Considering a Model 12-3 - Input Please!

[csdmann]

I am looking at a Model 12-3 that looks like "new in box". I was not familiar with this model until recently and have been doing some reading online about it. The -3 has the steal cylinder in it. I know that the frame is alloy. The one I am interested in is a 2". Anyone have feed back for me on this model. I shoot my guns so it will be going to the range. I also reload. So I will be making my own rounds for this gun. Can I shoot this model with out worry of damage to the frame. I will be shooting low velocity .38spls of course. Thank you in advance for your input.

 

[Loyaljeeper]

IMHO, and I am a 12-2 owner, the model 12 is not a range gun. The model 12 is delicate. You could probably put thousands of rounds through one without noticing any signs of wear, but there has been countless reports of frame cracks below the forcing cone in guns that get shot only with standard pressure ammo. By all means buy a model 12, but don’t hold your breath that it will handle a range visit every weekend.

 

[Muley Gil]

Check the frame just below where the barrel screws in. It is prone to crack there.

 

[Speedo2]

Run. Run fast and run far. -S2

 

[dr. mordo]

There's a thread on this forum where a member ran 1000 rounds thru a M12 without any measurable effects on the gun. And he went over it with a micrometer before and after the 1000 rounds.

I have one in beautiful shape I got a month or so back. I haven't shot it yet, but it's very light. I'm sure it'll be almost as unpleasant as shooting an airweight J frame. So it won't get a lot of range time from me.

 

[NCBeagle]

In my opinion, the Model 12 snub is one of the best and most overlooked carry guns. Super concealable IWB, shoots like a full size gun, and not bad looking. That said, it is not a lot of fun to shoot at the range. Very light weight. I shoot and carry +P in mine with no problem. It shares space in the carry rotation with a lot of other snubs and gets little range time.

 

[csdmann]

Thank you guys for all of the input. I am still watching and listening. I would be shooting standard velocity .38spls. out of it. I can't imagine that standard .38s would be un-manageable or un-pleasant?

 

[NCBeagle]

Thank you guys for all of the input. I am still watching and listening. I would be shooting standard velocity .38spls. out of it. I can't imagine that standard .38s would be un-manageable or un-pleasant?

Not unmanageable or "unpleasant." But, you might tire of shooting it sooner than a Model 10.

 

[31FordA]

I picked up a very clean 12-2 snub (1972 vintage) early this year and have been very happy with it. It is accurate, and I have found it to be pleasant to shoot. The 12 is a great carry gun, it's become my primary off duty gun. If I found another I wouldn't hesitate to buy it.

One peculiarity of the 12 thru 12-3 is that the frame is narrower than a steel K frame. Grips for the steel K frame won't fit on a 12 thru 12-3. If you get a 12 make sure it has the correct grips. The 12-4 has the same dimensions as the steel K frame, so the grips on those aren't a problem.

 

[csdmann]

Yes, I read that the frame is thinner and so are the grips. I was thinking of Tyler T grips if I was to purchase this one.

 

[Mzuri]

Not unmanageable or "unpleasant." But, you might tire of shooting it sooner than a Model 10.

I have 12-2 SB and even though its as light as my 36 it's much more pleasant to shoot. I think it's the larger grip.

 

[NCBeagle]

Yes, I read that the frame is thinner and so are the grips. I was thinking of Tyler T grips if I was to purchase this one.

Tyler T-Grips work just fine on the Model 12. No worries.

 

[dr. mordo]

Here's mine with BK Grips (next to my M19)

 

[Coaltminer]

Model 12

You'll also a lighter barrel configuration compared to 2" 10 or 15. Easier to shoot than the J frames, larger frame and not much weight.

 

[Kernel Crittenden]

In the long run you'd probably be happier with a 4-inch Model 15. There's good reason why they call it the Combat Masterpiece.

 

[ImprovedModel56Fan]

In the long run you'd probably be happier with a 4-inch Model 15. There's good reason why they call it the Target Masterpiece.

I thought they called it a Combat Masterpiece.

 

[deadear dan]

I just met up with an owner of a 12-2 snubby selling for $500. Box, papers, cleaning kit and a beautiful finish. Put my flashlight under the barrel and yep there it was - cracked.