Concealed carry revolver - need advice

[Biscut]

As an old retired cop who carried J-frames on a regular basis since 1977, I prefer the 340 M&P or 640 (mine is a -1). For ammunition, I carry the Buffalo Bore 158 gr. +p LHP at a true 1000 fps out of the 2" barrel. I generally pocket carry the 340 M&P, which I prefer due to the Scandium frame due to durability over the straight aluminum frame.

For OWB/IWB carry, I like the 640-1, but generally carry the Buffalo Bore also. Both guns are easy to conceal and carry.

I was never a revolver fan but picked up a M&P 340. I've carried it almost daily for well over a year getting on 2. I have a total of 500+ 357 and 500+ 38 thru this platform. Difficult to shoot yes, but if you shoot a little frequently you can be pretty darn accurate.

I also carry the Buffalo Bore but LSWC 158gr. BB line of ammo meant for the snubby J's are truly fantastic.

 

[TeaDub]

Another vote for the 640 no-dash if you can find one that is clean. I have it on good authority that they carry very well and the action is smooth as butter.

An easier option may be getting an Airweight in the flavor you like and then ordering "Cowboy" loads to handle the bulk of your training. I have been pleased with the GA Arms variety. It is a mildly loaded 38 Special that matches the projectile weight of my carry loads. Several boxes are pleasant to shoot out of an Airweight. I then finish off with a cylinder or two of the hot stuff. GA Arms ships their ammo pretty reasonably priced.

 

[sb56]

What about 327?

I have the opportunity to pick one up however the previous owner swapped out the titanium cylinder for stainless steel. I am new to revolvers but what I have read this is a solid revolver and uses to concealed carry. Any input appreciated.

 

[OLDSTER]

concealed carry

I shoot my EDC guns, and do NOT enjoy shooting J frames. So this is what I do enjoy; a 1949 M&P snub

 

[SeamasterSig]

I agree with Arik on the merits of a proper gun belt and good holster. They are at least as important as your choice of handgun. You didn't mention where you live, but living in SW Florida, I can attest that it is possible to conceal even a 4" K-frame carried OWB in very warm weather if you really want to.

But I'm not limited to just one gun for all occasions. If I wanted to limit myself to just one revolver, I think I would look for a model 60 with a 3" barrel. Then I would make sure to have both a good OWB as well as IWB holsters. It would also be a good candidate for a shoulder holster, too. If you're going to limit yourself to one gun, you should compensate by maximizing your carry options.

If you can warm up to the idea of two revolvers, then I would suggest something like a model 686 with a 3" barrel and whatever J-frame snubbie strikes your fancy. This would give you the best of both worlds with two realistically concealable revolvers in multiple sizes and levels of power, depending on your mood/wardrobe on any given day. Having options is never a bad thing.

 

[dr. K]

Hey, I can SEE that gun!

"My eyes are up HERE, sir."

 

[0311INF]

Thanks for all the great info everyone! I've still not made my decision but am leaning heavily toward the 36.
I've had 3 SP101s and have a love/hate relationship with Ruger. Their quality in general has taken a huge hit in the past few years. In fact of the 8 Ruger revolvers I've at one time owned, I have had to send 3 back to the factory, and now own 0.
The model 60 seems nice, I'm looking at that option as well.
I would love a short barreled 686+ too.

 

[wogentry]

+1 to what JayBird said. I enjoy shooting my EDC guns and while I have 3 J-frames they rarely get carried. Model 10-5 2", Model 10-5 4"(pictured) are the two usual companions. The 1951 M&P(pictured) on special occasions, or the 4" Highway patrolman out in real rural areas.

 

[HOUSTON RICK]

The largest 357 revolver that you can carry.

 

[Lobster Picnic]

Can't go wrong with a steel J-frame.

 

[shouldazagged]

I've pocket-carried a steel dashless 640 daily for over sixteen years. I really don't find it all that heavy, with a decent belt and a good pocket holster. It's a lot more pleasant to shoot than an Airweight.

 

[rwsmith]

Get the 'J' frame....

Get the 'J' frame of your choice. I prefer the older ones and not the 'alloy' models.