Perfect Packing Pistol

[crabo]

I have been trying to figure this one out for a while. I am kinda leaning toward having a pistol built. I am thinking about a .44 Special. I have tried and tried to fall in love with the single action revolver, and as sexy as I think they look, I can not fall in love with them. I also like a little barrel weight on the front of my pistols.

Here's what I came up with so far. A Smith and Wesson L Frame 44 special, with a slab sided 4 or 5” barrel. I think I would like a front sight with bars for long range plinking.

Any thoughts or ideas?

[Jim]

Personal opinion, OK? That's all, I promise.

Too much barrel and too much weight. I really enjoy my Charter Arms Bulldog. If it weren't for your mention of that particular caliber, I would not have responded.

[jmsj]

crabo,
I really think you are onto a pistol that S&W should make. For a walking in the woods gun, I think the 4" would be just about right for me.
I know a lot of people don't like/trust Taurus guns but the son of a friend of mine has a stainless steel 5 shot .44 Special. I don't remember the model number but it has either a 4" or 3" barrel and adjustable sights. I have not shot this gun but I have handled it and it seems like it would be a great trail gun.
If you have a S&W L frame converted to a 5 shot, please post up some pictures.
jmsj

[Jeff H]

Personal opinion, OK? That's all, I promise.

Too much barrel and too much weight. I really enjoy my Charter Arms Bulldog. If it weren't for your mention of that particular caliber, I would not have responded.

Well, Jim, you're going to have to share that position with me, because I agree and I too admit that it is strictly a personal opinion on my part as well. I even tried the .45 Colt as a stand-in when I thought I could get closer to the gun I was looking for.

I have played with a lot of .44 Specials (among other capable cartridges) and am in the same camp. I started with a 3" Bulldog many years ago. I have had several along the years but I also strayed and went through many Ruger Security and Speed Sixes, hoping to some day have one converted to .44 Special. Then, I tried a 4" 624, a 4" 25-5, several Taurus .44 Specials, a Rossi, OM Super Blackhawks with an Old Army grip frame, an OM 45 Colt cut to 5 1/2" (it had been ported by someone else), the new (andwonderful Flat Top .44 Special), AND a custom 3-screw .44 Special but I am back where I started - with a "vintage" 4" Target Bulldog.

I like the 3" and the compactness, but the Target gets the nod for holster carry afield. They are accurate enough, shooting into one and a half to two inches at 25 yards easily with about any load combination I concoct and they are the ultimate in unobtrusiveness. I wore the 4" yesterday while cutting wood where I know curious coyotes tend to sneek up to see what's going on and I never noticed it was there. Cutting wood can be quite a workout and yesterday's work was particularly strenuous. I only noticed it was there when I intentionally felt for it.

They may not have the mystique of, or carry the prestige of a custom single action, but they seem to fit the bill of "Perfect Packin' Pistol" for me perfectly. They are usually still inexpensive enough to not warrant not having one AND one or several other larger and heavier .44 Specials. I like my Flat Top .44 Special a lot and use it whenever I can, but when the sole purpose of having a revolver with me is having a revolver with me, the Bulldog is the one I take and it's really my favorite handgun of all time.

That's my own personal preference and it certainly does not mean that any otheres' ideas are wrong or even just "less right." Try what you can get your hands on, but if you have a Bulldog handy, there will be times you grab it instead of a much nicer and prettier or nostalgic gun just because it disappears into a pocket or goes unnoticed on your hip. They are not as bad to shoot as one might imagine when considering their feathery weight either, especially if you can find a set of the original bulbous-looking wood grips.

[Forrest r]

That would be a combo that I'd love to see/own. Those are 2 favorite things when it comes to pistols, the 44spl & the S&W L-frame.

[crabo]

The barrel profile I am thinking about would be a lot like pictured below. Instead of a 7 1/2 barrel, it would be a 4 or 5. Just enough to add some weight on the muzzle.

I have a 642 for slipping in the pocket, but I am thinking about shooting it at 100 yards also.

[missionary5155]

Greetings
Years back when Taurus came out with the Titanium 5 shot in 41 mag (and other calibers) I got one. The 41 mag is one nice light weight powerhouse to tote around. Very light to have in a hoster to carry all day anywhere. I carry it in a kayak in a shoulder rig and forget it is there. It is not designed for 240 grainers at 1350 fps but 180-220 grainers at 950 fps are no more than a 357 mag. Mine has never failed in any way. It is not as accurate as my 41 mag Dan Wesson but I am certain to hit a 4" circle at 25 yards every time standing taking my time so it will more than sufice in any confrontation with critters.
I wish I had gotten a 45 Colt also but alas that may happen one day.
Mike in Peru

[Silver Jack Hammer]

I too have considered the 5 shot L frame for a “PPP.” It would have to be blued carbon steel for me. I have the Charter Arms .44 Bulldog, several Colt SAA’s in .44 Special. I hear the L frame doesn’t provide sufficient barrel diameter for the .44, the forcing cone is too thin and prone to crack. Then again the N frame is awfully large for a .44 Special; I feel that the sights are too high above my hand with the N frame. So I stick to the Colt SAA 4 ¾” blue with Keith RCBS 44 250 K over 11 grains of Blue Dot.

