Handgun selection

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I would have to go with a S&W 629 44 mag. with as much barrel length, 4” or more, that you can comfortably carry and still do your job. I bought my first S&W N frame Model 29 Nickel plated 44 mag. back in the 70s. It has a 6 ½” barrel and is extremely accurate. I just retired it back into its presentation box and bought a new 629 stainless 6 ½” with hi-vise sights. I would recommend these sights.

It is big and heavy but in the right holster I never felt it was a problem to have with me. Many time I even had it attached on the side of a backpack. If I went to the woods again the new 629 loaded with either 240gr hard cast or jsp bullets would go with me and as previously mentioned in another post in a Kydex holster vs. the leather one I have for the Mod 29.

I’d like to comment on an interesting point that was made previously several times in this thread. I carried this revolver when hunting, 4-wheeling, hiking, etc. all over the Rocky Mountains “just in case” and I never felt threatened by any wildlife. This includes encounters with bears and several close up and personal encounters with mountain lions. In every instance they basically looked at me and departed. I also feel confident if I had come across any situation where I need it this revolver would do the job.

There really are many excellent choices that have been previously mentioned in this thread such as the extremely tough GP 100 Ruger .357 and for an autoloader the 1911 .10mm or the 45acp but for me personally, in the backcountry, the 44 mag. revolver is the one I’d stake my life on.
 
I've recently purchased a Sig p239 in .40 S&W. However, now I'm wondering if I purchased the wrong Sig. My initial concern was my smallish hands. However, I don't think the p229 is that much larger. I was hoping y'all would be willing to offer up opinions and arguments, for or against, trading the p239 in on a p229.

Thanks in advance.
 
I know what you mean Mad Chemist. Many people dont realize it is just a precaution. The only real concern is hogs, but I have done some work near Cherokee National Forest where you all might of heard about the little girl getting killed by the black bear. It is always nice to know that you have that kind of power if it is needed.
 
mmmarkiep,

I have both the P239 and the P229. The grip on the P229 is very comfortable for me, the P226 is even a tad nicer, the grip on the P239 was a little skinny for me, and I replaced the standard panels with Houge checkered coco bolo grips. They offer more swell and fit my hand better. Other than the P239's grip being slightly smaller, the two really are not that much different size wise.

I'd suggest finding a SIG dealer that has the different models and see what fits best.
 
Thanks, AK. I was looking at those Houge grips, myself. There are three reasons I'm reconsidering. 1) The extra rounds. (yes, yes, I know, if I need more than 7 rounds, I'm in way over my head!) 2) The vast availability and variety of holsters, etc. compared to the P239 and 3) I'm wondering if the P229 might jump just a slight bit less in my hands than the P239 does. The P239 is manageable, for sure, but I'm just wondering if the P229 is better.

If I win the lottery tonight, though, I'll just buy both and quit worrying about it!
 
I usually carry a P229 and on occasion my P239 along with it. The size difference really isnt all that great and like you were saying, you do have the 5 extra rounds in the P229. I like shooting both and really dont have a preference there. The extra swell in the Houge grips gives the 239 a more secure feel for me. I wish SIG would offer their stock grip with more swell, as I actually prefer them.

Dont worry, you'll probably have both, and more soon enough. SIG's are VERY addictive. :D
 
Thanks, AK. And yeah. I made a conscious decision recently that it was shameful that I reached the age I am without owning any firearms. Instead of waiting to inherit, I've decided to purchase, at least, a pistol, rifle and shotgun. I've got the pistol out of the way.
 
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