[ACP230]

I think everyone should have a .38 Special snubnose revolver. They make the best "always guns." My favorite is the Smith M649, but lots of others fill the bill too.

Snubbies are easy to conceal, so you can carry them daily, or just slip one in a pocket to answer the door late at night. They use a cartridge with more oomph that the .32 or .380. Ammo is easy to find, almost everyone that sells ammo has .38 Special.
In winter, outside, a .38 snub in a coat pocket is easier to reach than anything on the belt under the coat. The same applies while driving.

I have some pocket pistols and have carried them occasionally. The M649 just works better for me, however.

[Onslaught]

Not being a fan of revolvers, it cost me quite a bit of $$$ to find out that what you say is true (for me at least ;) )

Mine's a S&W 642. Although it's bigger than most pocket autos I've tried, the curves and contours give it a much different (and much less obvious) print signature than a blocky, squared semi-auto. It looks like keys in my pocket, rather than a thick wallet.

I'm planning on trying ankle carry with it, for times when I'll be sitting quite a bit and can't get to my "other" CCW.

[Erich]

For years I owned lots of tiny guns: those NAA things, and .25s and .22s. And I carried a couple all the time.

But I started to have real doubts about these guns' abilities to stop an attacker. And, realistically, I think a .38 spl +P is about as mimimal as I'm willing to go (tho' I mostly use a 940 for this duty - like the quick reloads from moon clips out of a medicine bottle).

Fortunately, with a proper pocket holster, a J-frame is as easy to carry as any of the tiny guns I ever owned. And it hits hard enough so that you're sure it will count. With those new ultra-lightweight Smiths out there . . . I just can't see a downside (unless it's the $$$! :) ).

[Coltdriver]

For years I searched for the ultimate small and powerful automatic.

Then I re discovered a S&W Model 38. Goes with me everywhere now.

And for heavier lifting there is a S&W 940 that rides in a holster.

The ultimate utiliity of the revolver is what appeals to me. Point and shoot. No safety, no order of arms to deal with, just go.

And being under 15 oz loaded is a real plus for the Model 38:D

[10-Ring]

I spent a good amount of $$ to find out that my j-frame really fits that need very well. My plan now is to "upgrade" to a hammerless version...probably a 640

[Mike Irwin]

I've know this for over 20 years now.

My first regular CCW was a Charter Arms Off Duty.

My current regular CCW is a Smith 042.

[Celtech]

I have never had a problem with a compact glock as an always gun.

[Wildalaska]

I aiways hava a NAA mini revolver in 22 in my pocket, when peopel giggle and say "its only a little 22 it wont stop an attacker" I offer to shoot them in the face with it...everyone declines.

WildidontevenknowitsthereAlaska

[ruger357]

Another vote for the 649.

[Ala Dan]

Smith & Wesson 1979-80 vintage model 60 in .38 Special

You still have the option to thumb cock the revolver, and
use SA controlled and deliberate fire!:uhoh:


Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member

[AK103K]

My "always" pistol is a Colt Combat Commander. Its always on and has never been a problem to hide, at least for me. Its flatter than a revover, and really not that much bigger and to me easier to hide and carry. Even the reloads are larger and more compact and easily hidden in a pocket if necessary. Has a nice, big, fat bullet too. :) I actually feel more self conscious with my Baby Browning in my front pocket, than I do having my Commander under a light shirt.

[Mark IV Series 80]

Mine's the S&W Model 638, Bodyguard Airweight.

It weighs 14 oz., and is rated for +P ammo. - my choice: the +P, 158 grain LSWCHP by Winchester.

The shrouded, snag-free hammer, allows me to safely perform a cylinder rotation check.

[Drjones]

Guys, all I know about revolvers is how to shoot them and a basic understanding of how they work.

Is there a hammerless snub-nosed revo like you talk about, but in .357?

[bpisler]

Drjones
Smith and wesson makes a couple and so does taurus,sorry i can't think of the model numbers right now.Try going to www.smith-wesson.com and www.taurususa.com

[client32]

Smith and Wesson
340
649

Taurus
650
651

[larryw]

So let me ask a question. Why go with a snubbie revo limited to +P 38 Special, why not go with one in 357Mag instead? When comparing the two, the guns are virtually identical in size, weight, etc, yet the 357 model, say 340, shoots a wider/more powerful range of ammo.

[Omaha-BeenGlockin]

A .357 going off in a snub is something I care not to experience again---I think you'll find most others will agree. Too much gun---so why pay the extra $$ for a .357??

back to topic---

While I have a 637-----my G27 is what always comes with me------more shots---bigger caliber.

