[.455_Hunter]

Greetings,

I have a friend of a friend who is looking to purchase his first HD gun. He has some shooting experience, and wants a revolver over a semi auto pistol or a long gun like a pump shotgun. His budget is extremely limited, and he wants the cheapest gun/ammmo combo that CAN serve as an emergency HD weapon. Right now, especially in todays economic climate, the choice is between a cheap gun or no gun at all. He wants to buy the gun and a box of 50 rounds, take it to the range to get a minimum familiarity with 30 or so of the rounds, and keep the remainder for emergency purposes. I know this is not the suggested regimen, but like I said, his financial position is limited. Similarly, the gun/ammo combo does not have to be the A+ recommended platform to fill his needs- it just needs to go bang. Here are some of the options we are looking at with expected final cost:

Russian Nagant Revolver from various sources w/ box of Fiocchi or Hot-shot 7.62 x 38mmR = $150 (he likes the cost of this option- cheap and better than a .22LR)

Armscor Revolver (M-200) from Centerfire Systems w/ box of UMC 125 gr. JHP .38 Special +P= $250

Anybody know where you can get used S&Ws/Colts for less than $200 (retail or shipping/FFL transfer included)? Any caliber would work- .32 Long, .38 S&W, .38 Special.

Maybe one of the old H&R five-shot .32 Mags from the 80's and 90's?

Please comment.

[Goblin]

Rossi .38 special--$249.00 at Academy Sports.

[parisite]

Look on gunbroker at the EAA revolvers. Nice German quality at a great price.

Both double actions and single action cowboy six shooters.

[only1asterisk]

I'd do an Armscor M200 revolver over the Rossi. But for $250 I'd be looking for a K frame S&W. The Armscor should be more like $175.

I'll pay for the gentleman an extra box of practice ammo and send $20 toward his gun budget if things are that tight. I've also got speedloaders here that should fit the Armscor or K frame.

David

[Meowhead]

I've heard good things about the Armscor .38s.

[Colt Smith]

The cases at my local gunshop ( Rockland County, New York) usually have plenty of Det. Spcl. snubbies and Model 10's (ex police guns) for around $150- $250. Throw in some .38's or +P if they'll take it and call it a day. :)

[Phydeaux642]

The cases at my local gunshop ( Rockland County, New York) usually have plenty of Det. Spcl. snubbies and Model 10's (ex police guns) for around $150- $250.

Wow! I wish I could find those guns at those prices in my neck of the woods. Well, maybe not. I'm already going broke the way it is with the stuff I find.

[HOME DEPOT GEORGE]

I own a rossi 461 snubnose paid 229 new and the quality is extremely good. My LGS had an armscor 38 snubnose and The quality was not on par with the rossi. This is only my opinion but I have shot and handled both. You might also consider an older ruger service/security six,gp100 or sp101 they can all be had for around 350. I would recommend the ruger if you want to buy used only because they hold up to more abuse than colts or smiths and you never know what the previous owner did to it. Just to clarify, even though all my other revolvers are rugers I keep the rossi next to the bed and would trust the armscor as a HD gun as well as any smith or colt.

[jt1]

I'll pay for the gentleman an extra box of practice ammo and send $20 toward his gun budget if things are that tight.

That sounds like The High Road way to get things done...assuming this is a deserving guy, I'll kick in a few bucks as well if someone wants to handle the money...he might as well get something worth having...

[Drgong]

The nagant is not a bad option, I am darn accurate with mine in SA mode. Just wish there was a dedicated SD ammo for it.

Rossi is supposed to be a good gun.

A used pump shotgun might also be good.

S&W Model 10 if you can find it in price range. Best thing might be to find out what is used around your area and sink your teeth into something good.

for $200 as a limit, I am thinking the only one that I would trust is get a good quality Nagant, and buy the ammo to practace with. I would want more for SD but a nagant is a heck a lot better then nothing and it is better then a .22.

[wnycollector]

Her is a colt official police .38 for $175.

http://gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.asp?Item=107375880

[Cosmoline]

But for $250 I'd be looking for a K frame S&W.

My thoughts exactly. Forget Rossi and Armscorps. Just cruise the local shops for K frame Model 10's or magnums, old Colts and Ruger Security Sixes.

