Snubby Question

[BGregory]

I've been carrying a S&W Model 60-14.  In the winter it rides in a DeSantis holster in my coat pocket.  In the summer I switch to a Mernickle PS6 belt holster.  I carry 2 Safariland speed loaders.  I put a set of Crimson Trace Laser Grips on it, not so much for the laser, but I found that the grip itself made managing recoil a lot easier.  I've been using Speer GoldDot Short Barrel .357 magnums for the past couple of months and I can still type this post.

[CDR]

Hi Walt and Michael,

I'm curious as to what specific loads (caliber and brand) you both most frequently use when carrying your snubbies for self defense?  Also, which snubby do you each find yourselves reaching for most often?

By the way Michael, I see in your article that you have the M&P 340 on your "lust list" for small guns....me too.  I spoke with Smith and Wesson today, as I have one on order, and was told that they expect them to ship by the end of March.  They said the finish appears to be more durable than that on the current 340 line and said people are going to be well pleased with this new snubby.  Can't wait to see it.

Thanks

[Walt Rauch]

The great "what ammo" question!

For  years, my answer has been "whatever rounds(factory) I find on top of my dresser". Now, thanks to competition among ammo companies, you can buy ammo specifically tailored for short barrel revolvers such as the 135 gr. HP CCI Gold Dot.  Remington, Winchester and Federal as well as CORBON, Black Hills and Hornady all have excellent loads for short barrels.

I'll use any of them but now I at least take time to take the five rounds from the same box. Right now, my every day M42 has the Gold Dots in it. But I have, already pre packed, a box of Hornady and CORBON in my airline lockable case along with my S&W M642.

You might ask why not the others? I use them as well but for airline travel some brands pack 20 or 25 to the box cutting down on weight and giving me more room for other calibers.

Good multiple hits are what is important. Choose ammo which allows you to do this.

[CDR]

Hi Walt,

Thank you very much for your advice on the choice of ammo.  Thanks also to the others who have provided their thoughtful responses to my questions.  I appreciate your assistance and valuable input. 

I tell you, after reading everyone's comments, I am seriously considering changing my recently placed M&P 340 order, which is a month or so from probable delivery, and going with a stainless steel model 640 in a front pocket holster.  It seems that perhaps it isn't too much for a pocket snubby with respect to weight.  Also, the slightly larger grips will probably work well with my larger hands.  Still not 100% yet, but I do like the ability to carry and practice more readily and less painfully with the +P and .357 magnum loads.  I guess I'm on the fence.  If anyone wants to try and push me over to one side I'm willing to listen.

Thanks again

[Walt Rauch]

Buy both.

[Sponsor]

[CDR]

Buy both.

Thanks Walt......the thought has crossed my mind more than once in recent days.  The spousal unit will certainly provide resistance to this approach as you might well imagine.  For purposes of harmony, the purchase of both may have to be spread out a bit if you know what I mean.  Now the question becomes.......which one comes first??

[Walt Rauch]

Steel. You'll want to practice.

[CDR]

Thanks so much Walt......much appreciated.

[drifter44]

 I guess I am really old fashion.When I carry a snubby it is a Colt Det. Special loaded whith 135gr Speer . I like the grip and always carry in a holster.

[MDaly]

CDR, I have struggled with finding the "right" carry pistol just as you have.  I have come to the conclusion that I like carrying a J frame in my front pocket.  I carry one every day, everywhere I go.  I have a Taurus plain steel Model 85 and a S&W 640 and an old style Colt's Dick Special.  I prefer the 640 as it is easier to draw from the pocket with no snags.  I carry Gold Dots in the warmer months and revert to 158 gr round nosed lead bullets in the Winter.  P. O. Ackley proved long ago that heavy winter clothing can really negate the effectiveness of hollow points and the old lead round nose load can plow on through. 

If you have some spare cash around, I would suggest sending a 640 to Bowen Classic Arms for sights and tuning.  www.bowenclassicarms.com.  Hamilton Bowen has a great set of sights and is renouned for making Smiths smooth and fine in DA.  Go to the bottom of this page for a description and photo. http://www.bowenclassicarms.com/NEW/SWpackages.htm

Mike