Need Help Picking A .38

[Slamfire]

Well, I am looking to buy a 4" .38 only (cant be a .357) revolver for a security job. I was wondering which revolver you think is best.
A used (Like New) Colt Diamondback for 500.
A new Smith and Wesson model 64 for 475.
A new Smith and Wesson model 67 for 525.
I would really appreciate your oppinions.

The reason so many people have voted Colt Diamondback, is that they want one. For $500.00 that is a deal for a like new Diamondback revolver. However it you buy it, and carry it, you will scratch it up and put wear on the bluing. If you drop it, which happens, and require gunsmithing to get it back in order, you will pay a premium finding someone who still works on Colts. It is my considered opinion that using a Diamondback as a daily carry gun is in the same category as having as a daily driver some classic sportscar. Fun at first. But at the first $2000 tire change, you find out you are really paying real money for the privilege.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colt_Diamondback


A fixed sight revolver like a M64 is basically fool proof. I have always liked the concept of fixed sight revolvers for self defense, they are about the most rugged package around. No sight blades or sight screws to come loose. As a self defense gun, a used one of these would be far better deal.

While a M67 allows you to adjust the sights, you will find that the extra you pay for, will be difficult to recoup on resale. 30 years ago the 38 was considered a good self defense round, and the revolvers were not hard to sell. Today, the high caps are the rage, and it is harder to find someone who wants a 38/357.

In my opinion, and as you have read some others here to, if you have a friend who can help you select out a used M10, get that. The price will probably be $150 to $200 less than the M64 or M67, and if you wish to sell it in the future, resale will be closer to what you paid for it. I have gone through a bunch of M10’s, most were carried by security guards, they often show holster wear, but mechanically, most were fine. Find one with about 90% or better bluing, check the timing, the crane fit, the barrel, and the trigger. Also make sure the sights are not dinged up. If it is good, then the pistol is good.

 

[dbarale]

I just saw a nearly new 10-6 4" heavy barrel today for 275$.
They are out there, this one barely had a turn line on the cylinder...

 

[dodging230grainers]

I'd go with a 4" Model 10.

~100 years of faithful military/LEO service is hard to top.

 

[def4pos8]

I'd go with a USED Model 64 with a Model 67 as alternative.

Unless you know how to "tune" a Smith (Not hard -- you just have to know the techniques.) and break it in (ceaseless dry-fire) find a used example. I found a 1974-production, "new in box", Model 67 within the past year for $425.

I respect Colt revolvers but now that they are out of production, finding service and parts support will become more entertaining as time goes by.

All Colts are not created equal. A Colt fanatic buddy of mine was "somewhat dismayed" to discover that my well-used Redhawk felt better, single- or double-action, than his Python. I'd like to think that his example was a "friday afternoon" or "monday morning" gun. Smith or Ruger might skunk you too but they're not expected to walk on water.

 

[Snubster]

If I were in your situation I would probably pick the 64.

 

[Ala Dan]

Well, from your list I would also vote for the Diamondback; but then again,
they are gett'in scarce my friend. If you can swing the transaction, buy
the Colt as an investment; then look for a less expensive (used but not
abused) S&W model 15 for your security job; as the m-15 will also have
the adjustable sights. We just sold one, in 'bout 98% NRA condition for
$225~!

 

[ironvic]

I like the new S&Ws just fine. I bet my life on a new 686 Plus and it shoots very well, the trigger job is one of the best Smith has ever made. Hate the lock, but it doesn't bother me really, just useless extra parts--I guess lawyers gotta eat too! I have owned many S&Ws over the past 30 years as well as Colts. I like both brands, but lean toward the S&W.

BTW--if it was me, I'd look for an old S&W Model-15 in 4" for security work if I was limited to .38 Special. A model 10 or any of the stainless variants of the above in 4" would be just fine as well.

For a really versatile piece, will your job allow a .357 loaded with .38 Specials for duty?

Ironvic

 

[ironvic]

Just another thought. If you have a dealer near you that sells to law enforcement, you can get very good guns at bargain prices. I tend to collect "law enforcement trade-ins" as they call them and the ones I have bought tended to have moderate to heavy holster wear, but pristine innards. You can also be pretty much assured that they were professionally serviced throughout their careers. Revolvers are getting harder to find as LE trade-ins, but you'll still see a few.

My most recent buy was a Sig P-226 (9MM) with 90% finish, bright bore, almost no wear on the frame rails with the original hicap 15 rd. mag and super accurate for only $400. I love that gun, it's action is buttery smooth and it hasn't malfunctioned once! A bonus is that I know it was once used by a federal agent in the performance of his duties and he staked his life on it.

Ironvic

 

[sixgunner455]

If I'm collecting guns, I'm getting that Colt. In fact, I wouldn't be posting asking if I should, I'd have posted pics saying "ain't she purty!"

But since you are buying a gun for a security job, I would suggest in as strong as possible terms that I can that you get a used Smith and Wesson model 10 or 15 or a Ruger Speed Six and don't look back. This is a work gun. Therefore, function is primary. You can get a fine gun for a lot less money. You may even find a former cop's gun that hit the bricks in a scuffle or three, but that is still mechanically perfect for a comparative steal.

That's what I would buy, if I were working security and was limited to a .38 Special revolver. I'd expect to be able to get one for less than $300 dollars. If I got a really good deal, down around $200 or so, I would then promptly spend the rest of my "work gun" fund, which looks like it's about $500 dollars, on a Smith and Wesson 642 for a pocket or ankle gun to back up the belt gun.