What self defense round for a Model 49

[bushmaster1313]

I was lucky to find a nice Model 49 from about 1979.

Living in NJ I bought it just for the fun of it, but if I could carry it for self defense what round would I use?

Is my 49 +P rated?

Thank you

Lou

Here is the gun

 

[ArchAngelCD]

According to S&W the M49 is not rated for +P ammo but most people consider any steel revolver made after WWII fine for +P ammo, especially the current +P ammo. You will have to decide for yourself if you feel safe shooting it.

 

[coach22]

I got my nickel 49 in 1984.
1st choice: Buffalo Bore Standard Pressure 158's.
2nd choice: Corbon DPX 110 +P's.
Has Pachmayr Compacs on it.

 

[Maximumbob54]

I have some Federal Hydra Shok right now but will be buying some of the Speer Gold Dot Short Barrel when I find some. I stick with standard pressure.

 

[natchez]

I have some Federal Hydra Shok right now but will be buying some of the Speer Gold Dot Short Barrel when I find some. I stick with standard pressure.

+1 I use the Federal in the model 49 in my car.

 

[Broker50]

Doesn't NJ have some asinine law about not using hollow-point ammo? If you are limited by not using hollowpoints, I would think a 158 gr SWC would serve you best. despite popular opinion, it doesn't have to be +P to be effective. It deoends on your tolerance for recoil & muzzle blast, but some individuals shoot much better with standard pressure loads. A hard cast SWC has enough "punch" to penetrate to vitals, & with the proper shot placement & adequate penetration you'll be good to go.

 

[enfield]

I'd vote for the 158 grain LSWCHP also.

 

[Big Lou]

Lou (great name BTW)

I use standard non + P for practice and Speer GD 135Gr. +P # 53921 for carry in my pre lock 342 Ti. . Love 'em.

Big Lou

 

[bushmaster1313]

NJ does have an odd law about hollow points.
You can buy them and have them at home and transport them for firing at the range.

But never ever think of using them to defend yourself!

Doesn't NJ have some asinine law about not using hollow-point ammo? If you are limited by not using hollowpoints, I would think a 158 gr SWC would serve you best. despite popular opinion, it doesn't have to be +P to be effective. It deoends on your tolerance for recoil & muzzle blast, but some individuals shoot much better with standard pressure loads. A hard cast SWC has enough "punch" to penetrate to vitals, & with the proper shot placement & adequate penetration you'll be good to go.

 

[vytoland]

148gr DEWC @ 800 - 825 fps will work just fine.

 

[pete950]

Big +++ for the double end wadcutter

 

[captbahbah]

Presently, NYPD and NYDC use God Dot 135 grain +P Hollow Point. This round was made especially for snub nose revolvers like your S&W 49. If you can find any Nyclad 158 grain semi-wadcutter in standard or +P use those for carry. We used them for years. Practice with standard velocity rounds. End your session with 25 rounds of the +P and you're good to go. Been carrying and shooting a 649(stainless version) since 1991. Hope this helps.

 

[thndrchiken]

NJ does have an odd law about hollow points.
You can buy them and have them at home and transport them for firing at the range.

But never ever think of using them to defend yourself!

Just remember it is better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6.

 

[photoman]

Corbon PowRBall.

Ammunition To Go : 20rds - 38 Special Corbon Pow'RBall 100gr. +P Ammo [PB38100/20] - $22.95