Which .357 Revolver to buy...

[madcratebuilder]

The grips between an L and N frame are the same as far as your hand cares. If there are any slight actual differences they are minor. And that only makes sense since our hands are all the same regardless of which gun we shoot The serious differences are all internal to the frame style.

The L frame actually shares grips with the K frame. The L frame is a N frame body with K frame grips.

For the OP, I would carry a 4" M29/629, light and powerful.

 

[otiac]

I agree with Lord? Dunsany especially if using a shoulder holster which gives better weight distribution plus you can get it ready to use faster and also, yes, handloading will give you more than any blackie can handle. IMHO otiac

 

[barnbwt]

I've decided to go with Smith and Wesson TRR8 revolver, and it's supposedly in the mail as I speak. I found a fair deal on GunsAmerica (for the low-low price of 999.99). This version has both tac-rails removable, and is therefore an ounce lighter than the R8.

Now I just need to find a holster. The local gunstore I'm doing the FFL transfer through says there aren't any new holsters since "They don't make N-frames anymore." Seems strange, seeing as I just bought one...

Once I get my hands on this, I'll do my part and post a review as a thanks for everyone's helpful advice.

(PS, I got my hands on a second Rhino, quality control on the action is as variable as they say. I felt like I was going to break the cocking lever off it was binding up so bad on single action)

TCB

 

[22-rimfire]

I think a 357 mag is sufficient power to dissuade pesky black bears. I have a 3" GP-100 that I really like. The SP-101 would work just fine. The thing about Ruger GP and SP's is that the triggers improve with use.

I also really like Smith revolvers. I would probably look for a short barreled 686 (<4"). A Night Guard would be great with the steel frame, but they are hard to find. However, they are the most commonly available in the 357 mag version.

I don't believe you need to carry a N-frame Smith (41 or 44) for competent black bear protection. You probably should be more concerned about 2-legged animals.

Looks like you ordered already. Good luck.

 

[Hondo 60]

The Chiappa is just awful strange looking, but yet appealing.
Don't know if I can properly explain.

 

[memphisjim]

the 327pd is pretty cool and i know ill get flamed for this but i wouldnt buy a 357 mag when the 10mm will out perform it and give more rounds
but i am thinking about getting a 329pd even though it will hurt

 

[skidder]

I would have to say a 6" security six. I picked this up about 4 hours ago at a pawn shop for 290$. no pits, holster wear with no rust. I just got done cleaning it, and I can not wait to shoot it tomorrow (short notice on the pics).

 

[[email protected]]

Great looking gun, but mine is prettier. Just got it for 350.00

 

[skidder]

kwhi43-- Nice gun at a good price. Like mine you can see the guy was right handed. I'm left so maybe I will have the finish looking the same on both grip panel's.

 

[Spartan Gladiator]

What kind of bear? On black bear I would use a 44 mag, grizzly would be getting a 454 Casull or 500 S&W. You really want to take a chance or how bad a mauling you might get?? Dont take my kids hiking

 

[dprice3844444]

yanno,if your going to basically use it for hunting,a good sw model 65 ss 4 inch heavy barrel will suffice.will do the job,no sights to knock outa whack if you drop it,and less weight,especially when backpacking.around bears,don't use hollowpoints,they expand in the fat,decrease penetration to vitals.in dealing with bears,41 mag should be the minimum.big heavy flat based bullet