I find that the grips and weight of the platform make the biggest difference.
Shooting my .357 Ruger GP100 with the fatter factory grips are much more pleasurable than shooting the blackhawk/redhawk with those miserable wood hog legs. Those hammer the B-Jenkins out of ya!
Come to think of it, I haven't fired any of the S&W's that I own. I have more firearms that I haven't fired than the ones I have. It's a personal problem (collector), what with work and all...
I have an Fi Model D .380 which is similar that I pocket carry all the time here in Western Wa. I conceal carry it chambered,with the thumb safety off and hammer down. Works well and it's a simple matter of thumbing the hammer back when drawn.
I made another trip south this month and came back with some items that perhaps members can add some insight into. First, I know what the Ruger and Sig are but the S&W is a 38 special but I haven't looked what model it is.
That's amazing CJ as my Dad was the same way. When I saw him last he showed me all the places he had staged revolvers around the house. And they're still there I am sure. I too have the gun cabinet my Dad made as he was a big time woodworker. His wood shop is still full of equipment and I have...
ABPOS:
I know Mission Viejo. I have an old classmate who lives there. Interesting that you mention reloading. My Dad gave me all of his reloading equipment. He said "never sell this", which I won't. The .243 has a Redfield scope on it. Good eye! And when I was going through my Mom's safe there...