[bflobill_69]

I don't have a bad word for Arsmcor or Rossi, but were it me, I would buy a used Smith & Wesson...

Your freind will not regret it.

I have an EAA Windicator .357 mag 2" bbl... its reliable, durable, albeit a bit heavy... My only complaint would be my groupings are not near as tight as I would like them to be!

Bflobill_69

[HOME DEPOT GEORGE]

Not to start a huge debate but for a relative newbe to revolvers I would stay away from colt only because of the lack of parts and qualified service if god forbid something went wrong with it. Also dont rule out dan wesson they can be had for less than 250 for a used 357 and are as good or better than anything mentioned and Dan Wesson will still service any revolver they made in the past. They just went over the supermag I got for 350.00 and installed headspace shims as well as a complete check for any other problems for 125.00 that includes a new factory supermag case. This was only 350 and I've seen many reg 357's for less than 250.http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm51/homedepotgeorge/DSCN0928.jpg

[lee n. field]

Of those suggested, I'd go with the Armscor Revolver (M-200) from Centerfire Systems w/ box of UMC 125 gr. JHP .38 Special +P= $250

.38 is a lot easier to find than 7.62 Nagant.

Anybody know where you can get used S&Ws/Colts for less than $200 (retail or shipping/FFL transfer included)? Any caliber would work- .32 Long, .38 S&W, .38 Special.

I don't think I've ever seen a used S&W or Colt in that price range.

[Colt Smith]

I was at the gun shop just last week. There were at least two Model 10's for around $150. I had seen them there a few weeks prior as well. I don't think they're flying off the shelf (although they probably should at that price). They're most likely still there. Give the guys a call. Also plenty of snubbies at a reasonable price.

Davis Sport Shop
(845) 753-2198
Ask for Curtiss or Gordon

[ev239]

Home Depot, you got that right about Dan Wesson! Here's my model 14 (fixed sights) that I got for $240. It's a great shooter, handles 357mag much better than my wife's SP101.
http://bp2.blogger.com/_kM9ADUNinyA/SBtRN8wmp3I/AAAAAAAAAHw/2S1btG7cifM/s320/P1060903.JPG

[jaydubya]

A Smith & Wesson Model 10 in verygood/good condition is your best bet. And don't worry about holster wear.

If your friend refuses to fire off even one box of fifty rounds, then I must ask: Are you helping him when you help him buy a handgun? Or are you helping the fellow who takes it from him? Just a thought, no flame intended.

Cordially, Jack

[Evyl Robot]

Ah, Friday night! Maybe it's just the liquor talking, but if seven and a half of us made a $20 donation, we could buy him one of those $150.00 M10's, which he would love. I'm in if there are more volunteers. Whadya say?

--Michael

[.455_Hunter]

Thanks for all your responses.

The friend of a friend in question has a young family and is on a minister's fixed income. Whether a gun/ammo combo is $150 or $300 makes a big difference.

Recently, I have not seen many shootable police trade-ins for under $200 here in Denver metro, but I have not called all the shops.

I hesitate to have him get a used gun off of Gunbroker without putting hands-on first. For some strange reason, I feel better about the used mil-surps in that regard- I don't know why.

My friend and I will assemble a table to help the guy pick the best choice.

If your friend refuses to fire off even one box of fifty rounds, then I must ask: Are you helping him when you help him buy a handgun? Or are you helping the fellow who takes it from him? Just a thought, no flame intended.


Just a comment about the above question- I have been shooting with the man in question, and his fundamental skills with a handgun are fine. He has fired over hundred rounds out of other people gun's (wheelguns and autos), and I have no problem with him only shooting 30 rounds out of a revolver before using it for HD duty while money is tight. You don't have to run 500 round a month through a ISPC /IDPA course to defend your family in an emergency :) Not that its bad if you do, just not a requirement.

Please continue with your ideas!

[Drgong]

I say lets let him buy the gun, but we chip in to get him some more rounds to practace with.

I would be willing to buy him a box of .38s

[only1asterisk]

I'm in if there are more volunteers. Whadya say?

I say we're up to $50.

If your friend refuses to fire off even one box of fifty rounds, then I must ask: Are you helping him when you help him buy a handgun? Or are you helping the fellow who takes it from him? Just a thought, no flame intended.

