Cowled_Wolfe
New member
You're reminding me of my favorite custom MP gametype in Halo 2...
Deul Pistols!
Why do So Many People Shun Revolvers?
- Thread starter vitesse9
- Start date
Deul Pistols!
Teh generation gap is not between your cylinder and barrell!
Somebody back up this thread said it right. It is partially a generational thing. Trendiness is it too. The young folk see all the bad boys with their "unlimited capacity" autos in the movies and hey they want one too. I have a few friends who are cops locally and they all refer to my carry auto as the "terminator". Its flat black, ugly as sin and serves no other purpose but to kill humans. It's also a Colt 1991 compact with no bells and whistles. Six shots only. It has night sights but other than that all the money went into tuning the action. My other CCW is a S&W model 460, no hammer, magnaported and 5 shots in 1-1/2 inchs at 20 yards from a snubbie! The Colt won't do that. It groups around 3 inches. With hydrashoks the snubbie is probably just about as good a stopper. And it weighs half the Colt. So I tend to carry it more. But will I ever get rid of the .45, NO! They both have their uses. Which do I feel more comfortable with? What day is it? Tues... hmm lets see.
Somebody back up this thread said it right. It is partially a generational thing. Trendiness is it too. The young folk see all the bad boys with their "unlimited capacity" autos in the movies and hey they want one too. I have a few friends who are cops locally and they all refer to my carry auto as the "terminator". Its flat black, ugly as sin and serves no other purpose but to kill humans. It's also a Colt 1991 compact with no bells and whistles. Six shots only. It has night sights but other than that all the money went into tuning the action. My other CCW is a S&W model 460, no hammer, magnaported and 5 shots in 1-1/2 inchs at 20 yards from a snubbie! The Colt won't do that. It groups around 3 inches. With hydrashoks the snubbie is probably just about as good a stopper. And it weighs half the Colt. So I tend to carry it more. But will I ever get rid of the .45, NO! They both have their uses. Which do I feel more comfortable with? What day is it? Tues... hmm lets see.
I wish there were more people around here that did'nt like revolvers. I'd buy all I could. I have to carry an auto daily. But work guns are different than fun guns. There's nothing quite as slick as a tuned S&W. D/A rythm gets going, it's fun. Fun guns, work guns, to me that's the difference.
CZ75daddy0405
New member
Hey! I still like my Rossi 972 357mag. 
Ruggedness
Maybe some of this is perception, but autos seem much more rugged. I would think nothing of dropping my CZ 75 on a concrete floor or a tank turret (I have the old black finish that is rough anyway), or knocking an opponent upside the head with it, or whatever. I would NOT want to do the same for my highway patrolman. No way - it just doesn't feel like it can take constant abuse and function well - I think my CZ can, and I know a 1911 can and even a Beretta would do well. 1911's have been used as hammers, and have shot wel later. I really think I could take my Makarov, oil it up, bury it in my yard for three years, let it bounce around in a pickup for three months, then clean it and shoot it without a hitch. This will not happen for a revolver.
But, a revolver is a FINE piece for range or police work. (OK, my Dad carried a 1917 in WWII in the SP, but I still don't think it could take a beating like a 1911).
I have seen the abuse that military weapons must take. I wold not trust a revolver under these conditions.
Maybe some of this is perception, but autos seem much more rugged. I would think nothing of dropping my CZ 75 on a concrete floor or a tank turret (I have the old black finish that is rough anyway), or knocking an opponent upside the head with it, or whatever. I would NOT want to do the same for my highway patrolman. No way - it just doesn't feel like it can take constant abuse and function well - I think my CZ can, and I know a 1911 can and even a Beretta would do well. 1911's have been used as hammers, and have shot wel later. I really think I could take my Makarov, oil it up, bury it in my yard for three years, let it bounce around in a pickup for three months, then clean it and shoot it without a hitch. This will not happen for a revolver.
But, a revolver is a FINE piece for range or police work. (OK, my Dad carried a 1917 in WWII in the SP, but I still don't think it could take a beating like a 1911).
I have seen the abuse that military weapons must take. I wold not trust a revolver under these conditions.
Along the lines of Mike and Tamara's replies...
Society used to teach shooting to family and all...not putting lead downrange "somewhere" in the vicinity of target, actually how to shoot. This was most often with a Revolver.
I still contend learning to shoot a Revolver DA better instills the basic fundamentals that can , if one chooses to, transiton to other semi auto MOA's.
Times were tough, money was tight, one bought quality reliable firearms with much thought, because they waited until they had the money or put it on Lay-a-way. Folks shot other folk's gun - "try before they bought". NO "drop the plastic and I I don't like it, or not "cool enough I'll just charge another one" mindset.