[Dframe]

You might consider the S&W model 21. 44 special with fixed sights. Excellent shooter with everything you need and nothing you don't. This model is sometimes seen in it's "Thunder Ranch" configuration but can be had without the bling. It's an N frame but with a slender 4 inch barrel that keeps it from becoming too heavy.

[krit29-2]

sounds like you'd want a S&W 696,( five shot .44 special ) however they only came with a 3 inch barrel and are discontinued...and rather collectable..
that said... I'd love to find one and have a 686 barrel rebored to .44 and installed ( make it a five inch would even be better )
However, if I remember the biggest problem was the thinness of the forcing cone on the 696 that caused it to be discontinued, the same problem that happened with the model 19..

[crabo]

sounds like you'd want a S&W 696,( five shot .44 special ) however they only came with a 3 inch barrel and are discontinued...and rather collectable..
that said... I'd love to find one and have a 686 barrel rebored to .44 and installed ( make it a five inch would even be better )
However, if I remember the biggest problem was the thinness of the forcing cone on the 696 that caused it to be discontinued, the same problem that happened with the model 19..

I've been looking at my friend's pair of 696s. I would want to shoot this gun a lot. If anyone has any experience with how the 696 holds up, I would love to hear it.

Remember, I want to shoot this at 100 yards, not just at 25 or less. (think hunter pistol targets)

[pdawg_shooter]

I will stay with my 4" blue Python. Big enough for anything I might run into around here.

[BOOM BOOM]

HI,
I have been thinking about the l frame 44sp. also, 4-5" barrel. If anyone has one PLEASE TELL US YOUR EXPERIENCE:Fire::Fire:.

[white eagle]

My idea of a prefect pakin pistol
a 4"Smith classic in 44 magnum
small on the hip with a big voice

[Treeman]

In .44 Special I find the Charters quite lovable. I vacillate in my packing between the .44 Charter, a 3"Smith J frame .357 and my packin pistol for many years.... a 3 inch Rossi 88 .38 special.

Your idea sounds like a delightful gun... but a bit large for what I consider perfect for packin'............ but in bear country I do like my .44 Mag Mountain Gun which is a tad bigger and heavier than what you propose

[oldgeezershooter]

I just bought a Charter Arms"Pitbull" in .40S&W, should complement my XD40 sub-compact and I can load it with cast 155gr. semi-wadcuters.

[Dframe]

I've been looking at my friend's pair of 696s. I would want to shoot this gun a lot. If anyone has any experience with how the 696 holds up, I would love to hear it.

Remember, I want to shoot this at 100 yards, not just at 25 or less. (think hunter pistol targets)

The 696 is an L frame and should last at least as long as any other L frame. As long as it's not abused by trying to magnumize it. I regret greatly not buying a buddys 696 when he had it available.

[mstarling]

For walkin' in the woods or as a concealed weapon while hunting (yes ... I am licensed), I have a Smith M657 special run by Horton's some years ago. Is a round butt 3" 41 Mag ... loaded with 210 gr cast loaded hot or 210 gr Remington SPs.

Works well for that task though it might be one of the bigger snubbies around ;-)

[Montana Ron]

I have packed guiding fly fishermen and big game hunters a 624 Smith 44 special and have NEVER had a need for more horsepower.....light, accurate and a hell of a lot more controllable then a magnum especially with follow up shots......

[GLL]

For playing in the desert or mountains of the southwest I would choose the 4” 624 over my 696.
7 grains of Unique under a 255 grain 430640 works well for me.

I love the 696 but do not consider it to be a field gun.

Jerry


624
http://www.fototime.com/C2327F6F5598F67/orig.jpg

696
http://www.fototime.com/7F853C0A15741E4/orig.jpg

[subsonic]

Since we are talkin packing pistols, I like my Glock 20.

For a revolver, right now my 4" 629 fills that role, as well as my 5.5" Accu-Sport Bisley .45 colt.

I can see where those Bulldogs would be handy, and might try one some day, but the seemingly random QC scares me.

[cabezaverde]

I just bought a Charter Arms"Pitbull" in .40S&W, should complement my XD40 sub-compact and I can load it with cast 155gr. semi-wadcuters.

How do you like this gun?

