1965 Challenge- Colt Cobra vs. S&W Model 12

[.455_Hunter]

It's 1965, and you are looking for a six-shot, lightweight .38 snub...

Do you go with the Colt Cobra (or Agent), or a S&W Model 12-2?

Both feature aluminum alloy frames and steel cylinders.

Which one has the best durability and which one is the overall winner in your opinion?

 

[shoebox1.1]

I gotta go Colt!

 

[Gordon]

Well Jack Ruby had good luck with the Cobra. Later the Cobra was certified for less than 1000 +p rounds, the Model 12 never was. I wanted a model 12 badly for years, when I finally got one I was underwhelmed because of how S&W chose to thin the metal in vital areas.I love K frames FWIW .

 

[bannockburn]

I would go with the Colt Agent. I like the slightly smaller grips it came with and it feels better in my hand than the comparable S&W Model 12.

 

[Vern Humphrey]

A fellow gave me a Colt Cobra in Viet Nam -- he was headed home and didn't want the hassle of bringing it through customs. I used to carry it when I worked in HQ, and finally traded it to a Viet Namese Air Force pilot for a snub-nosed Python (which was WAAAY too much gun for him.) I brought the Python home in my shaving kit.

 

[Old Dog]

Gotta go with the Colt. I've been through several Model 12s, simply too many issues.

 

[Gordon]

A fellow gave me a Colt Cobra in Viet Nam -- he was headed home and didn't want the hassle of bringing it through customs. I used to carry it when I worked in HQ, and finally traded it to a Viet Namese Air Force pilot for a snub-nosed Python (which was WAAAY too much gun for him.) I brought the Python home in my shaving kit.

Hope you still have that bro ! I took home an LAPD Ithaca Model 37 Deetslayer taken apart in my duffel bag . I gave it to my oldest son 25 years ago. My Dad carried it over to RVN in 69 for him on a 90 day TDY and had a General make sure I got it in the 101st when he left

 

[SwampWolf]

I have both and I like them both equally. But the Cobra is just enough smaller to make it a better fit in my pocket.