If You Could Have any 3 Inch Revolver…What Would You Choose?

[Nalapombu]

Hey all.

I’m pretty sure we all love 3-inch revolvers. I have a m65-5 that is a police trade in that picked up about 15 or so years ago. It’s my only 3-inch.

I’ve been checking out pics and specs of other 3 inch revolvers to see what other models are out there that I wouldn’t mind having. I thought I’d post a thread and get others to post their choices too.

The ground rules are that you can choose a 3-inch revolver from ANY manufacturer.


With that out of the way, I think my pick would be:

1. Colt Python
2. S&W Model 13 Performance Center.
3. S&W Model 586 L-Comp.


I couldn’t narrow it down to just 1.



What would pick if you could have any one you wanted and why?


Thank you for your time.
BD

 

[CH4]

I like and regularly carry my 3” Python, but with their lighter weight and fixed sights, my 3” 13/65s see more holster time.

 

[petepeterson]

I have a 60-15 that gets a lot of use. It seems correctly proportioned to the barrel length.
If I could pick any, probably a nice Model 13.

 

[lawandorder]

One of the 3 inch model 19s that were ordered for a LE agency in France with fixed sights and enclosed ejector rod.

 

[CCantu357]

A 3" K-frame is hard to beat. I always liked the Model 65LS. It had 3" barrel with shrouded ejector rod, matte finish, and smooth service stocks. I used to shoot a standard Model 65 3" and loved how it handled. I figure that the 65LS would be even better - a perfect packing revolver. I might not be a lady, but I would pack that Lady Smith!

On a smaller note, I always liked the look and feel of 3" J-frames. The Model 60 3" with target sights looks quite good. The 3" Centennials look nice as well.

 

[jay72]

3 inch prelock 686 or 586

 

[MetalMan]

For me, it would be a 3” Model 66…..

To my thinking, this would have the best combination of aesthetics, performance and functionality for the intended purpose.

 

[twodog max]

Model 60 with adjustable sights

 

[BAM-BAM]

As the owner of 3" 65s,66-3 and-4 as well as a 60-10.......I kinda like 3" Smiths.

My favorite? That's like asking a Dad which is your favorite child!

Would like to find a 3" 13 and wish they had made a 3" 65NL [like the 3913NL] with the lines of the 65 LadySmith.

 

[Sixgun100]

I believe the new Colt King Cobra 3 inch is a viable replacement for the hard to find iconic Model 65. Mine is a very nice revolver that I am currently carrying daily. My main complaints about this revolver is lack of accessories, such as, available replacement grips and Safariland Speedloaders. The K frame loaders work with .357 Magnum ammunition, but not .38 Special. Overall, think it is a good choice.

 

[hardluk1]

I was looking to buy a shorter barrel for my wifes DW 15-2 as it was a 6" barrel and was looking into a 3" barrel and shroud to reduce weight for my wife if we ever need to carry them . I could buy the 3" or 4" combo from EWKarms . I've had a DW 15-2 revolver and a couple barrels for it in 4" and 8" . But after testing my DW 4" and a buddys s&w K frame 3" the velocity loose with a 1" shorter barrel depending on the ammo tested on my chrony was between 120fps and 189 fps . Thats a lot of velocity gone for one inch of barrel .

The bigger difference was between a 4" 40sw 155gr gd underwood ammo that averaged 1321fps from a kahr tp40 and its a way smaller and lighter handgun .

Just for grins and goggles chack out the link below from Handgun Hero
Cold 3" python vs a m&p 5" Now this could be a 9mm but could be a 40sw and could be a 4.25" But note the diffeence in size , weight and capcity and in 40sw You have to have a 4" barrel to start to match energy velocity /energy .

I know this is a revolver tread so buy what YOU want .

Colt Python 3" vs Smith & Wesson M&P 9 M2.0 5" size comparison | Handgun Hero

 

[WCCPHD]

Would be hard to choose a favorite out of those I already have. IF money was no object I would like to have one of the first Model 19 three inch guns.

66-2


66-5


13-3


696


65-5


36-6 and 60-4


629-3


547


19-7

 

[Richard Simmons]

Top of my wish list would be a 3” model 38 and or 49!

 

[pharman]

29-4 3" Unfluted...

I have owned many 3" S&W models over the years, but my hands down favorite is my 29-4 3" unfluted 44 magnum with target trigger and target hammer...Roger

 

[StrawHat]

To me, the 3” barrel looks best on an I or J frame so it would be one of those. Once you get into larger frames it is easier for me to carry a longer barrel.

Kevin

 

[IWK2HT]

Mine would be a model 13 the 19 would be second choice, but a 3” k frame is hard to beat.

 

[Bald1]

I have owned many 3" S&W models over the years, but my hands down favorite is my 29-4 3" unfluted 44 magnum with target trigger and target hammer...Roger

Mine would be a pre lock 29 or 629 with unfluted cylinder. The Magna Ported 629s are pretty sweet.

 

[Green Frog]

As several have said, a 3” barrel pairs quite well with a J frame. My number one choice would be a Model 60-4 with grips a suitable fit for me. The stainless finish, adjustable sights, 3” barrel with full underlug make it one of my all-time my favorite revolvers.
Froggie

 

[UncleEd]

One of the 3 inch model 19s that were ordered for a LE agency in France with fixed sights and enclosed ejector rod.

This, the best cross breeding of a Model 13 and Model 19.

 

[mikerjf]

One of the rare 357 3” fixed-sight Model 60s… I think ~120 made.