I carry a revolver with me every day. I lost most of the use of my primary (left) hand in a factory accident. I have trained myself to shoot with my off (right) hand, and I can shoot pretty well. One thing I can’t do is rack the slide on an auto loader. I know they carry more rounds. I know they can be a thinner profile. I know. However, if I can’t clear a jam, or ready it after reloading, it is a paperweight. My revolver is reliable. It shoots where I want it to, and I can reload it with little difficulty. Plus, I just really like revolvers. All of the comparisons in the world are great, but sometimes physical challenges make all of the difference.
@@seoulkidd1 Yeah... Maybe. I haven't seen too many pocket autos that have sights which would permit that, even if you could do it, which might not be too easy in a stressful situation. Better to carry a revolver (or two!) Point and click. A reliable pocket auto, and a revolver as a New York Reload is another option. Just my opinion, and you know what those are worth.
@seoulkidd1: If your shoe has a heel that will work (many do not), if your body is adequately limber and your balance is sufficient to do so with ease (consider those who may be 55+, or have limited agility due to physical ailments, or simply lack to coordination to do so), and if you want to invest the time and effort to perfect this skill. Further, how vulnerable will you be while standing/sitting still, possibly on one leg, attempting to rack the slide with other leg’s shoe-heel?
George Bernard Shaw famously wrote: “YOUTH IS WASTED ON THE YOUNG.” People - of all ages - suffer serious injuries and illnesses that impair their strength and other physical abilities. When I was a kid, Polio was an annual horror and many very young people were somewhat handicapped for life. Now I frequently meet younger “brothers and sisters veterans” in the Commissary, in the Exchange, at our local American Legion, and other venues, who clearly are impaired by combat wounds suffered in the last two decades. Many of these heroes will live for 60+ more years, we all pray they will be happy and productive, AND they have the RIGHT to protect themselves, their families, and other innocents. It seems to me to be quite arrogant for any individual to believe he’ll forever be immune to the vagaries of aging - specifically including physical challenges that just might force someone to use a revolver instead of the latest, super duper, striker-fired, polymer-frame, autoloader. And, incidentally, a good revolver certainly remains a very formidable defensive weapon. In fact, the probability of requiring all those rounds (perhaps 13+1, 15+1, or even more) in modern, full-sized semiautomatic for citizen-defense is truly minuscule . . . unless, of course, the shooter is so ill-trained that he is likely to miss a LOT.
They're fine with the correct ammo choice. No need for a holster and you can carry multiple guns instead of reloading in the middle of the fight. Empty one, drop it, grab another, rinse and repeat.
This channel inspired me to get my first carry gun, (a .327 LCR) with content like this. I grew up with revolvers and am extremely comfortable with their triggers and sights, and I can actually shoot my LCR better than any of my mid-size/smaller semiautos. It’s neat to see people talk about their merits now and then, in spite of their deficiencies.
Still keeping my eyes open for a 327 LCR. My first EDC was a LCRx in 9mm. Got it 4 years ago and traded it in 2 months ago for a SP101 357 which is my trail gun. I would gladly carry a LCR 327 EDC. In the mean time I go back and forth between a 32 Tomcat and a 380 Bersa.
I have found that revolvers are a far better option for concealed carry. It ultimately comes down to the grip. The fact that the grip of a semiauto serves a dual purpose seems to be a distinct disadvantage. Whereas, for a revolver the grip can excel at is only job, of that of a grip.
L J I pissed off a guy on a comment thread just the other day cause he was saying how his 1911 and three spare mags ccw rig was the only Proper way to Cary
@@Wyttt95 It's funny how so many people think they are going to be using their gun in some kind of combat situation where they will need 30+ rounds to save themselves. The overwhelming odds are that they will never have to use their gun, and in the rare occasion they do, they probably won't even have to fire it. In the extremely rare instance where they do have to actually shoot someone, one magazine or less will be used.
Good video all around. I’m retired now but I often carry my .38 special. It saved my butt once in Chicago. I’m a large man so it doesn’t print on my frame. Good presentation. 🍀
I also like Matt from Self Defense Education, John from Warrior Poets Society, Aaron from Sage Dynamics, TN Outdoors 9. Lucky Gunner has good production values 🎬📹💻📀🗣
I'm currently in Orlando.gov . ☹. From 2012-2017, I lived approx 1mi from Pulse Night Club 🏳️🌈. The Pulse Terror attack & the 2018 MSD Parkland HS shooting ruined most open carry, pro 2A gun laws in Florida. Mylicensesite.com .
I firmly believe that every gun owner should have at least one Revolver in their collection. I know there are young new shooters out there who have never owned or shot a Revolver and I strongly recommend adding one to you're collection. I love semi auto guns and my favorite are the Glocks but I learned to shoot and appreciate the value of that old fashion wheel gun, with that double action trigger pull and the all around reliability. I also trained with and carried a S&W 38 spl as my Duty Weapon for many years before switching to a Glock 19. I have no doubt that my early experience with the Revolver has made me a much better shooter and I will always have one!
For me, the edge goes to the revolver. If we're talking pocket guns, a lot of the advantages that automatics have (e..g capacity, ease of use) are mitigated by their form factor, whereas the advantages of a revolver (e.g. ergonomics, strong advantage at contact distance) remain undiminished. A lot of people trash revolvers as being obsolete, but they still have their place, especially in pocket/back-up carry, and as a quality sidearm for the outdoors. They're also just rad af.
@imnotusingmyrealname4566 If your attacker is on you, sticking an auto pistol into them pushes the slide back a little - taking it out of battery and it won't fire. A revolver will fire in that situation.
I don't feel comfortable carrying a cocked striker or cocked hammer fired pistol in a pocket holster. I do feel comfortable carrying a revolver or a DAO or DA/SA pistol in a pocket holster because of the heavier trigger pull. My priorities are: #1 to carry a gun, and #2 not to have an accidental discharge. Reasonable people may disagree. Thanks for the excellent presentation.
I agree with this video as usual. It’s great to see videos that make sense for normal gun people. I’m a combat vet. I’m a cop. I have been an armed professional for almost 20 years. I’m not some tactical guru, commando wannabe; just a slightly overweight, almost 40 dude with a wife, kids and some life experience. I don’t need or want a full size .45 with 4 extra magazines. I’m not expecting a roadside ambush. I’m not kicking in a door on a violent felony warrant. While I own these things, I have no interest in carrying them. I’m going to the store to by a gallon of milk or taking my family out for dinner. I carry a S&W 642 or Shield 9 almost exclusively. In the summer I almost always go with the snub nose, the rest of the year it’s the Shield.
I really appreciate whenever gun guys are willing to try and meet people where they’re at. Not everybody can carry a Glock 19 all the time. I think we would have a higher number of responsible and ethical everyday carriers if the super gun bros didn’t try to gatekeep what’s acceptable to carry.
I took a very realistic somewhat brutal survival/self defense course The revolver is easier to get out enough to use if you find yourself dealing with someone who is using MMA wrestling holds on you from behind . The snub nose allows you to get the muzzle in position to do damage and can be shot again with out the slide needing to have enough room to cycle in fact all of the shots can be made without the muzzle losing contact with the attacker . In this situation we are trained to empty the revolver into the attacker so he has nothing to shoot you with if he is still able to get the gun away from you.
Great video; thanks! I'm really more of a revolver gal, but I don't ever carry off-body and I don't wear belts. I like pocket carry although I have a couple of Remora holsters, too. Jackets and vests are not really a problem for my snubbies (better at contact distance which is what always comes to my mind), but women's pants pockets are either nonexistent, microscopic, or very small. My Bodyguard 380 is the only gun I own that is small enough to pocket carry in most of my jeans and pants. So...
@Chris - THANK YOU, I believe this has been the most valuable video in the entire “pocket pistol” series. While others may not agree, I’d respectfully suggest there’s another advantage to small revolvers (I favor the 2.25 inch SP-101, even with its somewhat greater weight): SIMPLICITY. Even more than a home defense weapon, a “pocket pistol” is likely to be needed with essentially zero warning time. Under that sort of confusion and emotional pressure, otherwise simple and critical tasks (such as disengaging a thumb-safety or clearing a jam) - notwithstanding considerable training and practice - may not be accomplished flawlessly, quickly or easily. When every millisecond counts, the famous military KISS principle just might make a lot of sense.
@@nathanielpatterson6963 as unlikely as it is that you will be in a lethal force self defence scenario, it is that unlikely again, unlikely squared, that it will take more than 5-6 rounds. But more importantly, speed loaders exist.
