amico cattivo...

Hey Erich

Try an AVO XO Intermezzo while taking those beautiful photos.

Jaymo · #52 12-06-2017, 12:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TomkinsSP

Too late, if they did it now it would be copying C****** A***, and S&W doesn't want to be another R**** copying other folks (K*****, A*******, C***) products.

S&W must not mind too much, considering they make a 1911.

I prefer the grip and trigger pull of the D frame Colt to the J frame Smith.
I prefer the price of the J frame Smith to the price of the D frame Colt.
I prefer the price and caliber of the Charter Arms Bulldog .44 to either the Colt or Smith.

I'd either get a Charter Bulldog or a Ruger LCR.
Neither one's pretty enough or valuable enough for me to feel bad about the possibility of it sitting in a police evidence locker.

I can't say the same for the Colt or the Smith.

If I'm going for a pocket carry revolver, I like a J frame with a shrouded or concealed hammer.
If I'm carrying in a holster, I really like a K frame.

okiegtrider · #53 12-06-2017, 12:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old cop

I was in a gunfight as an LEO in '74, armed w/my issued Colt DS and came out on top. Given the choice it would be the Colt based on prior experience.

I'd pick the 60, but it's hard to argue with success.

Horn · #54 12-06-2017, 12:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old cop

I was in a gunfight as an LEO in '74, armed w/my issued Colt DS and came out on top. Given the choice it would be the Colt based on prior experience.

To me, having had both "back then" as a street detective. The
Colt hands down. It felt like a "gun" in the hand, much better
grip.
Wish I hadn't sold it! I went to a S&W Model 39. Kept the DS
in my locker in case sidearms were going to be checked. Only
wheel guns allowed back then.
Shouldn't have sold that "39" either. When they're just stashed in
the drawer a few years.....you forget their love?
Stay safe out there.
Poli Viejo