Marketing is about selling a product, often times the "need" is marketed in order to sell.
Personally - I think folks REALLY need to buy all the newfangled plastic guns in semi-auto.
I'm selfish and want the older ones like old Smith's, for wheelies and Gov't 1911s for semi's...all for me....okay gotta share with the likes of Tamara, Mike...
Society used to teach shooting to family and all...not putting lead downrange "somewhere" in the vicinity of target, actually how to shoot. This was most often with a Revolver.
I still contend learning to shoot a Revolver DA better instills the basic fundamentals that can , if one chooses to, transiton to other semi auto MOA's.
Times were tough, money was tight, one bought quality reliable firearms with much thought, because they waited until they had the money or put it on Lay-a-way. Folks shot other folk's gun - "try before they bought". NO "drop the plastic and I I don't like it, or not "cool enough I'll just charge another one" mindset.
Marketing is about selling a product, often times the "need" is marketed in order to sell.
Personally - I think folks REALLY need to buy all the newfangled plastic guns in semi-auto.
I'm selfish and want the older ones like old Smith's, for wheelies and Gov't 1911s for semi's...all for me....okay gotta share with the likes of Tamara, Mike...
antediluvianist
New member
Of course there is that well-known point of view : ALL of the revolver's advantages (reliability, relative insensitivity to bullet ogive and power loading, etc.) simply do not make up for the revolver's significantly lower round capacity relative to many semi-autos, and their faster reloading procedure.
In my opinion, the above point of view is generally true for the use of firearms in military situations ( normal that there will be multiple enemy personnel etc.), and some police situations.
For civilian self-defense purposes, it is generally not necessary to lay down intensive fire at multiple armed attackers . A revolver and maybe a speedloader will provide more than sufficient round-capacity. Of course, there may be an instance in one's life when that will not be enough, but how many of us have ever really been attacked by multiple armed assailants? Can't prepare for everything or we would have to carry around grenades.
In my opinion, the above point of view is generally true for the use of firearms in military situations ( normal that there will be multiple enemy personnel etc.), and some police situations.
For civilian self-defense purposes, it is generally not necessary to lay down intensive fire at multiple armed attackers . A revolver and maybe a speedloader will provide more than sufficient round-capacity. Of course, there may be an instance in one's life when that will not be enough, but how many of us have ever really been attacked by multiple armed assailants? Can't prepare for everything or we would have to carry around grenades.
indigo-357
New member
Multiple Attackers
Greetings all -
First, if you find yourself facing enough armed attackers to warrant more than 6-8 rounds of uninterrupted fire, you are a dead man.
In most states, three people in a group with one presenting a weapon and threatening your life means you get to shoot one person, not all three. If all three have weapons drawn, then you're not going to kill all three before one of them kills you--you'll just die with a half full magazine.
If, by chance, you've managed to find enough cover to allow you the opportunity to fire on all three, then that same cover would allow ample opportunity and time for a skilled pistoleer to reload the revolver.
Regards,
Indigo
Greetings all -
First, if you find yourself facing enough armed attackers to warrant more than 6-8 rounds of uninterrupted fire, you are a dead man.
In most states, three people in a group with one presenting a weapon and threatening your life means you get to shoot one person, not all three. If all three have weapons drawn, then you're not going to kill all three before one of them kills you--you'll just die with a half full magazine.
If, by chance, you've managed to find enough cover to allow you the opportunity to fire on all three, then that same cover would allow ample opportunity and time for a skilled pistoleer to reload the revolver.
Regards,
Indigo
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I've got a Ruger Service Six that feels like it could be run over by a tank and still spit lead. Then, I'm one of those guys who doesn't really care for fancy gun finishes that revolvers sometimes have.
On the other hand, when a revolver does jam, I think you are more likely to need to take a trip to the gunsmith. Autos generally can be disassembled with no tools whatsoever. I would feel a little funny burying a revolver in sand, knowing the sand is getting into places I can't easily clean. The CZ, no problem.
Actually, I think each has its advantages and its place.
Unfortunately, the revolver's advantages have been overshadowed by the pistol for all the above reasons.
In particular, IMHO, a revolver is a superior HD handgun. It's simpler and more reliable. Assuming proper maintenance, I know those first six shots will go bang. I can also leave one loaded in a secure location for years on end and know it will go bang. Having been on the wrong end of a handgun more than once, I can say with some authority that an N frame is unbelievaby intimidating...Big holes, about five of 'em visible, four with nasty looking bullets in plain sight.
With respect to reloads, after some practice, I can reload my 625 with moonclips almost as fast as a 1911. Most revolvers can be modified for moonclips for less than $100 -- the cost of four or five pistol magazines.