[Alan]

I too like the 4" Target .44 Bulldog from Charter. I also have a 6 1/2" M29 Classic skinny barrel (looks just like my 2nd Model .44 Hand Ejector Target). Light, handy, and easy to shoot.

I'm also very fond (the LAST gun I would get rid of) .45 Ruger Convertible Old Model 4 5/8". Superbly accurate w/ the ACP cylinder, and many tens of thousands of rounds through it.

[shtur]

This spring I saw the biggest black bear while berry picking in the mtns. While mushroom hunting, I saw a large cougar. Both times, I was glad to have my S&W 629, my sister would have been infuriated if one of my nephews didn't come home.

[stubshaft]

My 3" model 624 was great for packing around although my 4" model 66 was rally comfortable too.

[Lloyd Smale]

I had a 696 that i let my buddy foolishly talk me out of. It was a perfect trail gun. Farily light and very accurate. I shot probably 2k of 250s with 17 grains of 2400 and it had absoulutely no signs of wear. I know hes shot ALOT more out of it and loves the thing. Sure wish i had it back. Problem is in trying to find one to replace it is everyones sure proud of them when they sell them.

[zac0419]

While mine are nowhere, and I mean nowhere, near as pretty as a blued or stainless Smith in 44 special. My L frame 44sp comes in at around 24 oz. and packs real nice.

I'm not sure it'll stand up to thousand upon thousands of rounds, but I'll continue to shoot it until I find out for sure.


http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z458/zac0419/IMG_1228.jpg

[NickSS]

Personally I usually carry my Ruger Security Six 4 or 6 inch when walking around in the woods. I sometimes carry my SSA Colt clone in 45 colt with a 5.5 inch barrel or a Remington Model 1858 C&B revolver but mostly my Rugers. They have been good companions for many years and I do not see any reason to change. A few times when the mood moves me I also carry a 1911 45 auto for kicks and grins.

[David LaPell]

One of the guns I wish I still owned was my Smith 624 in a 4-inch barrel. It handled well, shot well and did everything I needed it to do. If I were going to have a gun built like yours I would contact Bowen Arms, they are very good at making conversions like that and I know that they made John Taffin's 586 that was converted to a five shot .41 Special. Personally with the expense (and it will be alot) I would rather find a 696 or look for a 4-inch N-frame .44 Special. Don't overlook a .44 Magnum Mountain Gun either.

[Piedmont]

Springfield Armory has just introduced a single stack XDS in .45 ACP at the SHOT media day. Five plus one. Short barrel. If it works it is what the Bulldog wishes it could be. No external thumb safeties and width of about one inch. A Bulldog has a cylinder diameter of 1.45".

[tek4260]

The 329PD should be worth a look... :)

As for pistols, my 1911 is pushing 270-280gr cast HP's at 850 which should at least be equal to a 44 Special.

[Bret4207]

Gotta agree with the guys voting for the 44 Charter. For CARRYING, packing, however you want to term it, that's the gun if you want a 44. Next best is a Smith N frame but you're talking a lot bigger, heavier gun. Also a lot more upsetting when you drop it in the mud or it falls out of the holster and into the rocks. That's why God invented the lanyard BTW. I have a Smith 3" 24-3 that's just a fantastic gun, but carrying it out in the woods and swamps...hey, I already spent a couple days looking for a Smith 19 in the swamp grass and this one is worth a lot more.

[cabezaverde]

Bret,

What would happen in New York if you actually lost a handgun. Would your permit be jeopardized?

[oldgeezershooter]

How do you like this gun?

So far I love it, it's pretty accurate for a short barell.

[oldgeezershooter]

While mine are nowhere, and I mean nowhere, near as pretty as a blued or stainless Smith in 44 special. My L frame 44sp comes in at around 24 oz. and packs real nice.

I'm not sure it'll stand up to thousand upon thousands of rounds, but I'll continue to shoot it until I find out for sure.


http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z458/zac0419/IMG_1228.jpg

Pretty is as pretty does!

[Larry in MT]

I had a 696 that i let my buddy foolishly talk me out of. It was a perfect trail gun. Farily light and very accurate. I shot probably 2k of 250s with 17 grains of 2400 and it had absoulutely no signs of wear. I know hes shot ALOT more out of it and loves the thing. Sure wish i had it back. Problem is in trying to find one to replace it is everyones sure proud of them when they sell them.

Sorry for your loss. I've been looking for a 696 and your description of how nice they are isn't helping much:mrgreen:---- The few I've seen were around $1K, so I just soldier on with my Ruger Flattop.

[Bret4207]

Bret,

What would happen in New York if you actually lost a handgun. Would your permit be jeopardized?

