What is your favorite revolver for 38 Special?

[tazman]

There are many revolvers out there in which 38 Special will work just fine. Any 357 mag revolver will handle them as well as any revolver chambered for the 38 Special itself.
So many have been made over the last hundred years that nearly anyone who shoots has fired one at some point.
I am not going to limit this question to revolvers chambered only in 38 Special. Any revolver that can handle the cartridge counts, including those chambered for 357 Max/etc.

What I want you to talk about is your favorite revolver to shoot the ubiquitous 38 Special and why?

Mine is my S&W 14 of which I have two. I shoot them more than any other handgun I own. I don't necessarily shoot them better than others. It just feel right to me.
I have other revolvers in both 38 Special and 357 Mag, but the Model 14 gets the call most often.

[MUSTANG]

2 inch S&W Model 60. Fits comfortably in a back pocket with holster, or in a jacket pocket, or even on a belt holster. Good for 15 Yards; although many years ago when the eyes were better; and equipped with a Tyler T-Grip to better fit my large hand - I could hit 4 of 5 and often 5 of 5 Twelve Gauge Shotgun shells sitting on a target stand at 25 yards.

[dverna]

I have had 10 .38/.357 revolvers, but none were as sweet as my first...Colt Officers. And not too far behind that a S&W M52.

Yea...I know the M52 is not a revolver.....so I guess second would be the K-38

[stubshaft]

WOW, I have a lot of choices but would have to go with my 2" model 36. My model 10 is fun to shoot as well as my 66, 586, 19, 642. But the 36 is just so danged handy.

289234

[P Flados]

Ruger 3" LCRx 38 SP+P. I know it is not "pretty", but the OP asked about favorite gun to shoot, not look at.

The LCR series was designed for double action with a DA trigger that just "feels right" to me.

The LCRx added single action capability, adjustable sights and a 3" barrel. Shooting to point of aim with different loads is no problem and in my opinion the 3" adds to both usefulness and fun factor without making the gun too big.

With light loads, the gun is just plain fun to shoot in both SA and DA.

It shoots fine with +p 158 gr loads, but I seldom shoot them. They are not so much fun - recoil is more than I like. This make sense given the gun only weighs something like 16 oz. But it nice to know it is rated to handle unlimited quantities of the +P loads.

Cost was very reasonable.

[tazman]

I have had 10 .38/.357 revolvers, but none were as sweet as my first...Colt Officers. And not too far behind that a S&W M52.

Yea...I know the M52 is not a revolver.....so I guess second would be the K-38

The M52 and the Colt 1911 Gold cup, both in 38 Special, were the reason I specified revolvers. I have never fired either of those two pistols and probably never will. I wouldn't be able to shoot them any better than I do my revolvers, so what would be the point.
The 38 Special was made for revolvers and that is the point of this thread.

[Walks]

COLT Official Police 6" bbl,
purchased by My Dad new in 1954. Same year I was born. Wanted that revolver since I was old enough to say "Revolver".
He gave it to me 2 weeks before He passed in June 1988.
Yep it's My favorite.
But I sure do Love My old S&W Model 14, and 1976 Colt Cobra.

[TNsailorman]

My wife's S&W Model 15 4" barrel and my S&W Model 13 with 3" barrel. I really like the K frames. james

[Butzbach]

S&W Model 65 3" bobbed hammer, trigger job, Pachmayer grips, clip draw. Been edc since 1993. Fits my hand, comfortable at 4 o'clock, more accurate than I am.

[MT Gianni]

I like the model 14 for range work and the 15 for field work. Basically the same other than 4" vs 6".

[Sasquatch-1]

I had a S&W M60 (2", 38spl only in SS) when I was working that would out shoot the issued 4" S&W M10's. Made the mistake of selling it when I retired. Right now it would be a S&W M10, 2", that I was issued and able to purchase when we switched to Glocks.

[ohen cepel]

I like the 4 or 6in S&W's (pre-lock only) in .38. Got tired of scrubbing the ring out of a .357 so I load light .357's for those now and keep the 38's in 38's.

[Wag]

GP100 or 586/686

--Wag--

[Mk42gunner]

For a range toy, its a tossup between a Colt Officer's Model Match or a S&W K-38, depending on how I shoot that day.

For a duty gun role, it is awful hard to beat a three or four inch K frame. Although I would like to have a 4" Model 12.

For concealed carry one of the DAO Airweights makes a lot of sense to me.

Robert

[georgerkahn]

My favourite is a 1980-manufactured 4" heavy pin-barreled Smith & Wesson Model 64! While it has no adjustable sights to possibly get misaligned from wear, its fixed sights are easily recalled (e.g., a tad on the "high" side with my ammo) for good accuracy. With rubber (Hogue, or Pachmyr? I do not recall which) grips a great amount of recoil is absorbed. (Factory wood grips are stored in box revolver came in) I have a Galco holster which fits it "better than a glove" ;) -- and... to me both the revolver as well as holstered revolver -- are most pleasing to the eye!
geo

[photomicftn]

1952 S&W Outdoorsman (pre-Model 23) w/magna grips. Also S&W Model 27, essentially the same gun in .357 Magnum.

[wgg]

I have a S&W 10-8 RB with a 4" HB that I carry for duty and a S&W 15 that I carry working on the farm. I never could understand why someone would buy a k frame 38 when you could buy one in 357, until I bought one, then two. Now I am on the lookout for more. I am looking for a nice S&W 14 now.

[Larry Gibson]

My old LE service revolver; a S&W M15 with a 5" heavy barrel.

289261

[rintinglen]

Hello, My name is Glen and I am an addict. I cannot resist snub-nose .38 revolvers. My favorite is my Nickle Colt Detective special, but I love 'em all. I have been hankering for a model 12 Smith.
289254289255289256289257289258289259289260
I have several others not pictured.

[Kraschenbirn]

My real 'favorite' is the 4" Colt Diamondback that lives on my wife's side of the bed when it's not at the range. Otherwise, I lean toward the 3" SP101 with a kitchen-table trigger job and Hogue grips.

Bill

[TCFAN]

My favorite revolver for 38 special is a S&W 686 6 inch set up with a red dot sight using 38 special wadcutter brass with 3.2 grains of Bullseye powder with a Lyman Ideal 358495 wadcutter boolit.I like to shoot one handed on the 25 or 50 yard slow fire pistol target. This revolver is way more accurate than I can hold.

[ShooterAZ]

My favorite revolver for 38 Special is also a 6" S&W 686, the plus version with a 7 shot cylinder. The action is as smooth as silk, and it's extremely accurate and fun as all get out to shoot.

[Der Gebirgsjager]

289264
Click to enlarge.

Colt O.P. 4". I've got a passel of .38s, but like this one the best. It's not the most accurate, but is accurate enough. Feels good in the hand. Easy to carry. Was made in the last couple of years of production.

DG

[Norske]

My late FIL's S&W M 19, 6" barrel.

[AZ Pete]

4" Model 15, I bought new in 1970. I paid about $86 for it.

[Outpost75]

Hard to pick just one. But the one I'd keep is a Ruger.

