Ideal J frame?

[GerSan69]

If you had to pick one of the J frames to represent them all, say in a really small museum, which would you pick? What is the quintessential J frame? Explain your choice, please. Because my daddy had one is a valid reason. Also, give barrel length, grips, etc. for your choice. I put it in this category but feel free to put forth pre-war choices or brand new PC options. I'm just looking for the most J framey J frame. For instance, if it was a K frame I was asking about I would expect the M&P/Mod. 10 to run away with it. But I would expect some response from the 15 and 19 fans. Same with 27/29/25 for the N. So what say ye?

I think the original Chiefs Special would have to be the "quintessential J frame". The rest are really just variations of the first, are they not? However, if I were setting up a real museum exhibit, I think the evolution must start with the I frame.
So many guns, so many choices!

 

[Dale53]

I have several "J" frames but the one I pick as my favorite is my 60-4. That has taken a lot of edible small game for me. It is a delight to shoot!

Dale53

 

[ruger 22]

I daily carry a 649-2. It has Crimson Trace laser grips on it. I like it because it can be single or double action; will not catch on the pockets I carry it in and is very fast to get on point with the laser.
It covers all the bases I want in a last ditch defense gun.

 

[c.w.]

nickel plated

This one is a looker...not a shooter...too hard to clean...lazy I quess

 

[haywood]

I believe you can't pick a wrong J-Frame my favorite if I could only have One is the 442. With grips that fit, they can be carried in pockets and shot comfortably. I'm glad I don't have to pick only One.

 

[HOUSTON RICK]

For me, no contest, they do not come easier to carry

 

[444 Magnum]

Yeah, that's it.... That's the ticket.

I know what generation your from!
Some of these older members probably thought you were having a mental spasm!

S&W 649 real metal and hammer shroud

 

[lihpster]

I know what generation your from!
Some of these older members probably thought you were having a mental spasm!

Who says I wasn't? I wouldn't know.

 

[CobiaS&W]

My 2 "J" Frames

 

[k22fan]

[...] I'm just looking for the most J framey J frame. For instance, if it was a K frame I was asking about I would expect the M&P/Mod. 10 to run away with it. [...]

While I'll agree with those who wrote a 2" round butt 36 is the most iconic and likely is what lihpster is looking for, I'll argue that they're not one bit more "J framey" than a 4" 63. Owning one of the .22 kit guns is a higher priority for me.

 

[motor51]

I'm loving my 340 M&P but I really miss my first one, a nickel 49(my first BUG for work).

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

 

[IWK2HT]

I would pick this one 36-1

 

[Chukar60]

My favorites are the 3" J's.
I think the quintessential J is a fixed sight 1 7/8" barrel though. The easiest to carry and conceal while still providing decent power.

 

[H Richard]

Mod 60 Chief's Special with a Tyler T Grip.

 

[Old cop]

I have a Model 60 & a 340PD. The 340PD is carried while the M60 gets more range time. Both have factory magnas w/Tyler TGrips.

 

[chief38]

I suppose if I could only have one for a museum display, then an early model Chief's Special (pre M36) would be my choice. When it comes to J Frames there are so many great variations I don't ever think I could have just one.

 

[Green Frog]

Historically, a Baby Chief's Special would be the museum piece, especially a snub with round front sight. OTOH, if I wanted the most useful J frame of all times, it would be a tossup between the Model 60-4 and the 4" Model 63 (no dash) depending on whether I was concerned about my target would fight back!

Froggie

 

[JH1951]

I suppose if I could only have one for a museum display, then an early model Chief's Special (pre M36) would be my choice. When it comes to J Frames there are so many great variations I don't ever think I could have just one.

Very well said!
Here are most of mine (but I do need a new family picture due to additions).

 

[BlackAgnes]

 

[3rdgeargrndrr]

Almost unanimous about the Chiefs.