Hopefully, some of the veteran shooters can help. As the title suggests revolver beginner. I have tried a few revolvers 38 and 45 and do have a ruger wrangler in 22. Most of the shooters I know are into the polymers no idea on revolvers. So here I am. Looking for a reasonably priced good option. Most SW I researched are +500 or more. Just not sure. I was thinking about a 9mm but not sure of the moon clips. Open too all suggestions, plan on renting at the local indoor range. Just need ideas.. primary use home defense possibly carry. I just want a good revolver. Thanks in advance guys for your recommendations.... Joe
You have lots of good advice but the issue is your personal situation. You have a 22 single action for targets and plinking, you have no reason to buy another 22. First you need to define what you will use the gun for. If it is general shooting pleasure, any 4-6 inch revolver in 38 or 357 is a good choice because it gives many options.
The 357 is where most people go, and then only shoot 38 special in the gun. A 4 inch such as the old model 19 or 66 covers most basis for everything including concealed carry although on the bigger and heavier side.
I have collected wheel guns about 50 years and tend to buy only Smith and Wesson and Ruger and some Colts. On the one hand, once you choose caliber, you might want to choose historical value, collector value and resale value. I buy guns never intending to sell them, so I pay more for brand name.
That said, the Taurus and Rossi line today have some fantastic wheel guns with a lifetime warranty that will last you a very long time. A Smith and Wesson new may cost you $800 where a Taurus may cost $360 and you will not be able to tell a difference.
If concealed carry is likely, the shorter barrels, 3 inches and under with fixed sights cut the cost and many brands will work. This is an SW forum, of course we are going to suggest any SW, including old ones. Then again, a new gun of any brand should have a lifetime warranty, which removes any worries.
You mentioned the 9mm, not a bad idea. If so, buy lots of moon clips and keep them loaded and some in each car, truck, home, etc. Ammo is cheap, reloading is fast, and recoil fine, and power fine as well. Taurus makes a good one for that use and under $400. You can carry as a CCW or just bang away at the range, faster than without moon clips.
One other thought. If money is no issue, a custom shop in 38/357 that is cut for moon clips is wonderful option. A gun you should keep for life, a 3-4 inch is ideal for most folks.
I own lots, single action, SA/DA, small, medium, and large. I would never recommend a big gun as a first gun, but over time you will move toward them, the 44 mag is always fun, but noisy, heaving recoiling and expensive to shoot. My most fun wheel gun is the SW Governor. I have a pile of loaded moon clips, about 200 rounds always ready for a range trip. I live rural and keep 2 of the 410 birdshot in the gun then 4 of the 45 Colt, a gun that does it all, Not for a beginner at all, only for very accomplished shooters. I mention this because as gun guys we go on a journey, getting bigger and more power along the way. The Governor is probably the most realistically practical wheel gun made.
There are conflicting opinions on everything, Fords or Chevy and sometimes both suck. You just gotta choose what you plan to do with it, and make it fit your goals and budget. If I am advising a new guy today it is likely to buy a new Taurus with a warranty, in 38 or 357 depending on where the gun will be carried, if at all. Rossi is now selling a 3 inch stainless in 357. I have a Rossi 357 that compares well against my large Smith and Wesson collection, fwiw.
Keep us posted on what you buy and how it works out for you.
I tried to get them to let me fire it but ... no go. Took my ammo and left...
