Don't quite understand this line of thinking. With the 38spcl being a noticable to me 1/4 pound lighter, and still very controlable with the 158gr + P LSWCHP "FBI" loads I have shot through it, I really don't see the need for the extra weight, and cost of the 357. Other than to just have It in 357. Also, the ballistic gel tests of the Speer Good Dot +P Short Barrel rounds showing very impressive performance equalling that of some 357 Magnum offerings reinforce my decision to get the 38Spcl LCR.I am really liking the LCR .357mag. I would just load .38 specials in it to make it more managable in such a light frame.
In deciding which LCR to buy I found the answer to your question. Four ounces!If you're going to buy an LCR you may as well go for a 357. I bet you'll probably stick with loading 38+p but why not have the option just in case you need it?
Yes, but if you shoot exclusively .38 +P out of it, which many would recommend for SD, wouldn't the cylinder eventually suffer from gas cutting? I suppose, if you never expect to shoot .357 out of it, it wouldn't matter, but there are those that are saying they want the option. The .38 LCR, OTOH, is tailor made for this, and would be my option in revolvers. Of those listed, though, I'd opt for the LC9.Yes, it helps ALOT with recoil, and turns a painful experience into a pleasant one. It's why I ditched my .38 LCR in favor of the magnum.