summers a'comin and i "need" another carry gun.  leaning towards a S&W 642 (38)or a Taurus CIA (357mag)  i like the concealed hammer, dont much care for bobbed ones though.  these two are about the same price (taurus is a bit cheaper and its 357 mag)

anyone?

no opinions at all?  (the taurus is the model 650 btw)

Personally, I try to stick to S&W over Taurus...although Taurus makes some fine revolvers.  The S&W guns definitely have a better resell value.

Also, I prefer the older Smiths that at least have the recessed cylinder.  There were several models made that were .357 with concealed hammers...can't think of the model numbers off the top of my head though, as I prefer exposed hammers (bobbed if a snub-nose gun).

If you don't have much experience with shooting short .357mag guns, I definitely suggest getting a heavier gun for less recoil and more control.  The "airweights" can be mules to pop off!

I would choose the 357, I like the option of having multible caliber choices. 38special, 38+p, 38+p+ & 357. Wide variety there and should your wife or significant other choose to learn to shoot you can start them out with 38 wad-cutters and work them up to full-power loads.

That is the primary reason, secondary is why put money in S&W pocket, given they abandoned gun owners. I own S&W revolvers but all are more than 20 years old.

Mike

Go with a Smith Centennial, they come in 357. As for money in S&W's pocket, they are under have had some changes, not as much as we would like, but don't let the other side convince to can all companies that try to stay afloat. We might one day have none left. Yes, Smith was a bad boy. We worked hard to discipline them, now let's not throw him out with the water.