I got my RG 38 model 39 snub a few years back for 50 bucks.Only problem in double action it only goes bang about 4 out of six times.In single action it goes bang 100 % of the time.This is not a SD gun.I keep it in my truck as a snake gun.
I think many would agree that the RG guns, no matter how cheap, are often worse than a medium-sized rock as a self-defense weapon. Sounds like the guy here will be able to get a decent weapon, though, thanks to the generosity of the many kind folks here.
A friend of mine has an Armscor .38 and it works just fine. It has a rough edge or two but it shoots ok. I think he paid $179 for one from Centerfire Systems.
I'm surprised that in 3 pages of posts there were only 2 other suggestions for a shotgun. Under these circumstances it's probably the best HD weapon for this friend of a friend.
A handgun requires a lot more practice than 30 rounds just once if he's going to use it for home defense. With that little orientation and practice he may do more harm than good with a handgun. A shotgun on the other hand takes very little practice for home defense use. Like the other 2 posters said, you can get a shotgun very cheap and with as little as 10 to 12 rounds shot to get used to the recoil and make yourself comfortable with how to use the shotgun. You don't have to know how to shoot clays to point a shotgun down the middle of the hall and pull the trigger. (I know it's not all that simple but it's much easier than trying to use a handgun without regular practice)
You can buy Buckshot for as little as $3.99 a box of 5. (use #4 Buckshot) I've seen used Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 shotguns for as little as $120. For the cost of $120 for the gun and $24 for the ammo he can have a good HD weapon that won't require 50 to 100 rounds of practice a month.
I dropped by the shop today. Those Model 10s are still on the shelf and the tags still say $149. The one with the rubber finger groove grips is a bit more worn. The one with the wood grips is in pretty decent shape. Mostly just worn blue around the muzzle. Just in case you were interested. They also have a beautiful Model 15 in minty condition but I think it's something like $449?
Just wanted to add that I know the man in need (Fernando), and figure he's looking for a handgun because it's cheaper and easier to get a handgun lockbox than a long gun safe to keep the HD gun away from his young children.
I think it's awesome that you guys are so passionate that you'll contribute to this project. I'll take pictures and post up when we take Fernando out to practice with his new gun.
I just bought a Model 15 for the house and it's a fine pistol. Every one that he has are in about the same condition. Model 15's were in very good condition showing some holster wear on the muzzel and the cyl. The Model 64's were a bit nicer as stainless is easier to keep up. I believe he told me they came as tradein's from a local Armed Security Guard business.
If you can find a friendly FFL local to him that will do the transfer, these are a great deal.
The Model 10's that ColtSmith found are a steal also.
BTW you should be at an even $100 now. Good luck.
Will
I just bought a 4" Model 64 Smith and Wesson .38 Special surplus gun for $269 from my local gun dealer. The added quality of a Smith and Wesson is worth every penny.
I'd rather save up for another month or two and buy a gun that will last a lifetime and do an excellent job of protecting my family.
Regarding the many suggestions of a shotgun, although they are very inexpensive, most beginners are not well served with a 12 gauge shotgun due to recoil.
Also, may I suggest "In the Gravest Extreme: The Role of the Firearm in Personal Protection" by Massad Ayoob. Maybe you could buy him that for his birthday. An excellent book for beginners.
p.s. Don't forget to check the local pawn shops also.
p.s.s. Thank you for helping one of God's shepherds.
You could get a Taurus, they are usually pretty cheap. Or you could get a Bersa .380 even better and probably cheaper but you don't want an autoloader.
If I were in your friend's position I would look for S:W K frame 4" used.
Oneof the older ones in 38spcl pinned barrel. Would not care too much
about the finish. Make sure there is no shake in cyl and it locks up tite.
Dont skrimp on the ammo. Buy only the BEST. I prefer heavier bullets.
158's mostly. I want them to go thru whatever I am shooting. Like a
sword. Thats just my preference. But whatever you ammo you buy get
the BEST
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