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I shelled out for the P365, can't wait to shoot it tomorrow.
I shelled out for the P365, can't wait to shoot it tomorrow.
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Pocket Gun or Work around 686
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Goudy, no one but you can answer that question. I will, however, share one of the alternatives that I carry when carrying a larger handgun is impractical.
It's a Ruger LCP in .380. Oh, I know...I've heard all the arguments before. "It only carries seven." Or, "It has terrible sights." Or, "The .380 doesn't have the stopping power of the 9mm or the .45 acp." Or even, "It's uncomfortable to shoot when you take it to the range and try to put 50 rounds through it."
With all that being said, the bottom line is that it's perfect for which it was intended...a close up, in-your-face, self-defense belly gun that can be concealed in a pair of Speed-os. Period. It's not intended to be a "long range" target pistol. However, I was able to put 18 out of 20 rounds into a bowling pin-sized target at 15 yards.
It's not intended to stand off a mob in a large shopping mall while hiding behind a display case. No, it's for the time when you have to go to the store and pick up a gallon of milk at 11:00 p.m. and you're approached by some unsavory character there in the dark parking lot demanding your wallet.
Just my two cents worth...and it's probably not even worth that.
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OP
Goudy, no one but you can answer that question. I will, however, share one of the alternatives that I carry when carrying a larger handgun is impractical.
It's a Ruger LCP in .380. Oh, I know...I've heard all the arguments before. "It only carries seven." Or, "It has terrible sights." Or, "The .380 doesn't have the stopping power of the 9mm or the .45 acp." Or even, "It's uncomfortable to shoot when you take it to the range and try to put 50 rounds through it."
With all that being said, the bottom line is that it's perfect for which is was intended...a close up, in-your-face, self-defense belly gun that can be concealed in a pair of Speed-os. Period. It's not intended to be a "long range" target pistol. However, I was able to put 18 out of 20 rounds into a bowling pin-sized target at 15 yards.
It's not intended to stand off a mob in a large shopping mall while hiding behind a display case. No, it's for the time when you have to go to the store and pick up a gallon of milk at 11:00 p.m. and you're approached by some unsavory character there in the dark parking lot demanding your wallet.
Just my two cents worth...and it's probably not even worth that.
You just made me think of another gun I left off the list, Ruger LCR revolver in 22 lr or 9mm, thanks! While I will not carry an autoloader you have inspired me to add to the list, Ruger makes guns built like tanks, and I agree this is something for up close and personal defense. I apologize for not specifying it must be a revolver, that was my error.
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I carry this when I just need something other then nothing. Quick trip to the store. In case I need to get out the back door. .380 is not that small of a round.
I don't understand your desire to purchase a specific carry gun in .22 LR. I did read your post, and I agree that a .22 LR can be a deadly round if shots are put in the right place, but if you're going to purchase and not use a .22 that you already have, I don't see why you wouldn't obtain a larger caliber.
IMO a 22 is a reasonable gun when it might deter an attack by a thinking assailant. Once the attack starts, or if an animal is involved, I want more power.
Sounds to me like an airweight J might be a good thing.
Also IMO, the NAA's are quality and fun, but might be too small to handle reliably under pressure.
Sounds to me like an airweight J might be a good thing.
Also IMO, the NAA's are quality and fun, but might be too small to handle reliably under pressure.
OP
Compatibility with my AR-7 to save on ammo, lighter recoil for faster follow-up shots, more compact profile of revolver cylinder, and extra capacity.
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This situation sounds like an alloy J frame in .38 Special, or in .357 but mostly using .38s, to be a good solution. You already have the ammunition and these will be much more effective than a .22. Good luck in your decision.
SAFireman
Member
You pose a false dilemma. The alternative to a 686 for light carry is a 442, NOT a .22.
I've carried my 442-1 for 25 years; it goes anywhere at a moment's notice either in a pocket holster or a clip-on FOBUS holster.
I do a demonstration at carry classes wearing just a club t shirt and shorts while concealing FOUR carry pistols. (The other two are under the t shirt in holsters on a chest band)
I've carried my 442-1 for 25 years; it goes anywhere at a moment's notice either in a pocket holster or a clip-on FOBUS holster.
I do a demonstration at carry classes wearing just a club t shirt and shorts while concealing FOUR carry pistols. (The other two are under the t shirt in holsters on a chest band)
Pisgah
Member
My Taurus 605 .357 fits my pocket, weighs 24 oz. or so but I forget it's there, AND I don't have to apologize to anyone I've shot for using a puny caliber.
I have a 2" S&W 337PD .38 that is perfect in the role you describe.
Rpg
Member
Remove the North American Arms mini revolver from your list.
