Full lug or half lug

F

frank4570

New member
I have been looking at s&w revolvers, and getting opinions, and I am probably going to go with a .44 mag. I have found a couple of 5in barrel guns. One is a half lug and one is a full lug. Do you guys think the full lug is worth carrying around in order to have more comfortable shooting sessions? How much difference does the full lug make in carrying and in shooting?
Thanks.
 
Frank, it's not a big difference. The half lug will balance a bit better (as far as center of gravity being towards butt or muzzle), while the full lug will soak up recoil/flip a bit better.

If you get a chance to shoot them first, I wouldn't overlook a 6" barrel. Makes the gun a bit heavier on the end of the hand, but you probably won't shoot 500 rounds per session anyway. The extra barrel length will give another increment in recoil/flip for followup shots, as well as precision of using the sights.

In .357Magnum, I have shot 4" and 6" full lugs, as well as 5" half lug, all in the same session, with the same ammo. All were ok. The 4" would be the most comfortable carry, and offer possible concealed carry. The 5" half lug had the best balance. The 6" full lug had the best practical accuracy and shot to shot recovery.
 
I would say depends on you do you like a lighter barreled gun or heavy barrel me I prefer a little lighter barrel :)
 
I prefer half lugs, they look better to me. I don't think there's enough weight difference between a full or half lug in the same barrel length to matter. Buy the one that appeals to you most.

What are you getting it for?
If it's for carry, get a 4", otherwise the 5" makes for the best balance of any barrel length in large frame revolvers IMO.
 
The gun is for everything. Concealed carry and hunting. Same as my current 10mm. My 10mm has a 6in barrel which makes it have a same overall length as the 5in revolver. I actually think it is a bit heavier filled up than the revolver. So it should be mostly a matter of different shape. Maybe a problem, maybe not.
 
I really like the looks of the Model 29 Classic (full lug) 5" barrel and the Model 29-2 6.5" bar. I would take either one or both!
 
Personal preference for me is 'full lug'. Makes the gun look beefy, solid. IMO the shooting performance can't be much of a noticable difference.
 
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