289265

[GL49]

I have several, the favorite one to shoot is a S&W 686, 4" barrel, Hogue finger-groove grips. As noted in prior posts, the 686 is way more accurate than I am. My son took that one to a class to get a concealed handgun permit and did better than the instructor. The double action trigger pull is smooth and easy, single action I only have one other Smith that is better. The 4' barrel just seems to balance better for me than a 6".
Carry in the woods while hunting? ... my ruger blackhawk.
Fit in my pocket where it can't be seen?....Taurus 605 DAO.
Let a new shooter try out some 38's at the range?....Mod 14

[MUSTANG]

My 2nd favorite 38 Special is the S&W Military and Police/Model 10. Carried one while working with the US State Department and found it to be tough, and accurate (although the fixed sights could be problematic for a specific revolver if it did not shoot to point of aim). Have a couple in the Gun Safe that get pulled out periodically for "Fun Shooting".

289267

When it comes to accuracy; then it's time to pull the .38spcl/.357 6" barreled Dan Wesson out of the safe.

289268

By far, the most accurate hand gun I own.

[GL49]

Kinda off topic, but it's interesting to look at the join dates of people that have replied. Makes you wonder if the newest members find semi-autos a bit more fascinating and don't shoot a cartridge that's designed for a revolver. I get tired of chasing brass. Maybe we'll get some replies from the newer guys.

[Cowhide]

For CCW my wife and I like our Ruger SP101 snub nose and 3.5" five shot revolvers with hammer and iron front post and for our bullseye matches we both like our S+W 586 4" and 6" six shot revolvers.

[USSR]

K-38 Target Masterpiece made in 1954 for target shooting. 2.5" Model 19 using The FBI Load for serious work.

Don

[Golfswithwolves]

The best .38 Special revolver I have ever shot is the S&W Heavy Duty.

[LeonardC]

.38 only? S&W Model 15. My Aunt passed it down to me after her husband died. Very nice gun to shoot. After a good cleaning I upgraded it with Herrett stocks and a nice Bianchi holster.

[Butzbach]

Ya know you can’t go far wrong with a Ruger Blackhawk in .38/.357. Lots of fun!

[budman5]

That would have to be Dad’s Smith model 28 6 inch.
It’s been jewelled with an action job, sweetest shooting Smith I have.

[bedbugbilly]

I have owned a lot of 38s but my FAVORITE is my S & W M & P 5". Years ago, I went to the LGS I deal with as I heard they had a Combat Masterpiece in the case - when I got there, there was also a %" M & P laying next to it - both came home with me. The CM was nice and a good shooter - I gave it to a young fellow that is married to a gal that is like a daughter to us. He was thrilled as he didn't have a revolver to shoot.

The M & P had some honest wear but it was made the same year as I was born - so it is 69 years old. I use 3.5 grains of Bulls Eye under either a 358-311 or a Lee 358-158 tumble lubed SWC and it just plain shoots great - sometimes it seems like all you have to do is point it and it will hit. If I could only have one, the old M & P would be it.

Where the time comes to pass it on, it will go to the same young fellow I gave the CM to.

My second favorite would be my 1910 6" Colt Army Special. It is a good shooter but the M & P just feels better in my hand.

[Outpost75]

The best .38 Special revolver I have ever shot is the S&W Heavy Duty.

I was gifted a 1955 Heavy Duty and must admit that it's one of my favorites, but the Ruger Speed Six is lighter for everyday carry.

[Murphy]

While it's a .357, I'll have to go with my 4" S&W 686 no dash. 2nd place goes to my S&W K Combat Masterpiece 5 screw from 1953 with a 6" barrel, my birthyear gun.

Murphy

[Green Frog]

K-38 Target Masterpiece made in 1954 for target shooting. 2.5" Model 19 using The FBI Load for serious work.

Don

Similarly, I’ll go with a 1948 vintage K38 is my favorite at the range, and for all other uses a Model 60-4 with heavy under lug 3” barrel and adjustable sights. (Both S&Ws, of course!)

Froggie

[Budzilla 19]

I was lucky enough to snag one of Colts 8” barreled Target Pythons , about 30 years ago, chambered in .38 special. It will pile em up if you do your part. Add a Colt Cobra, Trooper, and a S&W K38 , well it’s hard to choose among the options!

[Dale53]

My favorite is my Smith CS-1 686 with 4” barrel. However, my most shot one these days is my Smith Model 520 with Titanium cylinder and Red Dot Sight:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/jj80/Dale53/.highres/DalesPistolsRevolvers4Selects-0371.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://app.photobucket.com/u/Dale53/p/50b365e6-8547-482c-b156-369af36dc371)

Dale53

[Texas by God]

Since I gave my model 67 to my wife and my model 15 to my eldest daughter, my favorite .38 Special revolver is this 10-7 RB that served police duty overseas before ending up at my house. K frames for me, I'd like to have more.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210927/4fadbcce4c4f37fd82e0daaec236c74e.jpg

Sent from my SM-A716U using Tapatalk

[Dale53]

The first time I shot the 520 (with iron sights at 25 yards, standing):

https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/jj80/Dale53/.highres/JavelinaTarget.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://app.photobucket.com/u/Dale53/p/9f8a3c06-858a-4a82-a303-c87e92734ceb)

Dale53
P.S. Froggie’s comment’s about the Smith 60-4 (which we both have and truly love)
Illustrates that we have a number of “favorite” .38 and .38/.357 mags that we treasure that makes me feel guilty when I try to pick one. We are blessed! RDM

[Bigslug]

Underlugged GP-100's and big N-frame .357's: with standard pressure .38's, they move just enough to inform you that they actually went off. GREAT speed machines!

Would REALLY like to find and try one of the old 5.5" .357 Redhawks for much the same reason.

[avogunner]

Here are mine - a pair of pre-model 10 S&W M&P revolvers. Both are inherited from long gone Southern Railway Police officer relatives and are gems to shoot (which I do regularly).
These are early 5 screw pieces; the nickel plated (non-factory) is circa 1927, and the blued 1937-8. They only get cast, usually Lyman 358311, with a target load of Bullseye.

289296

Semper Fi.

[GhostHawk]

I went with the Rock Island Armory M200, found mine at a local Fleet Farm for 240$ out the door.
https://www.armscor.com/hubfs/Armscor_March2020%20Theme/images/51283_Revolver_M206_38spl_leftprofile.jpg

I did go to the RIA site and ordered a set of checkered wood grips and an easy loader. The overmolded rubber grips it came with were a bit large for my hands and prevented use of an easy loader.

I see Sportsman's warehouse has them for 219$.

https://www.sportsmans.com/shooting-gear-gun-supplies/handguns/rock-island-armory-m200-revolver/p/1506806

[FergusonTO35]

S&W K frame or Ruger Six series. Honorable mention: late model Taurus 856.

[Seitz 555]

Colt Detective Special289300

[FISH4BUGS]

3" S&W Square Butt Model 36. The perfect 38 special gun.

[JoeJames]

Since no one else has mentioned it I thought I'd bring it up. I have several other 38 Specials, but this is just plain fun to shoot. 4" S&W Model 67.
289301

[bob208]

ruger ss security six 4 inch barrel.