While regular practice at a range would be best, people successfully defend themselves every day without that advantage. If a man shoots a box or 2 a year he's shot as much as most police officers in this country. Dry fire is cheap, but it's hard to practice without a gun.

David

[Drgong]

If I can use Paypal, I will bump this up to $60 ;)

[only1asterisk]

I say lets let him buy the gun, but we chip in to get him some more rounds to practace with.

I'd rather just send money and let him decide how it is best spent depending on the circumstances. If you'd rather send ammo I don't see how it would hurt.

David

[only1asterisk]

I can collect paypal. Direct funds to: dharris6ATmix.wvuDOTedu

Put "THR Project" in the note.

David

[JN01]

Any gunshows in the area? I would think it possible to find a mechanically sound Model 10 (maybe with a beat up finish) for $150. Or how about a used Ruger Security Six or GP100?

[Loomis]

Oh for crying out loud people!

There's only one option for this poor guy.

Buy a used 38 special police revolver. Not a colt, they are collector's items. either a smith or a ruger.

I'd go with a 6 shot k frame model 10 smith, fixed sitghts, blued, original tattered wood stocks, bluing worn almost off. Firing pin on hammer.

These things shoot so well, so accurately, so reliably, I should have a dozen of them hidden around the countriside...LITERALLY. They are cheap. No one likes them.

Get one in a garage sale if you can. It will come with a holster usually, and sometimes even ammo.

Nothing else comes close.

I'd buy the dude a hundred rounds of ammo and the gun too if he was my shooting buddy. Just get the poor sap a gun now, please.

I really don't understand this. I had guns before I had a car. I was shooting snakes before I was a paperboy.

cop 38 specials were passed around in my family like unwanted bake-lite dinette sets. Remember those? Plastic plates and coffee cups in pastel colors?

[Drgong]

Money sent for the project...

[only1asterisk]

No one likes them.

Speak for yourself!

Seriously the price on retired police S&W's has seen a serious increase in the last 5 years. 10 years ago you could get all you wanted for less than $200. Those days are gone the way of $.89 gas.

If anybody does happen across a really good deal, let .455 know.

David

[only1asterisk]

Money sent for the project...

$ Received

David

[only1asterisk]

Funds can be send snail mail to:

David Harris
PO BOX 792
Morgantown WV 26507

David

[Loomis]

Well, when I said "no one" I meant comparatively. I currently have none of them. but now I wan't a few, after reading your post.

I suppose now I hafta buy back those klunkers I gave away to relatives

I could tell stories... shooting nasty old rusty cop revolvers with really cruddy green fuzz coated lead bullets...and having contests...

we had a shooting even called "the redneck'. You had to get drunk first. then you had to shoot with a full beer in the other hand while taking a sip.

Nevermind. I dont' wanna be tracked down. But it was fun. And those old cop 38s performed quite well compared to the other options.

Ok, I'll have one by monday if it costs me a 22 in trade plus ammo...thanks to you.

[only1asterisk]

You're welcome!

David

[Gaucho Gringo]

As I have said in the past I have yet to see a used S&W, Colt or Ruger for less than $275.00 and most run about for $400.00. If you really want to do your minister a favor have him look at a High Point. They sell new with a lifetime warranty for about his budget allows. DO NOT LISTEN TO ALL THE SO CALLED EXPERTS THAT SAY YOU CAN BUY A S&W, COLT OR RUGER FOR $150-200, THEY ARE FULL OF ****, MAYBE 20 YEARS AGO NOT NOW. I WILL CHALLENGE ANYONE TO SELL ME A GOOD WORKING NAME BRAND REVOLVER FOR THAT PRICE, NOT A POS FOR THAT PRICE. YOU KNOW WHAT, IT AIN'T GOING TO HAPPEN BECAUSE I HAVE MADE THIS CHALLENGE BEFORE FOR A GUN IN GOOD MECHANICAL FOR $150.00, THERE AIN'T ANY SUCH ANIMAL ANYMORE. AND TO TRY AND GIVE A NEW MEMBER THE HOPE OF GETTING ONE IS JUST TOTALLY MISLEADING. THE HIGH ROAD ISN'T THE HIGH ROAD IN THIS RESPECT.