Now, you should know that depends on just what county you're in. In my county it'd probably be a matter of a police report and that would be it. In other counties it may differ. If you bought and "lost" 10 guns a year and 3 turned up in the hands of BGs, yeah, I'd say your permit would be in jeopardy.

[alamogunr]

Sorry for your loss. I've been looking for a 696 and your description of how nice they are isn't helping much:mrgreen:---- The few I've seen were around $1K, so I just soldier on with my Ruger Flattop.

Glad I got mine when they were only midway in price appreciation. I thought I paid too much at the time.

As for holding up, the barrel thickness is somewhat lacking at the forcing cone where it extends through the frame. I haven't shot mine enough to test whether this area is subject to cracking but it would seem that very soft boolets would obturate(?) and put more stress in this area. Again, I don't know, just a thought.

[JayinAZ]

[QUOTE=Bret4207;1548712] I have a Smith 3" 24-3 that's just a fantastic gun, but carrying it out in the woods and swamps...QUOTE]


I've got one of those too and they sure are sweet :). I carry it in the desert sometimes, no swamps here :).

[MaxEnergy]

i'd like a FA 97 in 45 long colt

[Beau Cassidy]

I have found the 329 and 327 Smith and Wessons to be excellent carry guns for the field. Light weight.

[Snyd]

i'd like a FA 97 in 45 long colt

Now we're talkin, 5 shot 45 Colt is close to a 454. But since I live and play in Alaska and I'm dreamin I'd like the Freedom Arms "Perfect Packin Pistol" which is the Mod 83 in the 500 Wyoming Express, 4.75 barrel, round butt grip, oh ya.... :lol:

http://www.gunblast.com/images/Freedom_500WE-2/MVC-551F.jpg

Or, have a 6inch Octagon barrel FA 83 454 bored to a 500jrh by Huntington, or have a 5.5 inch 500 jrh built on a Ruger Bisley. Until I can come up with the bucks for one of those I've got my 4" 454 Redhawk...

http://web.mac.com/perryschneider/pics/rh454mp_01.jpg

for urban carry it's either a 38 Det spc or a Ruger P345.

[Whitworth]

You could do a lot worse, Snyd!:bigsmyl2:

[Snyd]

You could do a lot worse, Snyd!:bigsmyl2:

:wink:

What can I say! I've got the fever for a fifty! I'll have one, maybe this year, it depends on how much money I spend sheep hunting. But I luv my 45s. Especialy in pairs...

It's 40 below and dark outside right now, I have'nt been shooting in 2 weeks, I'm bored so I think I'll post another pic of my 454's :bigsmyl2:

http://web.mac.com/perryschneider/pics/454s_01.jpg

[Alan]

I described mine as a Model 29 Classic. That bugged me, so I got the box out: It is a Model 29-9, a Heritage model. Skinny barrel like a 2nd Model Hand Ejector, King gold-bead sight, and fully adjustable rear sight. No Hillary-lock, either.

Very light and handy, even w/ 6 1/2" barrel.

Link to the image: http://i1219.photobucket.com/albums/dd439/alan_atwood1/M29-9.jpg

[StrawHat]

In the last century, a company in Washington would take S&W M19s and convert them to become 5 shot revolvers chambered for the 44 Special. I believe Spokhandguns was the company. Pretty sure they are gone but such a rig would sure be nice.

[Whitworth]

:wink:

What can I say! I've got the fever for a fifty! I'll have one, maybe this year, it depends on how much money I spend sheep hunting. But I luv my 45s. Especialy in pairs...

It's 40 below and dark outside right now, I have'nt been shooting in 2 weeks, I'm bored so I think I'll post another pic of my 454's :bigsmyl2:

http://web.mac.com/perryschneider/pics/454s_01.jpg


I appreciate the photos, Snyd!

[MakeMineA10mm]

I don't think there is ONE perfect packin' pistol. The guy who popularized, if not invented, the term, John Taffin, wrote in just about half of the guns he described in his "Book of the 44" that they were "perfect packin' pistols." :shock: He couldn't make up his mind neither! [smilie=l:

I'm bettin' that the Freedom Arms Mod. 97 in 44 Spl. with a 4" barrel and RB grip frame would be my PPP, but I've got the specs all laid out for my custom version of a S&W 596 (blued 696 that S&W never made...). If only I had the money to get it done. Maybe someday...

[Dale53]

I, too, am a fan of the 4" Model 624 for field use. I often have used mine when bird hunting. It is common to run onto a rabbit (cotton tails or snowshoe depending on location) and the handgun is there to harvest them without filling them with shot. Further, I have, on occasion broken a wing on a grouse, then retrieved them with a headshot without having to shoot them again with a shotgun. Those who have hunted grouse will understand. A wounded grouse will not allow you to get close enough to grab them but will run into a briar patch that would take a bulldozer to retrieve them. At the same time, it is no great trick to get close enough to clip their heads off with a good revolver shot.