[FergusonTO35]

Colt Detective Special289300

Thats what I love about the 856, it's like a DS that you can shoot and carry without worrying that you are hurting a collectible. Wolff springs and a little attention from the gunsmith and my 856 now has an awesome trigger pull.

[tobywan45]

My favorite 38 shooter is my cimarron pistolero.
It's just plane fun and accurate

Sent from my E6910 using Tapatalk

[Dale53]

JoeJames;
I have never owned a Model 67, but I have always considered a Model 15 one of the most practical revolvers around. Since I am really fond of stainless revolvers for practical reasons, that 67 looks like a DANDY!

I applaud your choice!

Dale53

[Divil]

Some fine examples already listed but for me the perfect .38 Special is the 3 inch barreled GP-100. Just like the one in my avatar.

[ddixie884]

15-3 S&W with several assorted boxes of ammo in my door pocket............

[Beerd]

I don't see much love here for a single action.
..

[Texas by God]

I don't see much love here for a single action.
..It's subtle. I shoot my "Original M&P" much more in single action mode than double action mode. I have no love for DA only guns.

Sent from my SM-A716U using Tapatalk

[curiousgeorge]

The 38 special is my favorite cartridge.
1- model 10 (no dash)
2- model 19-3
3- model 14-3
4- model 36 (no dash)
5- ruger bh (4.625 & 6.5)

Still regret the 4" model 15 that got traded off 30 years ago.

[FISH4BUGS]

Since no one else has mentioned it I thought I'd bring it up. I have several other 38 Specials, but this is just plain fun to shoot. 4" S&W Model 67.
289301

Agreed......I have one of those too and you can pick the hair off a fly's butt at at 25 yards. :)
The action has been smoothed and the gun just shoots wonderfully. H&G #51 (swc) or #39 (rn) w/ 4.0 gr ww231 is my go to round for plinking.
38 special is my favorite round. Load them by the thousands!

[JoeJames]

JoeJames;
I have never owned a Model 67, but I have always considered a Model 15 one of the most practical revolvers around. Since I am really fond of stainless revolvers for practical reasons, that 67 looks like a DANDY!

I applaud your choice!

Dale53

Thank you. My S&W Model 15-3 was my favorite until I got the model 67 no dash about 3 years ago. Both are very accurate and reliable revolvers.

[Texas by God]

I hear you, JoeJames.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210928/f270e971a60bdcaab01d89a31431792b.jpg

Sent from my SM-A716U using Tapatalk

[Outpost75]

I don't see much love here for a single action.
..

I have a Cimarron Pistol Pistolero I use for Cowboy matches which is a fun range toy and woods walking gun, but for EDC it's usually a Ruger Speed Six as primary, and an S&W Model 12 Airweight round butt as New York Reload.

[Tracy]

Probably my Model 10 no dash, 4".

[rbuck351]

Colt Officers Model 38 Special. Has a 6" bull barrel, a smooth as glass action and is very accurate.

[9.3X62AL]

Favorite 38 Special? ALL OF THEM. I don't run short brass in long chambers, my 357s all get 357 brass, often loaded to 38 Special +P levels. #358429 at 900-1000 FPS in a 4" 686 just plain WORKS.

My 38 Specials are a Colt OMT (1949) x 6", S&W Model 10 x 5" (mid-1960s), and a 2-year-old Model 642 that I have made peace with, tentatively. I would prefer a 2" Model 10/64, but if wishes were fishes we could all limit out.

[Wild Bill 7]

S&W model 14-2 38 only. Set up for competition with heavy barrel and under lug weight with trigger job. I use mostly wadcutters over 3 grains Bullseye. If the shooter was as good as the weapon it would first in any match. LOL

[Lloyd Smale]

4 inch 15 hands down. Its the standard all 38s are measured by.

[txbirdman]

I’ll take a 4” heavy barrel Model 10. Mine happens to be a 10-6 I bought in 1970. Simple and reliable.

[Char-Gar]

My favorite is which ever one is in my hand at the time. I have around 15 to 20 38 Specials, both Smith and Colt, in various frame sizes and barrel lengths. They are all good!

[JCM45]

1. Smith & Wesson Model 15; 4" barrel
2. Ruger Security Six; 4" barrel

[slim1836]

My old LE service revolver; a S&W M15 with a 5" heavy barrel.

289261

Where's the front sight?

Slim

[gwpercle]

S&W model 64 , 4" Heavy Barrel , Square Butt , stainless steel .
It was from the Baton Rouge Police Department , when they upgraded from fixed sighted 38 specials to modern adjustable sighted 357 Magnums ... the officers who carried them could buy them and my best friend , a motorcycle cop , sold me his so he could buy a 3" round butt model 64 the detectives carried ... year was about 1980... I still shoot mine but with a Millet SP-1 red dot sight helping me see the targets ...
Gary

[Dale53]

Favorite 38 Special? ALL OF THEM. I don't run short brass in long chambers, my 357s all get 357 brass, often loaded to 38 Special +P levels. #358429 at 900-1000 FPS in a 4" 686 just plain WORKS.

My 38 Specials are a Colt OMT (1949) x 6", S&W Model 10 x 5" (mid-1960s), and a 2-year-old Model 642 that I have made peace with, tentatively. I would prefer a 2" Model 10/64, but if wishes were fishes we could all limit out.

Al;
Here is one person that flat out agrees with you! I, too, have a number of .38 Specials, really too many to list. But, I have high regard for nearly all! However, there is one difference. I DO run short brass in long chambers. After I finish shooting, I run a nylon chamber brush through my chambers and "problem solved"!

Dale53

[tazman]

My favorite is which ever one is in my hand at the time. I have around 15 to 20 38 Specials, both Smith and Colt, in various frame sizes and barrel lengths. They are all good!

I like that answer.:mrgreen:




Where's the front sight?

Slim
It IS there, just hard to see in the picture.

[Jtarm]

My 3” M-64 for carry and Colt OM for fun.

Hmm, need a 4” in there.

[MSD MIke]

Pretty much any K frame with a 4” barrel for me.

[samari46]

Model 10 HB, model 14 K38, model 15, and last but not least a model 36. I like them all. Frank

[gnoahhh]

Either my pre-war Colt Officer's Model Heavy Barrel, or my 1949-vintage K-38. I don't carry, so their 6" barrels are what I prefer. Both shoot like young rifles.

[wksimple]

Though I have several K and J frames which I very much enjoy shooting, my all-time favorite is my Colt 357 4". This gun was purchased new by my father in 1954, and given to me in 1977 when I started the Academy. Carried it for many years in a Border Patrol swivel holster. My favorite combination by the way.

I still shoot it bi-monthly, and am usually the only one with a wheelgun at the range. I can live with being the "old timer". My load of choice is Lyman's 358156 without gas check pushed by 5.3 grains of Unique for about 900 fps in 357 brass. Shoots great.

