BLACKHAWKNJ
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Revolver are more reloader friendly.
Why get a revolver instead of a pistol?
- Thread starter spirit4earth
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hkcavalier
US Veteran
A lot of people I ride with carry LCP's. When I showed them how little pressure on the muzzle it took to disable the little semi, several are looking to get a good old 5 shot 38.
Living near the coast in FL. if you do a lot of riding you're gonna get wet. When riding I usually carry a Glock 27, just because I can dry it out better than a soaked revolver.
During the dryer season, I like a 642.
Autoloaders are great for ranged gunfights, but not as great for fighting/ close-quarter personal defense.
[ame]https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=re8oMnGbnh4[/ame]
Why a Revolver ? Because I like them better. Why? I’m a J-Frame nut. That’s about all I shoot and carry. I have Two Semi-Autos. Haven’t shot them in a few years. I don’t miss them. I have a couple 7 shot 357s a 4” for Range fun and a 2” that my Wife likes to shoot and I carry it on occasion .
I'm new here and I don't have any desire to get involved in some very pointless pissing match.
However, I have to partially but strongly disagree with the view that semi-autos fail often and revolvers never jam. Some semi-auto fail a lot and some are just ***. A decent semi-auto that the user has proven reliable on the range will be nearly as reliable as a range proven revolver. Of course neither a *** revolver or a *** semi-auto would be something to trust your life on.
And yes, I have seen S & W revolvers and some others lock up on the range and I've had it happen to me. Granted it's less likely with a revolver. However, in most cases a semi-auto can be put back in service with the ole tap, rack and go, whereas a locked up revolver will at least require a trip to the range bench, but likely more.
Don't get me wrong, I'm mostly a revolver guy but as much as I hate the aesthetics of Glocks, I've never personally seen one fail that couldn't be attributed to really bad reloads. Sure, I know it's happened. Neither my old 659 or it's companion 669 ever failed and that's after a whole bunch of rounds, especially the 669 which was my primary back-up and off duty for over 25 years as well as serving as my duty gun while on the Marine Unit, and it suffered the associated regular practice and qualifications as well as being loaned out to others for the auto transition course. Now I did try a 645 and subsequently a 4506. I thought they were both *** and got rid of them.
On the other hand, after I'd become an official dinosaur, on range day I beat the younger guys with their wonder 9s on the dueling tree with my 629 or 686 while using a quarter or less of ammunition. This happened on several occasions and they never beat me. However, I'm sure there had to be at least a couple of young guys on the Dept with semi-autos that could have smoked me.
All that to say a good proven example of either should be just fine while unproven poor quality versions of either should be discarded.
Carry what you can afford, feel comfortable with, shoot reasonably well and that you have proven reliable on the range.
However, I have to partially but strongly disagree with the view that semi-autos fail often and revolvers never jam. Some semi-auto fail a lot and some are just ***. A decent semi-auto that the user has proven reliable on the range will be nearly as reliable as a range proven revolver. Of course neither a *** revolver or a *** semi-auto would be something to trust your life on.
And yes, I have seen S & W revolvers and some others lock up on the range and I've had it happen to me. Granted it's less likely with a revolver. However, in most cases a semi-auto can be put back in service with the ole tap, rack and go, whereas a locked up revolver will at least require a trip to the range bench, but likely more.
Don't get me wrong, I'm mostly a revolver guy but as much as I hate the aesthetics of Glocks, I've never personally seen one fail that couldn't be attributed to really bad reloads. Sure, I know it's happened. Neither my old 659 or it's companion 669 ever failed and that's after a whole bunch of rounds, especially the 669 which was my primary back-up and off duty for over 25 years as well as serving as my duty gun while on the Marine Unit, and it suffered the associated regular practice and qualifications as well as being loaned out to others for the auto transition course. Now I did try a 645 and subsequently a 4506. I thought they were both *** and got rid of them.
On the other hand, after I'd become an official dinosaur, on range day I beat the younger guys with their wonder 9s on the dueling tree with my 629 or 686 while using a quarter or less of ammunition. This happened on several occasions and they never beat me. However, I'm sure there had to be at least a couple of young guys on the Dept with semi-autos that could have smoked me.
All that to say a good proven example of either should be just fine while unproven poor quality versions of either should be discarded.
Carry what you can afford, feel comfortable with, shoot reasonably well and that you have proven reliable on the range.
Autoloaders litter the landscape with brass, HOT brass. This threatens the environment, and causes global warming. Much better to use revolvers, and keep all those icky shells to yourself. Think green!
OP
spirit4earth
Member
I hate to say it, but maybe there’s a good .38 that isn’t an S&W? And, therefore, less expensive? But still reliable! I think two of the big reasons I’m considering a revolver is the close contact advantage, and the fact that limp-wristing isn’t an issue. I can rack a 9mm, and I shot my 9c’s well. I tried a Shield a few years ago, and I hated it. I might be the only one who’s ever said that! ��. I couldn’t lock the slide back for cleaning, I had FTE’s, FTF’s, and stovepipes. It was horrible.