Except for J frames, however, I think the CC advantage pretty much goes to the pistol. They're thinner and lighter. And some of them will handle dirt better than a revolver will. Some of can also shoot a pistol faster than a revolver. At least I can. I am somewhat more accurate with a revolver, though.
Unfortunately, the revolver's advantages have been overshadowed by the pistol for all the above reasons.
In particular, IMHO, a revolver is a superior HD handgun. It's simpler and more reliable. Assuming proper maintenance, I know those first six shots will go bang. I can also leave one loaded in a secure location for years on end and know it will go bang. Having been on the wrong end of a handgun more than once, I can say with some authority that an N frame is unbelievaby intimidating...Big holes, about five of 'em visible, four with nasty looking bullets in plain sight.
With respect to reloads, after some practice, I can reload my 625 with moonclips almost as fast as a 1911. Most revolvers can be modified for moonclips for less than $100 -- the cost of four or five pistol magazines.
Except for J frames, however, I think the CC advantage pretty much goes to the pistol. They're thinner and lighter. And some of them will handle dirt better than a revolver will. Some of can also shoot a pistol faster than a revolver. At least I can. I am somewhat more accurate with a revolver, though.
Heard an interesting thought on the subject......
....which warrants consideration.
Disclaimer: The information contained herein is not my own, but secondhand, and I neither support or negate the ideas presented.
That being said, I was told once that revolvers were ideal for housewives, urbanites, and others who do not operate guns regularly. This is due, I am told, to the minimal training required to operate them, and the minimal refresher courses necessary. It seems that some people are under the impression that a revolver is an excuse for lack of proper training.
I do not beleive this, and ask you to read and opine on this information objectively. I do not wish to convey an attitude of unprofessionalism, and would like to reassure you all that I take shooting and training VERY seriously.
So, take this and do what you will with it, but I think it's all BUCK
....which warrants consideration.
Disclaimer: The information contained herein is not my own, but secondhand, and I neither support or negate the ideas presented.
That being said, I was told once that revolvers were ideal for housewives, urbanites, and others who do not operate guns regularly. This is due, I am told, to the minimal training required to operate them, and the minimal refresher courses necessary. It seems that some people are under the impression that a revolver is an excuse for lack of proper training.
I do not beleive this, and ask you to read and opine on this information objectively. I do not wish to convey an attitude of unprofessionalism, and would like to reassure you all that I take shooting and training VERY seriously.
So, take this and do what you will with it, but I think it's all BUCK
Guy B. Meredith
New member
It appears that the consesus here is that trendiness/cool is a big factor, particularly for newbies. I think they would be more open if they had an opportunity for some actual experience.
I am too lazy to go back and track down who said what to whom in this thread, however:
One conversation had to do with trigger pull. I think that if more newbies had a chance to use a competition revolver with slick action and moonclips they would pay more attention to revolvers. Competition revolvers are so slick that they feel like toys and negate most of the issues with long DA trigger pull. They are unbelievable.
The question of speed in reloading an auto vs a revolver is dicey as a practiced user in either would come out about equal. Few auto users can come close to the reloads done in competition and Jerry Miculek's fire 6, reload, fire six more in 3 seconds is ahead of the crowd in revolver shooting.
Most of the revolver jams seem to be bullets or primers dislodging due to recoil (bad reloads), mainspring setting or individual brass caught under the star during relaods. The problem of individual rounds is eliminated with moonclips.
On the question of reliability, the International Revolver Championships are attended by about 150 shooters with revolvers tuned to the edge for competition, shooting up to 50 yards. Most use mooncllips. In three years I saw or heard about two failures--one Ruger for unknown reasons and one Smith for poor action tuning. In over 30,000 rounds in my short experience the only problem I've had is a loose mainspring set screw in my new 686+.
I am too lazy to go back and track down who said what to whom in this thread, however:
One conversation had to do with trigger pull. I think that if more newbies had a chance to use a competition revolver with slick action and moonclips they would pay more attention to revolvers. Competition revolvers are so slick that they feel like toys and negate most of the issues with long DA trigger pull. They are unbelievable.
The question of speed in reloading an auto vs a revolver is dicey as a practiced user in either would come out about equal. Few auto users can come close to the reloads done in competition and Jerry Miculek's fire 6, reload, fire six more in 3 seconds is ahead of the crowd in revolver shooting.
Most of the revolver jams seem to be bullets or primers dislodging due to recoil (bad reloads), mainspring setting or individual brass caught under the star during relaods. The problem of individual rounds is eliminated with moonclips.
On the question of reliability, the International Revolver Championships are attended by about 150 shooters with revolvers tuned to the edge for competition, shooting up to 50 yards. Most use mooncllips. In three years I saw or heard about two failures--one Ruger for unknown reasons and one Smith for poor action tuning. In over 30,000 rounds in my short experience the only problem I've had is a loose mainspring set screw in my new 686+.
