Concealed Hammer or not

[SSN Vet]

Don't have enough experience with snubbies to offer an informed opinion here.

But won't pass up the opportunity to say hey to a fellow Maniac.

Welcome to THR

 

[gunnutery]

I voted for the concealed hammer if it's just going to be sitting in her purse. If it was on her person I'd say exposed hammer (or the bobbed hammer that was suggested). Not that the exposed hammer is going to do any good in any SD situation. I just hate the look of the "hammerless" models. BUT, it's not really about looks though is it.

I'm glad your wife is going to be carrying whatever she decides to get.

 

[ceadermtnboy]

I voted exposed because I ankle carry so the hammer does not get in my way and I like the single action option. I know all of the self defense gurus say learn to shoot double action only but I dont buy it. I think you should learn both double and single action!!

 

[OldMac]

The S&W 638 that Eightball posted above is a great compromise. It was the first revolver I purchased without a protruding hammer and is great in the pocket. You still have the ability to cock it for the single action trigger pull which is great for accuracy when you want it. I am very pleased with the accuracy of mine. Releasing it without firing can be done but not as easy as the protruding hammer but still worth it.

 

[RJM]

I like an exposed hammer as I generally carry any concealed gun in an IWB holster and not pocket carry, I have never had the hammer catch clothing. I just don't think its a problem when your gun is on the hip as it is if it was in your pocket. I like having a single action option.

I did just buy a 2" Ruger sp101 with the bobbed hammer though.

 

[Guillermo]

In my never-so-humble-opinion there is no advantage to a DOA revolver that cannot be overcome with a little practice (put your thumb on the hammer as you pull it from a pocket) and a huge disadvantage to not having a SA shot available. Let us face it, snubbies are hard enough to shoot well without that handicap.

As it sounds like your lovely bride is new to firearms, she has enough to learn without adding this to her list so I would suggest the concealed hammer.

It is true that the shroud can pinch a thumb while cocking but the advantages are undeniable.

They have a cool retro look too.

In the name of full disclosure I have 2 snubs, a Detective Special and a Smith 36. The extra weight of the Colt makes it MUCH easier for me to shoot well and it is still a light gun.

 

[frankiestoys]

I like the exposed hammer i carry a sp 101.
I sold my 642 which many consider a great carry gun ,its is just not much fun to shoot.
So ive had both and now i can say the hammer doesn't bother me.
I think they look better too.