Great job Chris. You clearly and articulately laid out the pros and cons for these two platforms. Any newbie to the concealed carry world should watch this, and even those who think they've got t all figured out should watch with an open mind. Your channel and Paul Harrell's are my two favorite gun channels. Keep up the great work.
This is the best firearms channel out there and I like a lot of them. LGA videos are well made, objective, and considering their lab coat approach to whatever subject they're tackling, refreshingly free from monotony.
This has been a great series. This analysis is spot on and very realistic. This kind of content is great for me to share with friends that I am trying to get into self defense.
Also, I think you get a long-term better quality firearm when you choose a revolver over what’s available now in pocket pistols. Mass production and material compromises are showing their shortcomings. No one has ever said, “my pocket pistol is built like a tank.” Excellent video again!
I carry a Kahr myself but I agree with your bigger point: If the person is unsure of themselves or doesn’t invest in the training and care for a semi auto pistol, then the revolver will be the more reliable choice. Not necessarily from a mechanical perspective but from the human aspect.
Excellent video on small conceal carry. Without a doubt, the most important thing is "will you carry it". A mouse gun is better than nothing, especially when you realized that alot of times simply presenting will take care of the situation. I found (for me) that my G26, M&P 9c, P365 were too heavy for me to carry all-day everyday (usually around 8-10hrs). I could go a little longer with my PF9 on average. But my BG380, LCP, or airweight J-frame I could go 20hrs. Heck, many times I've actually fallen asleep with my 380s so 24hrs+. As always a great video Chris.
The best conceal gun ive owned was a sig p238.. a compact revolver is good too but makes more of a buldge. Regardless, my only gun at the moment is a 2” medium frame 38/357 revolver weighing almost 30oz and its still doable, especially with a jacket
I use an LCR 357 bc I work in SF (yes you can actually get a ccw permit in CA) and I ride the BART out of town, and everyone is anti-gun. Just imagine someone seeing a gun on the train, nightmare.
@@pamusso1466 Small world, man. I used to live in Dublin. To say that area is generally anti-gun (other than the military people on base) is an understatement. So glad to be out of that state.
@@WALTERBROADDUS there is ignorant people everywhere, thick skin I guess. I have the pleasure of dealing with them in my line of work. They will never get it.
Two advantages I love about revolvers is that they will never not cycle the rounds and they can be fired through pressing on fabric if it’s in the pocket. A third if I needed one would be that they don’t throw casings around.
Be careful with high-pressure rounds. They'll deafen you. I just switched to a .44 Special. A large low-pressure round. It probably won't expand but, it already goes in at .43 caliber.
@Aniquin I have seen a couple guys fall over in pain from muzzle blast. If you shoot in enclosed quarters YOU will go down in pain. It's like being punched in the ears by Mike Tyson. Better to have a non magnum round and just shoot one more into the guy if needed.
@@219garry lol imagine being in a high stress situation, protecting your family, and doubling over from noise.. I understand you may get dizzy and such, but don't think that would impact my ability to shoot back.
You get a like for defining your terms if nothing else. Too many people use special or restricted definitions or ones poorly understood by the general public without any clarification, so thank you. (the actual discussion was solid as well)
I have both and since the post is about "pocket pistols" meaning carried "in a pocket", there is one big advantage to the J-Frame. It can be fired from inside the pocket if necessary very effectively but the auto may or may not due to limited area for the slide and ejection to take place. What you wear has everything to do with what you should carry.
I couldn’t agree more. There have been times when I’ve had to walk a couple of blocks from a parking garage to my favorite restaurant in not the best part of town. When I do, I have my hands in the pocket of my windbreaker holding my Ruger LCR. No one is alerted to the fact that I am ready to shoot through the jacket if I am suddenly attacked. No hammer or slide issues that could get caught on clothing.
I carry a taurus 85 front pocket all the time and it's a great way to carry a firearm. Yeah it prints, but it doesn't look like a gun in my pocket unlike most autos.
They are fairly uncomfortable too. I'm a .32 caliber revolver guy and I love the .327 in my SP101, but in the LCR it's pretty awful and comparable to those J-Frame .357's out there. Not quite as unpleasant but bad enough that it's not going to be my first choice. If loaded with .32 H&R or even .32 S&W Long wadcutters, I'd consider it but to me it defeats the point of being able to use .327 if you're never going to use it. While ordinarily I'd not be concerned about comfort in a life or death situation, if that discomfort can cause malfunctions or accuracy issues when you're rounds limited it might make the difference. Plus, I actually practice with the guns Im trusting my life with and if it's uncomfortable to shoot then subsequently I get little practice in and that's just counter productive.
@@Predalien195 Thanks for the reply. Definitely a good point that you make about recoil of the 327. Recoil management is a very personal thing. My 327 sp101 doesn't hurt me to shoot. I've shot quite a few rounds through my dad's 327 LRC and don't recall thinking I'd have an issue controlling it in a defensive situation either, despite it being much lighter than the sp101. But I also have a 2" sp101 chambered in 357 ..... so that's just me I guess. My personally feeling is that in a SD situation, adrenaline is going to be high and recoil is not going to affect usage so much that you drop the gun or manage to cause a malfunction in a revolver. Point, squeeze trigger, repeat. So long as you manage the gun well enough that shots connect with target, the goal is accomplished. But as you pointed out, you have the option of shooting 32H&R in the LCR chambered for 327. For someone who might prefer the simplicity and reliability of a revolver, I'd argue that this is still a very decent choice. It still has ballistics on par or better than 380 acp and gets you an extra shot over a 38 spl. I had some Hornady Critical Defense sitting on my shelf in both 32H&R and 380acp so I checked numbers on the box. Hornady doesn't specify what barrel length was used in generating these numbers, but they are: 32H&R - 80 gr FTX @ 1150fps; 380acp 90gr FTX @ 1000fps. With all of that being said..... I don't personally choose too CC a revolver. If I'm dressing to be able to carry IWB, I'll typically have either a double-stack 9mm, my Shield 45, or sometimes my G29 (talk about recoil). If I'm going directly to pocket I typically choose one of my 380's or maybe even my P32 if I really want it to not show up. It's only 32acp but I subscribe to the "it's 1000% better than the larger gun that I left at home" doctrine. I also have a Sig 938 that I will occasionally pocket carry condition 1. But I wouldn't recommend carrying a SA gun with safety to someone who doesn't shoot it regularly enough to make the working of the action and safety 2nd nature. What's best for one person will not be best for another. And what's best for someone in one situation won't be what's most ideal in another. Having multiple CC options is nice but not everyone will want to have multiple guns or may not spend enough time at the range to be proficient with them. The best advice I could give anyone is that if you're trying to decide what to buy for yourself, talk to lots of people, get lots of opinions, and most importantly, go down to your gun store that offers gun rental with a range and try out as many types of guns as you can before making your decision. Cheers!
I shoot 327 mag out of my LCR and it has almost the same blast at the muzzle as my sis n laws LCR in 357, but there is alittle less felt recoil in mine with the 327. 👍🏻
But can you find kydex holsters for it? They need a different mold than 357 due to the different spaced cylinder notches. And what about ammo? Lucky Gunner has 357 gel tests so you know what performance can be expected. They don't have anything for 327. I don't want to under penetrate and fail to stop a threat, but I don't want to over penetrate and endanger an innocent either. Most of the 327 ammo seems to be for hunting, so who knows how it performs on people out of a snub.
@@DWalter.27 .327 Federal was DESIGNED for CCW. Not for hunting. It was originally intended for the 3 inch SP101 and the 2 inch SP101 in .327 Federal. Those came before ANY other firearms in the chambering. The results of testing in 3 inch barreled models showed 100gr and 115gr Gold Dot, Hydra Shok, and XTP loads to be attaining velocities in the 1,300+ range, with energy levels in the 350 ft lb area or greater. Which is directly on par with +P and +P+ 9x19 ballistics in full size guns like G19's or G17's. The 2 inch doesnt lose much more performance and still delivers 1,200 fps or greater on average when using the 100gr to 115gr bullets which are most common for defensive loadings. 85gr's exist as do 130grs but 85gr's compared to the 100gr loads in the 2 and 3 inch barrels suffer. In 4 inch or longer barrels they come out ok. Finding kydex holsters for an LCR in .327 isnt a chore either. Plenty of companies make holsters for the SP101 that will fit both the .327 and .357 models respectively. So one can still expect excellent performance in a short 2 inch barrel with .327 Federal, however the lightweight LCR is quite uncomfortable using the caliber as I've experienced personally. If you're a glutton for pain or you just have an off switch for it, I suppose that's fine. It does produce about 20% less felt recoil than a typical .357 does though. So it's a little more comparable to a super hot .38 Special that's pushing .357 levels of power, but still not quite as rough as the .357 as a whole.