[jt1]

only1asterisk - Funds sent...Your Email as posted is not valid, I got it from your profile...

[only1asterisk]

You have to replace the "AT" with @ and the DOT with ".". I get plenty of spam already.

David

[Colt Smith]

I'll take that challenge. I know for a fact that there are a couple of blue M10's in the case at the shop for $150. One with wood grips, one with rubber finger grooves. Some holster wear but who cares? Lock up seems pretty tight and probably haven't seen much use. Here's the info again, call and verify for yourself.

Davis Sport Shop
(845) 753-2198
Ask for Curtiss or Gordon

[only1asterisk]

Colt Smith

What time do they open in the morning?

David

[Lucky Strike]

i know this is the revolver forum but you said your friend was open to a pump shotgun and if I were him (especially given his anticipated "practice time") i'd look for a used Remington 870 or Mossberg 500

[Shade00]

I might also suggest checking with Southern Ohio Gun. I received their print ad recently and they had Model 10s listed at $179 - shipping and FFL will tack on a few bucks, but it'd certainly be worth it. I'd take that over an Armscor or Rossi any day of the week.

However, you can probably find a good deal if you search consistently - I recently picked up an S&W Model 681 and a Ruger Speed Six for $250 each - haven't seen many go cheaper than that, but for that money, you can't beat a stainless Ruger or Smith.

[Gaucho Gringo]

The trouble is that if I were to buy the guns you refer to I would be paying at least $80.00 to 100.00 more by tihe time you factor in shipping, FFL and background check fees. I want to walk out the door for the price of $150.00 and walk out with the gun at that price and it is not going to happen, I live in reality, not fantasy land.

[mtngunr]

Mossberg Mavs are $150 NIB at Academy, not bad for a new 12ga pump....any used Ruger Single Action in the caliber of his choice from .22-.45, the beater the cheaper....the Ruger will NOT be worn out, just make sure chambers or bore aren't rusty....

[bbockmon]

There's a Crossroads of the West gun show in Denver tomorrow. Anyone who's been to one of those shows think it's worth checking out to search for one of these deals?

[mtngunr]

DO NOT LISTEN TO ALL THE SO CALLED EXPERTS THAT SAY YOU CAN BUY A S&W, COLT OR RUGER FOR $150-200, THEY ARE FULL OF ****, MAYBE 20 YEARS AGO NOT NOW.

I receive almost weekly emails from a friend who LUVS Colt and S&W medium and small frame .38's, showing his latest $150-$250 purchases through gunbroker.....shipping by USPS is $15, a friendly FFL will do the transfer for $0-$25....he's bought probably 25 revolvers for under $200 in the last year....patience is everything....rushed purchases always cost more...none of his cheap guns are beauties, they just work....

[Colt Smith]

only1asterisk,

DAVIS SHOOTING SPORTS IN GOSHEN IS NOW OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK
TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY 10:00 AM TO 8:PM AND SUNDAY 10:00AM TO 6:00PM
CLOSED MONDAYS
CALL (845) 651 7000 WITH ANY QUESTION

This info is from their website and the hours listed are for their Goshen, NY location but I would imagine that their Sloatsburg, NY location has the same hours. Maybe give 'em a call at 9:15 just in case they open earlier. Check one of my earlier posts for the Sloatsburg store's phone number. I'm heading over there later today. I'm going to take a closer look at those M10's for sure. I'll let you know if they're still there.

[Shade00]

Indeed, I don't think anyone ever represented that you can walk into any shop any day of the week and pick up a Model 10 for $150. The deals are out there - but patience is your friend.

[4v50 Gary]

Moisin Nagant revolver. Remember, you don't want to spend too much and if you were to use it in self-defense, it will be confiscated and held as evidence until you are cleared of criminal charges. It's better to have a $100 gun held by the police than a $1000 Python.

[only1asterisk]

So far I've got $80 of assistance pledged with $50 in hand. A $300 budget is different animal than $200.

David

[Drgong]

Yes it is, I hope we get this minister a nice, workable gun for him.

[bbockmon]

Only1Asterisk: I work with .455Hunter; I'll pitch in $20 but give him cash at the office.

[only1asterisk]

bbockmon,

Works for me.

