Guys thank you so much! I have been searching for months on the internet and you already gave me so much better info then I came up with!thank you I am going to rent the 38 special when I go to the range to try next,I am glad you told me of how they can get locked in there thankfully before I did it.Im gonna take on more pic now
Assuming you are not terribly acquainted with S&W revolvers (my favorite brand!), please be aware that the small framed (J Frame) revolvers are available in both steel framed (blued, some nickel plated, and stainless steel), as well as light weight (Airweights and a few other names as well). The alloy framed ones are noticeably lighter and folks like to carry them. But many do not like to shoot them much because they recoil more due to the gun's light weight. Recoil is a very subjective force and some are more or less sensitive to it. But there is a difference.
If you have the opportunity to shoot both, you will notice this. Many of us, me included, feel that a .38 Special cartridge from a good premium brand (made especially for self defense) is sufficient for the purpose. Ammo is made in standard pressure as well as +P pressure. The +P stuff is loaded to a higher pressure and velocity and therefore has more recoil potential, which will be more noticeable in the light weight frames. Getting used to this can be worked up to.
Be aware that there are many different choices for grips for revolvers. It is important to know that recoil will be felt less if you have a set of grips on the gun that fit your hand properly. The shape and size of the grips will also determine how well your trigger finger reaches the trigger. A correct reach to the trigger is important to be able to fire as accurately as possible.
A good round to use for familiarization or during your tryouts would be the 148 grain full wadcutter. These are practice rounds but are also fairly well regarded as suitable for serious social encounters by some of us. They are about the easiest shooting rounds you will find. You might also find this caliber of bullet available with a round nosed lead bullet at standard pressure that would be nearly as good for practice but not for self defense. +P rounds can range from fairly mild to ones with lots of blast (sound) and recoil. (Be sure to do your shooting with a good set of ear muffs because, aside from hearing damage that can and will occur, that loud sound also contributes to what we call "flinch" as does the recoil.
Remember that you need to have a personal protection gun that fits your hand, that you can operate and function well, and with which you can hit what you aim at. Most any bullet, if it hits where it needs to hit and penetrates deeply enough to reach vital areas, will do the job. But if you cannot deliver the rounds you shoot to those places on demand, your gun will not be worth much to you beyond psychological value. Your hand size and strength will have a lot to do with what you should choose. I also like and recommend the S&W Shield in 9MM. But you must be able to grip the slide and rack it safely to lock it back or to load the gun for firing. A good friend might be able to help you if they are experienced with this sort of thing, but remember, your choice should be what you find to be best for you, not what is best for the friend!
Good luck in your search. And I agree that the fine little revolver that you have is a family heirloom and probably is best to be kept for what it is!
.I have a few questions my grandfather left me a gun( pic) I am also starting a class this week andhave filled out info for my blue card in R.I.
