What .38 snubbie would you choose?

[sixgun_symphony]

Please give a brief explanation why.

 

[ruger357]

S&W J frame. Smaller than a Colt, and I just prefer S&W.

 

[dinosaur]

Colt DS. 28 years and nary a burp. One more round than the J frame but J`s are easier to find.

 

[6mm]

I have carried a 649 Bodyguard for several years, and have been extremely happy with it.

I was a full time gunsmith from 1990-1998, before going into law enforcement. The J-frames are tough little guns, and rarely have problems, and are easy to slick up, while the Colt D-Frames can be a royal pain to slick up and to get in time.

Just my opinion.

6mm

 

[Kahr carrier]

S&W J Frame smaller in size and more different variations.

 

[tbeb]

I've owned both. I like the J frame because it is smaller and I like the action a little better.

If size wasn't paramount then it would be a toss-up. I think the Detective Special feels more like a bigger gun when shooting and this is good. It also holds one more round.

 

[Archie]

The (older) J frames ...

have better actions and don't go out of time as easily.

Now if I can just replace my 3 inch RB pinned barrel M 36.

 

[Dr.Rob]

While the j-fame is smaller, the extra round of the DS is better, besides the newer DS has a very short grip frame. If you wanted to, with custom grips the DS can be made smaller.

I like the shrouded hammer models of the j-frame, over the sharp hammer of the Colt. factory hammer shrouds for Colts are sort of bulky but effective.

I guess the bottom line is I wanted a Colt, so I got a Colt.

The DS has been discontinued for now, but doubtless will be back with all the interest in the CCW/Police market. It's far easier to find a new j-frame.

 

[BigG]

Agree with 6mm about the Colts.

 

[El Tejon]

I carried a 642 (later a 638) as a bug for about 12 years. I liked the hump/hammerless for snag-freeitness and the 5 shot cylinder for compactness. I like the revolver as it would not go out of battery if press against the threat in retention or at face-to-face range.

 

[10-Ring]

J-frame because of the smoothness & reliability mine has given me.

 

[LWCmdr45]

J-frame

I use my snbbies as BUG's and prefer the more compact dimensions of the Smith. If I *had* to limit myself to a snub as a belt gun, though, I'd go with the Colt D-frame.

Steve

 

[Shadowman]

J-frame

Hammerless centennials

 

[9mmepiphany]

the colt D-frame is the superior snubby to the smith in everything except size.

the D-frame has
1. an extra shot (more firepower)
2. longer/smoother action (more stablizing)
3. off-set bolt notches (more strenght)
4. more accurate barrel (1-14" twist)

my only druther, and the reason i'm carrying a 642, is a internal hammer model

 

[Kframe]

The 5-shot S&W is smaller and has a sturdier action than the Colt six-shooter.
If you want a six-shooter, go for an M&P. More available and a much better action. The K-frame M&P conceals just fine, even with the square butt models.
-Kframe

 

[Blueduck]

Voted S/W J because I loved my 640 and see dozens of other 5 shot smith's go through qualifications without a hic-up. I've shot Colts but just not enough to trust them as much.

 

[beemerb]

Voted J frame.I have shot the colt and do not like the way they handle.
Bob

 

[FPrice]

I have had both but could not shoot the Colt fer beans. Something about the trigger action kept messing up, perhaps I was not letting the trigger re-set fully or something. Had my one and only AD when it stopped on me one day at the range. Luckily my observance of the other safety rules made the AD go in a safe direction.

 

[Frenchy]

I don't need a "deep" conceal weapon, or care for an IWB style holster. My preference is a "K" frame Smith when I'm not on duty. I've found that my model 64 fills the bill. The size and weight is just right, parked on my hip.

 

[PDshooter]

I just like the feel of my S&W 640 plus I just love S/S.

 

[bpisler]

I'ld take the colt cause i like the extra round in a slightly larger package but i would prefer a 2-3" k frame to both of them.Now if frenchy will loan me his 64 i'll be very happy

 

[Gunsnrovers]

S&W

I like the DS, but I think if the use was for a BUG, I would get the J frame. If the snubbie was a primary gun, I would take a 2" K frame over both. A little larger and I think more shootable.

Honestly, I wouldn't fault anyone with either choice. I've always felt picking handgun was pretty individual to the user. As long as you stick to proven designs that work, practice with them, and make sure the gun is reliable, the rest is pretty academic.

I guess that doesn't help your poll much...

Jeff

 

[MR.G]

Years ago I carried a Colt Cobra. The lightweight Detective special. One day the gun locked up when shooting. A part broke inside. Since that time I have carried a S&W J frame. Currently my favorite is a model 638 Airweight, for pocket carry. My 649 .357 is nice too, if carried inside the pants or in a holster.

 

[P95Carry]

Can't say ''yes'' to either but ....... having been looking for a snubby came across last year, a Taurus M85 .. complete with a small belt holster. It was used but in good shape and price was acceptable tho a tad high.

I have been well pleased with it . action is hard to tell from a Smith and having made some new grips find it very comfortable. becomes my carry piece in summer with very light clothing .. either in holster or . fits fanny pack too.

 

[DeltaElite]

Extra round and smoother action.