David

[theotherwaldo]

Hey only1asterisk, you gave an invalid address!

[only1asterisk]

You have to replace the "AT" with @ and the DOT with ".". I get plenty of spam already. :D

David

[only1asterisk]

$70 in hand.

David

[only1asterisk]

We've collected $80 so far, can we make it an even hundred tonight?

David

[tblt]

I got my RG 38 model 39 snub a few years back for 50 bucks.Only problem in double action it only goes bang about 4 out of six times.In single action it goes bang 100 % of the time.This is not a SD gun.I keep it in my truck as a snake gun.

[Shade00]

I think many would agree that the RG guns, no matter how cheap, are often worse than a medium-sized rock as a self-defense weapon. Sounds like the guy here will be able to get a decent weapon, though, thanks to the generosity of the many kind folks here.

[tomh1426]

Its hard to beat a old S&W model 10, I got one from J&G for $200 and Its really nice.

[woad_yurt]

A friend of mine has an Armscor .38 and it works just fine. It has a rough edge or two but it shoots ok. I think he paid $179 for one from Centerfire Systems.

[ArchAngelCD]

I'm surprised that in 3 pages of posts there were only 2 other suggestions for a shotgun. Under these circumstances it's probably the best HD weapon for this friend of a friend.

A handgun requires a lot more practice than 30 rounds just once if he's going to use it for home defense. With that little orientation and practice he may do more harm than good with a handgun. A shotgun on the other hand takes very little practice for home defense use. Like the other 2 posters said, you can get a shotgun very cheap and with as little as 10 to 12 rounds shot to get used to the recoil and make yourself comfortable with how to use the shotgun. You don't have to know how to shoot clays to point a shotgun down the middle of the hall and pull the trigger. (I know it's not all that simple but it's much easier than trying to use a handgun without regular practice)

You can buy Buckshot for as little as $3.99 a box of 5. (use #4 Buckshot) I've seen used Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 shotguns for as little as $120. For the cost of $120 for the gun and $24 for the ammo he can have a good HD weapon that won't require 50 to 100 rounds of practice a month.

[only1asterisk]

ArchAngelCD,

I agree 100%, but I don't know the man's situation. Right or wrong, a revolver is what he's after. Could be he has a reason or is convinced he has.

I can still buy practice ammo for a 12 or 20ga for $15/100. It's been a while since .38's were that cheap.

David

[ArchAngelCD]

Ya got that right!! The cheapest .38 Special ammo I've seem lately was a whopping $15.99 a box. I'm extremely happy I reload...

[Colt Smith]

only1asterisk,

I dropped by the shop today. Those Model 10s are still on the shelf and the tags still say $149. The one with the rubber finger groove grips is a bit more worn. The one with the wood grips is in pretty decent shape. Mostly just worn blue around the muzzle. Just in case you were interested. They also have a beautiful Model 15 in minty condition but I think it's something like $449?

[jaholder1971]

Can't beat a S&W Model 10 and despite the naysayers one can be found between $150-$200 if you bide your time and look around.

Once in awhile you run across a pawn shop that's got more revolvers than they can move or simply haven't left the 20th century yet.

[only1asterisk]

Another low cost revolver option I hadn't considered was the Astra 960 from CAI. I think they are going for $170 or so.

David

[MCgunner]

Rossi for me, no question, great little guns for the money. RG? I'd sooner fist fight. More apt to hurt me than the BG.

[bbockmon]

Just wanted to add that I know the man in need (Fernando), and figure he's looking for a handgun because it's cheaper and easier to get a handgun lockbox than a long gun safe to keep the HD gun away from his young children.

I think it's awesome that you guys are so passionate that you'll contribute to this project. I'll take pictures and post up when we take Fernando out to practice with his new gun.

Thanks!

[rklessdriver]

"The Range" in Fredricksburg VA has a truck load of Smith and Wesson Model 15's and Model 64's (15=$295.00 / 64=$275.00).

http://www.indoorrange.com/forsale.html

I just bought a Model 15 for the house and it's a fine pistol. Every one that he has are in about the same condition. Model 15's were in very good condition showing some holster wear on the muzzel and the cyl. The Model 64's were a bit nicer as stainless is easier to keep up. I believe he told me they came as tradein's from a local Armed Security Guard business.