Using a cast bullet, a headshot on a rabbit (or at longer distances), a shot through the ribs will damage little or no meat. Here is mine:

http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj80/Dale53/DalesPistolsRevolvers4Selects-0307.jpg

On the other hand, there are other combinations that will work well, also. Another choice of mine for a "Perfect Packin' Pistol" (thanks, John) is a Model 60 "Target". You hardly know that it is there until you need it. It works beautifully on edible small game:

http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj80/Dale53/DalesPistolsRevolvers5Selects-0242.jpg

And finally, there is nothing wrong with a properly loaded .32 - here is my 631, a 4" barreled .32 H&R Magnum:

http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj80/Dale53/DalesPistolsRevolvers4Selects-0330.jpg

Dale53

[Silver Jack Hammer]

Is the L frame barrel really too thin at the forcing cone for a .44 Special? The outside barrel diameter of my Colt SAA 44 Special measures .61” at the forcing cone. Can one of you guys with an L frame post the measurement of the outside diameter of the barrel at the forcing cone? I’ve been wishing for a blued L frame 5 shot with a 4 inch barrel.

[EDK]

I had a 696 for 10 years...and an identical 686 CS-1 for even longer. Neither of those little cannons got over 500 rounds in their stays here. I had a nifty MILT SPARKS holster and they still stayed in the safe. A gentleman in the Carolinas got the guns, etc for $900 and we're both happy.

If you're even thinking about 100 yards (and your name isn't Bob Munden,) I'd be getting either a 357 or 44 MAGNUM...think 327 or 329 PD....and probably a pair of either because of alleged durability problems with the blast shield. I don't know if they make a 357 MOUNTAIN GUN, but I know a 44 MOUNTAIN GUN would be at the head of my list. Get a good holster like the HSR from MILT SPARKS and a proper belt to go with it.

IF I'm understanding HUNTER PISTOL TARGETS and 100 yards as competition, just get a 44 MAGNUM S&W with the half lug barrel or maybe a 5 inch CLASSIC HUNTER. In 357, you might look for the 1990(?) version of the 627...not a good one to carry, but a real shooting machine. There ain't no flies on a 686 with the appropriate barrel length either.

I've had a few customs and they can turn into a money pit real quick....and even worse, be a disappointment after all the time and money invested. My last two VAQUEROS were someone else's custom guns that ended up selling for less than the cost of the gunsmithing by nationally know companies. Two guys both lost close to $500 EACH on their dream gun.

:redneck::cbpour::2gunsfiring_v1:

[BruceB]

Bret,

What would happen in New York if you actually lost a handgun. Would your permit be jeopardized?

I'm not Bret, and this concerns Canada, but....

With their NATIONAL registration system, once you have legal possession of the gun you are MARRIED to it...and if you can't produce it for inspection on-demand....can we say, "BIG LEGAL TROUBLE"?

For practical purposes, there is NO legal way for a Canadian owner to use his handgun anywhere except at a government-approved range, and a special permit is required even for that. However, MANY people still carry and use their handguns in the field (illegally). Any well-stocked gunshop in Canada has plenty of holsters on the rack. What does that tell us?

I sold a 9mm Browning to a friend, who lost it overboard on the South Nahanni River (Northwest Territories) at flood stage one spring. He went back to the scene later at summer low-water, and FOUND IT on a gravel bar, rusted but repairable.

For months he was worried about an RCMP check-up on his guns..."Now, sir, let's see that 9mm Browning, please." Oooops. Criminal charges are very likely in such cases, as one's handguns are REQUIRED to be locked-up in an APPROVED safe.

Man alive, I sure like living in Nevada.....much more freedom here.

My "perfect packing pistol" is one I've owned since it was a Christmas gift in '89, and I carried it for MANY months and miles in spite of Canada's stupid laws.... the first-issue 629 Mountain Revolver of 1989 in .44 Magnum. Light enough, small enough, and POWERFUL enough to deal with the bigger, nastier fauna found up-north. With reduced loads, it also does well as a ".44 Special" if need be.

Surely, one of my all-time favorite firearms of any sort.

[RKJ]

For playing in the desert or mountains of the southwest I would choose the 4” 624 over my 696.
7 grains of Unique under a 255 grain 430640 works well for me.

I love the 696 but do not consider it to be a field gun.

Jerry


http://www.fototime.com/7F853C0A15741E4/orig.jpg

Jerry, That is a sweet looking Smith. I've never really warmed to the L frames but that one I like.

[Bret4207]

Uncle Dale, I want to apologize for getting the computer screen all drooly on that gun porn pic of the 32. I am guilty of coveting, no doubt about it. Mea culpa!

