S&W "J" frames and their alternatives?

[Naphtali]

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*****
I have a close friend living in San Diego County, California, who wants to buy her first handgun. She intends to become trained for concealed carry - on her property if a CCW permit is not available for her.

I recommended looking at used S&W "J" frame revolvers, suggesting the concealed hammer versions (442/640/642) might be a better choice than those having visible hammers.

I also suggested she look at Charter Arms Undercover series of "J" frame-size 38s and 357 Magnum revolvers. But since I own no Charter Arms revolvers, nor do I know anyone who owns one, I recommended she talk with pistol smith in her area to determine whether the quality-reliability of this brand in this class of their revolvers is adequate for her purpose. I also told her that she would not be asking whether this less expensive series is to the quality-reliability level of S&Ws - only whether it would be a satisfactory choice for her limited interest in guns, shooting, and long-term practicing level.

In your experience are the Charter Arms "J" frame-size revolvers satisfactory for her purpose? Would a used one bought from a gun ship that offers return or exchange warranty also tend to be satisfactory?

How useful would it be for her to buy from a gun shop that has a place to shoot on shop property where she can shoot before buying?

What useful information should I relay to her regarding selection, place from which to buy, and place to train that I have omitted?

 

[DocB]

The first generation Charter Arms 38 Specials are fine. . .made before 1990ish when they went bankrupt the first time. Picked up a mint one for a song and sold it to a postmaster friend a month ago. He loves it and shoots it every week. Better to invest in a Smith though. . .an older Model 36 or 60 or even one of the new ones like I got my wife. Get one with a hammer!!! When that wild dog is halfway across your back yard about to attack your dog or cat, you will not hit it using double action. The option of having single action for a careful long range shot is invaluable.

 

[Muss Muggins]

If I was making the recommendation, along with the 442/642/640, I would have the nice lady look at the Ruger LCR line. The Ruger is a little more expensive, but a fine revolver in its own right . . .

 

[AlHunt]

For the small cost difference, she may as well get a genuine J-Frame Smith.

And then there's the whole discussion that she should shoot some different guns before she settles on one type.

And then there's the whole issue of recoil and the J-Frame. They are twisty little boogers.

 

[Lobster Picnic]

I would urge her to spend the extra $100 or so on a S&W and also look at the Ruger LCR series. We have a J-frame sized Charter in .38 Special and have had several issues with it.

 

[ContinentalOp]

I think she should try as many guns as possible. Obviously, a rental range would be good for this. So would an introductory shooting class that lets students try different guns. The general consensus is to recommend revolvers to first time handgun shooters, but at the same time if she doesn't like revolvers and ends up preferring semi-autos, she might be more inclined to practice with it.

There's also the matter of California's approved gun list, which could limit options.

As far as revolvers go, I don't know what your friend's budget is, but one option I've always liked, but have yet to implement myself, is 2 J-frames, one aluminum and one steel. Aluminium for carry and occasional practice and steel for regular practice. Otherwise, an airweight J-frame wouldn't be the ideal starter but probably more useful/versatile if it's going to be her only gun (at least for now).

The only other option I'd consider for a lightweight snub would be a Ruger LCR. I'm not a fan of them, but they are good quality guns and work well for a lot of people.

 

[gnystrom]

I would go with the Smith or the LCR from Ruger over the Charter Arms regardless of the price. I really like the rental idea after a basic pistol class.
I prefer hammerless snubbies but only she can determine if the trigger is too stiff for her to operate correctly. If it is too difficult, go with a hammer model from either Ruger of S&W. Have her go to a local gun store and look closely at both. One will talk to her. That is the one should she buy.

 

[Louchia]

I have a 442 but would also recommend looking at the Rugar LCR. They are both well made reliable guns.A little extra money for a SD weapon that goes bang EVERY time is important.
I also agree with afore mentioned suggestion to go to a Gun store/ range to rent different models. She may decide on something else. Renting can be a little costly but well worth the money in the final decision.
Also keep in mind that if the J frame grip is a little small or the felt recoil is a little much, a Hogue Tamer or similar grip can be installed. Also if needed, a gunsmith can do a trigger job to lighten the pull a pound or two.
Good luck.

 

[Old cop]

If your friend is not an experienced shooter a J frame might not be for her. They pack quite a wallop that tends to turn new shooters off so the advise to rent before buying is spot on.

