If you're new to revolvers and to shooting, a snubby is not, IMO, a good pick to learn on. At least you're not going with an Airweight, though.
(But if you do, and if you don't reload, think about getting a case of wadcutters for practicing.)
If you're new to revolvers and to shooting, a snubby is not, IMO, a good pick to learn on. At least you're not going with an Airweight, though.
(But if you do, and if you don't reload, think about getting a case of wadcutters for practicing.)
If we have to march off into the next world, let us walk there on the bodies of our enemies.
I found the SP101 tends to shoot bigger than a snub. Almost like a narrow K frame. I think for the one gun person that wants to do everything from concealed carry, outdoors protection and a bedside gun, the SP101 in .357 mag is one of those guns that is really sort of a jack of all trades master of none propositions. If you can get one with decent sights, even better.
Just a Hairy Special Snowflake supply clerk with no field experience, shooting an Asymetric carbine as a Try Hard. Snarky and easily butt hurt. Favorite animal is the Cape Buffalo....likely indicative of a personality disorder.
"If I had a grandpa, he would look like Delbert Belton".
I agree that between the two, as a "primary" defensive pistol, the SP101 would be my choice. I also agree that if you're trying to "learn" revolvers, a nice 4" 38 is a better place to start...
The S&W always when given a choice. The trigger pull alone makes the S&W first choice. You ain't gonna wear out either gun. Every 101 I've ever tried had a very heavy trigger pull, no way to shoot accurately in D/A mode.
Piggybacking off what others in this thread are saying it might behoove you to pick up a S&W Model 10 from A&G for ~$350 which will be a great way to give the whole revolver thing a try and if you do determine you like it you could get a snubbie for EDC.
If you decide to go the way of the semi you could then sell me the Model 10 for a $50 loss and buy yourself a suitable semi-auto
I carried an SP-101 for a number of years as a BUG and found it to be a great gun. Mine was the DAO version. I liked it because it was a little gun that shot like a big gun and I could get a grip on it, which I've never been able to do with a J Frame. For the one and only snubbie the Ruger gets my vote.
On the other hand, I have a nickel plated snub nosed Model 10 I'd take over either one.
Last edited by Trooper224; 05-22-2018 at 01:25 PM.
We may lose and we may win, but we will never be here again.......
Thanks for Post#1. I was completely unaware S&W was making a .38 Special (only) Model 60 (once again). I wonder what its back-story is.
Regarding which of the two posted revolvers to get, get either or both. Both manufacturers have good warranty/repair reputations. Any gun can result in a warranty repair issue. It'd be nice to have a firearm immediately available should one need repair/replacement, instead of taking more time to go buy a substitute while the first one is away for such repair/replacement (which could take a week to a few months before returning).
"Therefore, since the world has still... Much good, but much less good than ill,
And while the sun and moon endure, Luck's a chance, but trouble's sure,
I'd face it as a wise man would, And train for ill and not for good." -- A.E. Housman
I've owned both and would recommend handling both, and go with the one that feels right to you. The Ruger is heavier, and that does make a difference to me in everyday carry. I know you want a steel frame, and I prefer steel frames too. But more often now days I carry a S&W 642 .38 Spcl. with aluminum frame, just due to the lighter weight. If I could only have one little 5-shooter for the rest of my days though, I'd likely go with the SP-101......ymmv