I think it was said of Bill Jordan, but a man who can take out 6 opponent without reloading is not a man to be trifled with.
Good revolvers can outshoot most service autos. When you learn to put 6 of 6 on a man sized silhouette at a hundred yards from rollover prone and shoot one hole groups from 7 to 15 yards, you deservedly aquire a good deal of confidence in yourself.
Good revolvers can outshoot most service autos. When you learn to put 6 of 6 on a man sized silhouette at a hundred yards from rollover prone and shoot one hole groups from 7 to 15 yards, you deservedly aquire a good deal of confidence in yourself.
orionengnr
New member
Just bought my first revolver after 30+ years of shooting semi's. I was raised on 1911's, and have had P7's since they came out. Still have both, and then some.
Why did I shun revo's for so long? Someone earlier hit it right on the head--they always reminded me of cap guns I shot as a kid. Most looked cheap and toy-like while a 1911 looked right.
Finally found one that appeals to me--a stainless S&W 66 in 4". Bought it, like it, may add another soon. But I'm not letting go of my P7's or my Para...
Why did I shun revo's for so long? Someone earlier hit it right on the head--they always reminded me of cap guns I shot as a kid. Most looked cheap and toy-like while a 1911 looked right.
Finally found one that appeals to me--a stainless S&W 66 in 4". Bought it, like it, may add another soon. But I'm not letting go of my P7's or my Para...
my 2 cents worth......
I find a lot of auto folks seem to be that only. I find both systems to be great with each having it's own plus and minus list. I was first trained on a revolver back in the military and again by my company in the civilian world too. It seemed to me at the time to provide a good foundation (start) to my handgun knowledge and ability. I think with the help of Chuck Taylor and his American Small Arms Academy I became a very good revolver shot. He not only taught the basics but combat skills and speed at all the above. As he explained the FBI Crime Report and other data showed that (most) shootings were 5 or less shots......and were within 7 yards and something like 3 seconds or less sticks in my mind if I remember correct. That little amount of information tells the story. If my revolver is either the 5 or 6 shot type I am understanding my odds at least according to data show that a wheel gun will fit the need. As all of us know the more practice and time at the range will boast the chance we will survive the ugly ordeal.
With all that said, I carry a 9mm pistol today. I find it also able to do what it needs to. I load my magazine with 9 shots. So I have gained 3 extra shots than that of the revolver. It is a light poly type firearm that weighs about 18 ounces. It conceals great and shoots very well. So to make this long story short and tell you my choice. I would feel secure with either and intend to get a 357 ported snub nose soon. I feel the answer to the old question won't be answered. Both are great tools capable of the same thing with limitations. Both are tools to help the officer or civilian maintain life that some ugly individual wants to take from you. PRACTICE AND MORE PRACTICE FOLLOWED BY CONSTANT AWARENESS AND PRACTICE....
SHOOT STRAIGHT.......... Maintain a winners additude and refuse to give up... even if your on your last shot ......... many have survived unreal odds with a positive mind frame.........
I find a lot of auto folks seem to be that only. I find both systems to be great with each having it's own plus and minus list. I was first trained on a revolver back in the military and again by my company in the civilian world too. It seemed to me at the time to provide a good foundation (start) to my handgun knowledge and ability. I think with the help of Chuck Taylor and his American Small Arms Academy I became a very good revolver shot. He not only taught the basics but combat skills and speed at all the above. As he explained the FBI Crime Report and other data showed that (most) shootings were 5 or less shots......and were within 7 yards and something like 3 seconds or less sticks in my mind if I remember correct. That little amount of information tells the story. If my revolver is either the 5 or 6 shot type I am understanding my odds at least according to data show that a wheel gun will fit the need. As all of us know the more practice and time at the range will boast the chance we will survive the ugly ordeal.
With all that said, I carry a 9mm pistol today. I find it also able to do what it needs to. I load my magazine with 9 shots. So I have gained 3 extra shots than that of the revolver. It is a light poly type firearm that weighs about 18 ounces. It conceals great and shoots very well. So to make this long story short and tell you my choice. I would feel secure with either and intend to get a 357 ported snub nose soon. I feel the answer to the old question won't be answered. Both are great tools capable of the same thing with limitations. Both are tools to help the officer or civilian maintain life that some ugly individual wants to take from you. PRACTICE AND MORE PRACTICE FOLLOWED BY CONSTANT AWARENESS AND PRACTICE....
SHOOT STRAIGHT.......... Maintain a winners additude and refuse to give up... even if your on your last shot ......... many have survived unreal odds with a positive mind frame.........