 

[chief38]

For a Female new to CCW I would strongly Consider a used Colt Detective Special. It is only SLIGHTLY larger than the Chief's Special and weighs a mere 2 ounces more that the Chief's. The reason I am recommending the Dick Spl. over the Smith is that it is a little easier to shoot, control and has an extra round in the cylinder so it will go 20% farther before a reload is needed. While the Chief's Special is a little easier to conceal, the Dick Spl. might be more suited for a female (again, control issues) since I would think a K frame would be too large and heavy for her.

The Charter arms line up IMHO is low end and would NOT recommend that to anyone. I have seen too many that are sheer garbage.

 

[BC38]

FWIW, a less expensive alternative to the Colt might be the Ross M461. Pretty nearly a clone of the Detective Special - but it will also chamber 357, and it is about half the price of the Colt. My personal experience with Rossi's has been very good. But as will all non S&W brands, opinions around here will vary.

 

[Fredo Batali]

I agree with chief38. A Colt Detective Special, Agent, or Cobra would be a good choice as well. Six rounds of .38 Special and Steel or alloy frames. I have all three, plus six or seven "J" frames and each has it's advantages and disadvantages. Then, there are the "Air Lite" versions of the "J" frame in .32 H&R Magnum etc. JMO. Plus one on rental guns before purchase.

De Oppresso Liber

 

[326MOD10]

I would agree with the thought that a J Frame Smith, or similar handgun, may not be the best choice for a first time shooter.

Maybe a Shield or similar offering from Ruger (in .380 or 9mm) might be a better way to go.

I would suggest a trip to a local rental range to see what suites a new shooter best to begin with. Not saying they couldn't handle a J Frame, because I don't know the person, just saying they can be a handful.

 

[Bobbysixkiller]

Well I had a tauras j frame type gun. In 357. Never had problems with it. But it was a tauras. So I traded up to a j frame smith after that. So maybe I'm partial to S&W. But that just me. The tauras was a good gun. For the 250 it cost.

 

[3rdgeargrndrr]

Agree with the option for the 380. The sig P238 is legal to buy in CA.
If she wants a simpler manual of arms, and wants the revolver you'll prob stick to the j frame.
I have shot them all and always came back to the smith action/ j frame.
Is she a new shooter? Problem is your friend may not want to practice much even when shooting 38 especially out of any light aluminum revolver. A steel frame is the way to go. It may be pink or cute but the first shot is a jolt back to reality. Maybe the 317 until she gets less sensitive?
What does gshewant to shoot? I know a lot of female shooters, 3 daughter and married. They all have different preferences. My wife loved her 4"sp101 but then the M60 came home.
Kimber K6 is coming soon. But a pass for my family.

 

[HEADKNOCKER]

I agree that the J Frame snub cannot be beat as far as there being a better concealed carry revolver.. I've had Pre40, 60, 640-1, 317, 342Ti, 442-2, 642-1, & three 940s, All where the best at what they did CARRY..
I've had Detective Specials, Ruger SP101s etc. & the S&W J Frame comes out on top for me everytime.. The others didn't carry as well though more heavy & bigger might make for a slightly less battering revolver when fired but if you leave it at home because of it's size/weight then it becomes useless..

 

[Peak53]

No one has yet mentioned the venerable K frame Model 10. Perhaps a 2" or 3" barrel. This may be a better place to start, as it is much easier to shoot than a J frame and has the sixth round. It can be carried easily in a belt holster and on her own property, concealment is less of an issue. If she wants to go off the reservation after getting some experience, then she could consider the J frame. Just my 2 cents. I think the J frame is a tough place to start for anybody.

 

[Kernel Crittenden]

Why not a Lady Smith for the lady?............

Model 60LS

They're specifically made for women. Product code (sku) 162414. It's in current production, so you can just order one from the dealer. Do not, repeat DO NOT, let her shoot .357 in it until she is thoroughly familiar with .38 Spl. Don't even let her buy any .357 ammo (cuz you know the guy in store will try to seller her some). Probably, best to avoid .357 altogether, though some women do like it.

 

[CATI1835]

My wife's EDC is a Charter Arms Undercoverette in .32 HR Mag. She loves it. I am impressed with the quality for the money. I offered to give her my SW432 as a replacement. She said she would rather continue carrying the CA.

 

[CH4]

I vote for 640, 642 or 60 - hard to beat!