I just kind of like the idea of a revolver. I agree with the many who say that BOTH are the way to go! I just can’t afford two.
I just kind of like the idea of a revolver. I agree with the many who say that BOTH are the way to go! I just can’t afford two.
otis24
Member
The problem comes to price. I have seen new 642s on sale for as low as $299. But typically, they are in the $450 range. I at finding the Shield 9mm as low as $300 new in my area. That is a phenomenal price for a name brand pistol. For your intended use, either would suffice. Go with what is most affordable.
Charter Arms revolvers may be less expensive, and AFAIK they are equally reliable. See your local gun store (LGS).
@OP,
There is a lot of great advice here, but there is also a lot of opinions being expressed that are a bit jaded. Chances are very good that you will get another M&P semi, because that is what you are most familiar with. Just remember to practice!
When you transition into a revolver, it will teach you to be humble, it will show you that you weren't as good a shot as you thought. I thought I was a proficient rifleman, then I picked up an O3A3 Springfield and it taught me how to shoot. I started with a 1911, but a 6" K38 Masterpiece showed me how to shoot a handgun.
Get your M&P and save for a revolver, either a 4" or 6", be it a Model 10, 14, or 15, save your brass and start reloading. Look for a used (but not abused) revolver for your first one. You can find a good condition Combat Masterpiece for under $400. Make sure the revolver has a hammer, then start shooting single action. That revolver will build your confidence and increase the range that you will be competent at.
There is a lot of great advice here, but there is also a lot of opinions being expressed that are a bit jaded. Chances are very good that you will get another M&P semi, because that is what you are most familiar with. Just remember to practice!
When you transition into a revolver, it will teach you to be humble, it will show you that you weren't as good a shot as you thought. I thought I was a proficient rifleman, then I picked up an O3A3 Springfield and it taught me how to shoot. I started with a 1911, but a 6" K38 Masterpiece showed me how to shoot a handgun.
Get your M&P and save for a revolver, either a 4" or 6", be it a Model 10, 14, or 15, save your brass and start reloading. Look for a used (but not abused) revolver for your first one. You can find a good condition Combat Masterpiece for under $400. Make sure the revolver has a hammer, then start shooting single action. That revolver will build your confidence and increase the range that you will be competent at.
BigBill
Absent Comrade
I carried a ruger Redhawk in 44 mag ever since they first were offered. In 5.5” & 7.5” barrels shoulder holstered in stainless. The 5.5” in the summertime and the 7.5” fall and winter. With two speed loaders. That was about 88% of the time.
The other 12% of ccw carry is a cz82 in 9mm mak chambered da first shot, colt gov 1911 in 45 acp, chambered, cocked n locked. I really liked the cz82 with its double action first shot.
I been thinking about a backup pistol in a leg holster. A cz50 or cz70 would be nice.
For a 38 spec revolver the s&w combat masterpiece, 4” barrel is nice.
For a revolver in 357 magnum a used ruger security six would be ok.
For a double action first shot the cz 82, cz83, cz85db, are really nice pistols to begin with,pistols
The other 12% of ccw carry is a cz82 in 9mm mak chambered da first shot, colt gov 1911 in 45 acp, chambered, cocked n locked. I really liked the cz82 with its double action first shot.
I been thinking about a backup pistol in a leg holster. A cz50 or cz70 would be nice.
For a 38 spec revolver the s&w combat masterpiece, 4” barrel is nice.
For a revolver in 357 magnum a used ruger security six would be ok.
For a double action first shot the cz 82, cz83, cz85db, are really nice pistols to begin with,pistols
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Triggernosis
Member
I shot over 200 rounds of 9mm this afternoon in my various semi-autos. After searching through the grass for my brass, of which I probably recovered only 50%, I now remember why I like revolvers so much.
BigBill
Absent Comrade
Yup for sure.
Qc Pistolero
Member
The answer you seek is in your question.
couldn't have said it any better...
dwever
Member
Years ago when our state agency went from K frames to semi-autos we never looked back. Later, we switched again from S&W M&P’s and I received a 3rd Gen Glock Model 22 for uniformed duty carry and OMG was it ugly, but I never had a single problem. Same with the 4th Gen. I still own three revolvers, but while they have their faithful, in 2018 revolvers are widely regarded as an inferior platform for self defense when compared to duty grade semis except when your last name is Miculek.
When I lived in S.E. U.S. my personal carry was 9mm Glock w/light in a Galco Halo Holster. Since moving to Alaska I switched caliber to 10mm.