[RJM52]

Have a 1952 Heavy Duty 4" that is a joy to shoot with any .38 Special load from wadcutters to full .38-44s...

https://www.24hourcampfire.com/ubbthreads/gallery/80/full/100494.jpg

https://www.24hourcampfire.com/ubbthreads/gallery/80/full/100495.jpg



#2 would be a S&W 649 stainless Humpy....

https://www.24hourcampfire.com/ubbthreads/gallery/80/full/75280.jpg

[Old Caster]

Favorite would be hard to designate because it depends on what I am shooting. For centerfire Bullseye shooting I am still undecided. My Python shoots the most accurate but for shooting timed and rapid fire, it just doesn't fit quite right because the hammer for me is not in the right place for easy shooting. My Model 14 is as accurate but more finicky about loads but my knuckle hits the front of the trigger guard and starts to hurt but it is easy to cock with one hand. My model 27 or 28's are the easiest for me to shoot with one hand but they can not be made as accurate. For Bullseye I usually shoot the Model 14 and put up with it. If I shoot steel plates, my Model 10 4 inch barrel is the best. I like it better than my Model 15 4 inch even though it has adjustable sights. If I shoot bug gun I shoot my 64 3 inch but don't care a lot for it. When I bring all these guns to a shootout where most hardly ever shoot any guns, they also prefer the Model 10 after trying all of them. The first one they go to is the Python because it is pretty and the second is the 27. Just like me the Model 15 is the least liked and I have no idea why. It is all up to what some one likes because we are all different as far as this is concerned.

[9.3X62AL]

RJM--

One of my Grail Guns, sir. NICE!

[curiousgeorge]

On my previous post (#59) I mentioned the Model 15 that got away years ago. It came back to me today just out of the blue. Sometimes the stars seem to line up just right.

[Mr_Sheesh]

S&W M10, only I couldn't find one so I got a S&W Model 64-3 and it seems great :) But I'd happily use an M27 if "forced to" LOL

All of them are fun, TBH

[Dale53]

curiousgeorge;
I am happy for you. My Model 15 was given to my daughter-in-law as she needed a house gun. She shoots it well! As I have stated before, a Model 15 is a most useful (as well as desirable) piece both “On the Range and In The Field”. They are a genuine pleasure to shoot AND carry!

Dale53

[Buckeyeguy]

I have several but my favorite is a Gp-100 4 inch. It’s just a fun gun to shoot specials in and it’s crazy accurate with a medium load of w231 and a 158 grain cast.

[Rodfac]

My choice for a good .38 special is actually two: both Smiths...models 66 & 19. I particularly like the added benefit that they'll take .357's if that's what's available. Mine are equally accurate with 3.5 gr of BE in Spl brass & Lyman's 35891 as well as 4.0 gr of BE in Magnum cases, same bullet. 4" bbl'd Chrono data (850 fps) is virtually the same for both loads. I size them to 0.358" with ACWW alloy for those of you interested.

Dale: The model 15 you describe was the USAF issue revolver for flight crews during my 1st tour in Vietnam, 1970. Mine was an almost new one, but suffered (or I should say I suffered, from its Magna grips that left the 2nd finger unsupported while firing).

The gun was primarily a signaling device with small .38 Special flare rounds that we were supposed to fire up through the triple canopy when shot down! Unfortunately, they looked a lot like US tracer which the VC had in abundance, so I know of no one that actually used them as designed. Several weeks into my tour, I returned it to the squadron armorer at Bien Hoa and acquired a .45 1911, courtesy of the 5th Spl Forces guys I was flying for and living with. Later, my predecessor left his Hi Power when he DEROS'd. Flying O-1E Bird Dogs, (Army = L-19), our primary weapon, ground or flight, was a CAR-15...predecessor to the M4. Slung from the cockpit door ejection handle with two bandoliers of magazines, it was a hellofa weapon if needed.

Best Regards, Rod

[Mackay Sagebrush]

My 4" Model 15 is my favorite,



https://i.imgur.com/EuAy5sZ.jpg


but I would take a 5" Model 15 in a heartbeat!

[Rodfac]

Mackay, that's a well worn but obviously well cared for, & ACCURATE Model 15. Ever tried it with one of the grip adapters (Tyler-T, Smith or Redfield), that fill in the space behind the trigger guard? So fitted they really fit me to a "T" and are perhaps the best 'feeling' grips on any S&W for my hands. Rod

[USSR]

Mackay, Ever tried it with one of the grip adapters (Tyler-T, Smith or Redfield), that fill in the space behind the trigger guard? So fitted they really fit me to a "T" and are perhaps the best 'feeling' grips on any S&W for my hands. Rod

Agree with Rod. Have Tyler T-Grips on several of my Smith & Wessons.

Don

[Jedman]

The only true 38 special I have owned was S&W -K 38 6” from the 50’s. I didn’t appreciate it well enough because I traded it and a nice LC Smith featherweight 16 ga. for a large custom gun safe from Smith safe Co.
I was given a snub nosed Taurus to hold for someone and did finally get that person to take it back so I never felt it was mine. I have owned several 357 revolvers but the K 38 was the only one.

Jedman

[nockhunter]

289709

My 3' m60

[Cosmic_Charlie]

Have a 1956 vintage 4" K-38 that is a sweet cast shooter. Likes a .358" boolit. Put a 13# trigger return spring in it and the action is sweet.

[Ithaca Gunner]

I suppose it would depend on my intended purpose for the gun. A plain old Colt 4'' Official Police would suit me just fine for most occasions.

[robertbank]

I have only one 38spl gun now and is my favourite...a 5" Model 10 Smith. Of my L frames I do have a 105.14" barreled Model 686 No Dash which is the shortest barreled gun I can legally own up here. Apparently anything 105MM or less barreled guns are Baby killers. Stupid gun laws.

Take Care

Bob

[VariableRecall]

I'd have to go with my one and only item in my collection that uses .38 Special, my S&W Model 10-5 from the late 60's. Upon further inspection, the thing didn't exactly come externally pristine from the pawn shop I got it from, but it's internally pristine and functions like it's brand new! I have a T-Grip on mine since I don't have 1899 sized hands. I am certainly spoiled for choice with grip styles, I'm partial to the Houge Monogrip I have handy, as it's super comfy and supportive. But for looks, I like the Magnas or the M1917 style ones I got from a fellow castboolits member. oddly enough, the grips that it came with are actually mismatched. It only took a look at Jim Supica's book for me to figure out that one of the grips was from a different era altogether.

289732

I know this thing's nice and accurate, but I guess I have to be the one to make use of its potential.

[tazman]

I have been lucky to pick up a couple of K frame Smiths that were poorly stored for cheap. The outside finish was rusted and some pitting. The cylinders and bores were pristine. Apparently, whoever owned them left them set in the bottom of a desk drawer or in a case for long periods of non use.
Both of these revolvers shoot great. They are just not as pretty as some.
Then again, pretty is as pretty does. Both of these shoot very pretty targets.

[Dale53]

My choice for a good .38 special is actually two: both Smiths...models 66 & 19. I particularly like the added benefit that they'll take .357's if that's what's available. Mine are equally accurate with 3.5 gr of BE in Spl brass & Lyman's 35891 as well as 4.0 gr of BE in Magnum cases, same bullet. 4" bbl'd Chrono data (850 fps) is virtually the same for both loads. I size them to 0.358" with ACWW alloy for those of you interested.