They are virtually impossible to shoot quickly because of their size and action.
You have to manually cock the hammer to shoot it. The tiny size makes cocking the hammer a chore; for many it's a two handed operation. It's certainly not something you can do in the short time available in most self defense situations.
They are also very difficult to shoot accurately beyond literally arms length. If your target is close enough to reach out and touch, you can probably hit it with a NAA gun. If it's beyond arm's length away from you, hitting it is an iffy proposition.
A 22lr can be an effective self defense weapon if you can place your shots precisely. That's not possible with a NAA revolver.
Their only desirable trait is that they are easy to conceal because they are tiny.
You're better off with any of the other guns listed above than a NAA revolver.
They are virtually impossible to shoot quickly because of their size and action.
You have to manually cock the hammer to shoot it. The tiny size makes cocking the hammer a chore; for many it's a two handed operation. It's certainly not something you can do in the short time available in most self defense situations.
They are also very difficult to shoot accurately beyond literally arms length. If your target is close enough to reach out and touch, you can probably hit it with a NAA gun. If it's beyond arm's length away from you, hitting it is an iffy proposition.
A 22lr can be an effective self defense weapon if you can place your shots precisely. That's not possible with a NAA revolver.
Their only desirable trait is that they are easy to conceal because they are tiny.
You're better off with any of the other guns listed above than a NAA revolver.
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OP
Duly noted, removed the NAA. I agree a single action that is hard to grip for a large guy like me is not ideal.
For everyone else, if I wanted to use 357 magnum or 38 special I would just continue to carry my 686 as my primary. I have ZERO desire to shoot 357 or even 38 out of a snub because I would never want to practice with it and do not think my shot placement would be nearly as good. The only round outside of 22 lr even in consideration is a 9mm LCR. I want a pocket gun that can make rapid follow-up shots accurately, and that I would not hate practicing with. I am more than comfortable with 22, if you are not, that is fine.
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If you're not opposed to carrying a semi-auto, the Sig P365 is hard to beat. It holds 10+1 of 9mm and can be pocket carried with the magazine that has the flush base.
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I think you may find the 9mm a little stiffer recoiling than a .38, if not at least equal.
I have a 43c that goes in a pocket around the house if I'm going to do some plinking, but it is not reliable enough (IMO) for defensive carry. If I miss a chipmunk, it's likely I will still survive the encounter.
If you're dead set on a .22, the LCR is a good choice, because you'll then have a holster for a .38 when you realize that's what you should've got in the 1st place.
hyena
Member
Before you completely rule out a center fire snub, maybe take a look at a 640 Pro. Stainless steel, adjustable night sights, heavy enough to mitigate recoil. I have one, and I call it the J frame that shoots like a K frame. I also have a 686 four inch, and would never consider trying to carry it concealed. Apples and oranges to compare the two for carry.
But do I carry my 640 Pro? Rarely. I prefer my 642, or more often, my Bodyguard .380. Occasionally when I want a little more horsepower the 640 gets the nod.
I've got a 43c, but not for self defense. I bought it for cheap practice at the range. Although when the day comes my hands have deteriorated to where it's necessary, I'd carry it.
But do I carry my 640 Pro? Rarely. I prefer my 642, or more often, my Bodyguard .380. Occasionally when I want a little more horsepower the 640 gets the nod.
I've got a 43c, but not for self defense. I bought it for cheap practice at the range. Although when the day comes my hands have deteriorated to where it's necessary, I'd carry it.
Fishinfool
Member
The man wants a .22 - So, I am not up on the various J frame models, but I would look close at an aluminum frame J in .22 with a 2 1/2 or less barrel and adjustable sights. Smaller than the Ruger, and probably a better trigger. Perfect for pocket carry. The adjustable sights might come in handy for plinking with different loads while out kayaking.
I agree with you wanting a revolver for this role in this caliber. Pocket .22 auto's are known to often be unreliable. With a revolver, you get multiple pulls of the trigger.
Larry
I agree with you wanting a revolver for this role in this caliber. Pocket .22 auto's are known to often be unreliable. With a revolver, you get multiple pulls of the trigger.
Larry
Rpg
Member
A Smith model 34-1 or its stainless version is the revolver you want as a small 22 revolver.
These are about twice the price of some of the 38 snubs suggested above, but worth it: adjustable sights, no recoil. Overall a delightful pistol. Follow up shots are easy, accurate and quick. Easy to shoot precisely.
They are steel framed so a bit heavier than alloy framed 38s or 357's, but easily pocket carried in 2" barrel versions. Even the 4" barrel versions are easily pocket carried. I prefer the 4" version. The 4" version is easier to shoot quickly and accurately than the 2" version.
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