This is a great presentation of the issue. I generally go P365 or G43 as the smallest auto, which isn't really a pocket pistol. Smaller than that, Ruger LCR .38. 5 shots 100% beats 5-8 shots with
S&W 638 for me. I like the shrouded hammer, I like having the option of shooting single action while enjoying the snag free practicality of DA, I like the reliability, I like the weight, and I like the trigger. Hard to beat the DA trigger pull of a S&W. J frames are good little guns.
Kel tec makes really good guns for the price. Im a ruger and smith n wesson fan myself. I just baught a ruger PC 9mm carbine. It takes ruger and glock magazines
I've got plenty of great carry guns, yet I almost always carry my lcp or j frame. I feel completely confident that either will accomplish the task of breaking contact.
I really appreciate how well thought out your videos are, even when I sometimes disagree on some point. You are in top form with this video. There is not a single nit to pick.
I don't conceal carry nor would I try in in my gun hostile state. I think your comments make a lot of sense to me and validated my past choices. I have autos and snub nose revolvers for home defense. For years I have relied on the snub nose guns as my choice in an emergency. I never wanted to deal with the extra concerns an auto could present, as you covered when split-second really counts. With a snub nose, all that has to work is the trigger.
@@willl4219 Well, where I live near some of the highest crime centers in the USA, CCWs are denied 99.9875% to residents only police, state, & federal get CCW rights, and regular folks can get a VRC victims recognition certificate.
I hate it when some people say that Revolvers are "obsolete" when many people still carry or keep batons, canes/sticks, knives, baseball bats and many other non-guns as defensive weapons. Revolvers are firearms and firearms that can't be knocked out of battery in a close quarters fight for life and death.
This was in part the best review I've ever heard, First and foremost, the revolver is not my first choice, I'm a striker fired guy and lean towards the Kahr, PM9 so much for my preferences, Buttttttttttt this review takes the time to explain why the revolver is such a great American choice for concealed carry, because the cylinder is wider then the grip ,, there's space to make a positive grasp on the stock, after that it all on you. Most of these comparisons are too one way related to the carrier's preference,,,, this guy takes the time to explain the issues involved in concealed carry, on an everyday basis,,, Truth be told, its the tiniest issues which effect what you'll carry on an everyday basis. one little spear or rub and its a no go and that piece hits the secondary market. GREAT REVIEW AND EXPLANATION!!!!
I have quit carrying my LCP and now carry my 327 LCR. Love that gun.it can shoot 32 short, 32 cap, 32 long, 32 H&R magnum and of course 327 magnum. Love the gold dot 327 magnum in it.
One point of consideration is the time and effort needed to "weapon up" as in putting on a holster, etc. Some people do not gear up just to go down to the local market for example for some take out due to the hassle. With a pocket pistol, the effort becomes no more than carrying around a wallet. It is much easier to carry 24/7 if that is what you wanted to do. Of course, if you could achieve that same level with a snubnose, that would be ideal. Good video BTW.
Pocket guns are great. I’ve seen former operators carry them. Small light firearm you can grab and put in your pocket in a low threat environment. Good video.
Not sure if the company hired you to do these TH-cam vids or not, but you have an amazing talent for presentations of this format. You are well spoken, with tons of knowledge. I never skip your videos. Ever. I stopped carrying micro .380's, because of the reliability issues with them. I don't even own one anymore. I think my next purchase will be the high capacity S&W .22mag revolver. I think it's a 7 shot. I wish Taurus still made the model 904 8 shot. .22mag is just as capable as .380, in my opinion. I had a Ruger LCR .22mag, but it had major light strike issues, because they tried to get "cute" with the trigger, which caused the hammer drop to be too weak. I've had lots of problems with Rugers lately. I won't buy EVER buy another one. Period. They've had their head in their ass, for the last couple of years. Meanwhile, Taurus keeps getting better, and better.
Excellent -- been carrying a S&W mod. 38 with a Hogue grip in the front pants pocket for about a year now. Do have to watch that my pants or shorts have large a enough pocket for the Galco holster but no other issues with it. Also, pocket pistols are extremely fast if you already have your hands in your pocket in expectation of a threat. Thanks for the great video.
This is the smartest gun review on TH-cam. None of that gun store ranger BS some guys pull here. I swear if conversations on guns were like this guy's presentation more anti gun folks would switch sides because they would see the reason. Hearts and minds folks, hearts and minds....
Well I agree with you for the most part. My revolver is 45 yr old Smith and Wesson 32 long. It won't break if you drop it. But the wood grips could give.. But the gun will still function. ..i have seen small frame semis break at the slide..
One of the best videos on concealed carry. You didn't miss a beat. I own full sized and pocket glocks. I'm a delivery driver, and I'm not allowed to have a gun at the terminal, but I can carry one on route. Poses a bit of a problem. You covered so much. I was considering a double action only snub nose revolver for an ankle gun, or maybe appendix. Shirt is always tucked, and ankles are often exposed. You earned a subsbsriber today.
I love my bodygaurd 380 for deep concealment. I have to wear scrubs where I work, and I never have a problem concealing it in my pocket. I like the idea of a snub nose 38, but I dont think I'd be able to conceal it with my work attire.
Remembering back when I first started to shoot handguns, I had a lot of stove pipes and failed to feeds. I found out the issue was that I had a wimpy grip. This was the reason for those issues after forming a secure grip. I no longer had these issues. Now of a situation in which you are being attacked and in that situation, you’re going to be very nervous because of your lifestyle and the sudden threat. Therefore, it could be possible that when gripping your handgun, it would be a wimpy grip. With that grip more than likely, you will get off a very good first shot because of your practice. The wimpy grip from all the anxiety and that situation will cause a stove pipe or a failure to feed and if you need more than one shot, you are a dead duck. with the revolver with a wimpy grip or not you will be able to get off the second third and fourth shot instinctively. So if you are not well trained, A semi automatic could cost you your life.
Of course I'd like to carry my G26 with a G17 back up mag every day. The reality is my G43 gets a few carries... and then my snubs and my little NAA Guardian gets varied Carrie's as well. As I approach 15 years of concealed carry every day...and being 52... I can see the snubs getting more and more carry as I will enter into retirement. Eventually, lol. For now I appreciate having all these options. Thank you for a wonderful and well balanced video.
I work at a gas station. We have been robbed twice in the last year. Employer has a no gun policy. But Damn right I’m carrying my m&p shield with me idgaf about this job that’s my life 😂
I tried all the semi auto pocket pistols, none of them made the cut. It's a little more difficult to carry, but the 38 Special snubnose cannot be matched for reliability.
I gave up mouse gun semi autos. I now have a Ruger SP-101 in .327 for home defense and a Ruger LCR .327 in a Sneaky Pete holster for concealed carry. Love the .327.
You are definitely a revolver enthusiast! ... and you also make some great points about the advantages of a snub nose. A very fair and even review. liked and subscribed!
Be cautious about guns with “great triggers” for pocket carry (yes in a holster). The Sig P365 comes to mind... For me, double-action triggers are best, but require more practice for precision.
I have been carrying concealed every day since 1973. As an off-duty police officer and now as a retired, licensed citizen. My first off duty gun was my duty gun, in a shoulder holster. Not too concealable. Then I bought a S&W M19 2.5", which is an awesome gun, but still a little too big and heavy for EDC. In 1974 I sought out and bought one of the just discontinued S&W Model 40 Centennial revolvers and have more or less been carrying a "hammerless" J frame ever since. I added a Model 640 in the 90s and, recently, a Model 642. I have never felt I needed "more". I also currently use a S&W Bodyguard .380 for my deep concealment pistol. It's DAO mechanism is familiar to me and I feel safe with a pocket gun that is "never cocked" until you pull the trigger. DAO only, revolver or auto, makes for a terrible trigger pull, so I do not use them for target competition. 😎 I also find they are not very pleasant for plinking. But for close range self defense they are completely adequate and acceptable. I have many many other suitable CC handguns to choose from, but the J frame .38 has been my favorite for 45 years.
