Originally Posted by Jim in Idaho
Throwing in another 1,000 votes for the Model 18 (Democrat voting rules wink ).

Have owned 18's, 17's, 63's - the original 4" version - and 34's. All are accurate, the first two are generally more shootable.

The 18 will weigh roughly 33-34 ounces loaded which isn't obtrusive with a good belt holster and there are a ton of K-frame grips available to fit all hand sizes and individual tastes. Love me some J-frames but unless there is a criteria for a smaller grip they always felt a bit tiny in the hand, especially with the standard or service style grip.

Based on your stated purpose and that you're new to handguns I think the weight and grip size of the 18 will really help your shooting which will help your confidence which will help your shooting even more.

They are expensive at this time but it's still worthwhile to look and wait for a good one - pay once cry once.

I'll mention the Ruger SP101 4" .22, that's a nice little 8 shot that's a bit bigger and heavier than the J-frame Smiths but unfortunately Ruger's QC these days just isn't that hot. If you can examine one in person and it has a straight barrel and the front sight is on straight it'd be a good shooter.

But overall, that Model 18 is really a Cadillac of .22 revolvers, you would never regret buying one.




And now that I've promoted the K-frame over the J-frame I'll go back and say that this one really floats my boat for some reason. Model 35-1, J-frame with a 6" barrel. Basically it is to a Model 34 as the 17 is to a Model 18. Folks are very proud of these things nowadays.

[Linked Image from p1.gunbroker.com]




Yes they are 😁. I bought one last year, probably paid a little more than I should have but it’s really slick and accurate.

NRA Life,Endowment,Patron or Benefactor since '72.