If you can find a friendly FFL local to him that will do the transfer, these are a great deal.

The Model 10's that ColtSmith found are a steal also.

BTW you should be at an even $100 now. Good luck.
Will

[Evyl Robot]

Payment sent. Please acknowledge and provide total so far.

--Michael

[Photoman]

I just bought a 4" Model 64 Smith and Wesson .38 Special surplus gun for $269 from my local gun dealer. The added quality of a Smith and Wesson is worth every penny.

I'd rather save up for another month or two and buy a gun that will last a lifetime and do an excellent job of protecting my family.

Regarding the many suggestions of a shotgun, although they are very inexpensive, most beginners are not well served with a 12 gauge shotgun due to recoil.

Also, may I suggest "In the Gravest Extreme: The Role of the Firearm in Personal Protection" by Massad Ayoob. Maybe you could buy him that for his birthday. An excellent book for beginners.

p.s. Don't forget to check the local pawn shops also.

p.s.s. Thank you for helping one of God's shepherds.

[azhunter122]

You could get a Taurus, they are usually pretty cheap. Or you could get a Bersa .380 even better and probably cheaper but you don't want an autoloader.

[footlong]

If I were in your friend's position I would look for S:W K frame 4" used.
Oneof the older ones in 38spcl pinned barrel. Would not care too much
about the finish. Make sure there is no shake in cyl and it locks up tite.
Dont skrimp on the ammo. Buy only the BEST. I prefer heavier bullets.
158's mostly. I want them to go thru whatever I am shooting. Like a
sword. Thats just my preference. But whatever you ammo you buy get
the BEST

[only1asterisk]

Evyl Robot,

I have $115 in hand with at least $10 more on the way.

David

[Evyl Robot]

I have $115 in hand with at least $10 more on the way.

Sweet! Does your friend know what's going on here, or will it be a total surprise?

[only1asterisk]

I think it will be a surprise.

David

[bbockmon]

Yep, it's a surprise. We're supposed to go gun shopping sometime in September, so Hunter and I can tell him then and give him the money toward his purchase.

[Blue .45]

Payment sent. Look forward to seeing what he will choose. :) Keep us posted.

[Evyl Robot]

This is just too cool! I can't wait for September to see what he winds up with!

--Michael

[Old School]

only1asterisk says:
I can still buy practice ammo for a 12 or 20ga for $15/100.
Where do you get shotgun ammo for 15 cents a round? I am skipping for joy when I can find it for 50 cents a round.

[Blue .45]

Bump.

Just in case, anyone else wants to participate in this effort. :)

[AnaxImperator]

My wife just picked up a Rossi 9972 .357 Mag for $300.... and it's an excellent gun for the price. Just a thought.

[bbockmon]

I have $115 in hand with at least $10 more on the way.

With my $20, that makes $145. I think I can rustle up another $40 of support here locally, so that would be $185. Is the general consensus that we'll need $250 total (including Fernando's own money) to get a quality gun without unreasonably time-consuming "deal-finding"?

If so, we're getting pretty close!! :)

[Blue .45]

With my $20, that makes $145. I think I can rustle up another $40 of support here locally, so that would be $185.

Unfortunately, I was only able to kick in $10, but that should put us around $195. With a few more bucks ( Plus Fernando's money), we might be able to help him out with some practice ammo as well. :)

[woad_yurt]

Why not look around for like a day or two and find a JC Higgins Model 20 pump 12 gauge for $100-$125? They sold millions of 'em & they're everywhere. They work just fine for cheap. Chop off the barrel to 18 1/2" so you're able to move around inside in the dark easily and you'll definitely be able to control pretty much any situation. One doesn't need much practice to successfully hit a human sized target close up with a 12 gauge shotgun. Actually, it's hard to miss.

[Juna]

I had the opportunity to buy a good condition Model 10 4" heavy barrel back before I bought my first gun, but I knew nothing about guns then. I still wish I'd have picked that up. I love the Model 10 with the 4" heavy barrel. I shoot really well with it, too. Great gun.

This forum truly is the high road. This thread is awesome. It's nice to see that when someone is in need, random people chip in to help.

