Snubby debate - advice needed

[LittleRed]

I like versatility, so that almost puts me in the .357 crowd. However, my guess is that even if you can "handle" a .357, the you can probably handle a .38+P or .38 even better with quicker follow up and better shot placement. Personally, I want that follow up and placement advantage, but that's somewhat subjective and others will have differing opinions.

Another thing to consider is muzzle flash and sound. Out of a snubby .357 produces quite a fireball, which might not be desirable at night. The louder report is also more apt to cause permanent hearing damage especially if you needed to fire in an enclosed space. (My experience is with a 3" barrel, I imagine a 2" compounds things.)

I couldn't decide, so I have two S&W J frames. The first one is a Model 60 (Stainless Steel) .357 with a 3" barrel. The second is a Model 442 (black aluminum) Airweight .38+P with a 1 7/8" barrel. The 60 was purchased primarily for my wife at home; the 442 for concealed carry.

The extra weight and slightly longer barrel of the 60 make this one fun to shoot and eliminates some of the disadvantages of the snubby. While I'll shoot some .357s and .38+P, regular .38s are its main diet at the range for simple economic reasons. When shooting .38s, the longer .357 cylinder chambers will get some carbon build up and require a little more elbow grease when cleaning. (Hint: get actual chamber brushes which are slightly larger than bore brushes.) If you don't get the crud out, .357 might be a little snug going in and sticky to eject if you have been using .38s.

The only "carry" the 60 gets with .357 is outdoors with the intent of protection against 4-legged attackers, or possibly a "coup de grâce" when hunting, although I've never needed it for either.

The 442 is a great carry gun. Its amazing the difference an inch off the barrel makes for comfort and concealability. I have been carrying Federal Nyclads in .38 standard pressure, but I am always trying out different types. The Nyclads hit point of aim for me and allow for quick follow up shots.

I don't think you can go wrong with either. If you're looking used ($250 sounds inviting) here is a great post on what to look for: http://www.thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=57816

[Paraguy]

Get a .357. Steel frame snubbies AREN'T AS BAD AS EVERYONE THINKS. As already said, and what I like about the .357 Mag, you have the option to carry magnum rounds in it, or if you shoot better with the .38 +p's you can shoot all of those you want in a .357 Mag. And again, as said, you don't HAVE to carry .357 rounds in it. I haven't fired an Ultralight .357. I have fired an Ultralight .45 Colt, but it wasn't too bad to get back on target. If you're concerned with faster target recovery, a steel framed snubbie isn't that much heavier to carry.  Get the .357. It's worth it. Just out of curiosity, which model are you considering? My S&W 649 (See My Avatar) is my favorite gun to carry. The only thing mine is missing is Laser grips, but I'm saving for them. One thing I did do, is paint that black sight with Orange nail polish, so now I can see the sight against a black target.

I am looking at the Model 360 PD revolver.  It is light, has a good front sight and is about $200 off list at my local shop.  Think it would be a good car gun and the .357 could easily go through glass if needed. 

[rich642z]

I have my S&Ws M 10s and 64s but,the best one I love are my Ruger SP101s. I have 5 of them. All of them in .357/.38.  For everything I need for sd situations,125 Hornadys CDs do the job when told to.  rich642z  SP101s are built like a tank and a timex,it keps on going and ticking each time I pull the trigger.  And in 3 words about that,,,,,,,WHAT A RUSH.

[Rastus]

I have a Taurus titanium snubbie in .38+P and so does my wife.  I also had the stainless stell Taurus snub in .357.  Also picked up a Ruger LCR.

The one you will carry all the time is the one you should buy. 

I really, really like the look of the Taurus and I like hammers....but I really, really carry the Ruger LCR because it is easier.  So...I think first off go hammerless.

Next, go light.  I like the LCR and I love the trigger on it.  The polymer frame seems to absorb some of the recoil.

I've handled friend's S&W's and prefer the LCR.....but that's just me.

Bottom line...it's gotta be something that you want and that you will carry.

[grizdiesel]

So what about a .44 Special, like a Charter Arms Bulldog?  How does it compare to a .357 in a snubnose revolver?

[Sponsor]

[ericire12]

So what about a .44 Special, like a Charter Arms Bulldog?  How does it compare to a .357 in a snubnose revolver?

Michael Bane loves .44 special

[Big Frank]

The .44 Spl makes big holes. That alone is worth considering. 

[Walter45Auto]

.44 Also makes a little fatter cylinder, which isn't as easily carried in the pocket.

[fightingquaker13]

lAll things being equal, its hard to argue with .44. Thing is, all things ain't equal. Price and availability of ammo, plus the fatter profile says go with a .357 and load with hot .38s for an SD gun.
FQ13

[rich642z]

  I have a Ruger SP101 2.25 inch barrel in the .357 caliber and,,,,,,,, its my edc.    .357 mag, make me have a rush.   rich642z