Ruger lcr vs.Vintage j-frame

[jimbo555]

I used to own a very nice model 60 no dash and a no dash model 37.In a weak moment I let them both go to my son and daughter.Should I go for the new technology in the Ruger lcr or shop for another vintage Smith j-frame?

 

[firesky101]

I went lcr, but hard to go wrong with those options

 

[sidheshooter]

Funny you should be asking. I rented an LCR at my local range and, while recognizing it as a true advance in revolver design (especially the sweet trigger), I really didn't enjoy it much. It's hard to describe, but it's like there is an S-shaped recoil shockwave that passes through the gun each time it goes off; maybe the frame flexion bothered me.

By contrast, I was just fondling a vintage 37 3" that is the lightweight twin to my 36-1 today. I'm trying to decide between that one, and another one at a different LGS with the shorter 1 7/8 barrel.

While I know that the 37s will also be unpleasant to shoot with serious loads, either one will at least be unpleasant in an old familiar way. Plus, the 2" at least, is definitely smaller than the LCR, and that's sort of the point of a flyweight .38. I'm thinking "Barami hip grip errand running gun" for my purposes.

On the other hand, lots of happy LCR owners to be found both here and elsewhere; far be it for me to begrudge them their choice.

 

[skt239]

I went lcr, but hard to go wrong with those options

+1. However, if you have not already, give the LCR's trigger a few pulls at the LGS if they have one. I personally like everything about the LCR but the trigger. If you're a J-frame guy, you might not like the trigger on the LCR; in my opinion they are two different animals.

The LCR also has some big grips. I've tried both the oversized ones and the smaller boot grip, both seemed like they might be a bit bulky and grabby in the pocket. I like my to keep everything as slim and smooth as possible when I pocket carry.

I don't know if you have considered the S&W Airweights, they are reasonable priced, well made and perfect for carry. They are also rated for +P as many of the vintage revolvers are not. +P capabilities might not be something you are concerned about (I'm not) but it's nice to have the option. The weight is not an issue either; at 15oz they are both easy to carry and shoot.

 

[Gordon]

"3 " Model 37" Oh MY !

 

[sidheshooter]

^^^I know, right? (as the kids nowadays say) Plus, it is absolutely minty. They want 5 bills though...

I told 'em I'd sleep on it.

 

[F-111 John]

I'm a softie for Model 60 no dashes.

 

[dscampbell]

I am sticking with my model 36. My EDC since 1972.

 

[jimbo555]

Thanks for the replys.I'm going to give the lcr a try.Next question is 38 or 357!

 

[shootniron]

.357...has a little more weight and the option of .357 if your feeling froggy.

 

[Hondo 60]

My vote is for vintage!
Gimme steel, wood & leather anytime.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

I used to own a very nice model 60 no dash and a no dash model 37.In a weak moment I let them both go to my son and daughter.Should I go for the new technology in the Ruger lcr or shop for another vintage Smith j-frame?

I went with the M442 and carry it daily. Before you decide you might want to take a look at the S&W Bodyguard 38 too. I like it a little better than the LCR.

 

[jackpinesavages]

J frame....

 

[PabloJ]

I used to own a very nice model 60 no dash and a no dash model 37.In a weak moment I let them both go to my son and daughter.Should I go for the new technology in the Ruger lcr or shop for another vintage Smith j-frame?

What is remarkable is that short-barreled Six-shot Colt revolver with alloy frame is same as S&W 37. It was not +P rated buy one would not want to shoot those in small light revolver and extra velocity isn't really needed. I have never been a Colt guy, but the old Colt is superior to both guns you have mentioned.

 

[jimbo555]

Pablo I do have a 1993 detective special but it doesnt work as a pocket gun.But your right an agent or cobra would!

 

[Geezer Glide]

I have fired a friend's LCR and I like the way it shoots and I really like the trigger. Someday, I will probably get one if I can find some small grips for pocket carry. However, nothing beats the looks of an older J frame.

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

If you put better shaped grips on the J-Smith (factory grips on older ones leave you little to hold onto), you will have functionally very similar revolvers.

 

[DocRx]

I tried both the S&W Airweights and the Ruger LCR several times. Ended up with the Ruger KLCR 357/38. It has the option of 357mag., 38spl., or 38spl.+P., is lightweight (can carry pocket, IWB or OWB), concealabilty, Ruger Quality-reliable, very accurate even at longer distances, has a "sweet" trigger, and fairly priced. JMHO. Take care and be safe.

 

[easyg]

I once carried this...




but I now carry this...



Ruger has a real winner with the LCR.

 

[Guillermo]

Vintage J Frame is a diminishing resource.

You can always buy a LCR

 

[jimbo555]

Easyg, what differences caused you to switch to the lcr?

 

[easyg]

The LCR is a better pocket carry handgun because of the concealed hammer, the more streamlined cylinder design, and the slightly lighter weight.

And when it comes to shooting them both, the trigger pull of the LCR blows away the S&W.

 

[Wishoot]

Had a very nice M37 flat latch that I sold a few years ago. It was a beautiful gun, no question about it. I did not enjoy shooting it however. I purchased an LCR in it's place.

While the LCR won't win any points for beauty, it's really quite enjoyable to shoot and the trigger is simply fantastic.

 

[sidheshooter]

Hey easyg,

Have you tried using speed loaders with your LCR, out of curiosity?

TIA.

 

[easyg]

Nope, but I don't carry speed loaders either way.