Can't decide between 4 and 6 inch 357 magnum

[308win]

I have a -4 Model 19 target model with a 6" barrel. Nice gun, accurate, reliable. But, look at a picture of a 4" Model 19; IMHO there is no better looking revolver as far as the proportions.

 

[smithnut357]

I prefer shorter barrels personally. Not to brag or anything but I've pulled off better shots with my Smith 66 with a 2.5" barrel than some people I've seen with rifles.

 

[glug]

I really appreciate all the input on this thread. Sounds like I really can't go wrong with either. I went back to handle both guns side-by-side yesterday and, man, it really makes me just wish I had both!

The 4" definitely felt 100% better in my hand and I slightly prefer the look of it. Perfectly balanced and points easily, and much easier to hold steady on target. I think this would be the most fun for practice shooting 38 specials or just to pull out of the safe and fondle once in a while. And hands down the winner if I had to carry it on a daily basis.

The 6" was much heftier and I felt a lot less nimble with it. But the longer sight radius was *very* noticeable so that's a plus. I also like the idea of getting the increased velocity to make the most out of those 357 magnums, and reduced recoil and muzzle flash from a longer barrel. Plus-- having the biggest, meanest looking gun on the range would not suck

All in all I'm starting to see that they each have their own role and there really is no 'best' choice, it's just up to each person and their likes and needs. I think the tiebreaker for me may be the simple fact that in the good old Peoples Republic of California I'm not allowed to carry a handgun at all (neither concealed nor open unloaded as of Jan 1 thanks to Jerry Brown), so going for the larger 6" as a dedicated home defense / range shooter may be the best fit for me right now. At least.... until I can afford the 4" to go with it

 

[230therapy]

I think the tiebreaker for me may be the simple fact that in the good old Peoples Republic of California I'm not allowed to carry a handgun at all (neither concealed nor open unloaded as of Jan 1 thanks to Jerry Brown)

Yes, you can. California does issue concealed carry permits and you may be able to get one. However, you'll have to navigate through that with the Calguns.net folks.

Also check:

http://www.calccw.com/Forums/

There's a county FAQ that may be helpful.

 

[glug]

Yes, you can. California does issue concealed carry permits and you may be able to get one. However, you'll have to navigate through that with the Calguns.net folks.

Also check:

http://www.calccw.com/Forums/

There's a county FAQ that may be helpful.

Thanks for the link.

Sadly, I live in one of the brown "No issue to regular citizens" counties: http://www.calccw.com/Forums/county-faq/7158-county-map-california-ccw-issuance.html

 

[LTR shooter]

The 4" definitely felt 100% better in my hand and I slightly prefer the look of it. Perfectly balanced and points easily, and much easier to hold steady on target.

Then by all means go with the 4".

I have magnums in various lengths and shoot the longer ones better in regards to accuracy. But given a choice between a 4" and 6" where the 4" felt 100% better that is what I'd get without hesitation.