Step up from J-Frame?

[Mr. Blenderson]

I've been carrying a 642 appendix for a few years, it's comfortable and easy to conceal, I'm a decent shot with it, and it's been 100% reliable.

Lately I've been trying to carry my P30SK to have more capacity with something I shoot far more accurately. It's been incredibly uncomfortable and doesn't conceal well and I can't find a way to carry it that works.

Last night for ****s and giggles I tried carrying my 4" 686+ appendix and it actually was far MORE comfortable and concealable than any semi-auto I've ever tried.

I don't want to carry the 4" for its size and weight, but wondering what would be a better intermediate option between a 642 and a 686? I think the 2.5" 686 would still be too heavy for all day appendix carry.

 

[rich5674]

I'd look at the Kimber

Either the Kimber revolver or a Smith Snub nose k frame like a 64, 65, 10, 13. 6 shooter with a 2" barrel and round butt.

 

[RMFnLA]

3" HB RB 64 or 65 is my ideal EDC revolver.

YMMV...

 

[pineoak]

depending upon threat/discreet switch between the two instead of a compromise that you don't already own and have holsters for

 

[KalamazooKid]

K frame in 2 or 3" - these are perfect IMHO.

Here's a 10-7 and a 13-3 for comparison.

 

[junglefighter]

The 2 3/4 bbl. model 69 might be another choice.5 rds. of 44Spl. is a good defense revolver.There are many posts on the forum to read on the 69.

 

[Flyingfool]

First thought was 3" J-Frame

Also Kframe 3" models

Kimber K6S is six shots of ho to 357 mag and they also make in 3".

Ruger SP101 357 also in 3" but is only 5 shots and is a tank.

For something a bit different. An LCR in 327 federal mag. This is a six shot gun but allowes for a lot of ammo combinations from 32acp, 32 S&W short and 32 long, 32 H&R, 32 H&R mag and of course 327 federal mag.

I believe 32 H&R mag is very similar in power as std 38 special and gives you 1 additional round compared to say a 642.

 

[one eye joe]

I've been carrying a 642 appendix for a few years, it's comfortable and easy to conceal, I'm a decent shot with it, and it's been 100% reliable.

Lately I've been trying to carry my P30SK to have more capacity with something I shoot far more accurately. It's been incredibly uncomfortable and doesn't conceal well and I can't find a way to carry it that works.

Last night for ****s and giggles I tried carrying my 4" 686+ appendix and it actually was far MORE comfortable and concealable than any semi-auto I've ever tried.

I don't want to carry the 4" for its size and weight, but wondering what would be a better intermediate option between a 642 and a 686? I think the 2.5" 686 would still be too heavy for all day appendix carry.

Hi Mr.B, THE 2 1/2" M686+ IS EXACTLY WHAT I WAS G0ING TO SUGGEST. ITS WHAT I EDC IN A BELL CHARTER OAK CROSS DRAW, ON A STOUT BELT.....

I BACK IT UP WITH A M642, IN A MIKA POCKET HOLSTER. IN VERY WARM WEATHER I MIGHT SIMPLY CARRY THE M642.....


NATURALLY, THERE IS A DIFFERENCE IN WEIGHT BETWEEN THE 2 WEAPONS. IMHO, IT IS NOT SOMETHING THAT YOU WON'T/CAN'T GET USED TO.....

THERE ALSO IS THE OPTION OF CARRYING THE M686+ IN A SHOULDER HOLSTER DURING COOL WEATHER........

 

[Mister X]

What you're considering a step up is not actually better IMO. You'll just be carrying more weight and bulk for no added advantage. In fact, since you will be losing having an enclosed hammer, I would view the switch as a step down.

 

[Struckat]

This one carries wonderfully and shoots really well too. 66-8

I don't carry or use it upside down.

 

[bigggbbruce]

I tried carrying my 4" 686+ appendix and it actually was far MORE comfortable and concealable than any semi-auto I've ever tried.

I carry AIWB a 4" 1911 alum frame. I have to check sometimes that it's still there..it's a dream compared to a 5" all SS..but that still 'aint bad..

 

[jtcarm]

3" HB RB 64 or 65 is my ideal EDC revolver.

YMMV...

That's my EDC.

Conceals under a shirttail carried 2:00 in a Summer Special.

A 4" would conceal just as well in this IWB mode.

 

[ISCS Yoda]

A 2" K frame was my first answer, or a 2.5". Way easier to carry than an L frame IMHO and I do carry a 2" K frame plenty often.

That's just sticking to revolvers.

 

[joe44va]

I'm having trouble dealing with the concept of "stepping up from a J frame". I don't hear many instances of Js failing.
Anyway, a 3" 686+ would give you more firepower, if that's what you would consider a step up.

 

[dr. mordo]

I'm surprised no one has recommended a Model 12 snubbie. They weight just a bit more than an Airweight J but carry an extra round.

You might try carrying the 686 for a week or two to see if you acclimate to it. I carry a 3" 629 everyday, and often I carry it AIWB. I know it's there, but it certainly not "too heavy".

 

[Execpro]

If you like the J frame size,a Lady Smith model 60 with hammer would be my choice. It has a 2.14" bbl. I carry AIWB and my nylon holsters have a sweat guard (Cardini holsters come in both leather and nylon) so the hammer is not a issue plus gives me an option of shooting in single action if needed. It is also 21oz and you can shoot 38+P ammo comfortably.
The Lady Smith has one of the best stock triggers from the factory and is also 357mag capable. JMO

Be SAFE and Shoot often!

 

[TomkinsSP]

I have a 2" M10, it's funny how much bigger and heavier it is than a 1 7/8" M640. Unless you plan on missing, five is just fine, carry a speedstrip for 11.

 

[ABPOS]

On paper and in our minds that 6th round seems to be like a lot more. I'm not convinced it is that big of a deal, other than it FEELING like a big deal. Which I guess counts for something.

I get that a bigger gun maybe easier to shoot better too. I would suggest a model 2" 12 also. I wouldn't mind one myself. I wouldn't sneeze at a 2" model 10 either. But I think I'd like the less weight of the 12.

Honestly though, you're probably just fine with the j frame. But I go through the same thoughts all the time too.

Might be heresy on here but you could look at a Colt Revolver. The D frame is smaller than K but bigger than the J and it's really the best in between. However, they are not supported like a smith revolver. They don't make them any longer, other than the redesigned Cobra. Which could be good too. The one I fondled at the LGS had a super duper nice double action trigger. I'm just not sure they're going to be around forever and then they might not be supported all that well for parts and such if they don't keep making them.

 

[Kifaru]

Speaking from my experience, I have found that I can comfortably carry a much heavier gun in the appendix position than I can on the hip at 5:00. But that could be just the way I'm built. For me, it's more the shape than the weight and size that bothers me. Auto loaders are more angular and "pokey" on me. A revolver just settles in, and I can just go about my day. With an auto I find myself adjusting, hitching, and twisting pretty much continuously. I say, just run what you already have, unless you are looking for an excuse to buy an early Christmas present to yourself

 

[STCM(SW)]

The one I CC most is a M638 but with a jacket it is my M640 357 Magnum.
The old Colt Cobra is OK, but the action is no wear close to any of my Smith's.
As far as a Semi Auto, Kimber Pro Carry II .45 ACP is my choice.