Dale: The model 15 you describe was the USAF issue revolver for flight crews during my 1st tour in Vietnam, 1970. Mine was an almost new one, but suffered (or I should say I suffered, from its Magna grips that left the 2nd finger unsupported while firing).

The gun was primarily a signaling device with small .38 Special flare rounds that we were supposed to fire up through the triple canopy when shot down! Unfortunately, they looked a lot like US tracer which the VC had in abundance, so I know of no one that actually used them as designed. Several weeks into my tour, I returned it to the squadron armorer at Bien Hoa and acquired a .45 1911, courtesy of the 5th Spl Forces guys I was flying for and living with. Later, my predecessor left his Hi Power when he DEROS'd. Flying O-1E Bird Dogs, (Army = L-19), our primary weapon, ground or flight, was a CAR-15...predecessor to the M4. Slung from the cockpit door ejection handle with two bandoliers of magazines, it was a hellofa weapon if needed.

Best Regards, Rod

Rod;
Good to see you here (again:p)! My solution for the grip problems with nearly every revolver I shoot (mostly Smith's and Rugers) are Pachmayr rubber grips. Many slam them for their looks. I am MUCH more interested in performance, and many, many years ago, I realized I just flat shot Pachmayrs better and WITHOUT pain!

I have long fingers and need the back strap covered and also protection behind the trigger guard. Pachmayrs give that to me. The Model 15 is completely comfortable for me to shoot both "On the Range and in the Field!" Right now, as I stated in an earlier post my most shot revolver in .38 Special, right now, is my Smith Model 520 (with target sights, compound barrel and Titanium cylinder). Mostly I shoot the .38 Special full charge wadcutter that you do - 3.5 grs. of Bullseye or equivalent behind a 148 gr solid wadcutter (either the H&G #50 or the H&G # 251 dbl ended w/c. They cut clean holes and shoot under an inch at 25 yards, and have excellent terminal effect and cut clean holes in the target (paper or meat). So, AGAIN, we are pretty much in agreement:p

Dale53

[dogdoc]

Hard to have just one favorite. I love my smith 19s and 66s especially my 6 inch versions. Yesterday I shot some 1 inch 6 shot 148 grain wadcutter loads off a rest with a 6 inch 686 no dash. Damn close to that with a 6 inch ruger security six. I won’t even talk about my 4 inch Smith 15 or 6 inch model 10 with ppc conversion. I did not satisfactorily answer the question did I?��

[robertbank]

Dale I have the Pachmayrs on my two smithsm a 686 and a Model 10. Love them!

Tale Care

Bob

[tazman]

Dale I have the Pachmayrs on my two smithsm a 686 and a Model 10. Love them!

Tale Care

Bob

I agree on the Pachmayr grips. All my S&W revolvers wear them.
Grips are a very personal thing since very few people have the same size hands and fingers.

[Outpost75]

I always found the Pachmayrs hampered concealment and have always favored the round- bottomed, "plainclothes" service stocks with grip adapter.

[redgum]

289859

[tazman]

I always found the Pachmayrs hampered concealment and have always favored the round- bottomed, "plainclothes" service stocks with grip adapter.

I have a round butt model 60 with a 3 inch barrel for concealed. I have Pachmayr grips on it too. They are smaller than the ones for the K frames but still allow for a controlled grip. The original grip left my little finger hanging in space and I didn't like that. I never felt like I had control of the revolver.

[jonp]

I have only one 38spl gun now and is my favourite...a 5" Model 10 Smith. Of my L frames I do have a 105.14" barreled Model 686 No Dash which is the shortest barreled gun I can legally own up here. Apparently anything 105MM or less barreled guns are Baby killers. Stupid gun laws.

Take Care

Bob

When I read that my first thought was "boy, that's custom" then realized you were in Canada.

[Mr_Sheesh]

The " symbol kinda threw me off too :P 105" = ~2.7 meters that's not a snub nose revolver!

[Jtarm]

My 4" Model 15 is my favorite,



https://i.imgur.com/EuAy5sZ.jpg


but I would take a 5" Model 15 in a heartbeat!

That gun is half-naked.

Show some decency and put a grip-adapter on it.

[Finn45Colt]

I bought S&W 586-4 6" with factory installed(?) Hogue monogrip that have S&W logo stamped in it..:confused:
Sure gonna shoot 38 Specials and 357 loaded down most of the time.

[robertbank]

The " symbol kinda threw me off too :P 105" = ~2.7 meters that's not a snub nose revolver!

My topping laeves alot to be diseried as does my spelting. LOL Edited post. I am guessing the additional length arose when S&W modified the guns to correct the cylinder gap issues the guns had. As a result oif the mods the CS guns have to be the shortest productio legal guns up here. Pokes a finger in Trudeaus eye.

Take Care

Bob

[VariableRecall]

That gun is half-naked.

Show some decency and put a grip-adapter on it.

I've had great results with my Tyler T-Grip. I hope that they have increased production speed because they had taken over 3 months to get my T-Grip in their hands, but they had been like many others greatly affected by the pandemic at large. However, the T-Grip I have received has been nothing but outstanding.

Another great option that I have had good results with is a Houge Monogrip. They do actually sell them for Square butt K-Frames like your own. The comfort is excellent and it makes the pleasant recoil of .38 Special even more so. Sure, it's a burden on the looks department, and bulkier than the other grips on offer, but I'm very happy with it as an alternative.
290136

[tuckerdog]

1974 K38 combat masterpiece. 1st firearm I shot as a child of 8. Still have it though a bit worn since I shot it in 1976.

[Bill*B]

S&W Model 10, 4" barrel. Compact, light, fixed sights - doesn't get any simpler, and nothing is more reliable.

[robertbank]

S&W Model 10, 4" barrel. Compact, light, fixed sights - doesn't get any simpler, and nothing is more reliable.

I would favour the Model 10 as well but not for reliability necessarily. A high primer or mud and our revolvers are clubs. For absolute reliability most of the striker fired polymer guns would be my choice. Pretty much all modern handguns are now reliable when clean and well fed.

Take Care

Bob

[Texas by God]

This is Dad's and it gets fed 5 to1 .38 special over .357 magnum. It's a bit angry with magnums, not fun at all. But it's great as a thirty eight.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211024/aa0702461b823cb75ea6b0832052cfa1.jpg

Sent from my SM-A716U using Tapatalk

[tazman]

S&W Model 10, 4" barrel. Compact, light, fixed sights - doesn't get any simpler, and nothing is more reliable.

I have a model 13 with a 4" barrel. I would like to have a model 10 but I would not be improving anything. This one shoots to point of aim.

Texas by God-----I have a S&W model 60 three inch that fits that bill for me. Mine is 38 only though so I don't need to worry about the recoil.

[gnome72]

I’ve been carrying my Ruger BH 357/9mm from I believe 1974 for several years in the woods packed with 38spl stuffed with Lyman 358429 cast from WW and I’ve been just happy with punch, minimal recoil and accuracy, until this spring when I stumbled upon a S&W 14-3 in 6” and now this beat up old 14-3 with the same 358429 is my go to. Love love love the super light crisp trigger with zero take up in single action, accuracy is on par with my Ruger. Always have been a SA guy but this 14-3 is pretty awesome.


