If you could only have three...

[cometpx4]

I hate to say it but i have done some reshuffling of my collection for just this contingency. With the new regime that America just couldn't wait to install i think a scenario where we have to choose 3nor even 1 is more likely than ever. A while ago i posted a picture of my "stainless collection". I have traded, sold and purchased to get the ideal 3:
1. 686 SSR Pro Series home defense/hunting
2. 3inch Pre Lock Model 60 .357 target/training
3. Pre lock 642 comcealed carry.
I have 2 9mm's as well but if we have to get to 3 by government edict the 9mm's will be gone.

 

[whizbang]

My 3:

1. 686 for IDPA and Home Defense.
2. 617 for cheap practice.
3....... J frame. (Mines a 60-1 with target sights).

Sometimes the 686 is a bit much to slip into your bathrobe pocket.

 

[scooter123]

I have only a passing knowledge about NJ's firearms laws but as I remember the salient points.

1) 15 round maximum capacity limit. That's not that bad, if 15 rounds won't do the job you should have brought a long gun to the fight.

2) NO HOLLOW POINT AMMO. That's why you should have broght a long gun to the fight.

Keeping points 1 and 2 in mind, my advice would be to go with a handgun that has power that approaches that of a long gun and can be quickly reloaded. That leads to the conclusion that your third gun should be a 44 Magnum. Load that up with super wad cutters and you should have enough power to do the job. One plus is that you can also practice with 44 spl. ammo at the range without beating your hand up.

So, my conclusion is that your best third choice would be either a model 29 or 629. As for barrel length, getting a carry permit is nearly impossible as far as I know, so I would go with a 6 incher. Not only will you get a boost in muzzle velocity, the added weight forward will assist in controlling the muzzle flip.