I carry both. Lcp when I'm in light gym style clothes or quickly running to the store, 357 j frame when I have tshirt and jeans and I may be out for a while. If I'm really feeling like I need to be prepared it's a glock 26 and a backup 17 round mag. Try different stuff for yourself and you'll see what works best for different situations.
Simply excellent. Well-reasoned, organized, and concise with great production values. These are great contributions to the CCW/EDC realities in America... and always with consideration of the wide variance of social & legal conditions citizens of all 50 may encounter.
Terrific presentation! One major advantage of snubnose revolvers is that they look like a gun! There's no mistaking them for a cell phone. I'm serious in that. The only time I ever had to present a firearm in self-defense, merely looking down the barrel of my .38 suddenly reminded an entire gang of young tough guys of a previous engagement elsewhere.
Sig P238 for pocket carry, also has been flawless for 500 rounds! Love this little thing in my pocket with a red dot laser/light combo. Plus comes with full size night sights and a crisp/short trigger break.
Its funny because I've ALWAYS been a semi-auto guy. But bought a j frame 357 because I didnt have a revolver. I shoot that thing so well it surprises me EVERY time I shoot it. I cant miss with it! I'll give you one guess what I carry now.
I bought a Smith 642 took it out a call times couldn't hit crap lol instead of giving it time and practicing I traded it for an lcp2 and although I do shoot it better I'm still mad at myself for not giving it more time to practice with it! It was the mat stainless nice gun now I gotta tell my wife I want to buy the gun I just traded lmbo!!
@@brianbuchert1966 Yeah the double action does take getting used to. But if you take your time at first. You can stage the trigger right before it breaks. You should try one of the Taurus snubbies. They have a better double action pull than the Smiths do. Way lighter and smoother.
Wore a semi for 15 years. I bought a smith 66 just for fun and learned how to shoot double action. These days it's a smith 640 or 442 on the waist. Love em!
That's great to hear. I'm planning to get one and I just want to pocket it and forget it's there until I need it (which is hopefully never). Hopefully I don't accidentally throw that thing into the washing machine along with the pants!
terrific summation. here are my thoughts: semi-automatic--> failures to feed, failures to eject, recoil guide rod and springs as potential issues, generally no re-strike capability, magazine issues potentially revolvers--> low capacity, not as easy to conceal no mechanical object is immune from difficulty, but generally, revolvers have less potential problems. when revolvers do have a problem, however, the firearm is generally inoperable. as a general rule, revolvers are safer for new or inexperienced shooters.
I’m a revolver guy as well. I carry the smith and Wesson 442 snub nose .38 special. Also a big fan of the Glock 43 9mm. Both are great for concealed carry. I also have a Beretta pico.380. The Pico is even smaller than the 442 and 43. But I still choose either the 442 or 43 before leaving the house. Quality over concealment.
Another great video. I tend to carry a snubbie most of the time but at times I am forced to carry my little Keltec P3at. I never feel like I’m vulnerable with it. It’s super reliable and so easy to conceal. Capable enough and I’ve shot it enough to be able to shoot it good. Thanks for this series. It’s been great. Watched all of them.
Same here too. I'd actually prefer to carry my Shield 9, my favorite pistol, but I'm a short, older woman and it's just a bit heavy and big for me most of the time. I like my .38 snubbies but sometimes my BG 380 is the only thing I can carry.
Something I noticed once - with freezing or wet scenarios, semi auto is harder (for me) to manipulate if my grip is slippery or my hands are numb/freezing. Revolver, I just pull the trigger.
Charter Arms is worth a look as well; I have the Undercover (.38) Mag Pug (.357) and Bulldog (.44 Spl). Not surprisingly I shoot the .357 the worst (but acceptably) however I find I shoot the .44 the best of the 3. I do like Taurus also having a 709, 740 & 145. I can usualy find one of these 6 to fit my clothing and conceal decently! If not... well a Phoenix .25 fits just about anywhere ;)
Rock island 38 is around $220. Real customer service! Lifetime warranty. Nice gun, shoots well. I won't buy taurus anymore. 2 revolvers had cylinder lock up issues. 1 took 4 months to get back, other was 6 months. $900 for 454 raging bull was junk out of box. Waiting 4 months to shoot new gun sucks. Never again taurus.
Hell, I’ve been carrying for 20+ years and have had the cops called a few times, but usually I’ve done what I needed to do and am long gone by the time the cops have shown up...I think? Cause I’m no longer there. Once a cop asked me If I was carrying I said “yes I have a permit would you like to see it?” He said no and I was on my way.......and yes I’m black
![The Best Handguns for New Shooters [2020 Update]](/img/n.gif)
The quality of these videos was far ahead of its time for the TH-cam gun scene. Such great information delivered methodically and with a level head.
I carry a revolver with me every day. I lost most of the use of my primary (left) hand in a factory accident. I have trained myself to shoot with my off (right) hand, and I can shoot pretty well. One thing I can’t do is rack the slide on an auto loader. I know they carry more rounds. I know they can be a thinner profile. I know. However, if I can’t clear a jam, or ready it after reloading, it is a paperweight. My revolver is reliable. It shoots where I want it to, and I can reload it with little difficulty. Plus, I just really like revolvers. All of the comparisons in the world are great, but sometimes physical challenges make all of the difference.
If the auto has metal sights you can rack it on a object or the heel of your shoe.
Good for you! Im left handed too and had 2 wrist surgeries. Learned to shoot right handed pretty well
@@seoulkidd1 Yeah... Maybe. I haven't seen too many pocket autos that have sights which would permit that, even if you could do it, which might not be too easy in a stressful situation. Better to carry a revolver (or two!) Point and click. A reliable pocket auto, and a revolver as a New York Reload is another option. Just my opinion, and you know what those are worth.
@seoulkidd1: If your shoe has a heel that will work (many do not), if your body is adequately limber and your balance is sufficient to do so with ease (consider those who may be 55+, or have limited agility due to physical ailments, or simply lack to coordination to do so), and if you want to invest the time and effort to perfect this skill. Further, how vulnerable will you be while standing/sitting still, possibly on one leg, attempting to rack the slide with other leg’s shoe-heel?
George Bernard Shaw famously wrote: “YOUTH IS WASTED ON THE YOUNG.”
People - of all ages - suffer serious injuries and illnesses that impair their strength and other physical abilities. When I was a kid, Polio was an annual horror and many very young people were somewhat handicapped for life. Now I frequently meet younger “brothers and sisters veterans” in the Commissary, in the Exchange, at our local American Legion, and other venues, who clearly are impaired by combat wounds suffered in the last two decades. Many of these heroes will live for 60+ more years, we all pray they will be happy and productive, AND they have the RIGHT to protect themselves, their families, and other innocents.
It seems to me to be quite arrogant for any individual to believe he’ll forever be immune to the vagaries of aging - specifically including physical challenges that just might force someone to use a revolver instead of the latest, super duper, striker-fired, polymer-frame, autoloader. And, incidentally, a good revolver certainly remains a very formidable defensive weapon. In fact, the probability of requiring all those rounds (perhaps 13+1, 15+1, or even more) in modern, full-sized semiautomatic for citizen-defense is truly minuscule . . . unless, of course, the shooter is so ill-trained that he is likely to miss a LOT.
Many people talk down using pocket pistols. They don't understand it does not replace a bigger gun, it replaces having no gun.
They're fine with the correct ammo choice. No need for a holster and you can carry multiple guns instead of reloading in the middle of the fight. Empty one, drop it, grab another, rinse and repeat.
Terrific presentation. The most balanced and rational discussion of this topic I have ever seen. Thank you!
Fully agree. Facts and logic.....i love it!
LG is a great site for serious CCW users, gun owners, armed professionals. 👍...
This goes for every video on this channel. We need more of this. Logic and reason instead of just spilling unsubstantiated opinions!
I also agree!
Agreed
This channel inspired me to get my first carry gun, (a .327 LCR) with content like this. I grew up with revolvers and am extremely comfortable with their triggers and sights, and I can actually shoot my LCR better than any of my mid-size/smaller semiautos. It’s neat to see people talk about their merits now and then, in spite of their deficiencies.
Still keeping my eyes open for a 327 LCR. My first EDC was a LCRx in 9mm. Got it 4 years ago and traded it in 2 months ago for a SP101 357 which is my trail gun. I would gladly carry a LCR 327 EDC. In the mean time I go back and forth between a 32 Tomcat and a 380 Bersa.
There you go making perfect sense again.
Without a doubt, one of the most balanced and honest presentations on “pocket” pistols and carrying them. Thanks Chris!
