357 Revolver for CC

[frankie_the_yankee]

I've got a Ruger SP-101 in 357mag, with a 3 1/16" barrel. It's relatively light, small, easy to shoot, and also conceals quite easily. I think it's hard to go wrong with this gun, especially considering it's quite a bit cheaper than an equivalent S&W. The only thing is having 5 shots, but if 5 shots of .357 magnum aren't enough, I'm not sure having 6 in a larger frame would be all that much better.

Also, I chose to get the SA/DA model with the exposed hammer. It would be even easier to carry if it were the DA-only model.

I've carried one of these for years. Very easy to conceal. Very smooth in double action. Perfect KISS principle gun. I load it with 38 spl. +P, either Federal Hydra-Shok or Corbon. All stainless construction gives it good weight and makes recoil quite manageable. I believe that the stopping power is more than adequate.

Luckily, I have never had to test this belief and hope I never do.

[frankie_the_yankee]

More importantly, I don't like that they don't have a safety (I know, keep your finger off the trigger). That may sound like a foolish concern for people more experienced with handling guns, but starting out (I am "new") I want to feel safer than sorrier.

The SP101 and many other modern revolvers have an internal "passive" transfer bar safety. This makes it impossible for the gun to fire without pulling the trigger all the way back. In DA mode, this requires a long pull of 10 or 12 lbs. To do this accidently is almost impossible.

Other revolvers (S&W mostly) have a rebounding hammer design that is almost as good.

I would say that it is much easier to have an AD with a semi auto than with a modern revolver, especially considering what is involved in loading, unloading, clearing, and chambering a round.

[HankB]

I frequently pocket carry an S&W 340Sc revolver, a very lightweight .357.

I outfitted it with Crimson Trace lasergrips that cover the backstrap with rubber, but even with the extra cushioning I find the recoil with full power .357's to be rather unpleasant.

Unless your lady is a very experienced pistolero, she may be better served with a steel gun - the extra weight reduces felt recoil. Also, note that .38 Specials can be used in .357 Mag revolvers, for even less recoil.

[KD5NRH]

She should try a 3", all steel, fixed sight J frame in .38 Special.

Problem is, if you buy a .38 and decide you can handle more, you have to buy another gun. If you buy a .357 and want less, you can buy a box of cheaper ammo.