[alamogunr]

Is the L frame barrel really too thin at the forcing cone for a .44 Special? The outside barrel diameter of my Colt SAA 44 Special measures .61” at the forcing cone. Can one of you guys with an L frame post the measurement of the outside diameter of the barrel at the forcing cone? I’ve been wishing for a blued L frame 5 shot with a 4 inch barrel.

I'm assuming that this is in response to my earlier post concerning the thin barrel thickness at the forcing cone in my S&W 696. I just went to the shop and measured(as best I could) the diameter of the barrel where it extended thru the frame or at the forcing cone. My measurement shows .521" diameter. A comparable measurement of my S&W 686 is .514". The thickness is greater since it is a .357 mag. The thickness of the frame at that point is approximately the same for both revolvers, but I can't measure it.

I know this is an apples to oranges comparison, but a S&W Highway Patrolman that I had converted to .44 Spec. has a diameter of .625. Granted it is an N frame versus an L frame. I had never measured the 696 before but it was obvious that the barrel was not as thick as other revolvers at the forcing cone.

My comment about soft boolets was strictly conjecture. If anyone has any information concerning cracking at the forcing cone, I would be interested. I don't know if the 696 is too thin or not. I don't shoot it a lot and prefer to max out at mid range loads.

[saz]

:wink:

What can I say! I've got the fever for a fifty! I'll have one, maybe this year, it depends on how much money I spend sheep hunting. But I luv my 45s. Especialy in pairs...

It's 40 below and dark outside right now, I have'nt been shooting in 2 weeks, I'm bored so I think I'll post another pic of my 454's :bigsmyl2:

http://web.mac.com/perryschneider/pics/454s_01.jpg


Once you get a 50 you will be on the search for a levergun to go with it. I know I AM!!!!

How do you like that Puma? Mine is a little nail driver. I just need a 454 wheelgun to go with it!

[376Steyr]

Here is a picture of a 4" 686 converted to .44 Special. It isn't mine, but I have one just like it.

http://www.alphaprecisioninc.com/revolver/images/gallery_images/SW68644Spl2.JPG

I had a 686 Mountain Gun barrel rebored to .44 caliber, bought a 696 cylinder and hand, found a used 686, and sent it all to Jim Stroh at Alpha Precision. It is a gem. I shoot 250 Keiths over 7.5 Unique as it's maximum load. I won't be shooting "heavy" loads through it or beating it to death in competition.

The other day I pulled this and a 4" Model 66 out of the safe, and had to check the caliber markings to tell them apart (or I could have opened the cylinders, but I had one in each hand)

[Sixgun Symphony]

Have you tried the Colt Sheriff's Model?

I have one chambered in .44-40 that I have been carrying lately.

[alamogunr]

I had a 686 Mountain Gun barrel rebored to .44 caliber, bought a 696 cylinder and hand, found a used 686, and sent it all to Jim Stroh at Alpha Precision. It is a gem. I shoot 250 Keiths over 7.5 Unique as it's maximum load. I won't be shooting "heavy" loads through it or beating it to death in competition.


What a coincidence! Jim Stroh converted my Highway Patrolman to .44 Spec. It started out as a 6" bbl and he cut it down to a 5" and put a new front sight on it. While it is not a full custom, I consider it to be as valuable to me as a full custom.

[Ed K]

I had a 696 for 10 years...

Good comment Ed!

As to the 696 I agree they're cool - a "cult" gun I suppose. I even let one go by about 7-8 years ago I sort of regretted: it was a used no-dash at about 98% condition for $395 in a local shop. I guess my only excuse was there was an abundance of good wheel guns there at the time and I couldn't afford them all. One I did buy at around the same time was a clean used 629-3 MG. Sure about 2-3 oz more than the 696 but more practical as an all-rounder in my opinion. Especially so as I notice all the comments about "how hot?" a 696 can be loaded. What's the difference between a hot-loaded 44 spec and a 44 mag at the same weight and velocity? In a S&W it is one more round and a whole lot of design margin in the firearm.

Like many here I've taken a real liking to the 45 Colt and have settled on it as my everyday "packer". Here in the northeast there's not a whole lot to worry about in the outdoors. I mostly stay away from urban areas. Like others here I appreciate the FAs, USFAs, even Rugers. However in the spirit of something eminently useable but not something to fret over as to hard use, scratches and ultimately possible loss I'm playing with a Uberti cattleman at the moment. Quality is improved as of late, the design is faultless, and the price: $250 on Gunbroker as we speak. Probably the only thing cheaper is a Jennings!

Ed

[Bullwolf]

For me it's my Smith & Wesson Model 629-4 Backpacker 44 Magnum with a 3 inch barrel.

