OK. This thread went down several years ago. It turned into something unbecoming of PF Membership due to behavior. I see the merit in the conversation today. Be polite and leave the rulers at home please.
-Hizzie
I find myself faced with this choice because of age (serious arthritis in hands, shoulders, etc.) and old OTJ injuries. In the past 6-9 months I have found it increasingly difficulty to perform the manual of arms with my semi autos. The Glock G30S, my primary carry gun is the most difficult. I often can no longer retract the slide to lock it open. My G36 is a little better as is my G21 but on a bad day both require numerous attempts. I even dug out my last 1911, which I can't shoot because of the swollen arthritis knuckles, and tried to clear it to slide lock. Finally made it on the third try. This is unacceptable to me, hence my considering a revolver as my primary carry, defensive weapon.
I have a S&W 386 Night Guard that is my first consideration. I tried to sell it for a year, then figured if I had to keep it I'd make it optimum. TK Custom milled the cylinder to take their Moonclips, giving me a 7 shot revolver with a fast (for a wheel gun) reload if I come up with a way to carry them. My other consideration is a new to me S&W 325 PD with a 4" barrel. When I got it I immediately switched the Ti cylinder for a 625 cylinder. It had a horrendous DA trigger so my gunsmith cleaned it up and made it fun to shoot. Carrying a murse makes this a possibility but I'm still thinking about it.
Also, after watching "the interview" with DB I bought a 642, which is also at the gunsmith getting a front sight I can see. I don't see myself utilizing it as a primary carry gun. I'm thinking of it as "the gun to carry when I can't carry a gun", loosely quoting Darryl.
I'd be interested in hearing comments and/or a discussion from any of you who actually carry a revolver every day instead of the current fad of a half plastic, hi-cap 9mm. What do you carry, how do you handle reloads, and what are you loading your cylinders & speed loaders with? And if your reading this because you think I'm nuts, have at it. I've been insulted by experts, I can take it. (smile)
Dave