[Evyl Robot]

So, $185.00. Have you got that for him now? Does he still have the $200 to put towards that? If you need me to make a second donation, just send the word. It's starting to sound like our minister friend will be able to afford something nice, not just adequate! Please give lots of updates, and let us know if we need to go again!

--Michael

[bbockmon]

So, $185.00. Have you got that for him now? Does he still have the $200 to put towards that? If you need me to make a second donation, just send the word. It's starting to sound like our minister friend will be able to afford something nice, not just adequate! Please give lots of updates, and let us know if we need to go again!

I think .455_Hunter and only1asterisk are handling the $$ transfer. For $400 total, I'm guessing Fernando can get a $250 S&W Model 10, a $75 handgun safe, and what, about 250 rounds of ammo? Or should we look at a .357 mag now with a simple lock-box and less spent on ammo?

[bbockmon]

So, $185.00. Have you got that for him now? Does he still have the $200 to put towards that? If you need me to make a second donation, just send the word. It's starting to sound like our minister friend will be able to afford something nice, not just adequate! Please give lots of updates, and let us know if we need to go again!

The money situation is looking good, but we could use some help from the Denver area guys spotting deals in the $200 to $300 range that we can personally inspect before the purchase; .455_Hunter and I are slammed with work for the next few weeks and can't get around to all the shops.

So, I guess we're looking for S&W Model 10s, 15s, 64s, etc... Maybe a great deal could be had on a well-used Ruger Six Series, SP, or GP. Seen any of this around Denver lately?

[Blue .45]

How's it going? any luck finding this man a gun yet?

[only1asterisk]

The money that I collected has been received in CO. Hopefully the total monetary assistance will approach $200.

Has anybody looked in to a training class?

For $400 total, I'm guessing Fernando can get a $250 S&W Model 10, a $75 handgun safe, and what, about 250 rounds of ammo? Or should we look at a .357 mag now with a simple lock-box and less spent on ammo?

I think that is a solid plan. Good luck on the hunt for just the right gun.

David

[.455_Hunter]

Thanks to all for your contributions!

I am going to do some "scouting" after worker either today or tomorrow at a couple of the Denver shops.

[.455_Hunter]

Tactical Rancher's scouting efforts have produced a blued Ruger Security-Six in .357 Mag (2 3/4" barrel- Excellent Condition) like this one for $299.

Load it with Speer's 135 gr. .357 GD Short Barrel for "duty use" and practice with UMC 125 gr. .38 Special +P JHPs.

What do you think?

[only1asterisk]

Looks decent find to me. See if you can get the price down $15-20 or have them throw in a box of ammo or cleaning supplies or something.

You may want to get a few boxes of standard pressure WC or FMJ for the initial few range sessions. The lower recoil/muzzle blast will help concentrate on technique.

The lowest recoil loads I've found listed from lowest:

Sellier & Bellot SBA03801 148 WC 700
Remington L38S11 130 MC 800
Winchester Q4171 130 FMJ 800
Winchester USA38SP 125 JSP 850
Remington L38S5 158 LRN 755
Federal AE38B 158 LRN 760
Federal AE38K 130 FMJ 950


David

[Smaug]

Don't even go to 357 for a guy who isn't going to practice much.

Stick with the S&W 10, and if there is change, take him practicing more. The Rugers are stronger guns, but it sounds like he'll maybe shoot a box a year, max.

A hit with a 38 is better than a miss with a 357.

[.455_Hunter]

Don't even go to 357 for a guy who isn't going to practice much.

I agree. The Speer 135 gr. .357 load is essentially a .38 special +P+.

Technical Information

Muzzle Velocity: 990 fps (2" barrel)
Muzzle Energy: 294 ft. lbs. (2" barrel)


The WWB or UMC 130 gr. FMJs from Wal-Mart can be used for initial familiarization.

Remember- this guy is not a total beginner. He shot very well with my Colt PPS, a gun much lighter than the Ruger Six Series.

[Blue .45]

I like it! My brother has the speed six version of that gun. I shoot it more accurately than my 4" GP100. Good job!

[RioShooter]

Another $10 sent.

