Two CC purchase questions

[Flatpik]

I'm getting ready to buy a S&W Airlight for pocket carry - model 340 or 360. Two questions:

1. Silver or black? Silver is more visible - seeing a gun pointed at me would sure be an effective deterent. Or is the less visible black an advantage in a confrontation?

2. External or internal hammer? How serious is the concern of snagging the hammer on drawing the gun? Is this more important than the advantage of being able to cock the gun?

These are fine points, but I'll appreciate your experience / opinions.

Mike

[9mmepiphany]

my personal choice for the last few years has been silver and internal hammer (smith 642)

1. i like the extra protection of the alloy/stainless construction for a gun usually worn close to the skin. i don't think color plays that big a part in a BU/belly gun

2. i don't believe you should ever shoot your SD wheelgun in SA. the DA is just as accurate (with practice), faster and likely the way you will be employing it if you ever have to.

[tbeb]

I carry a blue gun with a hammer spur in a Mika pocket holster in strong side front pants pocket. Holster pretty much fills my pocket and covers the hammer spur (so gun does not snag when I draw). I like an external hammer because I have "option" of single action fire.

[only1asterisk]

While 9mmepiphany is correct that SD shooting with DA revolver should be done DA, an exposed hammer can sometimes serve to force a seized cylinder to turn. It doesn't happen often, but it is something to think about.

David

[outfieldjack]

I purchased the 340pd "Hi-Viz" last week. A 12oz .357 is a pleasure to carry but a handfull to shoot. Mine is black and hamerless. Right now I carry mine in an Uncle Mikes pocket holster.

[10-Ring]

I like the black internal hammered versions ;)

[Flatpik]

Thanks for the good info. How about your opinions on laser grips.

BTW, anyone know what distinguished the S&W "PD" models other than the "Personal Defence" label?

Thanks - Mike