Big Bore, Short Barrel Revolvers for Self Defense

[Annihilator]

Big Bore, Short Barrel Revolvers for Self-Defense - The Shooter's Log

Discover why big bore revolvers are still serving and relevant after years and what makes a short-barrel revolver great for self-defense.

blog.cheaperthandirt.com

 

[HansGruber]

So true.

I really wish S&W would bring back their Night Guard line...I have their 325 version, a snub-nosed .45ACP that weighs a pleasant 24oz. Hard hitting, fast handling...perfect.

The 3” 629 is also a very light shooter with .44 Specials. I like 200hr SWCHP’s at a sedate 950fps for a very controllable loaf.

The snub 657 is also very controllable and light recoiling with 175gr Winchester Silvertips.

 

[Troy Scott Fitch]

I agree on Night Guard.Trying to find one to shoot is like finding a unicorn.My Charter Arms Bull Dog DAO 44 spl. puts out a big piece of lead at bad breath ranges.

 

[SCfromNY]

First I always wanted a 3" 625 something I thought was really nice. That said I had purchased a S&W Performance Center 3" .44 magnum. It was probably one of the prettiest guns I ever owned for a VERY SHORT TIME. What a beast to shoot. Best use for self defense: Hand it to the bad guy and let him fire it. Hardly lost any money when I sold it. It was that attractive.

 

[HansGruber]

First I always wanted a 3" 625 something I thought was really nice. That said I had purchased a S&W Performance Center 3" .44 magnum. It was probably one of the prettiest guns I ever owned for a VERY SHORT TIME. What a beast to shoot. Best use for self defense: Hand it to the bad guy and let him fire it. Hardly lost any money when I sold it. It was that attractive.

I think it really depends on the grips you have on it, as well as what loads...full power loads are a heck of a lot of flash & bang, but mid-level loads, or .44 Specials, aren’t bad at all.

Unless it was a 329PD...those are brutal.

 

[Tenbones]

.44 ammo ain't cheap and is a big reason why a big bore cartridge revolver is at the bottom of my EDC list.