Correct email for paypal is: dharris6@mix.wvu.edu

[rklessdriver]

That is a fine revolver. Glad to see you've found something really nice. It should provide a lifetime of enjoyment and protection.
Will

[Smithiac]

I would go with a pump shotgun if I couldn't afford more than $150-$200 bucks. Remington Mossberg you pick they don't screw up enough to worry about it and the knock down power with buckshot far surpasses any handgun.

Smithiac

[Scratchy]

.455 Hunter Did your friend get the ruger? and if so where?

[.455_Hunter]

Tactical Rancher and Fernando went to the store to look at the 2.75" Speed-Six. Unfortunately, it had sold already. However, we have been able to identify the type of gun that Fernando wants. After handling many models, these are the one's that feel the best to him-

Ruger Service, Security, or Speed-Six w/ 2.75" Barrel

Ruger SP101

K-Frame 2" or 3"

J-Frame 2" or 3"

Maybe GP-100 3"

He does not like the balance or handling characteristics of a 4"+ barrel.

We will keep looking...

[Blue .45]

Can't go wrong with anything you've listed. Good luck! and thanks for the update.

[phoglund]

I just found this thread and read through it, if more money would help I'll paypal $20 or so, just say the word.

[Tactical Rancher]

Thanks to all of our donations, Fernando got a gun today!! Counting phoglund's pledge (.455_Hunter covered that part today) and the local donors, we gathered together $240. Fernando kicked in $145 and got a pristine $385 S&W Model 66-3 3". He's planning to get a handgun safe and ammo this week too.

He and everyone else who knows about this thread have been in awe of your generosity and concern for his family's safety. Thanks again so much for all the financial help and advice.

Here are the first pics; more will be coming when we get a chance to head to the range.

[theotherwaldo]

Looks like a good choice. Glad I could help.

[Blue .45]

Wow! that thing would run about $450 where I live. Great job! Look froward to the range pics. :)

[R.Ph. 380]

Just picked up the Rossi 46102 2" Blued 357mag. also can use 38 special +p
This gun is a hoot. You know it's a magnum but it rides the recoil just fine becausde of the weight. 26 oz amd a beautiful finish. JMHO

Bill:)

[Tactical Rancher]

We looked very seriously at the Rossi too. Enjoy your new gun!

[only1asterisk]

That's a terrific find and excellent choice. There is nothing I like better than seeing the proper start of another responsible gun owner.

David

[Evyl Robot]

Sweet gun! I hope Fernando enjoys it!

--Michael

[Aguila Blanca]

Well, this person is taken care of but for the benefit of any other readers looking for advice on an affordable revolver, I just picked up an Armscor 200. I have to say, I was VERY impressed ... and so was the guy at the shop when he opened the package and tried the trigger. He pronounced it head and shoulders better than the Taurus revolvers he's seen come through recently.

It's a dead ringer for a Colt, and some sources say that Armscor bought the design and the machinery from Colt about 25 years ago. It's solid, locks up tight, has an excellent (and I mean excellent!) SA trigger and a very decent DA trigger.

It also has a lifetime warranty, and I already know that the guys at Advanced Tactical (the importers) provide incomparable support and service on the Rock Island 1911s, so I have no concerns that any problems won't be dealt with quickly and correctly.

Highly recommended.

[phoglund]

Thanks to .455_Hunter for covering my portion. I'm in communication right now to get the $20 promised transferred.

That is one fine looking revolver and seems perfect for the task.

Congratulations Fernando! :D

[Tactical Rancher]

Finally got out to the range last weekend. Here are pics of Fernando practicing with his new revolver.

[ElToro]

just found this thread... sorry im late. if you need cash for ammo or range time post the word, i can send a small amount.

cripes ! a 3 inch 66 for $385 !?

out west thats easily a 5-6-700 gun. vey desirable and the 3 inch S&W K is considered one of the most perfectly balanced arms. full length ejector rod. treated with care that arm will outlast his grandchildren. advise him to avoid heavy use of the 125 grn mags.

i hope every time he holds that weapon that he thinks of the fine gents on this forum that thought enough of a stranger (albeit a man of the cloth) so that he coudl have something in time of need.

i hope its the first of several guns for his new collection and that it goes on his "not ever for sale" list that im sure all of collectors have, you know the one that was a gift or family heirloom or the first one...

[gator1gear]

I know this is an old thread, but I've never seen anything like this!!