Effective .38 / .38+P defense rounds with modest recoil?

[chriske]

I'd go for the 4" mod. 10 , ammo-wise, it's more versatile, I think..

As for ammo : what CARRY'IN said : plain, regular 158gr SWC : mild to shoot, cheap, will kill.

 

[indiandave]

Have you thought about Buffalo Bore std pressure LSWCHP's? They have less recoil then the FBI plus p loads.If the recoil is still to much I would agree with the others who have mentioned 158 SWC's or 148 Wc's. A hit with a std pressure is better then a miss with a plus p.

 

[jaydubya]

Have her train with 148 gr DEWCs, but load either the FBI load or Speer 135gr+p for self defense. If she ever has to shoot, I doubt if she will object to the recoil. In fact, she won't even remember pulling the trigger! Not a sexist statement! Most people who survive a gunfight remember the sound as gentle pops, and don't recall the recoil at all.

In my opinion, a Model 10 is a perfect house gun, though the stainless version, the 66 if memory serves, would be easier to maintain. The .32 magnum cartridge is hard to find, as are revolvers to shoot it. I'm not sure it's going to make it. And from what I have read, that sucker kicks!

Cordially, Jack

 

[skoro]

thinking about a S&W 4" Model 10 (current production) as a house gun. Her choice is between the .38 Spl Model 10 and a .32 Mag Ruger SP101.

On the Model 10 side, can you suggest some good, commonly available .38 or .38 +P factory defense loads that won't tax the shooter, but will get the job done in a 4" barreled gun?

The Model 10 with 4" barrel is an excelllent choice. It's massive enough that 38+P ammo won't be snappy, like it is in a snubnose lightweight revolver. If +P is still a concern, probably the best std pressure ammo would be the Buffalo Bore 158 gr semiwadcutters. Fired from the Model 10, they'll certainly do the job while being easy to handle, recoil-wise.