Smith and Wesson Snub .38's and Model 32-1

[supmayn]

Between the s&w model 60, and the model 10 (nickel),which is the smaller gun? they look about the same except the handle on the model 10 looks a bit longer.

I am also looking at the model 32-1 in .38 S&W, how does the size of this gun compare to the previously mentioned handguns? Also, did S&W ever make a model 32 in nickel, or anythikng other than blue?

 

[Shade00]

The S&W Model 60 and the Model 32-1 are physically the same size. They are both J-frame guns. The cylinder on the 32-1 will be slightly shorter because of the smaller cartridge. The Model 10 is a larger frame - the gun itself will have a larger cylinder to accomodate the extra cartridge (6 vs. the J-frame's 5) and the handle grip frame will be larger.

Depending on what you want the gun for, the 60 or the 10 would be my choice. The 32-1 is a nice little gun, but it shoots .38 S&W instead of .38 special, which is what the other guns fire. The .38 special is a superior cartridge (although the .38 S&W is not ineffective; apologies in advance to Fuff). They are not interchangeable. .38 S&W is NOT cheap ammo, either, so it does not make a good gun for practice and range fun.

Out of the Model 60 and the Model 10, the Model 60 would be my choice. In fact, I own one. The stainless is fantastic. It is a fun little gun to shoot and it's easy to care because of the size. The Model 10 is a great gun, though, and has a loyal following; it makes a fantastic range gun and is a great shooter.

 

[1KPerDay]

The model 10 is quite a bit bigger than the j-frames. The model 10 looks (and feels) huge next to one. For me.