[Woodchuck]

So let me ask a question. Why go with a snubbie revo limited to +P 38 Special, why not go with one in 357Mag instead? When comparing the two, the guns are virtually identical in size, weight, etc, yet the 357 model, say 340, shoots a wider/more powerful range of ammo.
----------------------
-A .357 going off in a snub is something I care not to experience again---I think you'll find most others will agree. Too much gun---so why pay the extra $$ for a .357??
-----------
The only advantage of the .38 snubbie over a .357 Magnum is the size and weight. Generally most .38s are a little smaller and lighter especially with the new titaniums. Most are the 5 shot variety. If you are going to buy a snubbie, get a light weight model. If you buy a blue steel or stainless steel model, then you are better off going with a .357 magnum. A lot more firepower for usually an ounce or 2 increase in weight, and most are 6 shot models. I personally prefer the .357 and carry a Rossi 462. It's 26 oz., 2"bbl,6 shot and 6&1/2" long. The equivalent snubbie in .38+P from Rossi (model 352) is 24&1/2 oz. 5 shots, 2"bbl and the same overall length. BTW, the price was exactly the same for both models at $285 plus tax. There isn't that much difference in recoil between .38+P and .357 magnum. With the .357 you can always shoot .38 specials or +Ps if you can't deal with the recoil, but you always have the choice.

[ajacobs]

I went with the 38 becuase that is all I plan on shooting in the lightweight frame. I din't want the .357 even though I could fire 38's in it becuase of the additional ring of carbon build up do to the case length difference which is a pain in the but to clean.

[MADDOG]

I have a couple of CZ'S I like them both. Very reliable. Also a couple of Bulgie Mak's, they always work. A couple of weeks ago I started looking for a snub-nosed revolver. I found a NIB SS Mod 60 made in 76. It was from an estate sale. Price was right. I feel very lucky to have this fine revolver. It is always handy.

[DAL]

Isn't it amazing that gun folks will find even the most minute details to argue over? It sure makes for entertaining reading though.

My always gun is the fantastic little S&W 642 .38 Spl. +P.
DAL

[Kahr carrier]

Ditto 649 and Naa 380.:)

[Erik Jensen]

my always gun is my new Kahr MK40. I guess I'm just an Auto guy. the day I picked it up, I kept it min my pocket for hours, and my roomates didn't even notice it until I pulled it out to show them. and that's with out a pocket holster. it should be even more concealable with the right holster.I've shot some of the scandium and titanium j-frames, and all I can say is *ouch*:what: not fun to shoot for me, and I would rather deal with a little more weight, and get something that I don't mind practicing with than going ultra light and barely shooting the thing. though, I shot a titanium smith .44 special, and that was pretty fun! though it was a little bigger than a j-frame. I think it's the model that Tamara has. might pick up one of those if I have a little too much cash burning a hole in my pocket.

[The Mayor]

Since buying the 340PD it goes with me everywhere usually in a DeSantis pocket holster. The hammerless design never snags my pocket, and the light weight is practically unnoticeable. I use +P hydra-shok and feel the recoil is not an issue.
As far as the price goes, the 340 was only $20 more than the 342 Ti in 38+P. I spent that $20 to get the Scandium alloy frame, more so than the ability to shoot 357.

[DeltaElite]

Smith 640, Glock 29 or NAA Guardian 32acp.
Depends upon what I am wearing or doing.

[larryw]

I can see how those in search of contention would misconstrue a simple question as grasping for an argument. :rolleyes:

I'm in the market for a snubbie. I look at the physical specs and the revos rated for 38+P are IDENTICAL to those for 357. Cost difference, if any, is trivial. I know most of the members here are intelligent and I'm simply asking them why they made the choice they did.

I enjoy shooting max loads out of my 44Mag and shooting a snubbie with magnum loads was a challenge, but an enjoyable one. Considering the purpose of the gun, recoil isn't a deciding factor (especially since one can tone the loads down if so desired).

[V-fib]

Ruger .357 3" Sp101 is my always gun. I like the revs for ccw due to their simplicity and reliability. :cool:

[hansolo]

About a year ago my brother found out I was starting to get interested in shooting. We were into BB & pellet guns as kids.
He's 60 and I'm over 50. He said he haid two S&W revolvers. "Cool! Let's go shooting!" He is not what one would call an afficianado. He brought his J-frame .357 snubbie and a M/P
.38 Special, as well as a shopping bag full of ammo. We both knew the basics of safe gun handling. I was eying the blued M/P with it's 4" tapered barrel: that's the one I bought from him. I degress: He handed me the Chiefs Special and a box of ammo...I looked at the writing: .357 Magnum Win....I got a firm two handed grip and KAPOW! I started laughing. Why? I couldn't believe the powerful noise and kick(recoil)from this little handgun.
I had been borrowing a mentor's BHP for the preceeding weeks, and knew I wanted a semiauto and I now had a chance to also get a vintage S&W that my brother bought from an LA Cop. I felt like Dirty Harry. I'll always keep my 1956 pre-Model 10. Now, I think I need my own S&W .357 Snubby! Excuse the longwinded post, but y'all can relate to your first few years of being into this incredible sport/hobby/right(2nd Amendment)/etc.:D

[Matt G]

I think there's some different interpretations of what the term "Always Gun" means. I'm seeing some awefully large, and, what's more important, HEAVY pistols being listed as always guns. To me, an alloy frame snubbie in .38 spl in the J-frame class of size is the maximum that one can consider a viable "Always Gun."