If I was to revolver carry again it would be back to my beloved 627 UDR with one or two moon clip reloads. Very capable platform with just enough heft for fast follow-up shots, fast moonclip reloads, and easy to drill at distance. If I had to go smaller an L frame 7 shot snub. To go smaller than that you’d better be close in as you’re giving up too much accuracy, follow-up double action performance, and capacity, which brings us right back to a 16 round 10mm or 17 round 9mm.
The last photo is a warm-up exercise, 9 shots, at an agency criminal justice training center, Glock Model 22.
When I lived in S.E. U.S. my personal carry was 9mm Glock w/light in a Galco Halo Holster. Since moving to Alaska I switched caliber to 10mm.
If I was to revolver carry again it would be back to my beloved 627 UDR with one or two moon clip reloads. Very capable platform with just enough heft for fast follow-up shots, fast moonclip reloads, and easy to drill at distance. If I had to go smaller an L frame 7 shot snub. To go smaller than that you’d better be close in as you’re giving up too much accuracy, follow-up double action performance, and capacity, which brings us right back to a 16 round 10mm or 17 round 9mm.
The last photo is a warm-up exercise, 9 shots, at an agency criminal justice training center, Glock Model 22.
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smoothshooter
Member
Most revolver cartridges are superior to autopistol cartridges, with the exception of the .45ACP.
You should carry the platform you manipulate the best in the most powerful cartridge you can control. I have more confidence generally in the medium bore .357 and big bore .44s and .45 Colt and ACP. For all the adulation being heaped on the 9x19mm with the newest bullets I have less confidence in my issue 229R and soon to be issued G-19 than in any of the medium and large frame revolvers or Browning automatics- the 1911 and Hi-Power- to deliver the most adequate ballistic performance at any range more easily. Despite having tens of thousands of rounds through the SIG and Glock now, I can still hit more surely, easily and with more confidence with the other pieces. If stuck with the 9x19mm, the 1911, CZ-75 and Hi-Power are superior.
GCF
Member
Both platforms have their advantages - & disadvantages.
For me, a finely assembled Colt 1911 aside, pre-lock S&W revolvers can't be matched for pride of ownership, reliability, & general shooting enjoyment. No need to shag brass at the range either.
Down side? Bulk, weight, limited capacity, & an absolute shortage of qualified revolver smiths.
SA's load faster, typically offer a superior firepower loadout in weight class, & generally pack (CCW at least) more readily.
Down side? After many years, I've never learned to trust a S/A magazine - for reliability. A hard jam - at the wrong time, will get you killed. Doesn't mean I've given up though. Currently using Tripp Research "Super 7" kits in Wilson 47D mags - for low profile 1911 carry, w/ Wilson ETM +P mags for backup.
Oh yeah, recently, after years of looking down by nose at plasti-pistols, I've acquired a Glock 19 Gen5 - for evaluation. Initial impressions? It's a phenomenally utilitarian SD weapon. So far 100% reliable, & easy to shoot "combat accurate". It is ergonomic - for my medium size hands. The Gen5 trigger is surprisingly manageable, w/ a trigger reset that is sweet - to say the least. Will I learn to love it? We'll see.
So what's my normal EDC? 90% of the time (in town), it's my M&P340 - loaded w/ .38spl+P Gold Dots, in a DeSantis Nemesis. It's very easy to carry, I trust it, & it's just too easy to drop it in my pocket on the way out the door. Is it tons of fun at the range? Not even close.
My solution to the OP's dilemma? Get both, as there is no "perfect for every occasion" solution.
For me, a finely assembled Colt 1911 aside, pre-lock S&W revolvers can't be matched for pride of ownership, reliability, & general shooting enjoyment. No need to shag brass at the range either.
Down side? Bulk, weight, limited capacity, & an absolute shortage of qualified revolver smiths.
SA's load faster, typically offer a superior firepower loadout in weight class, & generally pack (CCW at least) more readily.
Down side? After many years, I've never learned to trust a S/A magazine - for reliability. A hard jam - at the wrong time, will get you killed. Doesn't mean I've given up though. Currently using Tripp Research "Super 7" kits in Wilson 47D mags - for low profile 1911 carry, w/ Wilson ETM +P mags for backup.
Oh yeah, recently, after years of looking down by nose at plasti-pistols, I've acquired a Glock 19 Gen5 - for evaluation. Initial impressions? It's a phenomenally utilitarian SD weapon. So far 100% reliable, & easy to shoot "combat accurate". It is ergonomic - for my medium size hands. The Gen5 trigger is surprisingly manageable, w/ a trigger reset that is sweet - to say the least. Will I learn to love it? We'll see.
So what's my normal EDC? 90% of the time (in town), it's my M&P340 - loaded w/ .38spl+P Gold Dots, in a DeSantis Nemesis. It's very easy to carry, I trust it, & it's just too easy to drop it in my pocket on the way out the door. Is it tons of fun at the range? Not even close.
My solution to the OP's dilemma? Get both, as there is no "perfect for every occasion" solution.
OP
spirit4earth
Member
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