need help choosing

[nightfighter]

i've always been a 1911 man but this smith revolver thing is starting to get my attention only got my 686 and my new to me 10-8 which is just plain fun, only ran about 250 rds through it this week, got to get a 38 kit for the dillion to keep up, but now i'm looking for something else( 2 actually ) to help break the 1911 hold, need a 2" or so 38 or 357 and a 6+" 38/357 or .41 for range and whitetail backup, the 2" for range and a little carry once i get a lot of trigger time with it and get to trust it would prefer adjustable sights on the long barrel, and thanks murrphydog i can now shop for new grips probably wood but a little bigger than the org.

 

[Dave T]

If you are a 1911 fan and shooter, you should seriously consider a Smith & Wesson revolver in 45 ACP. Fastest reload in a revolver and you already have the ammo. (smiley face goes here)

Dave

 

[twistedracer]

For a 2" .38 carry gun I recommend the 642. Fixed sights, no hammer, DAO. Super easy to carry in the summer under the t-shirt with an IWB holster. I'm only 5'7", 160 lbs so it's always a challenge to carry in the summer. This just works! +2 on the JM625 .45 acp. With the 1911 you already have the ammo and its a great gun.

 

[sourdough44]

Since you have the 686 I'd get the 2" J frame, 38 is enough usually in a 2" J frame. I'm partial to the shrouded hammer J frame to allow the S/A if desired. I do have one DAO though & it does have it's place.

 

[murphydog]

For the long barrel, since you already have the 4" 686 a 6" version would be a good choice. You have a bunch of choices for a short-barrel .38. If your use tilts more toward carry I agree with twistedracer, the 642 is a good choice. For plinking and range work it would be nice to have the single action capability, so if you like the looks the Bodyguard (38/438/638 series) would be good. Primarily range work, a 2.5 or 3" J frame, possibly with adjustable sights? Enjoy the search.

 

[GOV5]

For a 2" .38 carry gun I recommend the 642. Fixed sights, no hammer, DAO. Super easy to carry in the summer under the t-shirt with an IWB holster. I'm only 5'7", 160 lbs so it's always a challenge to carry in the summer. This just works! +2 on the JM625 .45 acp. With the 1911 you already have the ammo and its a great gun.

No criticism intended, but when folks say get a 642, why do they never mention the 442? I'm just curious, that's all.

 

[twistedracer]

Just used to saying 642 because thats what I have. Local gunshop only stocks this one, it sells better than any other model they have carried. They now also stock them with crimson trace grips but thats it.