Hey guys im relatively new to the revolver scene. Ive always carried automatics, and currently carry a sig 239/40 but have recently decided to carry a backup revolver and have it for my summer primary. I like Smith & Wesson quality and need something small and powerful! Possibly in pockert or IWB.

What do you carry and what suggestions could you give me? Thanks for any input

Get a 2 1/2 inch barrel S&W 686. It will take all the full house 357 mag loads you can dish out. I carry one and it is a perfect size for a CCW revlover.

Quoted: Get a 2 1/2 inch barrel S&W 686. It will take all the full house 357 mag loads you can dish out. I carry one and it is a perfect size for a CCW revlover.

It might be a little big for a pocket but I agree it is a great gun.

I have a S&W 686 and it is big for carry.

What you want depends on what you're going to do with it.  Most people will tell you to get a .357 because they are built better.  I don't think the extra weight of a .357 is what you're looking for though.  Look at some lightweight hammerless .38's.  If you want a S&W, the J frame is the small one.

Best bang for the buck is the S&W model 442. It's "blued" so it won't gleam in bright sunlight nor glare off the top strap. Aluminum alloy frame is cheaper than the Scandium & only weighs an once or so more. Saves about $200 or more there.

The .357mag would be difficult to have a good/quick follow-up shot with in an alloy frame & metal is too GD heavy for a J-frame, IMO. Therefor, I went for the .38spl & can put +P or wadcutters or anything in between & have very managable recoil.

If you do get a pocket pistol, skip the rubber grips as they'll snag your clothing when you least it. Always stick with wood.

My little J-frame is surprisingly accurate for such a short barrel.

Quoted: Best bang for the buck is the S&W model 442. It's "blued" so it won't gleam in bright sunlight nor glare off the top strap. Aluminum alloy frame is cheaper than the Scandium & only weighs an once or so more. Saves about $200 or more there. The .357mag would be difficult to have a good/quick follow-up shot with in an alloy frame & metal is too GD heavy for a J-frame, IMO. Therefor, I went for the .38spl & can put +P or wadcutters or anything in between & have very managable recoil. If you do get a pocket pistol, skip the rubber grips as they'll snag your clothing when you least it. Always stick with wood. My little J-frame is surprisingly accurate for such a short barrel.

The S&W 442 has an aluminum frame and carbon steel cylinder, so it actually weighs in at 4oz more than the equivalent aluminum/titanium gun. The S&W342s is the titanium equivalent of the 442, and man does a 342 kick like a mule, even with my mild wadcutter loads.
Shorter barrel doesn't necessarily mean inaccuracy, just less velocity.

SP 101 or Taurus 85. I bet you buy it, try it, and go back to your auto.

Quoted: SP 101 or Taurus 85. I bet you buy it, try it, and go back to your auto.

No doubt, I will always have my auto, I jus would like a backup.

642/442

Quoted: 642/442

+1