Like the saying goes "When you need it, a pea-shooter in your pocket is better than the bazooka you left at home."
I have found that revolvers are a far better option for concealed carry. It ultimately comes down to the grip. The fact that the grip of a semiauto serves a dual purpose seems to be a distinct disadvantage. Whereas, for a revolver the grip can excel at is only job, of that of a grip.
get a grip. lol jk
Any gun beats a sharp stick. The best gun is the one you have
I agree competely. It pains me when I see someone with a Glock 17 and a spare mag using one of those ridiculously large kydex appendix carry holsters.
L J I pissed off a guy on a comment thread just the other day cause he was saying how his 1911 and three spare mags ccw rig was the only
Proper way to Cary
@@Wyttt95 It's funny how so many people think they are going to be using their gun in some kind of combat situation where they will need 30+ rounds to save themselves. The overwhelming odds are that they will never have to use their gun, and in the rare occasion they do, they probably won't even have to fire it. In the extremely rare instance where they do have to actually shoot someone, one magazine or less will be used.
i can hit you with an arrow from a helluva lot farther than you can hit me with a 380 or 38. guaranteed.
@@helterskelter416 True, but my bow and arrows are so hard to conceal!
For me a snub-nose is the best choice for concealed carry. They are reliable, safe, and have the fire-power to help you get away from an attacker.
Good video all around. I’m retired now but I often carry my .38 special. It saved my butt once in Chicago. I’m a large man so it doesn’t print on my frame. Good presentation. 🍀
Lucky Gunner is the best, most thoughtful and mature gun guy on the interwebs.
I also like Matt from Self Defense Education, John from Warrior Poets Society, Aaron from Sage Dynamics, TN Outdoors 9. Lucky Gunner has good production values 🎬📹💻📀🗣
Yes he is good but Paul Harrel is great.
I'd give that honor to Paul Harrell personally.
I guess I never really realized how lucky I am living in rural Missouri with a very pro-gun populace and police force and now constitutional carry.
Steven Soco prick
@@TheGodfather-sp9xk There's always the one asshole.
@Steven Soco I live in Missouri and I had to laugh at that!
I'm currently in Orlando.gov . ☹. From 2012-2017, I lived approx 1mi from Pulse Night Club 🏳️🌈. The Pulse Terror attack & the 2018 MSD Parkland HS shooting ruined most open carry, pro 2A gun laws in Florida. Mylicensesite.com .
@@DavidLLambertmobile That's what having the deadliest mass shooting in US history tends to do.
I firmly believe that every gun owner should have at least one Revolver in their collection. I know there are young new shooters out there who have never owned or shot a Revolver and I strongly recommend adding one to you're collection. I love semi auto guns and my favorite are the Glocks but I learned to shoot and appreciate the value of that old fashion wheel gun, with that double action trigger pull and the all around reliability. I also trained with and carried a S&W 38 spl as my Duty Weapon for many years before switching to a Glock 19. I have no doubt that my early experience with the Revolver has made me a much better shooter and I will always have one!
Steve Katz this is spot on. Learning to control a long DA trigger pull makes someone a better shot with any handgun. 👍🏻👍🏻
This veteran appreciates your balanced, knowledgeable and thorough approach.
For me, the edge goes to the revolver. If we're talking pocket guns, a lot of the advantages that automatics have (e..g capacity, ease of use) are mitigated by their form factor, whereas the advantages of a revolver (e.g. ergonomics, strong advantage at contact distance) remain undiminished.
A lot of people trash revolvers as being obsolete, but they still have their place, especially in pocket/back-up carry, and as a quality sidearm for the outdoors. They're also just rad af.
Wow great point actually.
Could you please explain the contact distance part?
@imnotusingmyrealname4566 If your attacker is on you, sticking an auto pistol into them pushes the slide back a little - taking it out of battery and it won't fire. A revolver will fire in that situation.
@@lemmingfiftyone ohhh, right!
If only there was a snubnose revolver with the barrel at the bottom and a capacity greater than 6.
I don't feel comfortable carrying a cocked striker or cocked hammer fired pistol in a pocket holster. I do feel comfortable carrying a revolver or a DAO or DA/SA pistol in a pocket holster because of the heavier trigger pull. My priorities are: #1 to carry a gun, and #2 not to have an accidental discharge. Reasonable people may disagree. Thanks for the excellent presentation.
what guns these days even have a fully cocked striker? almost every gun is partial cock
you also shouldn’t be carrying ANY gun in a pocket without a holster
@@acid6urnspretty sure the sig p365 uses a fully cocked striker.
Ditto!
Here here
I agree with this video as usual. It’s great to see videos that make sense for normal gun people.
I’m a combat vet. I’m a cop. I have been an armed professional for almost 20 years. I’m not some tactical guru, commando wannabe; just a slightly overweight, almost 40 dude with a wife, kids and some life experience.
I don’t need or want a full size .45 with 4 extra magazines. I’m not expecting a roadside ambush. I’m not kicking in a door on a violent felony warrant. While I own these things, I have no interest in carrying them.
I’m going to the store to by a gallon of milk or taking my family out for dinner. I carry a S&W 642 or Shield 9 almost exclusively. In the summer I almost always go with the snub nose, the rest of the year it’s the Shield.
I really appreciate whenever gun guys are willing to try and meet people where they’re at. Not everybody can carry a Glock 19 all the time. I think we would have a higher number of responsible and ethical everyday carriers if the super gun bros didn’t try to gatekeep what’s acceptable to carry.
Man, I LOVE your videos. You’re incredibly thorough, well spoken, and informative. Keep up the great work and tell your boss that you deserve a raise!
He'll get a raise if we all buy more ammo
I think he is the boss!
Agreed
I took a very realistic somewhat brutal survival/self defense course The revolver is easier to get out enough to use if you find yourself dealing with someone who is using MMA wrestling holds on you from behind . The snub nose allows you to get the muzzle in position to do damage and can be shot again with out the slide needing to have enough room to cycle in fact all of the shots can be made without the muzzle losing contact with the attacker . In this situation we are trained to empty the revolver into the attacker so he has nothing to shoot you with if he is still able to get the gun away from you.
Great video; thanks!
I'm really more of a revolver gal, but I don't ever carry off-body and I don't wear belts. I like pocket carry although I have a couple of Remora holsters, too. Jackets and vests are not really a problem for my snubbies (better at contact distance which is what always comes to my mind), but women's pants pockets are either nonexistent, microscopic, or very small. My Bodyguard 380 is the only gun I own that is small enough to pocket carry in most of my jeans and pants. So...
@Chris - THANK YOU, I believe this has been the most valuable video in the entire “pocket pistol” series. While others may not agree, I’d respectfully suggest there’s another advantage to small revolvers (I favor the 2.25 inch SP-101, even with its somewhat greater weight): SIMPLICITY.
Even more than a home defense weapon, a “pocket pistol” is likely to be needed with essentially zero warning time. Under that sort of confusion and emotional pressure, otherwise simple and critical tasks (such as disengaging a thumb-safety or clearing a jam) - notwithstanding considerable training and practice - may not be accomplished flawlessly, quickly or easily. When every millisecond counts, the famous military KISS principle just might make a lot of sense.
I also prefer the sp101..2.5" spurless .357. Can't go wrong with it.
As someone that survived three on-duty shootings in my career I could not agree more. Any attack will come w/o warning and will be VERY violent.
I’m tempted to lean more snub nose than pocket pistol just because less possibilities of something going wrong in a hot situation
What if it takes more than 5-6 rounds to get the job done?
@@nathanielpatterson6963 as unlikely as it is that you will be in a lethal force self defence scenario, it is that unlikely again, unlikely squared, that it will take more than 5-6 rounds. But more importantly, speed loaders exist.
@@cm01 so do CCI Stingers. Watch what one does to a watermelon and imagine what 5 or 6 would do to the human body. Lol
Chris: You lay out the issues in a very clear and logical way. This is an excellent treatment of this topic. This is why I subscribe to this channel.
Great job Chris. You clearly and articulately laid out the pros and cons for these two platforms. Any newbie to the concealed carry world should watch this, and even those who think they've got t all figured out should watch with an open mind.
Your channel and Paul Harrell's are my two favorite gun channels. Keep up the great work.
This is the best firearms channel out there and I like a lot of them. LGA videos are well made, objective, and considering their lab coat approach to whatever subject they're tackling, refreshingly free from monotony.
