Choosing the best revolver to carry is a deeply personal decision, heavily influenced by individual needs, preferences, and shooting experience. There's no single "best" revolver, but rather a selection of excellent options catering to different priorities. This guide explores key factors to consider and highlights some top contenders in various categories. We'll cover everything from size and weight to caliber and features, ensuring you have the information you need to make an informed choice. Remember, responsible gun ownership includes proper training and understanding of local laws and regulations.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Carry Revolver
Selecting the right revolver for concealed carry demands careful consideration of several crucial aspects:
Caliber: Balancing Power and Recoil
The caliber you choose directly impacts the balance between stopping power and recoil. Popular choices for carry revolvers include:
- .38 Special: A classic round, known for its manageable recoil and relatively low cost of ammunition. It offers acceptable stopping power, especially with heavier bullet weights (+P ammunition).
- .357 Magnum: A more powerful cartridge, offering increased stopping power but with significantly more recoil. This requires more practice and a higher degree of shooter proficiency. You can also shoot .38 Special in a .357 Magnum revolver.
- .22 LR: The smallest caliber commonly used in carry revolvers. It provides the lowest recoil, making it easy to shoot, but lacks the stopping power of larger calibers. Considered primarily for backup or extremely small-stature individuals.
- .44 Special/.44 Magnum: These are powerful rounds, but the significant recoil makes them less suitable for everyday carry, unless you have extensive shooting experience and the physical strength to manage the recoil.
Table 1: Caliber Comparison
| Caliber | Stopping Power | Recoil | Ammunition Cost | Suitability for Carry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| .22 LR | Low | Very Low | Low | Backup, small frame |
| .38 Special | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Excellent |
| .357 Magnum | High | High | High | Experienced Shooters |
| .44 Special | High | High | High | Limited |
| .44 Magnum | Very High | Very High | High | Limited |
Size and Weight: Concealability vs. Shootability
The size and weight of the revolver are paramount for concealed carry. A smaller revolver is easier to conceal but may be less comfortable to shoot, offering reduced accuracy. Larger revolvers offer better ergonomics and control but can be more difficult to conceal effectively.
Consider your body type and clothing choices when deciding on revolver size. Different manufacturers offer revolvers in various sizes, often categorized as:
- J-Frame: Compact revolvers, ideal for deep concealment, but with limitations in shootability.
- K-Frame: A balance between size and shootability, offering improved ergonomics compared to J-frames.
- L-Frame: Larger and heavier revolvers, often preferred for target shooting or hunting but less ideal for concealed carry unless you are a larger individual.
Action Type: Double-Action vs. Single-Action
- Double-Action (DA): The trigger both cocks the hammer and fires the gun in one smooth pull. This is generally preferred for concealed carry as it is faster and requires less manipulation of the firearm under stress.
- Single-Action (SA): The hammer must be manually cocked before each shot. While potentially offering a lighter trigger pull and improved accuracy for skilled shooters, SA revolvers require more time and deliberate action, which can be a disadvantage in self-defense situations.
- Double/Single Action (DA/SA): Combines the benefits of both. The hammer can be cocked manually for single-action shooting or fired directly in double-action mode. This is a common and versatile option for many revolvers.
Features: Sight Options, Grips, and Materials
- Sights: Night sights are highly beneficial for low-light conditions. Fiber optic sights provide excellent visibility in daylight.
- Grips: Grips play a significant role in comfort and control. Choose grips that fit your hand size and shooting style. Rubber or polymer grips generally provide more secure purchase than wood grips.
- Materials: Stainless steel is more resistant to rust and corrosion but adds weight. Lightweight alloys offer a good balance between durability and weight reduction.
Top Revolver Choices for Concealed Carry
This is not an exhaustive list, but rather a selection of highly regarded models:
- Smith & Wesson J-Frame (e.g., Model 642, 638): Extremely concealable, lightweight revolvers, often chosen for their ease of concealment and reliable performance. Usually chambered in .38 Special.
- Smith & Wesson K-Frame (e.g., Model 10, 66): Offers a good balance between size, shootability, and concealability, providing more comfortable shooting than J-Frames. Often chambered in .38 Special or .357 Magnum.
- Ruger LCR (Lightweight Compact Revolver): Known for its lightweight polymer frame and reduced recoil. Chambered in various calibers, including .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and .22 LR.
- Ruger SP101: A more robust and heavy-duty revolver, suitable for more rugged use and providing better recoil management than smaller frames, but may not be ideal for extremely deep concealment. Often chambered in .357 Magnum or .38 Special.
Remember: This information is for educational purposes only. Always handle firearms safely, practice regularly, and consult with a qualified firearms instructor before choosing a carry weapon. The "best" revolver depends entirely on your individual needs and abilities. Choose wisely, and train diligently.