Rick-
I think the two elements to look for are that the gun will accept Plus P ammo, as any Model marked one supposedly will, and to get one that has the threads on the extractor rod turning in a direction so that the rod doesn't unscrew itself in use. I think that change was in 1961, but someone here can provide the dash suffix for it. I haven't time to look it up right now.
One from the 1970's or later will have better metallurgy and heat treating, I guess, but any post 1957 one should be safe with occasional use of Plus P's. Older ones won't blow up, but will loosen sooner.
This isn't based on Internet posts: I wrote the factory years ago, and was advised that I could fire .38/44's in an emergency, but that continued use would loosen the M&P far sooner than if I used normal .38 ammo in it. (This was before Plus P came into use, so the high velocity load then was the hotter .38/44 round.)
Personally, I find stainless (Model 64) well worthwhile, but I yearn for four-inch std. barrel and five-inch M-10's, myself.
I think the five-inch barrel may offer the most in looks, balance, and velocity in a handy size. But holsters are hard to find and if concealed use is a factor, the three or four inch barrels are better.
For a five-inch holster, I suggest El Paso Saddlery, but there is usually a LONG wait.
T-Star