This has been a great series. This analysis is spot on and very realistic. This kind of content is great for me to share with friends that I am trying to get into self defense.
Also, I think you get a long-term better quality firearm when you choose a revolver over what’s available now in pocket pistols. Mass production and material compromises are showing their shortcomings. No one has ever said, “my pocket pistol is built like a tank.” Excellent video again!
Naa guardians are built like tanks. But they may almost have more in common with DAO j frames than an lcp.
I carry a Kahr myself but I agree with your bigger point: If the person is unsure of themselves or doesn’t invest in the training and care for a semi auto pistol, then the revolver will be the more reliable choice. Not necessarily from a mechanical perspective but from the human aspect.
Excellent video on small conceal carry. Without a doubt, the most important thing is "will you carry it". A mouse gun is better than nothing, especially when you realized that alot of times simply presenting will take care of the situation. I found (for me) that my G26, M&P 9c, P365 were too heavy for me to carry all-day everyday (usually around 8-10hrs). I could go a little longer with my PF9 on average. But my BG380, LCP, or airweight J-frame I could go 20hrs. Heck, many times I've actually fallen asleep with my 380s so 24hrs+. As always a great video Chris.
The best conceal gun ive owned was a sig p238.. a compact revolver is good too but makes more of a buldge. Regardless, my only gun at the moment is a 2” medium frame 38/357 revolver weighing almost 30oz and its still doable, especially with a jacket
I watch a million videos on guns and you ae are by far the most articulate, less subjective, totally accurate concise and informative. Thanks
I use an LCR 357 bc I work in SF (yes you can actually get a ccw permit in CA) and I ride the BART out of town, and everyone is anti-gun. Just imagine someone seeing a gun on the train, nightmare.
@Keanu Being a bigot is never funny.
@@pamusso1466 Small world, man. I used to live in Dublin. To say that area is generally anti-gun (other than the military people on base) is an understatement. So glad to be out of that state.
@Keanu TWO WORLD WARS SON
@Dodge Mustang He questioned Mr. Tapia's citizenship. Do people question yours based on a name?
@@WALTERBROADDUS there is ignorant people everywhere, thick skin I guess. I have the pleasure of dealing with them in my line of work. They will never get it.
Two advantages I love about revolvers is that they will never not cycle the rounds and they can be fired through pressing on fabric if it’s in the pocket. A third if I needed one would be that they don’t throw casings around.
thats why i love them.
Lots of good information here. Thanks for all the work you put in this series!👍🏼👍🏼
Good information is Very Minimal at best.
Be careful with high-pressure rounds. They'll deafen you. I just switched to a .44 Special. A large low-pressure round. It probably won't expand but, it already goes in at .43 caliber.
Robert Ratskywatsky a few rounds in a self defense situation is still going to cause damage but that really shouldn’t change your caliber choice.
Aniquin don’t worry about your ears when your life is in danger. But when you’re on the range you should really wear ear pro.
@Aniquin I have seen a couple guys fall over in pain from muzzle blast. If you shoot in enclosed quarters YOU will go down in pain. It's like being punched in the ears by Mike Tyson. Better to have a non magnum round and just shoot one more into the guy if needed.
@@219garry lol imagine being in a high stress situation, protecting your family, and doubling over from noise.. I understand you may get dizzy and such, but don't think that would impact my ability to shoot back.
*carries a .327 rated at 40-some thousand PSI*
What was that? I couldn’t hear you over the deafening roar of my tinnitus.
You get a like for defining your terms if nothing else. Too many people use special or restricted definitions or ones poorly understood by the general public without any clarification, so thank you. (the actual discussion was solid as well)
I have both and since the post is about "pocket pistols" meaning carried "in a pocket", there is one big advantage to the J-Frame. It can be fired from inside the pocket if necessary very effectively but the auto may or may not due to limited area for the slide and ejection to take place. What you wear has everything to do with what you should carry.
I couldn’t agree more. There have been times when I’ve had to walk a couple of blocks from a parking garage to my favorite restaurant in not the best part of town. When I do, I have my hands in the pocket of my windbreaker holding my Ruger LCR. No one is alerted to the fact that I am ready to shoot through the jacket if I am suddenly attacked. No hammer or slide issues that could get caught on clothing.
A shockingly well balanced, level presentation of the topic. Very well thought out. Thank you.
I carry a taurus 85 front pocket all the time and it's a great way to carry a firearm. Yeah it prints, but it doesn't look like a gun in my pocket unlike most autos.
an LCR chambered in 327 Fed is a pretty good choice. Revolver reliability, 6 shots, better ballistics than 38 spl or 380 acp
They are fairly uncomfortable too. I'm a .32 caliber revolver guy and I love the .327 in my SP101, but in the LCR it's pretty awful and comparable to those J-Frame .357's out there. Not quite as unpleasant but bad enough that it's not going to be my first choice. If loaded with .32 H&R or even .32 S&W Long wadcutters, I'd consider it but to me it defeats the point of being able to use .327 if you're never going to use it.
While ordinarily I'd not be concerned about comfort in a life or death situation, if that discomfort can cause malfunctions or accuracy issues when you're rounds limited it might make the difference. Plus, I actually practice with the guns Im trusting my life with and if it's uncomfortable to shoot then subsequently I get little practice in and that's just counter productive.
@@Predalien195 Thanks for the reply. Definitely a good point that you make about recoil of the 327. Recoil management is a very personal thing. My 327 sp101 doesn't hurt me to shoot. I've shot quite a few rounds through my dad's 327 LRC and don't recall thinking I'd have an issue controlling it in a defensive situation either, despite it being much lighter than the sp101. But I also have a 2" sp101 chambered in 357 ..... so that's just me I guess. My personally feeling is that in a SD situation, adrenaline is going to be high and recoil is not going to affect usage so much that you drop the gun or manage to cause a malfunction in a revolver. Point, squeeze trigger, repeat. So long as you manage the gun well enough that shots connect with target, the goal is accomplished.
But as you pointed out, you have the option of shooting 32H&R in the LCR chambered for 327. For someone who might prefer the simplicity and reliability of a revolver, I'd argue that this is still a very decent choice. It still has ballistics on par or better than 380 acp and gets you an extra shot over a 38 spl. I had some Hornady Critical Defense sitting on my shelf in both 32H&R and 380acp so I checked numbers on the box. Hornady doesn't specify what barrel length was used in generating these numbers, but they are: 32H&R - 80 gr FTX @ 1150fps; 380acp 90gr FTX @ 1000fps.
With all of that being said..... I don't personally choose too CC a revolver. If I'm dressing to be able to carry IWB, I'll typically have either a double-stack 9mm, my Shield 45, or sometimes my G29 (talk about recoil). If I'm going directly to pocket I typically choose one of my 380's or maybe even my P32 if I really want it to not show up. It's only 32acp but I subscribe to the "it's 1000% better than the larger gun that I left at home" doctrine. I also have a Sig 938 that I will occasionally pocket carry condition 1. But I wouldn't recommend carrying a SA gun with safety to someone who doesn't shoot it regularly enough to make the working of the action and safety 2nd nature.
What's best for one person will not be best for another. And what's best for someone in one situation won't be what's most ideal in another. Having multiple CC options is nice but not everyone will want to have multiple guns or may not spend enough time at the range to be proficient with them. The best advice I could give anyone is that if you're trying to decide what to buy for yourself, talk to lots of people, get lots of opinions, and most importantly, go down to your gun store that offers gun rental with a range and try out as many types of guns as you can before making your decision. Cheers!
I shoot 327 mag out of my LCR and it has almost the same blast at the muzzle as my sis n laws LCR in 357, but there is alittle less felt recoil in mine with the 327. 👍🏻
But can you find kydex holsters for it? They need a different mold than 357 due to the different spaced cylinder notches.
And what about ammo? Lucky Gunner has 357 gel tests so you know what performance can be expected. They don't have anything for 327. I don't want to under penetrate and fail to stop a threat, but I don't want to over penetrate and endanger an innocent either. Most of the 327 ammo seems to be for hunting, so who knows how it performs on people out of a snub.
@@DWalter.27 .327 Federal was DESIGNED for CCW. Not for hunting. It was originally intended for the 3 inch SP101 and the 2 inch SP101 in .327 Federal. Those came before ANY other firearms in the chambering. The results of testing in 3 inch barreled models showed 100gr and 115gr Gold Dot, Hydra Shok, and XTP loads to be attaining velocities in the 1,300+ range, with energy levels in the 350 ft lb area or greater. Which is directly on par with +P and +P+ 9x19 ballistics in full size guns like G19's or G17's.