Comfortable and convenient, often loaded with 44 Special, but can be loaded up with heavy 44 Magnum rounds if need be. The barrel is short enough that I can comfortably drive around with it in a holster in the truck, and still do stuff while wearing it.

My 629 Backpacker is my all around favorite gun for packing.
http://castboolits.gunloads.com/picture.php?albumid=539&pictureid=5184




My Smith and Wesson 610-3 is a close 2nd, loaded with 10mm rounds. It shoots 40S&W rounds quite accurately too.
http://castboolits.gunloads.com/picture.php?albumid=539&pictureid=5183





My Smith and Wesson 442 Airweight is my lazy, yet easy to carry gun that I am likely to bring with me outside to feed the horses, or to go turn on the well with or something. Ever since I killed a rattlesnake at my gate with a bunch of thrown rocks, my first round is now always a snake-shot load. I grab it when I don't feel like wearing a holster.

My 442 Airweight with a DeSantis Clip Grip.
http://castboolits.gunloads.com/picture.php?albumid=539&pictureid=4781



- Bullwolf

[Combat Diver]

My two packing guns are a old CA Bulldog 3" and a Smith M442 Pro around the house and fields. During big game season then the Smith M58 comes on. Would love to find a 4" Smith M357 or a 2.5" M357 Night Guard both in .41 Mag.

CD

[crash87]

Perfect Packing Pistol??? Is there such a thing, you really opened a can of worms here you know.
But, I do have what I would call the PPP, in fact I have about 1/2 dozen of them. LOL
Good luck on your quest, by the time your done you may have more than you think too. LOL
crash87

[Groo]

Groo here
If you can see your way clear to carry a Single action ,, I would suggest a ruger
Mondago or Sheriff's model ...
They are made in 357, 44spec and 45 colt..
I have one in 41 mag made from a 357 by Andy Horvath..
for a Double action , how about a ruger Gp 100 3in Fixed sight ether in 357,,
or have it converted to 10mm with moon clips [ also shoot 40S&W]

[Snyd]

Once you get a 50 you will be on the search for a levergun to go with it. I know I AM!!!!

How do you like that Puma? Mine is a little nail driver. I just need a 454 wheelgun to go with it!

I love the Puma. It really is a tack driver. Everything from 45 Colt 255gr plinkers up to 425gr 45-70 boolits sized down to .454 or .452. It shoots them all great. As long as the nose profile and OAL allow the rounds to cycle it's a winner.

[crabo]

I have really enjoyed this thread, especially since I started it. My big problem is that I want to buy a new gun. I don't really need one, and don't really have any holes in my toolbox. That said, we all still like to buy guns we don't need. So I am split between 3 options. (3 that I can think of this week.)

On the PPP, I keep thinking .44 special, but I don't see any real advantage over a 1911 45 acp. Yes, I know it does a little more with a little heavier boolit, so there is some advantage. I have a great CS1 with a Jarvis underlug and I love that gun. It works as does my tricked out 1911's in 38 Super and 45 acp. It would be easy to make a case for the 38 super with the ramped barrel, as a PPP. It will shoot the 100 yard targets easily.

Second choice would be to take my Stainless/ Synthetic 700 .280 Remington, rechamber to .280 AI, and restock it. I've shot a bunch of deer with it, but haven't shot it in years. I hate that stock. I've got a 3.5x10 VariX-3 on it. It doesn't need much.

Third choice would be to build an AR in 300 Blackout because it seems cast is working pretty well with that cartridge. I have the stuff for the lower, and the lower already. I already have ARs in .223 and 9mm.

I have always been one that would rather have one tricked out, good shooting gun, than 2 or 3 more stock guns.

Decisions, decisions, decisions....

[EDK]

My current favorite PERFECT PACKIN' PISTOL has multiple variations. You start with an Original Size VAQUERO with 5.5 inch barrel in either 357 or 44. Next is it is either a BISLEY or acquires a DRAGOON or HUNTER grip frame...SUPER BLACK HAWK hammers now accompany the HUNTERs. Jim Stroh does a trigger job and all is well.

My next purchase will probably be a stripped down Flat Top receiver AR15 clone with a 16 inch barrel and a telescoping stock. Not as cool as the 1896 MAUSER broom handle I've lusted after for over 50 years...especially after watching Lamar in JOE KIDD last week...but 5.56 is within my reach and has a bit more range.

You have to admit the mental picture of someone carrying a VAQUERO or two in a Cowboy Action Shooting rig and an AR15 or an M1A would be interesting.

[oldgeezershooter]

One thing I like about the CA Pitbull, no moon clips!

[ddixie884]

Here's mine. .41spl 686S&W by Clements.