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[tazman]

I’ve been carrying my Ruger BH 357/9mm from I believe 1974 for several years in the woods packed with 38spl stuffed with Lyman 358429 cast from WW and I’ve been just happy with punch, minimal recoil and accuracy, until this spring when I stumbled upon a S&W 14-3 in 6” and now this beat up old 14-3 with the same 358429 is my go to. Love love love the super light crisp trigger with zero take up in single action, accuracy is on par with my Ruger. Always have been a SA guy but this 14-3 is pretty awesome.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

Be careful. Those S&W K frame revolvers are addictive.

[Winger Ed.]

I've had a few come and go, but I think my favorite was a 6" SW 586 with the target sights.

[Kosh75287]

Red Dot or 700-X for regular loads. Unique for anything that needs to go much faster.

[carelesslove]

tazman, carelesslove here !

I agree with your selection of a S&W Model 14 as a favorite, in .38 Special !!!

I have the "Target Pair" - a K-22 and a K-38, in 8 3/8" barrels - bought them new, over 40 years ago. I have shot the K-38 more than all the rest of my guns.

In it's early years, I shot it with a whole array of .38 Special loads, but over the last 10 years, or so, I have consistently loaded it one way - a ~158 grain Cast SWC over 3.5 grains of Bullseye, for ~800 fps. The accuracy is downright boring - ~1 inch at 25 yards.

The action is slick from use and performs well in both single and double action. I like to call it my "stock PPC" gun.

Whenever I have a less than average range day, with other guns, the next range trip involves the K-38 and it's steady, standard loading. After this, all is right with the world again, and I shoot better with whatever I shoot - next time.

I have matched headstamps, and trimmed all my cases to length and pretty much standardized on a firm roll crimp to produce these results and I hope to shoot this gun - just like this - until I expire.

There is something to the phrase - "in harmony with nature". The .38 Special, in more or less standard form, a slick bore & action, tight & consistent cylinder throats, and excellent sights is harmony that is very hard to beat!

You are where you need to be - in .38 Special. The trick is to approach & experiment with increasing calibers, until you achieve the same results.

Thanks, Tom "carelesslove" Love

[tazman]

If there was ever a classic load for the 38 special, the 158 grain SWC over 3.5 of Bullseye is it. That load shoots accurately in every revolver I have tried it in.
The other classic would be a 148 grain wadcutter over 2.7-3.1 of Bullseye. It seems that Bulleye and the 38 Special are an excellent combination.

[murf205]

My old LE service revolver; a S&W M15 with a 5" heavy barrel.

289261

With a 5" barrel! In my yrs of snooping for S&W revolvers, that is the 1st I have seen.

[walnut1704]

Mine is a 66-2 that I bought as a derelict at a gun show around 2000. It was a mess. It got a complete overhaul including a yoke stretching and a barrel set-back to correct the gap and end shake. Installed a Weigand DX front sight base and rear target blade along with a .500 target trigger and after all that a bead blast to clean it up.

I also enjoy my stock Model 14 and a Stainless Blackhawk but the 66 gets the most use.

291594

[Baltimoreed]

My 6 inch bbl Colt New Service from 1925. It’s been worked on so it’s got a great trigger.

[FergusonTO35]

Love my 1967 S&W 10-5. With 3.4 grains Bullseye under a Lee 358-158-RF it is laser accurate and easy to shoot. My 10 came from a cop's estate, I bet it could tell some stories!

[waco]

My personal favorite is a 1968 S&W 14-2 K-38 with a 6” barrel.

[Green Frog]

I just reread this whole thread (I need to get a life!) and thought I would sum up my thoughts. Unlike my dear friend Dale53, I regard rubber as useful for tires and Mexican sandals, not gunstocks! The K38 I mentioned still wears its original service type magna grips. If I were going to compete with it, I would probably add a Tyler T-grip, but I love it enough to maintain its originality. The 60-4 OTOH was bought to be carried and shot, so grips are critical. I have a custom Thai made smooth finger groove combats and closed rear (in deference to Dale53). The fact that they are made of a very dark ebony like wood also makes them contrast nicely with the stainless finish of the 60-4. 8-)

Froggie

[tazman]

I love the looks of wood grips on steel handguns. My problem is, I have never found a set that gives me the comfort and control a set of Pachmayr grips do. They just work for me so that is what I use.
I have never handled a K frame that had a Tyler insert in the grips. That might make me change my mind. I am not in a hurry to find out though.

[USSR]

Yep, the K frame with wood service stocks and the Tyler T-Grip is hard to beat.

Don

[slughammer]

For me a 4" L frame or K frame is about perfect. I used 6" guns on both frames for a lot of years and a lot of matches. I switched to 4" guns, the balance is much better for me.

Last week a 4" model 67 went to the range with me. (Pachmayr Presentation grips, Large, held on with speed tape.)


https://i.imgur.com/ilt2fth.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/yhWQenK.jpg



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[Silvercreek Farmer]

No love for the SP101? I bought my 3" new and it was a train wreck. I recrowned it, polished the cylinders, fire lapped the barrel, shimmed the cylinder, put a spring kit in it, corrected the POI by removing a small amount from the side of the front sight, and had Doug work his magic on the throats. Now it shoots almost as well as my longer barreled revolvers and I really like the way it sits in my hand with the Diamond Pro grips.

[tazman]

No love for the SP101? I bought my 3" new and it was a train wreck. I recrowned it, polished the cylinders, fire lapped the barrel, shimmed the cylinder, put a spring kit in it, corrected the POI by removing a small amount from the side of the front sight, and had Doug work his magic on the throats. Now it shoots almost as well as my longer barreled revolvers and I really like the way it sits in my hand with the Diamond Pro grips.

What you now have is a custom revolver and still "shoots ALMOST as well as my longer barreled revolvers".
Seems to be a lot of effort to spend on a revolver that should be good when it leaves the factory.

[Silvercreek Farmer]

What you now have is a custom revolver and still "shoots ALMOST as well as my longer barreled revolvers".
Seems to be a lot of effort to spend on a revolver that should be good when it leaves the factory.

I agree that Ruger dropped the ball on this one. I could have sent it in, but I decided to fix it myself and picked up some knowledge/skill along the way. Only reason it doesn't shoot quite as well as my longer revolvers is sight radius and my eyes. I made a belt holster for it, but usually just slip the holstered gun in my pocket. The compact size and the pride of my (and Doug's) workmanship make it my favorite even if it isn't quite as accurate (in my hands) as a 6".

[Butler Ford]

S&W Model 15

291905

[txbirdman]

Tazman, I too find that rubber grips work best for me but my preference is for the old Uncle Mike’s. I have them on my 686-1 and my M10-6. I just wish I had some for my 27 but I’ve only seen them for K/L frames.

[zarrinvz24]

For me its a toss up between the Colt Officers model w/Heavy barrel or Shooting Master. I think I prefer the Shooting Master as the grip frame is larger, but if I am going to be shooting a bit its weight does become tiring.

