I made the mistake of thinking a Model 60 in 357 wasn't enough because of short sight radius and lack of capacity and jumped on the baby Glock bandwagon (G27) around 1999 or so. The ammo I was required to carry in the Smith also was possibly suboptimal although I never had any personal experience with it first hand. Optional was the Winchester Silvertip .357, which had its own pluses and minuses. I sold the Model 60 to finance a new Glock 27, which was supposed to be the ultimate blend of stopping power, capacity, and conceal-ability. It wasn't, as I've come to learn. J-frames, despite being five shot capacity, have benefits no semi auto can replace. I've since used a mix that included the 27, a 26, an M&P9c, a 43, a 43x, and a P365. The 365 is closest due to its size with the 43 as runner up. The 640 in .38 Special I also run could only be beat by a good airweight. The key to confidence with any handgun is quality training and practicing good training. I submit that someone who practices with and masters a DA action will also shoot semis a bit better. But when it all comes down to it, carry what you're comfortable with. If it's down to a G42 or a five shot Smith, train with both of them. And apply a little orange paint to the J-frame front sight and it will be a little bit easier to work with. I went thru a LEOSA qualification last week with a 365 and the 640. Distances out to 25 yards on a course designed for semis but suitable for a six shot revolver. Shot 100 percent with the 640.
