Pocket carry using a readily-concealable handgun almost always results in the choice of either a double-action revolver or a compact semiautomatic or so it seems from the emails I’ve received over the years. A small contingent uses derringers but they are in the minority compared to revolver or semiauto users. Some who choose the S&W J-frame are…
When revolver fans congregate, comparisons between round guns from S&W and other makers are not unusual. These can be detailed, helpful and well-considered or done with the, “I-decree-this-so-no-other-talk-is-needed-‘nuff-said” ego-driven drivel seen (too) often at Internet firearm forums. It almost appears that some consider it at least a minor sin that a company other than S&W…
Size differences between medium (K) and small (J) frame sizes are frequent topics of discussion. It is only natural for people interested in these guns’ respective attributes to be interested in how one compares to the other. The top revolver is the discontinued S&W Model 19 with a 2 ½” barrel. Shown with this K-frame…
Four years ago, I purchased a NIB Ruger SP101 w/3 1/16” barrel. Primarily an S&W revolver shooter, I have to admit being very pleasantly surprised at the little Ruger’s performance as I mentioned in my first range report on this petite shooter, which was also used in a report on then-new Corbon 125-gr. DPX ammunition. Prior to these…
Within the context of service revolvers or self–protection, two K-frame families are preeminent. They are the Model 10 Military & Police revolvers and the Model 19 Combat Magnums. A very good case can be made that the Combat Magnums were spawned by the M&P’s but I prefer to think of them in separate categories: premier…
It is no secret that the Model 10 and the fixed sight .38 Special offspring it sired are my favorite K-frame revolvers and others holding the same opinion are legion. If my opinion is subjective, I like to think that it was reached through attempting objective evaluations…but it’s been so long I cannot remember! I hope to adequately…
Over the years, I’ve tried several semiautomatics and revolvers as “carry guns” but found myself repeatedly coming back to a small cadre of core handguns for this purpose. One is the 4” Model 10 HB. Many consider these more appropriate for open-carry duty guns but I have found that they conceal nearly as easily as their snubnose…