[tazman]

I agree that Ruger dropped the ball on this one. I could have sent it in, but I decided to fix it myself and picked up some knowledge/skill along the way. Only reason it doesn't shoot quite as well as my longer revolvers is sight radius and my eyes. I made a belt holster for it, but usually just slip the holstered gun in my pocket. The compact size and the pride of my (and Doug's) workmanship make it my favorite even if it isn't quite as accurate (in my hands) as a 6".

I have a model 60 S&W 3 inch. It is an older version and is 38 Special only. I was expecting the sight radius to make a difference in accuracy but for some reason, this revolver shoots just as well as any of my others. It just isn't my favorite.

[avogunner]

I've got 2. Both are pre-war S&W M&P's that have family history as law enforcement carry sidearms. My family have a deep history with the Southern Railway Police and these two were carried by a Grandfather and a Great Uncle. I cherish them and shoot them regularly.
291928

Semper Fi.

[Roundball]

As a 38 Special: I swap between a K38 based Clark Light Revolver, 6", 19-5 and a 586 no dash. I did take out my 1953 vintage Combat Masterpiece to our little match last Wednesday. The gun was otherworldly accurate. The revolver I have been using most recently is the 586 6" I like the older Smith's. Revolvers rule.

[tward]

I love my GP 100! It is the first revolver I bought when I got my permit in 1991. It’s smooth as silk after thousands of rounds of cast. I started casting to reload for this revolver to “save money” we all know how that went. 10-12 handguns and 35-40 molds later you can’t believe the amount of money I’ve saved!!:veryconfu Tim

[Jason Gilmour]

My favorite revolver is my 2.5 inch Gp100 but my favorite gun to shoot 38 is my 357 Max handi rifle that is cut down to 17 inches. It is one of the most fun guns I have.

[Dale53]

Here is my S&W CS-1 (.357 Magnum) that is arguably my favorite, all time, .38/.357 magnum. It will shoot well under an inch at 25 yards with a variety of loads and cast bullets in both .38 Special and .357 Magnum:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/jj80/Dale53/.highres/QLightTentTests-2.jpg?width=590&height=370&fit=bounds (https://photobucket.com/u/Dale53/p/49fb778c-8ff0-4016-b943-8e033e43f33b?mode=zoom)

Here is another of my "favorites", my 60-4 in .38 Special that both my good friend, Froggie, and I consider one of our grail guns. When this first became available, I was a bit sad that it didn't have a 4" barrel. However, when I got it home and first took it to the range, I could hardly credit how well I was able to shoot it. It meets my standard of "under 1 at 25 yards off a rest", but I can actually shoot it standing at 25 yards better than some of my 4" guns! The double underlugged barrel, being "weight forward" just flat holds better than a lighter barreled 4" revolver. I have taken many rabbits, both cottontail and snowshoe, with this revolver in the field, when bird hunting with my over/under shotgun. I carried it cross draw so it was not in the way of the shotgun, and sitting rabbits at typical field ranges up to 25 yards or so, was common. Clipping the head off a wounded grouse at a few feet was a "piece of cake". Yep, this one really pleasantly surprised me.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/jj80/Dale53/.highres/DalesPistolsRevolvers5Selects-0242.jpg?width=590&height=370&fit=bounds (https://photobucket.com/u/Dale53/p/d8e80088-33ee-41d8-a8c0-4d4da99cf462)

Dale53

[uscra112]

Without doubt it's the 9" barrelled Colt Officer's Model I bought about ten years ago. Near mint, and it's stunningly accurate.

[gwpercle]

A Ruger Blackhawk bought in 1971 , it is chambered in 357 Magnum but very few magnums have ever been fired in it ... 38 Special were loads of choice . I started my reloading and boolit casting for it .
It was stolen in 1995 and recovered in Kingman Arizona 15 years later when someone tried to pawn it . This was my very first handgun and I was sure glad to get her back .
She still shoots 38 Specials like a champ ... my eyes are getting old but I'm not going to saddle her with an optic ... I just move the target closer and pretend I'm 21 again !
Gary
I got it back and have been shooting 38 Specials in it ever since

[tazman]

Without doubt it's the 9" barrelled Colt Officer's Model I bought about ten years ago. Near mint, and it's stunningly accurate.

I have never seen or heard of one of those. Could you post a pic of it?

[Don Purcell]

Postwar Transition S&W 38/44 with either Lyman 160 grain RNFP or Lyman/Keith 358429 H.P. over Hercules or Alliant 2400 for 1150 f.p.s.. Used to shoot nothing but Keith's load but dropped it two grains to match original 38/44 loads.

[Good Cheer]

For camp meat bunnies one of my favorite loads was Bullseye and Thompson Center .36 caliber maxiballs molded out of wheel weights. The front ring had to get sized down a lot but they shot great (I was packing a 4" barrel Security Six) and the bunnies went in the pot.

[Alstep]

I was given a Smith 10-8 a few years back. This thing made a boat anchor look good. It was so full of crud you couldn't even see daylight through the barrel & cylinder. Talk about abuse & neglect! I took off the grips and threw it in a can of kero and let it soak for a week. Some carb cleaner, a tooth brush, and a compressor with plenty of elbow grease cleaned it up pretty nicely. The bore, cylinder and internals turned out to be absolutely clean. Put a few rounds thru it and it shot way off. Happened to grab the barrel and gave it a twist, and wouldn't you know the barrel was loose. Put it into a padded vise & tightened it up, and it shot way off the other way. So I had some thin brass shim stock and made a washer to go between the barrel & frame. Shot it & tightened it until it shot to point of aim. Trial & error. Added .002 to the gap, but it's still under .007. 3 gr Bullseye & RCBS 38-150-SWC and this is one of my best shooting 38's I own. A favorite field & tractor gun.

[bigdog454]

S&w k-38
bd

[hawkeye1]

My all time favorite double action is a 4" nickel Colt Trooper. It has the smoothest trigger pull ever. Reminds me of an old Python I missed out on, but that's another story.

[TMB]

S&W Model 60-18

[fatelk]

A few months ago I picked up a 6" S&W 10-7. Someone did a bunch of work to it, and that can be either good or bad. I think it was reblued (nicely) and the trigger is the best I've ever felt. Double action amazingly smooth and light, and single action like the proverbial glass rod. It was so light and smooth that I was concerned about misfires, but I took a chance. Several hundred rounds later, not a single misfire. It shoots great, nice little groups to point of aim at 25 yards, with my favorite target load. I think I lucked out with that. It came with Pachmayrs that were admittedly comfortable, but I just love the look of wood, so I bought some Altamont Ropers for it. I'm sure some of you saw it on another thread a while back.

I also recently picked up a 6" Model 28 Highway Patrolman. The trigger pull isn't as nice, but it's still a typical excellent S&W trigger. It shoots very, very nicely too. In this big, heavy gun, .38 target loads feel like shooting a .22LR. Even full power .357 mag rounds seem pretty mild in it. It's just pleasant to shoot. I've posted about this one recently too. It was under an ugly layer of Duracoat when I bought it.

