Looking for a small carry gun - 738TCP, Taurus revolver or S&W 637?

[iafirebuff]

I am looking for a small carry piece - one that I will use in the summer months while in shorts, mowing, etc. I am looking at the following: Taurus 738 TCP, Taurus M85 or 856 revolver and a S&W 637 revolver. I have had the Kel Tec P3AT and the trigger guard slapped my finger - did not like that, and have had the Kel Tec P11 - could not hit anything with that Any input would be greatly appreciated! THANKS in advance!

 

[tercel89]

I just got the S&W 442 and I carry it in a DeSantis Nemisis pocket holster . IT IS AWESOME!!!!!

 

[tcc722]

I have heard hit or miss stories on taurus pistols. A Ruger LCP seems to be a popular choice you may want to look into.

 

[joeq]

Isn't the Ruger LCP very close to the Kel Tec P3AT he didn't like? If he's not a fan of the P3AT I would think he might not enjoy shooting the Ruger either. I would choose the S&W revolver out of the three you listed. I carry a Smith 442 everyday and love it. Maybe you can find a range around you that rent's some of the choices you mentioned. At least then you could get a real feel for what you like.

 

[orionengnr]

If you do not like the P3AT/LCP (I've owned two of each and no longer own the former nor carry the latter), look at the Kahr P380 or Kahr PM9.

I have also owned a half-dozen j-frames and no longer own one of those either.

 

[Drew78]

I would suggest the LCP too. I know the op didn't have good luck with the keltec version, but I don't believe the 2 are exactly identical. Maybe your finger won't get smacked with the LCP. I have one, and for what it is, its an outstanding micro 380. For me, snubs are a bit too thick in the pocket.

Add in a CT laser guard and its a great front pocket gun, or "always gun". When I head out, its supplemented with a 9mm Glock.

-drew

 

[gofastman]

the TCP is a MUCH better shooter than the LCP or P3AT

 

[Drew78]

Based on what? The fact that you most likely own one and therefore think its superior? Not even a mention on why YOU think its better? Not much of a contribution to the OP other than your personal "dog in the fight" mentality.

I couldnt disagree more, but lets not turn this into a Taurus basing thread, lord knows there are PLENTY of those throughout the WWW...

-Drew

 

[jon86]

I'll agree. The TCP is easier to be accurate with than an LCP, for me. I shot them both on the same day. Neither were difficult to shoot, but the TCP was a little easier to shoot well. Talk about thread contribution...

 

[Drew78]

Well done!

 

[Mightee1]

I bought a Taurus 856 Hy-Lite a few months ago and have been rather impressed. Its a solid 6 shot revolver that is nice and light. It fits into nearly any holster designed for J-Frames.

The magnesium alloy frame doesnt allow for +P rounds, but I personally prefer 6 shots of "weak" loads than 5 shots of slightly stronger ones. If you are really worried that .38 spl is underpowered, forget about carrying a snub.

Overall, its dependable carry revolver that doesnt come with the pricetag of a Smith. You wouldnt go wrong picking one up.

 

[iafirebuff]

THANKS for all of the advice! What I did not like about the P3AT was the darn slap I got from the trigger guard. That was a mean little gun

 

[iafirebuff]

Thanks for all the tips! In my area there is no place to rent guns so I have to buy first then try them out I have bought a lot of guns over the years.

 

[heeler]

Irafirebuff,witout a doubt the TCP would be the easiest of the bunch to daily carry.
Also at least they used to come with and might still is the benefit of the TCP coming with a Bulldog cell phone style holster,a holster that I carry my Diamondback .380 in a lot.
Although you are not going to be quick draw McGraw with that set up it is totally concealed and at your side anytime you clip it on your belt.
These guns are so light you will not even notice it.
This is what I do while wearing dress slacks or tight jeans.
Other times I carry mine in a quality leather pocket holster that COMPLETELY covers the trigger.
I own an older model S&W 37 Airweight and it is a nice little pistol but it is too thick for me to comfortable pocket carry unless the pocket it is going in is very generous.
Honsetly I would check out that LCP as it's been around long enogh that the teething problems are probably a thing of the past.

 

[iafirebuff]

THANKS for the reply! I loved the Kel TEc for the ease of carry. I prefer OWB carry. With the small guns I like a Don Hume JIT. Never even notice it is there There is a large gun show next weekend that I plan on going to so I hope to be able to handle several options

 

[SKILCZ]

The Ruger LCR works great in the large pockets of cargo shorts in the summer. If you want a semi-auto, I'd try a Kahr PM9.