[RON in PA]

Lately all I've used as a carry piece is my Smith 640-1 .357 snubbie loaded with the FBI load. Carry in my front pants pocket in a holster. Only trouble is that this combo doesn't fit in the pocket my Wrangler jeans.

Two Saturdays ago I visited my favorite purveyor of toys(gunstore to you) and spyed a Smith 640-2. This was only listed in the 1998 Smith catalog and is a 640 .357 frame with a cylinder chambered for the .38 special +P and a non-shrouded 1 7/8" barrel instead of the shrouded 2 1/8" barrel. Also the grips were J frame service grips. The gun disappears in jeans pockets, even in a pocket holster. Naturally it's now mine and is my carry piece. Replaced the grips with Uncle Mike's boot grips, they make a big difference in handling and shooting.

[VictorLouis]

I don't understand how you find that the 3/8" difference in bbl. length makes all that much of a difference?:confused:

[22luvr]

It hides beautifully when I stand or walk around; Only trouble is.....that sucker seems to GROW HUGE when I sit down or squat! I suppose it's just my own paranoia about printing. Sorta like having a zit on your face. Others probably don't notice it but it seems as big as a strawberry to me.

[RON in PA]

VictorLouis: The few eigths of an inch coupled with the boot grips do make a major difference. A better question might be: Why didn't you try the boot grips on your 640-1? That needs to be done , but the longer, heavy, shrouded barrel also contributes.

Besides who needs a rational excuse to get a new Smith.

[Stainz]

Nearly two months ago, I bought two new S&W's; a 296 and a 696. I had seen these guys for years at good prices in that store - beckoning me for a new home. I said goodbye to my previous CCW, a pair of AMT DA Backups in .45ACP. I even found a neat Old World Leather slide OWB holster for $12 closeout from Michael's of OR - and some bigger grips - for the 296. The 696 would be a bedside piece, the 296 CC. The 296 is stored - the 696 was shot yesterday, so it is on my bench awaiting cleaning. Reality. I haven't 'carried' in years. I didn't need them - but I sure WANTED them! So, I rationalized...

I have learned that gun-gluttony can come in many forms... and often at the worst of times, money-wise. I just say - buy it! Yeah, you can always find, make, or get more money... eat beans for a few days, months, etc. My new vehicle was bought new - eleven years ago in September. I am not a slave to fashion... my wife has her own income. Rationalize... buy the gun!

Stainz