[Double Maduro]

So I had a service call on a clients computer today, Saturday no less. While I was there my MCA (Marital Control Authority/wife) called and said that my CHL had arrived.

The client overheard and said she had a gun for sale, it is an EAA windicator .357mag in blue with a 2" barrel. It came with most of a box of shells, 2 speed loaders and a holster. When I asked how much she said $75. I hemmed and hawed a bit and said sold.

It appears to be 90% plus. It is very tight and a little dirty so I will be giving it a good cleaning before our first trip to the range.

I don't feel that I took advantage of her, I asked if she was sure she wanted to sell it for $75. and she asked if I knew what it was worth. I said I didn't know, still don't, although the EAA web site has them listed new at $259.

So how did I do?
Are these good guns?
Are they dependable?

Any experience good or bad with tips on what to watch for or improvements I can make would be appreciated.



Thanks,
DM

[Preacherman]

They're surprisingly good quality for the price. I've shot a .357 Magnum version belonging to a friend, and it was reasonably accurate and controllable. The only thing I really disliked was the sharply-grooved trigger, which bit into my finger under double-action shooting and recoil. If the grooves were removed and the trigger surface smoothed, this would take care of that problem.

IIRC, the Windicator is in the size/weight classification of a S&W K-frame, although not as nicely machined. Good truck/car gun, cheap practice gun, and - if necessary - I wouldn't be afraid to defend myself with one. Sort of the Hi-Point of revolvers! :D

[Jim March]

All the reports I've seen says that a lot of hot loads will eat 'em up. Do most of your practice with 38s and it should be good for 10,000 rounds plus.

[braindead0]

I can attest to hot or even practice .357 loads causing a bit of damage. The design for the cylinder lock isn't soo hot. Stiff loads will beat up the ejecter where it locks into the frame.

And yeah, a dremel will take care of the grooved trigger from he**.. You may also want to dremel the recoil shield at the upper left side so that it doesn't interfere with shell removal and speedloader use.

[22luvr]

I've owned two EAA Windicators: A .38 spcl with adjustable sights and a .357 mag, both on the same type of frame.

The .38 spcl is still the most accurate snubby I've ever owned and both of the guns are the most comfortable snubbies to shoot.

The owner's manual cautions against using +P or custom high pressure handloads in the .357 mag but I feel if you stick to good quality factory ammo, it will give you good service.

I also did not like the grooved trigger, much preferring the normal radiused triggers found on Taurus and Smith.

They're a little on the heavy/ bulky side but that makes for better control, along with the excellent oversized rubber molded grips. It's also a six-shooter and the extra round is a plus.

You got yourself a real deal. I'd buy it in a heartbeat.

[Tropical Z]

Windicators are a GREAT value for the money and are imported by EAA.You did good.
www.eaacorp.com

[Tropical Z]

Heres some info.

[makdaddy03]

For $75 Great Deal.

[Double Maduro]

Thanks to all who replied, I knew I would get the skinny here, even though you don't all agree. LOL

[braindead0]

Are you sayin' my skinny id phat?

[Double Maduro]

LOL

Actually I have a question about the speed loaders. No having much experience with DA revolvers and none with speed loaders.

Are they supposed to insert the rounds fully into the chambers or only about half way? I can't see any place the speed loaders are touching the frame or shield but the rounds only go in about half way and then stop. When I release them from the speed loader they drop the rest of the way in.

Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks,

still lmbfao@braindead.

[braindead0]

They should go in more than 1/2 way, perhaps not with .38's..

As far as the blast shield, try rotating the cylinder and watching closely. Unless they changed the design there will be a point at which the round closest to the recoil shield has part of it's rim covered...

Perhaps I ended up with an old design?

[Double Maduro]

Thanks braindead,

I'll take a look in a while.

I took a look at the link to your club. Looks like a very active club with a lot to offer. Good looking Web site too.

[braindead0]

Thanks, we do club events weekly..heck I'm going through 1000 rds a month! Kinda nice that we've got TDI, Stressfire and other instructors on hand as well... makes for some quality practice..