Is a revolver enough?

[Doc Dan]

Is a revolver enough gun for concealed carry and defensive requirements? I'm not talking about something like an NAA 22 mag single action revolver, but something like a S&W J Frame or K Frame with a 2 or 3" barrel. I am thinking 327 magnum, 38 special, 9mm, or 357 magnum for calibers. What do you all think?

Most shootings only use 1 to 3 rounds.
A revolver is more reliable than a small pocket semi-auto.
A revolver can be had as light as 12 oz (340g).
A revolver can be more powerful than a pocket semi-auto.
A small revolver is very easily concealed.

[Ankerson]

Why wouldn't it be?

[TomAiello]

A handgun is a disengagement tool. Its purpose is to achieve sufficient stand off to allow you to remove yourself (and your loved ones, if necessary) from a dangerous situation. A revolver is definitely enough for that.

The reliability advantage, especially if you are forced to discharge the weapon in a less than ideal position, is an important point in favor of the revolver.

Have you looked at the Ruger LCR?

[MacLaren]

I agree with Jim.
Especially with the ammo available today
But, a good ole 357 magnum with a 158gr jhp will certainly be enough imo
But, look into Underwood Xtreme Defender
I use them in my .357 magnum, .38 spcl
& .45 Automatic

[MacLaren]

S&W Model 19-3 w/Underwood Ammo. 38 Special Xtreme Defender

I take this with me every camping trip we have
It or the .45 Auto - but it's usually the 19-3 that goes....

[MacLaren]

And, if your worried about ammo capacity- just get a couple speed loaders and practice re-loading
I love a wheel gun. The trigger on this 1977 model 19-3 is just pure bliss.
A revolver is an excellent choice imo
& not trying to be a know it all but, Doc, make sure whatever you get has a good trigger - look for a good used older Smith - just my opinion Doc.

[TomAiello]

Underwood makes some really good ammo. It's my first choice for defensive use.

[RustyIron]

Is a revolver enough gun for concealed carry and defensive requirements?

Yes. Gun guys tend to quibble about capacities, calibers, sights, and holsters, when the biggest obstacle to personal safety is between one's ears.

Unless you're a deep undercover operative being hunted by both the KGB and cartel assassination squads, then a modestly sized gun is likely to suffice.

[MacLaren]

Is a revolver enough gun for concealed carry and defensive requirements?

Yes. Gun guys tend to quibble about capacities, calibers, sights, and holsters, when the biggest obstacle to personal safety is between one's ears.

Unless you're a deep undercover operative being hunted by both the KGB and cartel assassination squads, then a modestly sized gun is likely to suffice.

Man, we've had a BLAST with those Time Life Old West books!!!
Been meaning to thank you again!!

[RustyIron]

Man, we've had a BLAST with those Time Life Old West books!!!
Been meaning to thank you again!!

Your enjoyment is thanks enough.
Glad you're having fun with them.

[yablanowitz]

The sole disadvantage to a revolver lies in concealing the thickness of the cylinder. An automatic of comparable power and capacity will be easier to conceal. If your build and clothing can handle that, revolver is fine.

[Doc Dan]

I note that at contact "get off of me!" distance most semi-autos will not fire, but a revolver will. I shoot a semi-auto much better, but that ability to shoot through a coat pocket or at contact cannot be overlooked.

[Doc Dan]

Have you looked at the Ruger LCR?

Yes, I used the Kel-Tec version to successfully defend my life and the lives of others. It worked perfectly. I love the size and weight.

[akapennypincher]

Revolver is enough, hope you never need use for CCW, as if your not charged criminally, and are 110% justified. Your chances of being civilly sued is good, and will cost you money to defend yourself

[Tristan_david2001]

Did Jesus use guns

[legOFwhat?]

Every good shepherd protects his sheep

[MacLaren]

Did Jesus use guns

No sir, be He told us to get a sword.....

[MacLaren]

Every good shepherd protects his sheep

Amen

[MacLaren]

The sole disadvantage to a revolver lies in concealing the thickness of the cylinder. An automatic of comparable power and capacity will be easier to conceal. If your build and clothing can handle that, revolver is fine.

That's a great point.
I've never really concealed carries before but, I can certainly see what your saying

[yablanowitz]

Kansas enacted "Constitutional Carry" a few years ago. Open carry has always been legal here, but not really socially acceptable. Even now, not openly advertising that one is carrying is advisable from a social standpoint. The flatness of an auto is less likely to print through clothing than the bulge of the wheelgun's cylinder.

As for the auto being unable to fire at contact range, wrong. If you are muzzle punching someone hard enough to force the slide out of battery, that will prevent most locked breech pistols from firing, but not straight blowback actions. Firing inside a pocket has a lot of variables involved, and clothing is as likely to snag a revolver's hammer and prevent firing as it is to stop an auto from firing.