The 2 inch doesnt lose much more performance and still delivers 1,200 fps or greater on average when using the 100gr to 115gr bullets which are most common for defensive loadings. 85gr's exist as do 130grs but 85gr's compared to the 100gr loads in the 2 and 3 inch barrels suffer. In 4 inch or longer barrels they come out ok. Finding kydex holsters for an LCR in .327 isnt a chore either. Plenty of companies make holsters for the SP101 that will fit both the .327 and .357 models respectively.
So one can still expect excellent performance in a short 2 inch barrel with .327 Federal, however the lightweight LCR is quite uncomfortable using the caliber as I've experienced personally. If you're a glutton for pain or you just have an off switch for it, I suppose that's fine. It does produce about 20% less felt recoil than a typical .357 does though. So it's a little more comparable to a super hot .38 Special that's pushing .357 levels of power, but still not quite as rough as the .357 as a whole.
This is a great presentation of the issue. I generally go P365 or G43 as the smallest auto, which isn't really a pocket pistol. Smaller than that, Ruger LCR .38. 5 shots 100% beats 5-8 shots with
S&W 638 for me. I like the shrouded hammer, I like having the option of shooting single action while enjoying the snag free practicality of DA, I like the reliability, I like the weight, and I like the trigger. Hard to beat the DA trigger pull of a S&W. J frames are good little guns.
I love my Kel-tec p32 for exactly the reason you stated. I work in a non-permissive place and the Kel-tec is super easy to conceal.
Kel tec makes really good guns for the price. Im a ruger and smith n wesson fan myself. I just baught a ruger PC 9mm carbine. It takes ruger and glock magazines
When you bring steel framed .357s into it the revolver enters a whole different league.
redbeard sp101 and full power 125 grainers with 2 speed strips in the pocket. Never feel under gunned with that bad boy.
If you want the 357 to perform right you need more than a 2" barrel. Oh and the recoil on a snub is brutal
I've got plenty of great carry guns, yet I almost always carry my lcp or j frame. I feel completely confident that either will accomplish the task of breaking contact.
I really appreciate how well thought out your videos are, even when I sometimes disagree on some point. You are in top form with this video. There is not a single nit to pick.
And if you miss your attacker with a 357 snubbie the muzzle flash acts as a flash bang grenade.
I don't conceal carry nor would I try in in my gun hostile state. I think your comments make a lot of sense to me and validated my past choices. I have autos and snub nose revolvers for home defense. For years I have relied on the snub nose guns as my choice in an emergency. I never wanted to deal with the extra concerns an auto could present, as you covered when split-second really counts. With a snub nose, all that has to work is the trigger.
Why not get a ccw and carry? Its legal just go through the steps
@@willl4219 Well, where I live near some of the highest crime centers in the USA, CCWs are denied 99.9875% to residents only police, state, & federal get CCW rights, and regular folks can get a VRC victims recognition certificate.
Why use a snub nose for home defense instead of a full size revolver?
I hate it when some people say that Revolvers are "obsolete" when many people still carry or keep batons, canes/sticks, knives, baseball bats and many other non-guns as defensive weapons. Revolvers are firearms and firearms that can't be knocked out of battery in a close quarters fight for life and death.
Zimmerman was only able to get off the round in the chamber when Trayvon Martin was on top of him pressing on the slide.
A nicely balanced and well thought out video. This is why I follow this channel!
Impressive presentation by whoever that young man was.
Well done. Presented in a thoughtful, professional and interesting manner.
This was in part the best review I've ever heard, First and foremost, the revolver is not my first choice, I'm a striker fired guy and lean towards the Kahr, PM9 so much for my preferences, Buttttttttttt this review takes the time to explain why the revolver is such a great American choice for concealed carry, because the cylinder is wider then the grip ,, there's space to make a positive grasp on the stock, after that it all on you. Most of these comparisons are too one way related to the carrier's preference,,,, this guy takes the time to explain the issues involved in concealed carry, on an everyday basis,,, Truth be told, its the tiniest issues which effect what you'll carry on an everyday basis. one little spear or rub and its a no go and that piece hits the secondary market. GREAT REVIEW AND EXPLANATION!!!!
LCR in 327. All the benefits of a compact revolver, 6 rounds instead of 5, and your choice of full power 327 magnums or easier to shoot 32HR.
Ooo I like this. But what's the price??
👍 😯
I lucked out and found a used one for $349.
.327 federal mag is a vicious little round! 😬👍🏻
I have quit carrying my LCP and now carry my 327 LCR. Love that gun.it can shoot 32 short, 32 cap, 32 long, 32 H&R magnum and of course 327 magnum. Love the gold dot 327 magnum in it.
I just discovered these videos. They are among the best I've ever seen. I've got some binge watching ahead.
Small revolvers seem to be easier to conceal, practically, on my person than any of the pocket pistols I own
Probably the most relevant gun video on YT for me at this stage in my life. Well done, LG!
One point of consideration is the time and effort needed to "weapon up" as in putting on a holster, etc. Some people do not gear up just to go down to the local market for example for some take out due to the hassle. With a pocket pistol, the effort becomes no more than carrying around a wallet. It is much easier to carry 24/7 if that is what you wanted to do. Of course, if you could achieve that same level with a snubnose, that would be ideal. Good video BTW.
Pocket guns are great. I’ve seen former operators carry them. Small light firearm you can grab and put in your pocket in a low threat environment. Good video.
Not sure if the company hired you to do these TH-cam vids or not, but you have an amazing talent for presentations of this format. You are well spoken, with tons of knowledge. I never skip your videos. Ever. I stopped carrying micro .380's, because of the reliability issues with them. I don't even own one anymore. I think my next purchase will be the high capacity S&W .22mag revolver. I think it's a 7 shot. I wish Taurus still made the model 904 8 shot. .22mag is just as capable as .380, in my opinion. I had a Ruger LCR .22mag, but it had major light strike issues, because they tried to get "cute" with the trigger, which caused the hammer drop to be too weak. I've had lots of problems with Rugers lately. I won't buy EVER buy another one. Period. They've had their head in their ass, for the last couple of years. Meanwhile, Taurus keeps getting better, and better.
Excellent -- been carrying a S&W mod. 38 with a Hogue grip in the front pants pocket for about a year now. Do have to watch that my pants or shorts have large a enough pocket for the Galco holster but no other issues with it. Also, pocket pistols are extremely fast if you already have your hands in your pocket in expectation of a threat. Thanks for the great video.
Very well done. I love this channel. Probably my favorite gun channel right now.
This is the smartest gun review on TH-cam. None of that gun store ranger BS some guys pull here. I swear if conversations on guns were like this guy's presentation more anti gun folks would switch sides because they would see the reason. Hearts and minds folks, hearts and minds....
Yep, those are the two places I always aim for.
Well I agree with you for the most part. My revolver is 45 yr old Smith and Wesson 32 long. It won't break if you drop it. But the wood grips could give.. But the gun will still function. ..i have seen small frame semis break at the slide..
One of the best videos on concealed carry. You didn't miss a beat. I own full sized and pocket glocks. I'm a delivery driver, and I'm not allowed to have a gun at the terminal, but I can carry one on route. Poses a bit of a problem. You covered so much. I was considering a double action only snub nose revolver for an ankle gun, or maybe appendix. Shirt is always tucked, and ankles are often exposed. You earned a subsbsriber today.
I love my bodygaurd 380 for deep concealment. I have to wear scrubs where I work, and I never have a problem concealing it in my pocket. I like the idea of a snub nose 38, but I dont think I'd be able to conceal it with my work attire.
Remembering back when I first started to shoot handguns, I had a lot of stove pipes and failed to feeds. I found out the issue was that I had a wimpy grip. This was the reason for those issues after forming a secure grip. I no longer had these issues. Now of a situation in which you are being attacked and in that situation, you’re going to be very nervous because of your lifestyle and the sudden threat. Therefore, it could be possible that when gripping your handgun, it would be a wimpy grip. With that grip more than likely, you will get off a very good first shot because of your practice. The wimpy grip from all the anxiety and that situation will cause a stove pipe or a failure to feed and if you need more than one shot, you are a dead duck. with the revolver with a wimpy grip or not you will be able to get off the second third and fourth shot instinctively. So if you are not well trained, A semi automatic could cost you your life.
I got tangled up in my draw stroke once too and that's how my third child was conceived! lol
Someone give this man a rimshot.
