New purchase in near future, but which model?

Which would you purchase as your first S&W revolver?

  • M&P R8

    Votes: 4 57.1%
  • M&P 340 CT

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • M&P 342

    Votes: 3 42.9%

  • Total voters
    7

Walker45

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Let me begin by informing you this will be my first revolver and it has to be a Smith and Wesson. I am long time bottom feeder user and compete regularly in 3-gun and IDPA shoots whenever possible. The models I am very interested in are the M&P R8, M&P 340CT and the M&P 342.

The M&P R8, because I simply infatuated with the 8 shot 357 Magnum and also it is one bad mofo. I also believe although I am an experienced shooter, I need practice on a larger frame revolver before I go on to a J-Frame. Also I can use this in my competitions...

The M&P 340 CT, simply because Summer has finally hit in the Pacific Northwest and I need a lighter more concealable handgun. I like the fact that I can practice with .38sp and carry .357. More often than not, it will be a +P round, also the 340 CT can be a great back-up for the R8, or any of my bottom feeders.

The M&P 342, a 38sp only but again a perfect back-up to any of my carry guns. Its primary purpose would be a practice gun with a dual role of a back-up too.

Now having said all that, I would like your input as to why you would purchase that model first and why... I know there are hundreds of other makes and models, but these are my choices and I hope you can respect that, so please be civil.
 
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I voted for the 342. Reason: you said you wanted a lighter more concealable gun. J-frame lightweight with enclosed hammer fits the bill. You might consider the 642 also. A couple more ounces to tame the +p rounds, and probably less expensive and easier to come by. First revolver?!?!? I bet it's not your last...
 
IF you want you first S&W to be a lightweight carry gun then ine of the 5 shot J frames would be the best pick...


But if you want to shoot it in Competition then a 4" S&W that shoots 45 ACP is your best choice...

Best plan, get BOTH.
 
I agree, I do like the 45ACP, however it is not what I am looking for in a wheel-gun. The R8 has a 5" barrel and has the option of firing 38sp for competitions, +P and 357 Magnum for self defense. The way I see it, I plan to purchase the R8, then the 340 and finally the 342 in that order. But again I am anxious to find what the S&W populus thinks of my choices.

Thanks again for your reply's.
 
Your correct, 4.2" or the box test unless I am Canadian then I could use the R8, they have a 5"-6" exemption. But I wouldn't use a revolver in a sanctioned IDPA match when I have my bottom feeders. So, my competitions would be all NON sanctioned events if I choose to use the R8. Hope that clears the air there...

Thanks for that information anyhow.
 
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