Old lurker, new poster here. Great forum. Incredible amount of info. Been so busy reading haven't had time to even think of posting. Posted this same question on Firing Line and got great feedback. Thought I'd do the same here. Considering buying first handgun. Taking the NRA pistol course next weekend and plan to follow up with CC class, although not positive at this point that I will CC. Really just trying to learn as much as I can. Had considered buying a handgun for some time and figured now was the time. (Who knows what will happen politically after next week.) For at least the forseeable future there will probably only be one handgun in my future. Primary uses would be range and HD, maybe even CC. I'm leaning toward a revolver for all the "new shooter" reasons - simplicity, dependability, etc. Question: is the 3" S&W 60 a good compromise for the above uses. I considered it because it was heavier and seemed stouter than some of the other really lightweight J frames. Thought it, and I, might be able to handle the occassional .357 a little easier. Also thought it would be an easier carry pc. than the heavier 620 or 686 if I do carry. Also think the Ruger SP101 is a possibility for the same reasons as the 60. Opinions please.
Which S&W
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Old lurker, new poster here. Great forum. Incredible amount of info. Been so busy reading haven't had time to even think of posting. Posted this same question on Firing Line and got great feedback. Thought I'd do the same here. Considering buying first handgun. Taking the NRA pistol course next weekend and plan to follow up with CC class, although not positive at this point that I will CC. Really just trying to learn as much as I can. Had considered buying a handgun for some time and figured now was the time. (Who knows what will happen politically after next week.) For at least the forseeable future there will probably only be one handgun in my future. Primary uses would be range and HD, maybe even CC. I'm leaning toward a revolver for all the "new shooter" reasons - simplicity, dependability, etc. Question: is the 3" S&W 60 a good compromise for the above uses. I considered it because it was heavier and seemed stouter than some of the other really lightweight J frames. Thought it, and I, might be able to handle the occassional .357 a little easier. Also thought it would be an easier carry pc. than the heavier 620 or 686 if I do carry. Also think the Ruger SP101 is a possibility for the same reasons as the 60. Opinions please.
Revolver King
Member
Yes the 3" m-60 would be the best J-frame for all of the purposes you mentioned. I think the SP 101 is a little too heavy. I also don't think you need to a 357 unless you are taking it to the woods with you. 38+ P is fine. Just my opinion.
Centurian77
Member
Get the 60 with 2 1/8" barrel in .357 magnum. Best all around carry magnum made, very compact, full length ejector, and can handle the magnum loads when needed.
rbert0005
Member
J Frames just do not make good shooters, for me.
They are great for carry, but not very enjoyable to shoot.
I think, if I were you, I would go with a K Framed revolver, or an M&P in 9mm.
Bob
They are great for carry, but not very enjoyable to shoot.
I think, if I were you, I would go with a K Framed revolver, or an M&P in 9mm.
Bob
indiandave
Member
I have a model 60 with a 3" barrel. It's made of stainless and weighs about 24 oz. It came with Uncle Mike's combat grips that cover the back strap. It's a pleasure to shoot,very accurate(has adj.sights). It absorbs recoil well with Buffalo Bore 158gr lswchp's.
The barrel is to long for pocket carry. I carry mine owb or iwb. It carries really well. The model 60 is about 9 oz heavier then a model 637. but like I said it's a good shooter.
The barrel is to long for pocket carry. I carry mine owb or iwb. It carries really well. The model 60 is about 9 oz heavier then a model 637. but like I said it's a good shooter.
I have a 3" model 36-6, the brother to a 60-4, in 38 Special. It is as accurate as my 6" 686. The 3" J Frame would seem to meed all your stated needs, and you won't be sorry.
sunday bill
Member
Traded for a 60-9 (.357) and have carried it for several years, sometimes concealed and sometimes not.
My wife tried it with .38s and liked it. We found her a 60-7. Both of ours have 2 1/8" barrels but I wouldn't pass a good deal on a 60 with a longer barrel.
Great carry guns for our rural lifestyle.
Rich
My wife tried it with .38s and liked it. We found her a 60-7. Both of ours have 2 1/8" barrels but I wouldn't pass a good deal on a 60 with a longer barrel.
Great carry guns for our rural lifestyle.
Rich
I strongly agree with Rbert0005. The guns that are great to carry are not much fun to shoot. I have had both types. I'd rather put up with a heavier gun to lug around than a lightweight one that kicks. I think the Ruger SP 101 is a very good compromise. Not too heavy but very compact and shootable for practice.
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