He was poking fun and she took it seriously.
Beware the negligent discharge.
Lol🙈
Of course I'd like to carry my G26 with a G17 back up mag every day. The reality is my G43 gets a few carries... and then my snubs and my little NAA Guardian gets varied Carrie's as well.
As I approach 15 years of concealed carry every day...and being 52... I can see the snubs getting more and more carry as I will enter into retirement. Eventually, lol. For now I appreciate having all these options. Thank you for a wonderful and well balanced video.
I work at a gas station. We have been robbed twice in the last year. Employer has a no gun policy. But Damn right I’m carrying my m&p shield with me idgaf about this job that’s my life 😂
Yup
Exactly why gun laws don’t work
I tried all the semi auto pocket pistols, none of them made the cut. It's a little more difficult to carry, but the 38 Special snubnose cannot be matched for reliability.
Snubbie for me a well. Mine is an LCR 38+P that has served me well for years.
I gave up mouse gun semi autos. I now have a Ruger SP-101 in .327 for home defense and a Ruger LCR .327 in a Sneaky Pete holster for concealed carry. Love the .327.
Always great to hear Chris break stuff down. Thanks for the awesome vids 👌🏾
You are definitely a revolver enthusiast! ... and you also make some great points about the advantages of a snub nose. A very fair and even review. liked and subscribed!
Be cautious about guns with “great triggers” for pocket carry (yes in a holster). The Sig P365 comes to mind... For me, double-action triggers are best, but require more practice for precision.
Absolutely correct, that is why I chose the RM380 as one of my pocket carry pieces......helps protect the family jewels.
I have been carrying concealed every day since 1973. As an off-duty police officer and now as a retired, licensed citizen. My first off duty gun was my duty gun, in a shoulder holster. Not too concealable. Then I bought a S&W M19 2.5", which is an awesome gun, but still a little too big and heavy for EDC. In 1974 I sought out and bought one of the just discontinued S&W Model 40 Centennial revolvers and have more or less been carrying a "hammerless" J frame ever since. I added a Model 640 in the 90s and, recently, a Model 642. I have never felt I needed "more". I also currently use a S&W Bodyguard .380 for my deep concealment pistol. It's DAO mechanism is familiar to me and I feel safe with a pocket gun that is "never cocked" until you pull the trigger. DAO only, revolver or auto, makes for a terrible trigger pull, so I do not use them for target competition. 😎 I also find they are not very pleasant for plinking. But for close range self defense they are completely adequate and acceptable.
I have many many other suitable CC handguns to choose from, but the J frame .38 has been my favorite for 45 years.
I carry both. Lcp when I'm in light gym style clothes or quickly running to the store, 357 j frame when I have tshirt and jeans and I may be out for a while. If I'm really feeling like I need to be prepared it's a glock 26 and a backup 17 round mag. Try different stuff for yourself and you'll see what works best for different situations.
Simply excellent. Well-reasoned, organized, and concise with great production values. These are great contributions to the CCW/EDC realities in America... and always with consideration of the wide variance of social & legal conditions citizens of all 50 may encounter.
Terrific presentation! One major advantage of snubnose revolvers is that they look like a gun! There's no mistaking them for a cell phone. I'm serious in that. The only time I ever had to present a firearm in self-defense, merely looking down the barrel of my .38 suddenly reminded an entire gang of young tough guys of a previous engagement elsewhere.
Snub-nosed revolvers are amazing I love them.
Pro level carry strategy...
1) revolver on ankle or in jacket pocket (for cold weather)
2) smaller pocket pistol near waist line
You're welcome 😊
Sig P238 for pocket carry, also has been flawless for 500 rounds! Love this little thing in my pocket with a red dot laser/light combo. Plus comes with full size night sights and a crisp/short trigger break.
Very well done . Perfectly thought out and very well spoken.
Its funny because I've ALWAYS been a semi-auto guy. But bought a j frame 357 because I didnt have a revolver. I shoot that thing so well it surprises me EVERY time I shoot it. I cant miss with it! I'll give you one guess what I carry now.
@Dirk Steel Its funny how life works isn't it!
@Dirk Steel Good to know brother. Stay safe!
I bought a Smith 642 took it out a call times couldn't hit crap lol instead of giving it time and practicing I traded it for an lcp2 and although I do shoot it better I'm still mad at myself for not giving it more time to practice with it! It was the mat stainless nice gun now I gotta tell my wife I want to buy the gun I just traded lmbo!!
@@brianbuchert1966 Yeah the double action does take getting used to. But if you take your time at first. You can stage the trigger right before it breaks. You should try one of the Taurus snubbies. They have a better double action pull than the Smiths do. Way lighter and smoother.
Wore a semi for 15 years. I bought a smith 66 just for fun and learned how to shoot double action. These days it's a smith 640 or 442 on the waist. Love em!
Interesting ideas. I’m real used to the LCP2 pocket carry now. Often forget I have it
That's great to hear. I'm planning to get one and I just want to pocket it and forget it's there until I need it (which is hopefully never). Hopefully I don't accidentally throw that thing into the washing machine along with the pants!
terrific summation. here are my thoughts:
semi-automatic--> failures to feed, failures to eject, recoil guide rod and springs as potential issues, generally no re-strike capability, magazine issues potentially
revolvers--> low capacity, not as easy to conceal
no mechanical object is immune from difficulty, but generally, revolvers have less potential problems. when revolvers do have a problem, however, the firearm is generally inoperable. as a general rule, revolvers are safer for new or inexperienced shooters.
Great video. Your videos always present the viewer will such a balanced well thought out options to consider. Thank you!
I’m a revolver guy as well. I carry the smith and Wesson 442 snub nose .38 special. Also a big fan of the Glock 43 9mm. Both are great for concealed carry. I also have a Beretta pico.380. The Pico is even smaller than the 442 and 43. But I still choose either the 442 or 43 before leaving the house. Quality over concealment.
Another great video. I tend to carry a snubbie most of the time but at times I am forced to carry my little Keltec P3at. I never feel like I’m vulnerable with it. It’s super reliable and so easy to conceal. Capable enough and I’ve shot it enough to be able to shoot it good. Thanks for this series. It’s been great. Watched all of them.
Same here. Bodyguard 38 and Keltec P32 when snubbie is just little bit too large. B9th have their purpose and both (so far) were 100% reliable.
Same here too. I'd actually prefer to carry my Shield 9, my favorite pistol, but I'm a short, older woman and it's just a bit heavy and big for me most of the time. I like my .38 snubbies but sometimes my BG 380 is the only thing I can carry.
It’s always good to have options. I always can carry my 380 no matter what. So small it is easily hidden anywhere.
Something I noticed once - with freezing or wet scenarios, semi auto is harder (for me) to manipulate if my grip is slippery or my hands are numb/freezing. Revolver, I just pull the trigger.
This is an outstanding discussion, thank you for the well presented info!
I appreciate the thought that went into this presentation. Thank you
You can get a Taurus 856, 6 shot snubby for under $300! I've had probably 3 different models of Taurus's revolvers and never had a problem with them.
I lovem! But last I looked, the 5 shot 85 is rated +P, but the 6 shot 856 is NOT. fwiw.
Charter Arms is worth a look as well; I have the Undercover (.38) Mag Pug (.357) and Bulldog (.44 Spl). Not surprisingly I shoot the .357 the worst (but acceptably) however I find I shoot the .44 the best of the 3. I do like Taurus also having a 709, 740 & 145. I can usualy find one of these 6 to fit my clothing and conceal decently! If not... well a Phoenix .25 fits just about anywhere ;)
@@blue-bunny--Yes it is. I have 1.
I love my taurus 856 its my BUG to my g17 , has about just the same recoil and no problems with it at all.
Rock island 38 is around $220. Real customer service! Lifetime warranty. Nice gun, shoots well. I won't buy taurus anymore. 2 revolvers had cylinder lock up issues. 1 took 4 months to get back, other was 6 months. $900 for 454 raging bull was junk out of box. Waiting 4 months to shoot new gun sucks. Never again taurus.
Excellent video and i wholeheartedly agree with your opinion.
Hell, I’ve been carrying for 20+ years and have had the cops called a few times, but usually I’ve done what I needed to do and am long gone by the time the cops have shown up...I think? Cause I’m no longer there. Once a cop asked me If I was carrying I said “yes I have a permit would you like to see it?” He said no and I was on my way.......and yes I’m black
Excellent well-thought-out and articulated video thank you