The heaviest revolver I have access to is an old Smith Model 10 in .38 spl with a 4" Bbl, I bought it recently for $150, it used to earn its living in a cop holster and has the scars to prove it. I'm taking this gun on a hiking trip with my wife up into the Southern Pa hills next weekend (weather permitting). We get black bear, rattlers, and the occasional lesser spotted felon, although not too many of each. My autos (9mm and .40) just don't feel "right" up there, and I don't have access to a .357/.44 Mag, the only mod I've made to the gun was to put a full size soft rubber grip with finger grooves on it as it came with walnut, I have a couple of questions.
1. Bearing in mind that I could meet 2 legged predators just as much as 4 legged, what is the best load to carry, and is the Model 10 OK for +P rounds, I currently favor the 158 gr +P LSWC for dual purpose use, I would normally carry Nyclads for personal defence when my autos are out of commision for whatever reason, but feel that the extra weight of a 158 gr may be better for use against a small bear, lord forbid.
2. Just out of interest, does anyone know what police officers used as their street round in these guns when they last saw service ??
I stress that I can't get anything heavier otherwise I'd take a .44, comments appreciated.
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Mike H
1. Bearing in mind that I could meet 2 legged predators just as much as 4 legged, what is the best load to carry, and is the Model 10 OK for +P rounds, I currently favor the 158 gr +P LSWC for dual purpose use, I would normally carry Nyclads for personal defence when my autos are out of commision for whatever reason, but feel that the extra weight of a 158 gr may be better for use against a small bear, lord forbid.
2. Just out of interest, does anyone know what police officers used as their street round in these guns when they last saw service ??
I stress that I can't get anything heavier otherwise I'd take a .44, comments appreciated.
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Mike H