Looking for a new carry revolver...

[Bradatlas]

Hi guys. I’m a long time reader, first time poster. I’m in the business for a new carry revolver. I’m looking for a six shot 357 with a three (or three-ish) inch barrel. So far, the front-runners are the Kimber K6S 3” DAO, the Colt King Cobra, and the S&W model 19 Carry Comp. I plan on carrying mostly OWB but might occasionally try to AIWB the gun. I’ve shot the K6S and a S&W model 66 2.75” combat magnum. Both were fine guns. I’m looking for any experience you guys might have with shooting and carrying these guns. Any input is greatly appreciated!

 

[pbramlett]

I have the kimber 3”, the 66 combat. I find the kimber the one I carry most often iwb and owb. The kimber has the sweetest trigger and 3” in my opinion is the best for 357.

I also have a 2” kimber which I’m carrying more and more. I like the kimber so much I bought another 3” dasa so that makes two of those and I ordered last week a 2” dasa kimber. So that is 4 kimbers. I like them!

Compared to the new combat 66, hands down kimber gets my vote. Just feels shoots and fit finish is better on the kimber.

I am on the lookout for a pre lock 66 3” gun though or a pre lock 19 2.5.

Good luck.

 

[Old cop]

An older Model 19 2.5” is perfect for your needs. Very accurate, easy to belt carry and handles a variety of .38 & .357 loads.

 

[ISCS Yoda]

I like 2.5" or 2" snubs. YMMV

 

[Kanewpadle]

I have the Kimber with two inch barrel. Full power 357 loads are brutal. So I carry 38 +P. Otherwise a fine gun with a great trigger.

 

[BC38]

If you aren't stuck on the idea of adjustable sights then I highly recommend a S&W Model 65.

 

[robertrwalsh]

I have zero personal experience with the Kimber. My vote would be the Smith.

 

[MetalMan]

If 6 shots are an absolute “must”, I’m in the K-frame mindset (19/66) in 2-1/2” or 3” configuration. For me, these are OWB guns.

If you are able to give up one round, the 60-15 gives you 3” and up to .357 capability in a more compact package and which lends itself better to IWB (in my opinion)...YMMV

 

[otis24]

I would second the 3" Model 65. I haven't carried or shot the Colt King Cobra. I've only had the pleasure of fondling it in a shop. I was very impressed with the quality and feel of that revolver. Unlike newer S&Ws, it has a one-piece barrel. I'm not sure if that makes a difference, but something most purists prefer.

 

[federali]

3" Model 65, Round Butt

I would second what Otis 24 says. This gun model is very popular here in the forum. I own one and would never be without it. Problem is, expect to pay a premium if you can find one.

 

[Donn]

Afraid I can't help much. I have a 66 Combat magnum and the Colt King Cobra. While no lightweight, the Cobra's a little smaller, lighter and easier to conceal. On the other hand, while it is bigger, heavier, and harder to conceal, I shoot the Smith a lot better. Both have excellent triggers. Like any other handgun choice, YMMV.

 

[Bradatlas]

Thanks for all the input and keep it coming. The 3” 65 is looking very promising. I like the idea of a one piece barrel and the fixed sights. I’m assuming the answer is yes, but did they make any with a frame mounted firing pin and bobbed hammer?

 

[BC38]

Thanks for all the input and keep it coming. The 3” 65 is looking very promising. I like the idea of a one piece barrel and the fixed sights. I’m assuming the answer is yes, but did they make any with a frame mounted firing pin and bobbed hammer?

I know my 65-5 is a hammer mounted firing pin.
I believe that the dash 6 and above are frame mounted firing pin. My 3rd editions SCS&W says the dash 6 engineering change included a MIM hammer and "floating firing pin".

 

[Bradatlas]

I handled some more guns today including a colt king cobra and model 19 carry comp. I can see how the extractor rod could get stuck in the cylinder on the colt. And I believe the extra weight of the k-frame would be a benefit when shooting over the lighter kimber (although I’ll probably end up with a 2” kimber at some point). So it looks like Smith K frame for the win. Now to find one at a reasonable price!

 

[Mule Packer]

So it looks like Smith K frame for the win. Now to find one at a reasonable price!

I agree with Old Cop and ISCS Yoda. I have a couple of old 2½-inch barreled Model 19's...one blued, one nickel. They're accurate, very concealable, a fun to shoot. Sounds like you've made a wise choice. Can't go wrong with one.

 

[BB57]

I like the 2 1/2" Model 66 as well as the 2 1/2" and 3" Model 686 for IWB carry.

The 686 is only about 3 oz heavier than a 66, and both are comfortable for all day carry in a well designed holster and properly constructed belt.

 

[RobertJ.]

The 3” 65 is looking very promising.

That would be a good choice. This is my first 3" K Frame, a 65-3. I bought it last December as a Christmas gift to myself. I've since replaced the rubber with Altamont combats, and it's become a constant companion.

And BTW, welcome to the forum!

 

[Bradatlas]

Thanks for all the pics guys. I’m feeling pretty good about the choice. I’ll post an update later but I’m sure it’ll be awesome.

 

[Bradatlas]

Update: the model 19 carry comp is awesome (but you guys already knew that�&#56841! 38 special feels like 22. Hot 357 stuff can still be felt with the wood grips but completely tolerable. And the muzzle stays DOWN! The comp really does work.

 

[Sistema1927]

The only thing about my 3" Kimber that I don't like is the fact that they kept the 2" ejector rod. I haven't had a case hang up yet using a sharp slap on the rod, but then again I haven't had to use it in a stress situation.

A revolver that I am seriously considering is a Ruger SP101 3" in .327 Fed magnum. Anyone want to talk me out of it?