Lookin' to buy a J frame to carry, What do y'all like and why?

[MattCharlotte]

I carry a S&W m&p .40 c but it is to heavy to carry in summer time. So I am looking at a j frame s&w preferably in .357 but am not apposed to a .38 I would really appreciate everyone's opinion to help further my research... I probably wouldn't want to spend more than $800 .. Thanks for your help.

 

[MattCharlotte]

Please help with any opinions, i've also been looking at some Taurus revolvers but think i want to go with S&W.

 

[ContinentalOp]

642, no-lock. You could probably find several on Gunbroker for under $400.

 

[gasaman]

I love my Smith & Wesson 940 no dash (9MM) J frame....

 

[turbo38gn]

I too carry an M&P40c, when I want to carry lite I like my Airweight 638, the hammer is cut and shrouded. Weight is as lite as you could ask for. I also just purchased a BodyGuard 380 from S&W, it gives me even lighter and more concealed in a 380 caliber. You could actually buy both guns close to your budget of $800.00!!!

PS don't get caught up in the IL bs...

 

[turbo38gn]

I love my Smith & Wesson 940 (9MM) J frame....

Hey.. Gas.. that 940 is legal in Mass? I didn't see it on the AG list... and I want one badly.. !!

 

[LoboGunLeather]

I recommend against .357 loadings in lightweight short-barreled revolvers. The increase in actual ballistic performance of .357 vs. .38 Special is very small in the 2" tubes, but the increases in recoil, muzzle blast, and muzzle flash are huge.

I stick with standard velocity .38 Special loads in my J-frames, especially the Model 37 Airweight. Much easier to stay on target with, controllable recoil without bruises or abrasions to the hand, reduced muzzle blast and flash allow accurate follow-up shots.

For pocket carry the shrouded hammer models like the 642, 649, etc. do very well. The exposed hammer models benefit from a good holster.

 

[blujax01]

I carry a M36 with a 3" barrel. The extra inch keeps the recoil down and +P rounds are no problem. I prefer a nickel plate because it is easier to clean and is a tougher finish than bluing. Very old reliable design. Looks good, too.

 

[4011]

X2 on the 37 are 36. Loaded with +P for carry duty.

 

[Murcielago]

I carry a 340 M&P. Centennial frame, 14 oz., & no lock. Chambered for .357, but +P .38's are plenty peppy for my needs. Love it.

 

[Old cop]

My daily carry is a 442 no dash. I switch out with a 638 and IMHO the .38 +P is all you need. The lite J's chambered for .357 that I've shot cannot be controlled beyond the first shot. I agree w/others that the .38 is more than enough for the legally armed non LEO.

 

[Snowbandit]

I carry a 340 M&P. Centennial frame, 14 oz., & no lock. Chambered for .357, but +P .38's are plenty peppy for my needs. Love it.

The only problem I have with mine is that it's so great to carry I tend to leave everything else at home. I think some of the other "kids" should be allowed out once in a while.

 

[Beancounter81]

642, no-lock. You could probably find several on Gunbroker for under $400.

I tend to agree, although I'm partial to the 442.

 

[JamesArthur60]

I started with the M36 in 38 special. Found a 640-1 in 38/357. I see more used M36's than the heavier M640-1. What's your preference, hammer or hammerless? Makes a difference for some.

 

[SF180A]

I carry S&W 642 with Crimson Trace Grips as on of my PI tools, works well as designed no complaints. Other tools or the trade are my 1911 Colt Defender, 1911 Caspian, S&W Bodyguard 380, all with laser sights.

What ever pistol/revolver you decide to go with, plan on sufficient range time, good choice of ammo, and a good holster to compliment your purchase.

Good luck with your decision!

SF180A

 

[cmort666]

I routinely carry a Model 36 "no dash". A friend sold his Bodyguard without telling me, and I'd love to have gotten it. I was out of work, but his business was failing and I probably would have given him more money for it than he got.

If you want an exposed hammer, look for a pre-lock 36, 38 or 60.

If you want a shrouded hammer, look for a Bodyguard or equivalent.

If you want a concealed hammer, look for a Centennial or equivalent.

 

[sipowicz]

Can't go wrong with the 442/642...mine happens to be hard chromed 442....

 

[P&R Fan]

I pocket carry a M340 PD all the time. I literally forget it's there, as it only weighs 12 oz. Kicks like a mule with full power .357s, which is what I carry in it, but I doubt I'd notice if I ever had to use it for Serious Social Purposes.

 

[Frailer]

Of all my J-frames the one I carry the most (by far) my 642. It's light enough to be comfortable to carry, regardless of what I'm wearing, yet heavy enough to be comfortable to shoot.

A 442 would work just as well if you'd prefer the black finish. Likewise, the 38/638 or 37/637 are the thing if you'd like to retain single action capability.

Bottom line: it's tough to beat an Airweight for daily carry.

 

[mg357]

i suggest either a s&w model 60 or a s&w model 36