[Swampman]

I like my .45 Colt Blackhawk with a Super Blackhawk hammer, CLC grips, spring kit, and action job. I just can't think of a double action as a "Packin' Pistol."

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d34/Woodsman1956/Ruger/100_3754.jpg

[MakeMineA10mm]

I have really enjoyed this thread, especially since I started it. My big problem is that I want to buy a new gun. I don't really need one, and don't really have any holes in my toolbox. That said, we all still like to buy guns we don't need. So I am split between 3 options. (3 that I can think of this week.)

On the PPP, I keep thinking .44 special, but I don't see any real advantage over a 1911 45 acp. Yes, I know it does a little more with a little heavier boolit, so there is some advantage. I have a great CS1 with a Jarvis underlug and I love that gun. It works as does my tricked out 1911's in 38 Super and 45 acp. It would be easy to make a case for the 38 super with the ramped barrel, as a PPP. It will shoot the 100 yard targets easily.

Second choice would be to take my Stainless/ Synthetic 700 .280 Remington, rechamber to .280 AI, and restock it. I've shot a bunch of deer with it, but haven't shot it in years. I hate that stock. I've got a 3.5x10 VariX-3 on it. It doesn't need much.

Third choice would be to build an AR in 300 Blackout because it seems cast is working pretty well with that cartridge. I have the stuff for the lower, and the lower already. I already have ARs in .223 and 9mm.

I have always been one that would rather have one tricked out, good shooting gun, than 2 or 3 more stock guns.

Decisions, decisions, decisions....

Well, I like all three options you've laid out, so I'm no help! :mrgreen:

For me, I'm a pistol guy, so you know what I'm planning to do. I like rifles, shotguns, machineguns and artillery too, but when it comes right down to it, I'm a pistol guy.

I really like your line of thinking. I own so much, nothing excites me much anymore (except a BAR - I'm gonna get one of the Ohio Ordnance semi-autos next, I think). So, I'm actually thinking of selling off some stuff in order to get the dough for a really nice, custom revolver or two. I'm done with quantity. I want quality now...

[GabbyM]

S&W model 15.
38 Special laoded with choice of lightly charged wad cutters to 170 grain SWC at 940 fps.

You won’t have permanent hearing loss with every shot while not wearing ear plugs. You can also shoot one at night without going blind for ten seconds.

[Matthew 25]

If you've got the bug you might need a SOCOM 16 if you don't have an M14. Absolutely the undisputed king of my collection.

[dualsport]

After a close encounter with a very big cougar in the Sierra Nevadas I wouldn't go in the woods without a 12 ga. pump for years! Not a PPP by any means but it seemed like an appropriate response at the time. For nights in the woods I'm sticking with 12 ga. Days I've calmed down and go with something handier. Here in my state you can not just carry whatever suits your fancy if you have a CCW. My county limits the options to three guns max and you have to qualify with each periodically. Although I have some nice large type handguns I chose a S&W M60 .357 Target type sights, an old CA Undercover, and a Bersa .380 for my three choices. The .357 gets the nod for boonie country carry, the others for urban carry.

[Alan]

If you've got the bug you might need a SOCOM 16 if you don't have an M14. Absolutely the undisputed king of my collection.

+1. I MIGHT go for the scout doing it again, but I really like my SOCOM.

[FN in MT]

SEVERAL immediately come to mind; S&W 696, M-66 3" round butt, FA M-97 4 1/4" in .44 Spcl and one of my favorites either a Commander sized 1911 or a SIG 229 in .357 SIG.

YMMV

FN in MT

[johnmerry]

my new carry gun is a Ruger bisley in 45 Colt with 4 3/4 inch barrel this is how the gun is set up.
1.Installed .44 magnum bisley cylinder and cut the chambers to .480, when the case is completely resized it will measure .475 to .476. . Do not make the chambers smaller or you will have a hard time putting cases in the gun
2. Throats are cut to .453, .001 bigger then the bullet. You can go .0005 smaller but from powder fouling you will get especially from fast powders will cause restriction which will lead to over pressure which can possibly lead to DETONATION
3. barrel to cylinder gap is .0025 to .003 any tighter and the cylinder will stick after a dozen shots or so.
4. The forcing cone is cut to 11 degrees
5. Installed belt mountain base pin.
6 Installed free spin pawl.
7.Installed Green Mountain barrel 1-16 twist.
8.Installed Rugers .600 blade front sight sand blasted before blueing to give the sight a matte finsh. This will permanently reduce glare
9.Installed Bowen classic arms target rear sight
10.Reconfigured grip frame by removing the heel, removed steel from behind trigger guard (I have big hands),then came down the fore strap to keep the profile straight if you do not do this it will make a recurve.

Next I will be lapping the barrel