Searching for the best concealed carry revolver? These wheel guns are top rank in functionality and ease of use by expert choice.
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Ranking the Best Concealed Carry Revolver We Have Used
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There are lots of criteria to look at in choosing the best revolver for concealed carry handguns. Some may prefer power over precision, others go for design over quality.
This post will discuss five of the best concealed carry revolvers considered above average in these categories.
1. Ruger SP101
The Ruger SP101 from Ruger revolvers has the power to complement the 357 Magnum’s power in a smaller frame wheel gun. What gives this gun the edge over its competition is its fine engineering for smooth performance.
It comes with a grip that reduces recoil, making the SP101 ideal for personal defense or a cop’s primary weapon.
2. S&W 642
The Smith & Wesson J-Frame is arguably the most preferred small frame defense revolver today. As a testament to its success, the J-frame line’s customization is to be compatible with .22 LR, .22 Magnum®, .38 Special, and even the .357 Magnum loads.
This is hands down, the top-tier model of the J-frame Smith and Wesson revolvers .38, and its alloy frame only weighs 14.6 ounces. However, it is rated for +P rounds, which means it might be difficult for some to control.
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3. Taurus Judge Public Defender Polymer Revolver
Considered as the poor man’s Taurus Judge, the Public Defender Polymer is not to be underestimated. Its polymer body frame equates to improved handling and accuracy.
This bad boy delivers amazing flexibility and mind-blowing firepower. Why opt for a simple semi-automatic pistol when you can have this beast?
4. Charter Arms Undercorvette
The Charter Arms Undercorvette uses the .32 Magnum H&R which is often in comparison with the .32-20. A .38 bullet is bigger than a .32, but its higher velocity makes it perform better.
What’s more, the Undercorvette is better when it comes to being portable and has top-notch precision.
It’s appropriate for gun owners who are sensitive about gun recoil. The trigger being double-action is average and does not compare to the S&W or Colt.
5. Colt Detective Special
This double-action gun has a short barrel with a carbon steel frame. Gun enthusiasts call them “snubbies.”
The “Detective Special” moniker was a homage to police detectives dressing like ordinary civilians.
The Detective Special was considered a prototype of the first short-barreled revolvers but with a modern swing-out frame. It was meant for higher-powered cartridges such as the .38 Special.
These guns, despite their sizes, pack a lot of punch and are more than enough to protect yourself and your family. Keep in mind though to secure it in a safe location within your body to avoid self-inflicted injury.
One last note, owning a concealed carry holster will definitely go a long way if you decide to pack concealed carry guns. If you want to look a bit more badass, perhaps an ankle holster will do the trick.
Loading ...What’s your concealed carry revolver of choice? Share your favorite revolver and why in the comments section below.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on January 18, 2019, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
What’s your opinion on Taurus judge poly for conceal carry?
Taurus has a lot of negative press surrounding them, lately. Their revolvers are usually fine, however, and can be carried with confidence. I know some people who swear by the Judge, simply because they can’t see all that well and you can load .410 shot shells into them. Therefore, though you still need to aim, it isn’t as crucial because there is a wider shot pattern increasing your chances of hitting an attacker. Now, as far as having a polymer Judge is concerned, if I’m not mistaken, the revolver is reinforced with steel then wrapped in poly. So, you still get the strength of metal, but with some weight savings. Though, from my understanding, the amount of weight saved isn’t all that much. Happy shooting!
It’s a very *fat* revolver by concealed carry standards, but it’s tough and easy to use, and for the close-range engagements in which CC revolvers are often employed, it’s toward the higher end of effectiveness.
I purchased one of the 32 Mag Charter Arms snub nosed pistols right after they came out. I was very impressed with the accuracy of the pistol. It fit perfectly in a front pocket of a Saddleman seat cover.
I was able to bust clay pigeons at 75 yards, off a bench, with this pistol. I would not hesitate on buying another one.
I have a Colt Cobra 38 Police Special 4″ barrel.
I realize it’s a bit off topic, but for open carry guiding in Alaska we had a .44 magnum stainless steel long barrel Ruger. A 12 gauge with slugs or 00 buck has more stopping power, but you are more likely to be carrying the revolver, “when the bear comes through the cabin window.”
Cheers! Stu.
I carry a s&w model 60 it’s a little heavy but very reliable
Ruger LCRx .38 special 3″ barrel. Also have a S&W model 65-3 .357 Mag 4.5″ barrel
Does Colt still make the detective special? Love my sp101.
I had a poly hudge and i had to send it in three times before i got rid of it. Revolvers do jam and when they do it is all over. At least you can unjam a glock and keep going. This poly judge locked up three times solid. Had to send it in each time.
I just bought a .32 Mag Undercoverette to see if my wife likes it better than the TCP 738 semi auto we have. The 9mm and 40 cal pistols are to much for her to handle. The double action trigger pull is long and stiff, but that single action is almost scary light. Just put your finger on the trigger in the single action mode and bang!! At 7yds the accuracy is more than decent. Fit and finish is actually much better than I expected for a budget priced .32 Mag revolver. Wife likes it and so do I, so well worth the $$$ spent.
S&W Model 19 2 1/2″
Ruger Redhawk in .45ACP/.45LC!!! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0345141c0c17219bc7ed117102fdc668fcf14b836f6799a2563a45efce8ee2be.png
need a small light weight like 12 once conceal carry revolver my hands are small.
how about a 4inch python satin stainless I carry one from 1992 its the only colt I will shoot besides my o models
This list sucks.
I like my little N.E.F H&R .32 Mag R73 +p rated can shoot .32ACP(Just need to pay attention to cylinder wear or ACPs can pass ejector push or just get a moon clip for ACP) , .32Longs, and .32Mag sweet little pistol IMO… I like the 32 cal I feel they should be a little more retentive then they are…
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/53833a52a9d6e345d893adf5538250a25ecc368f012813fede6f892d1a966963.jpg
I carry a Hammerless .357 Ruger SP101 in brushed stainless. Nice sized, solid feel. I find it easier to carry stripper clips and they load easier than my speed loaders. All of these examples are fine carry pieces, it boils down to personal preference. Get some plenty of range time with whatever you choose to carry.
Ok at different times my go to is a S&W Compact Nickel Classic 38 Model 63..a S&W M&P Shield 9mm and a newly purchased S&W 686 357 Plus Deluxe 3″ awww man life is good.
I’m very fond of the older model 19 S&W 357magnuw 4″ barrel