I'm new to this forum, but decided that I would like input and opinions as to my future choice of a handgun. I'm trying to decide between about 4 manufacturing models of .38/.357 2-3 inch snubbie. This gun will be used mostly for walks in the country and personal protection. I live in a rural area, and the problems that I might encounter are as follows: Coyotes, badgers, raccoons, skunks, dogs, and possibly rattlesnakes. I don't go out everyday, but I want something that is relatively light to carrry, and yet have enough power to get the job done. I have had a .22 magnum from Taurus (Model 941) suggested as an option, but I want something with more power. I'm considering the following: Charter Arms Magnum Bulldog in .357, Rossi Model 462 in .357, EAA Windicator in .357, and Taurus Model 605 or 617 in .357. All these guns will be 2-3 inch barrels, and I will probably shoot .38 rounds most of the time, but I can use .357 if I need to. Any ideas would be helpful, as I have no experience with revolvers. I do like semi-autos as I have a Kimber 1911 TLE, CZ-52 in 7.65 x 25, and a Glock 31 in .357 sig. Thanks.
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Handgun Choice?
- Thread starter dentodoc
- Start date
Taurus
Of all the choices I would think the Taurus would be an OK choice. I would get the longer barrel if deep concealment is not that important out in the woods. A 38 would probably be nuff for the smaller varmints but maybe 357 for the coyote? Why have you written off the autos for this stuff? I prefer a Smith and Wesson or a Ruger wheelgun myself, though. But Colts are good if you want to pay the premium.
Of all the choices I would think the Taurus would be an OK choice. I would get the longer barrel if deep concealment is not that important out in the woods. A 38 would probably be nuff for the smaller varmints but maybe 357 for the coyote? Why have you written off the autos for this stuff? I prefer a Smith and Wesson or a Ruger wheelgun myself, though. But Colts are good if you want to pay the premium.
Sir William
New member
A used S&W would be more economical. I suggest you look for the M65 or M66 stainless 357 Magnums. They are plentiful and very good quality.
Of those listed I would opt for the 7-shot Taurus 617 with (if they even make it) a 3" barrel. Main reason for the 3" tube is to get a full-length ejector rod. The 605 is OK, but a bit light for magnums and is a 5-shot. The Rossi would be OK. I'm leery of quality control on the Charter Arms guns and the Windicator just never lit my board.
Suggestions
Dentodoc,
I am by no means an expert, but it seems like concealability will not be very high on your priority list. If that is the case, I would really recommend a model with a three or four inch barrel. Hitting a moving rattlesnake is hard enough, and I imagine using a two inch barrel will not simplify it much. It also sems that because you will be using it in a rural area, you will have more options to carry which will help manage the weight. I would really suggest a good used S&W .357 with a 4" barrel in a stout strong side hip or shoulder hoster. It should be a good GP revolver that can be concealed fairly easily if needs be.
If you really want a smaller model, I would suggest the Charter Arms revolver. I just recently purchased one myself and am very happy. Make sure it is not a Charco Manufactured model. You can check the post "Charter Arms Info" and see what the other folks have to say. They have been big help to me, and I'm sure they will be as much to you.
Welcome to the forums, and shoot safe.
Dentodoc,
I am by no means an expert, but it seems like concealability will not be very high on your priority list. If that is the case, I would really recommend a model with a three or four inch barrel. Hitting a moving rattlesnake is hard enough, and I imagine using a two inch barrel will not simplify it much. It also sems that because you will be using it in a rural area, you will have more options to carry which will help manage the weight. I would really suggest a good used S&W .357 with a 4" barrel in a stout strong side hip or shoulder hoster. It should be a good GP revolver that can be concealed fairly easily if needs be.
If you really want a smaller model, I would suggest the Charter Arms revolver. I just recently purchased one myself and am very happy. Make sure it is not a Charco Manufactured model. You can check the post "Charter Arms Info" and see what the other folks have to say. They have been big help to me, and I'm sure they will be as much to you.
Welcome to the forums, and shoot safe.
WillBrayjr
Moderator
The Ruger SP-101 with a 3in barrel in .38spl+p.
I doubt coyotes will mess with you. Raccoons aren't really a threat either. You'll smell a skunk before you see it. These three animals 99% of the time won't bother you unless cornered. Rattlesnakes will usually slither away before attacking you, they need to save their venom for food. The only time rattlesnakes will strike is if they feel threatened. They only animals to worry about that you mentioned are stray dogs and badgers. The .38spl+p is more than enough!
I doubt coyotes will mess with you. Raccoons aren't really a threat either. You'll smell a skunk before you see it. These three animals 99% of the time won't bother you unless cornered. Rattlesnakes will usually slither away before attacking you, they need to save their venom for food. The only time rattlesnakes will strike is if they feel threatened. They only animals to worry about that you mentioned are stray dogs and badgers. The .38spl+p is more than enough!
Choices
Smith & Wesson M65 or M10. 4" most common and easy to find. There is a used one advertised on the S&W Forum for $210.00. Seems to be in good condition. It will handle the .38+p's, although not a steady diet of them. Use 'em for carry, standard loads for practice. The M65 will handle .38+p's all day long and magnums for carry and some practice as well. FWIW
Smith & Wesson M65 or M10. 4" most common and easy to find. There is a used one advertised on the S&W Forum for $210.00. Seems to be in good condition. It will handle the .38+p's, although not a steady diet of them. Use 'em for carry, standard loads for practice. The M65 will handle .38+p's all day long and magnums for carry and some practice as well. FWIW