Always means ALL THE TIME that you're out and about; not just "pretty much everytime I go to the convenience store," or "at least a coupla times a week." It means carrying when you're in a hurry to get out the door. When it's hot and muggy out. When it's raining out. When you know that you need to look nice. When you know that you need to look casually dressy. When you know that you need to look professional. Always.

The big hindrence to carrying all the time is discomfort. This is offset by reducing the weight as much as possible. Here's where the alloy-framed revolver comes into its own. I occasionally sub my KelTec P-11 in this role, but it's really not as comfortable as the J-Frame Airweight Chief's Special. Even that's not as handy, quite, as a P-32 would be. (or better, the new .380 that's coming out in the same size.)

An always gun may not be in the ideal caliber. It may not have the number of shots you want. But you'll always have it on you.

[AK103K]

I guess I wasnt paying attention when I first responded to this thread. Now I see its more aimed at Snubby's, rather than autos. When you say an "always gun", I took it to mean a gun you have with you, always. Always to me is just that. I do have my Commander on every waking minute of every day,(with one or two few exceptions) and its within arms reach when I'm in bed. I never found it to be hard to conceal or wear for long periods. I think an auto is much easier to conceal than a revolver and especially the reloads. You can definitly hide a larger, full sized auto easier than a full sized revolver, and even better than a lot of so called compact revolvers. Just seems to me, if you can do that, why not carry or wear the larger more powerful gun? Now I may ocasionally carry a SIG P230 or Smith Model 36 as a backup to my Commander, but the Colt is the gun that always with me.

[DAL]

Well put, Matt G; you are correct!
DAL

[Kentucky Rifle]

I look at *nearly All my handgns as carry guns. Right now, as I sit here and read posts, there is a Jetfire in my pocket and a S&W 331 on my ankle. Come to think of it, the 331 is pretty much always on my ankle. No way I could reach down an draw from my ankle in any reasonable amount of time (WAY to stiff for that), however if I were KNOCKED down there would be a nasty, NASTY, .32 H&R Magnum surprise for the BG that would come from my ankle. :)

KR

[Johnny Guest]

I've had several which qualified, both from description and use - - -
Carried a Bauer .25 in a hip pocket holster as regularly as my pocket knife and car keys for several years. It was there, no matter what I was carrying for a duty gun, or other off duty piece.

Later, when I began dealing with a less refined bunch of folks, but sometimes couldn't be known to be armed, I carried a PPK .380 in a homemade ankle holster. I wore western boots all the time, and the ankle holster went on immediately after my socks, every day.
Sometime around 1978 I reassessed my needs and changed over to an Airweight Chief. Test fired it, bobbed the hammer, had an action job done, and wore it for an ankle gun for a lot more years.

After I was assigned a job which required me to be in and out of the county jail frequently, I stopped carrying the M37 except off duty--A Colt Commander will answer MOST needs during business hours.:p

Nowadays my always gun is a P32 or Colt Agent, when away from the office. (But I still have the PPK and my old Bauer.)

Best,
Johnny

[Kentucky Rifle]

How did you carry that little Bauer? Chamber empty, I guess??

KR

[Matt G]

That would be smart way, wouldn't it? (Striker fire. [shudder]) :)

[gumshoe4]

I've relied on a 649 for many years now, but recently bought an SP101. I carry each of them and switch around. Sometimes I carry both.

Truth is, I have access to a number of different handguns, but when I'm going out the door, I am most likely to grab the 649 as I go.

I have thought about upgrading it to one of Smith's internal hammer designs, but I'm not willing to give up the 649 yet. Or maybe ever.

Bob
TFL# 8032

[Bainx]

Got a Chiefs Special, circa 1954. Really handy as a BUG although I seldom carry it because it is CHERRY.
My father said he used to carry it with payroll from the [old] Knox County Courthouse to a bank in downtown Knoxville.
I still got the shoulder rig it fits in.

[Johnny Guest]

- - -I have to admit, that for several years, I carried it cocked and locked. I made a little wallet-style holster which completely enclosed the pistol--NOT the type you could fire in/through. I was just looking at the combo last night, and saw how the leather had become formed in both positions--Safety UP and also DOWN.

I figured that, because the safety locked the sear and not just the trigger, it was safe enough. A crime lab firearms examiner who'd made quite a study of striker fired pistols for court cases gently pointed out the error of my thinking. I shudderingly re-assessed my carry mode thereafter, and practiced one-handed chambering techniques. Old dawgs CAN learn new tricks, y'see. ;)

I still carry the Bauer occasionally, and review the drill. I need to handload some .25s and do some intensive practice, though . . . .

Best,
Johnny

[Matt G]

Bainx: '54 Chief's? There's more'n one reason not to shoot it; that revolver's not nearly so strong as the later year's Chief's Specials. All aluminum alloy, isn't it?