Purchased devoted carry piece...strayed

[Kanewpadle]

My devoted carry guns have recently changed to not one but two J frames. One in the front pocket or belt and one in the jacket pocket. One speed strip in another pocket.

No offense to others but I don't think 5 rounds is enough. A NY reload is faster. And I prefer hammerless models for pocket carry although the same can be done with exposed hammer models with practice.

So the question is, will you ever pocket carry? Or not? Answering that question should give you your answer as to which J frame. The M60 is a great gun but for most people too big for pocket carry. The J frame, mostly 642 and 442 models are Smith's best selling guns. They are lightweight, have adequate power, easier to shoot than other pocket guns because there's more to hang on to, and priced right.

If I were going to carry exclusively on the belt I would carry a model 60 or Ruger SP101 hammerless simply because I could. The added size and weight on my belt would not matter.

My jacket pocket gun is this old model 49.

My other pocket gun is a 642 with Lasergrips.

 

[novalty]

How far are from you from New Hampshire? When I was in Portsmouth (The Tijuana of New England) there seemed to be gun stores and ranges on every corner.

I am about 2 hours from Portsmouth. The only in-door range that I think is somewhat close to me is located in Manchester, NH with is just a shade closer than Portsmouth. Might have to contact them, would be a good winter weekend trip.

As far as carrying goes, I'd plan to get a IWB holster instead of pocket carry.

 

[StatesRightist]

If you get a newer J frame, invest in the APEK J frame Spring Kit, it's one of the best $25 you can spend IMO.

 

[RobertJ.]

Before making a decision, take a good look at the Ruger SP101. They're tough as nails, accurate, and dependable.

 

[photoman]

If you are going to carry/shoot a J-frame, get a STEEL one. I love them in all flavors, but a 36 no dash blue 2" is one of the things I would never be without.
If I were getting one today, it would be a 640-1 pre-lock in .357 Magnum. Easy to carry, but tough enough to SHOOT.

Yes, the pre-lock, magnum 640's are an awesome choice for a steel J frame.

 

[scout]

A no-lock Model 642 with Hornady 110gr FTX ammo is a nice combo.

What happened to the Cor-Bon DPX?

 

[photoman]

What happened to the Cor-Bon DPX?

I got a bit fed up with CorBon. Every time I bought a new batch, they were totally different... different brass... different primers... different packaging...

I never had the chance to chrono any of the different lots but I could tell from shooting the different samples that they were not the same.

I now stick with the major manufacturers like Hornady FTX and Speer Gold Dot. Not even going to mention the cost factor!

 

[mc5aw]

I am about 2 hours from Portsmouth. The only in-door range that I think is somewhat close to me is located in Manchester, NH with is just a shade closer than Portsmouth. Might have to contact them, would be a good winter weekend trip.

As far as carrying goes, I'd plan to get a IWB holster instead of pocket carry.

If IWB is the way you're going, give strong consideration to a Centennial or Bodyguard configuration. No exposed hammer to dig into your side. If you go the route of an exposed hammer revolver, make sure your IWB holster has a hammer shield on it.

 

[A10]

I carry a no lock 442. Durable finish, light enough that you don't know it's there, doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Recoil is a bit punchy, but you can put 50 rounds down range in a session and not hurt too bad....

 

[novalty]

Well stopped by the local Cabelas today. Looks like I've narrowed down the search some. Held the 442, 637, 60, and off them the 60 was the one that fit my hand the best. However, I did see the Ruger SP101, and that caught my eye as well--as well as the price tag being over $100 less. Hopefully will be able to save up enough to purchase one by the spring.

 

[novalty]

Well I stopped by another local gun shop to check out their carry revolvers and looked at the Ruger SP101 some more. Still trying to decide if I need to stick with the shorter 2.25" version or if I can comfortably carry the 3.06" version IWB. Any SP101 users have any experience to share?

 

[3five7]

I carry my 3 inch SP101 daily in a IWB holster with no problem.

 

[novalty]

I carry my 3 inch SP101 daily in a IWB holster with no problem.

3five7, what kind of holster do you use? From what I could see the Crossbreed Supertuck looks like a good way to both spread the weight as well as protect the body from the hammer.

 

[3five7]

I have several different ones. The one I use the most is a Galco Sto-N-Go. Easy on and off. I don't have a Crossbreed Super Tuck, but they have a good reputation.

 

[palmettosunshine]

I wanted an SP-101 for years before finally buying a TALO edition, 3" model. I tried everyway I knew and a few I didn't to comfortably carry that sharp edged, heavy hunk of metal. Loved it at the range, hated and I mean HATED carrying it. Finally traded it for an M&P 340 that I pocket carry to this day.

Don't get me wrong, the Ruger is a fine revolver and many people carry them everyday, it just wasn't for me. If I could have kept it AND a lighter carry piece it would still be in the safe with the occasional trip to the range.

 

[novalty]

I wanted an SP-101 for years before finally buying a TALO edition, 3" model. I tried everyway I knew and a few I didn't to comfortably carry that sharp edged, heavy hunk of metal. Loved it at the range, hated and I mean HATED carrying it. Finally traded it for an M&P 340 that I pocket carry to this day.

Don't get me wrong, the Ruger is a fine revolver and many people carry them everyday, it just wasn't for me. If I could have kept it AND a lighter carry piece it would still be in the safe with the occasional trip to the range.

I have to pick up a good IWB holster, and a decent heavier dress 1 1/4" dress belt before I carry. But I did slide the SP101 in my waist band and it feels considerably easier to carry than my S&W 5906 or 1911, weight at least 13 ozs. lighter.

 

[oldafsp]

My trusty 638 Bodyguard and Don Hume IWB rig.

Goes everywhere....

 

[badge 851]

I have to pick up a good IWB holster, and a decent heavier dress 1 1/4" dress belt before I carry. But I did slide the SP101 in my waist band and it feels considerably easier to carry than my S&W 5906 or 1911, weight at least 13 ozs. lighter.

First go to Theis (pronounced "Tice") Holsters: wwwTheisHolsters.com Tommy makes a great hybrid leather/kydex IWB. Cowhide is $55.00; Horsehide - $65.00.That is the total price; DELIVERED! I bought the horsehide holster and it is the most comfortable IWB I've used in 41 years of carrying a revolver. IT IS AN OUTSTANDING PRODUCT - with a Lifetime Guarantee.

Also check out the "Jake Belt" on his website.

 

[crofoot629]

I've always wanted a 3" Model 60, chambered in .357 Magnum.
It comes with adjustable sights, and is a 5 shot J-Frame.
I believe the 60-10 is pre lock, and I'd only buy pre lock.

It's not like they are growing on trees. They are also not horribly hard to locate.
If it were I, I'd have no problem being patient and locating a No-Lock gun.

There's actually one on gunbroker right now. Or keep an eye out here, or post a want to buy here.

I'm sure I've put more work into finding the right box. It's so nice to get what you want, and not settle. jmho

Emory

 

[novalty]

Well hopefully I don't regret the decision. I am eager to get to the range this weekend and put some rounds though it.