Specifically for the 642/442.
I have been following along in the J frame thread and picked up some nuggets of info, but not sure if I missed or mis-remembered anything regarding how to set up these for BUG or rule 1 carry. So far is what I've gathered below, but would greatly appreciate any corrections or recommendations. Also not sure what I'm missing so if I overlooked anything would appreciate it. Obviously a BUG or revolver class would need to be on here as well, but primarily focusing on the hardware issue here.
Gun upgrades:
Grips - Any recs here would be appreciated. Do the stock grips work well? I know also that people seem to strongly recommend laser grips. Is Crimson Trace the only way to go? I know there are other brands out there, but don't see anyone recommending anything except CT.
Grips are a personal thing. I use Altamonts because I like wood and they fit my hand.
Sights - Sharpie or blacken rear sights, and generally people use orange for the front sight. How do people paint the front sights so the paint sticks?
I was using green nail polish but I have since found glow on paint. White by day, one hit with the light and glow at night.
Apex kit - Seems to help drop the weight from 12 lbs to 9 lbs. Would there be any concerns with using this kit in a carry piece?
I like the stock trigger. Shoot it. it will smooth out
Other - Possibly finish with Robar NP3 Plus if desired based on feedback from the other thread
642 coat over finish sucks, 442 holds up well
Support gear:
Pocket Holsters - Appears the Aholster and DeSantis Nemesis or Superfly are recommended. For the AHolster, do those with experience have a recommendation on whether to go with the traditional or the backbone revolver with the cylinder cutout?
Desantis nemesis all the way.
IWB holster - seems like the DSG clipon is the way to go here
I have found the ride height and soft leather of the Galco stow and go is perfect FOR ME. Holsters are a personal thing like grips.
Ankle holsters - wasn't mentioned and any recommendations would be welcome
Reloads - appear to be speed strips only from what people recommend. Are all speedstrips basically made the same?
For loaders. The 5 star firearms are the best I found. You can have them custom make CW release. They come CCW release standard. S.L. Variants are the second best. But no longer imported so good luck finding them. HKS rub a little.
Here are my photos and comaprisons/specs:
https://thedesertsedge.wordpress.com...-speedloaders/ .
https://thedesertsedge.wordpress.com...-range-report/
I usually carry strips though.
Ammo - Is this from DocGKR still the consensus on ammo for J frames?
148gr Wadcutters or 135gr Speer GDSP are all I carry