294063294064

[Outpost75]

Good score!

I've been hoarding .38 Special ex-cop guns for some years now and as a ruck gun for the GHB, a 6-inch, fixed sight. 38 Special to supplement my usual 2-inch snubby EDC still makes good sense 20 years after I made the change from a semi-auto .22 race dragon after 9/11. Full charge wadcutter still is the preferred load.

[John Guedry]

My good old model 15.First handgun and still the best.

[tinsnips]

S&W model 14

[ElCheapo]

I've been looking at all the nice shootin' irons in this thread. Brings back a lot of memories! My first experience with a centerfire handgun was a friend's 4'' model 19. We sat out some cans and started shooting. Seemed like I couldn't miss with that gun! I got try try a couple model 10's at camp, they were nice too. Later I bought a 6 inch model 586. It was nice, but the best revolver I've ever owned was a 4'' Colt Diamondback. Just a beautifully made gun and scary accurate! Single action and double action pulls were smooth as glass. I made shots with that gun at ridiculous ranges. Loved the sights, loved the D frame, loved everything about it. But it was just a .38 and I eventually got bored with it. I needed more power! For what, I have no idea. I foolishly sold it. How I wish I would have held on to that gun! Ah well, live and learn.

I was recently able to acquire a Charter Arms Professional 3'' 357 magnum in stainless steel. I was pleasantly surprised to find the single and double action pulls are just about as good as anything I've tried right from the factory! I need to set it up first so I've yet to shoot it, but first impressions are the grips seem a little small. Like they're probably ok for shooting 38's, but no way will they work for me with magnums. Anyway, hopefully I can try it soon! Should be a nice backup to my 300 Blackout when I'm out hog hunting. Cheers!

[ioon44]

4" S&W model 15-3

[sharps4590]

For the once every 5 or 10 years I shoot a 38 Spl. it's a Mod. 15. It was my F-I-L's service revolver when he was a deputy Sheriff. I also carried a Model 15 when I was an LEO.

[Jaaymar]

327 TRR8 performance center.
My favorite 8 shot 6 shooter.
Second is my 686 (7 shot 6 shooter) although the barrel should be replaced. Not that it needs to be I just want to go from a 6” to a 4”. After that it may become my favorite.

[FergusonTO35]

I am getting a really bad itch for the Cimarron Model P Jr. in .38 Special. Yes, I know it won't do anything my S&W 10-5 can't do but dang I want one!

[slughammer]

327 TRR8 performance center.
My favorite 8 shot 6 shooter.
Second is my 686 (7 shot 6 shooter) although the barrel should be replaced. Not that it needs to be I just want to go from a 6” to a 4”. After that it may become my favorite.I changed the barrel on my 686-1 from 6" to 4". Definitely balances better and shoots just as well offhand to 50 yards... Do the change, you won't regret it.

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[GLL]

Any old .38/44 S&W Outdoorsman or Heavy Duty will do just fine !
294777294778

[Eddie Southgate]

Colt Officers Target from the 20's .

[ddixie884]

Any old .38/44 S&W Outdoorsman or Heavy Duty will do just fine !
294777294778

Welcome home, Jerry...........

[blue32]

While the 686 is nice, I have more fun ranging the 642 out to 30 yards on an 8" plate. I try to start with 5/5 and don't stop until I get 5/5 again or run out of ammo. I usually blow through 200 rounds, end on 4/5, and leave with a blistered hand but its still fun.

[375supermag]

I only have two revolvers chambered in .38Spl.
A S&W Model 10 and a Uberti Richards-Mason conversion.
Nothing against the Model 10 but I much prefer the Uberti.
I do have quite a few .357Mag revolvers but never shoot .38Spl in them.

[Green Frog]

Just reread this thread and unless I missed it, there is one all time favorite 38 of mine that never has been mentioned... the Baby Chiefs Special. This is the very smallest 38 Special that S&W ever made, and as such was the perfect everyday carry/hide away gun for the caliber. I got one about thirty plus years ago, but made the mistake of selling it. Fast forward 15 or so years and I finally got another. The thing is, it's an EDC for me, and so much a part of me, I didn't even think of it as being a 38 Special and one of my favorite guns. OK, so for pure target revolvers, the early post War K38 Masterpiece, for general use and all around defense, the Model 60-4 gets the nod, but every day to be there if things go sideways and I need the gun that's right there right now, "you can't put Baby in a corner" because she'll be there when I need her. So which of my 38s do I like best? Which of your children do you like best?

Froggie

[Sasquatch-1]

Just reread this thread and unless I missed it, there is one all time favorite 38 of mine that never has been mentioned... the Baby Chiefs Special. This is the very smallest 38 Special that S&W ever made, and as such was the perfect everyday carry/hide away gun for the caliber. I got one about thirty plus years ago, but made the mistake of selling it. Fast forward 15 or so years and I finally got another. The thing is, it's an EDC for me, and so much a part of me, I didn't even think of it as being a 38 Special and one of my favorite guns. OK, so for pure target revolvers, the early post War K38 Masterpiece, for general use and all around defense, the Model 60-4 gets the nod, but every day to be there if things go sideways and I need the gun that's right there right now, "you can't put Baby in a corner" because she'll be there when I need her. So which of my 38s do I like best? Which of your children do you like best?

Froggie

I am not clear on your post. Are you talking about the M36/M60 J frame 5 shot or something else?

[FergusonTO35]

I believe he is talking about the original I frame Chief's Special, which was only made for a year or two. The closest thing I can think of to it which is still reasonably priced would be the 1970's Charter Undercover, which is quite dainty compared to a current J-frame or Undercover. Charter did a really good job of keeping the Undercover svelte, they actually weigh less than an aluminum frame J.

[rintinglen]

To elaborate slightly on FergusonRO35's explanation, the so called "Baby" Chief's Special is a diminutive, 5 screw, flat latch, 5 shot 38 special revolver that has an old style, half-moon, front sight, a noticeably smaller trigger guard and is about 3/16ths of an inch shorter over all than it's later off spring. It is not an I-frame, nor really a J-frame either, having the longer cylinder and lengthened frame of the J-frame that we know and love, while mated with the I frame grip and trigger guard. They were only made for about 16 months in 1950-51 before being upgraded with the slightly larger trigger guard and longer grip frame, supposedly to accommodate the requests of the Police Officers in the field.

Back when you had to be male, 5' 9'' tall and weigh in at 165 lbs or bigger to join the department, the Average Officer was larger than the run of the mill to day. The larger frame was more appealing to men who had larger hands, given that S&W was fighting for market share against the more established Colt Detective Special. So, they charged about $3.00 less, beginning a price war that they would win, eventually driving Colt out of the Police Market, save for a few scattered hold outs and private purchases.

[FergusonTO35]

Thanks. I had read somewhere that the earliest guns off the line were in fact I frames, then improved I frames, then finally J frames.

[Sasquatch-1]

Just goes to show, even an old dog can learn something new every so often.

[goryshaw]

A snub nose compact Taurus or S&W Model 10 or model 28 depends on mood would like a Win 92 or ruger 77 next purchase unless they make a 32 h&r or 327 FED while i wait.