Is it better----

[Helderberg]

for pocket carry to have a snub nosed as opposed to this J-frame. I would like to be able to pocket carry but the length of the barrel seems to cause the gun to ride high. I know it would seem to be a no brainier to just assume the shorter barrel would fix the problem but I thought I would ask the experts. I am moving away from a Bodyguard 380 as I have had nothing but bad luck with the small auto's, this and a LCP. I have been carrying my new j-frame now for a few days and love the idea of no feed or extract issues. I am thinking ahead to summer when I will not be wearing a sweat shirt and will need something very concealable. Any help would be very appreciated. I have to send the Bodyguard to S&W to be fixed and when it comes back I am moving it for something else. I had posted this in the revolver forum and was told it would be better to move it here.
Thanks in advance, Frank.

[/IMG]

 

[snowman]

Sir,

Yes, a 2" barrel or thereabouts should solve your problem. I have a 2-1/4" Ruger SP101, and I wouldn't want it any longer. The depth of your pants pocket of course is a factor also.

Regards,
Andy

 

[s&wchad]

I’ve pocket carried a 342Ti virtually every day for over 10 years. It works well for me because I’m pretty big (6’5”, 280#) and my front pants pockets are large enough to hold the gun in a pocket holster. Pockets seem to vary based on the style and size of the pants and individuals of smaller stature may not be able to comfortably carry the same size gun in the same way. I tried carrying a 317-1 (3”) while hunting, but the longer barrel caused the grip to protrude from the top of the pocket and was uncomfortable while seated. A 2” revolver is about the maximum length the works for me.

I have also found that the weight of the guns is as important as the size for comfortable pocket carry. A steel 2” J frame tugs at the pants and tends to beat my thigh. At times, I almost forget the AirLite is there. The 342’s and 340’s are rather expensive and the 442/642’s would certainly be an excellent alternative at lower cost.

I consider a pocket holster a must for this type of carry, because it covers the triggerguard, holds the gun in a consistent position, breaks up the outline and prevents excess wear and tear on my pants. I use a Kramer and am very satisfied with it.

 

[BobR1]

You did not mention what Model you are carrying now. Since it has a hammer, and the barrel looks to be 3", I would make a guess that it is a steel M60, as apposed to a 2.5" M637.
It should be a great choice for belt carry, and no problem to conceal in the Summer depending on how you dress. But it is too long and heavy for a good pocket carry gun.

Like everyone else I would recommend you pick up an Airweight. I personally carry a 638 with 1-7/8" barrel. The 442/642 are also great choiced, and are a little more popular than the 638. I have owned several steel J's over the years, and also an SP101 in 9mm. I traded them all off due to being to heavy for pocket carry. Today I would just e-mail Ray at Lobo Holsters for a Model 1 Pancake and carry them on the belt and enjoy them.

I like a short barrel airweights for pocket carry myself. My difference from some others is that I pocket carry in the cooler/cold weather more, normally in an inside jacket or vest pocket. I go to jacket/vest pocket carry when I need my shirttail in, and I might need to come out of my cover garment. Like in Church might be a good example. I have been using a Nemisis pocket holster. It is not bad, but a better pocket holster may be out their.

The M60 and an M442 would make you a great pair. Your M60 should stand up to much more range time than the airweight. It is also a great trail gun. I would do most of my practice using it.

Bob

 

[mesinge2]

I routinely pocket carry my 3" SP101, but I wear dress pants and they have deeper pockets.

My jeans pocket carry is my m36:

 

[Helderberg]

Just to be clear, this photo of my gun, it is a 637-2 Airweight. I do believe it is a 3" barrel and is a j-frame. I just put a deposit on a 360 S&W that I intend to trade in a LC9 for. That is a true snub nose and I am very excited to bring it home. It all depends on what they offer me on the LC9 but I would love to have it in my collection.
Thanks for the response to my post.
I just came from the range and ran 50 rounds through my 637 and I can not believe how clean and crisp the trigger is in single action. I also like the double action and I am very pleased with my accuracy this early on with a short barreled gun. Could not be happier with it and am very hopeful that the 360 deal works out.
Best, Frank.

 

[Martya]

I have and carry a 642 so with no experience with an exposed hammer I would caution having an exposed hammer for a pocket gun.

 

[Bob D]

Pocket carry

What is wrong with your BG .380? Mine is flawless and goes everywhere in a DeSantis pocket holster. It is the best all the time gun I've ever owned. Do you have an early one?

 

[pineappleshooter]

442 in a Mika pocket holster - tough to beat. The Mika seems large and stiff at first but once it breaks in it carries like a dream.

 

[tomtheturner]

Another suggestion

Another suggestion would be to carry your 3" J frame with Barami Hip Grips in the summer time. I carry a 3" 65, K frame, stainless that way in the summer, and it just disappears into any pants, shorts that I am wearing with an untucked t-shirt. A 3" J frame would be a snap.

I would include a picture of it with the grips for you, but my camera isn't working, sorry.

Tom

 

[chief38]

I have J-frames in all bbl. lengths, and I find that the only one that can easily, comfortably, and practically carry in my pocket is the two inch version. I use a DeSantis Nemesis Holster and it works exceptionally well.

Chief38

 

[photoman]

Just to be clear, this photo of my gun, it is a 637-2 Airweight. I do believe it is a 3" barrel and is a j-frame. I just put a deposit on a 360 S&W that I intend to trade in a LC9 for. That is a true snub nose and I am very excited to bring it home. It all depends on what they offer me on the LC9 but I would love to have it in my collection.
Thanks for the response to my post.
I just came from the range and ran 50 rounds through my 637 and I can not believe how clean and crisp the trigger is in single action. I also like the double action and I am very pleased with my accuracy this early on with a short barreled gun. Could not be happier with it and am very hopeful that the 360 deal works out.
Best, Frank.

Your 637 has a 2.5" barrel. While you can use it for pocket carry, I think you'll be much happier with the 360 as a pocket gun.

Regarding summertime carry of the 637, you might try using a good IWB clip holster in the appendix position under a loose shirt. If the shirt is not too short, it will work well and you will have excellent access to the gun.

 

[Helderberg]

Your 637 has a 2.5" barrel. While you can use it for pocket carry, I think you'll be much happier with the 360 as a pocket gun.

Regarding summertime carry of the 637, you might try using a good IWB clip holster in the appendix position under a loose shirt. If the shirt is not too short, it will work well and you will have excellent access to the gun.

Was at my LGS today and Steve, the owner, measured my barrel and I stand corrected. You are absolutely correct, the gun is a 2.5 barrel. I was not able to close the deal with the 360 but I have not given up on that model gun yet. I do not really NEED it until summer so I have time to put something else together.
I will also have my Bodyguard 380 back by then and will have more options for either trade or add.
Thanks for your suggestions and I will try the appendix carry but will have to come up with something else for work as I am a residential plumber and bending and laying on my back and side are somewhat of a mainstay of the job. That is why the 380 in my front pocket was going to be the perfect solution. I am going to have a problem building a trust with the small auto after the last problem.
Thanks again for all the response, have a great Thanksgiving.
Frank.