Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Handguns J frames calling my name…

On consignment at the lgs are 3 j frames that have been there a while.

I have not had a small revolver since my brother “borrowed” my SP 101 about 20 years ago. Been thinking lately that, for no good reason, I need a .38 pocket revolver.

The guns in question are a 2” 36, a 2” 60 and a 3” 60.

Thoughts??

Everybody needs a J frame pocket gun. Of those three choices, I'd take the 2 inch 60.

I like 2 inch J frames in an Alabama pocket holster for pocket carry.

The 36 will be nice because of classic bluing, the 60 nice due to stainless and the 3 inch model just because its less common.

Buy them all

3" 60 would be my choice, but I wouldn't be pocket carrying.

I think the Model 36 is the basic Chief's Special, and the 60 is the stainless version of same. Great little guns. I have one of each. They disappear on the belt with an untucked shirt, and yet still pack a solid punch. Every gun enthusiast should own at least one.

Here are a couple of my J-Frames, both square butts. The three incher has an aluminum frame (Model 37). The other one is a Model 36 (steel frame). Both pre-82 and very minty.

36-7 and 60-7 the best of the last nolocks

3” model 60 with adjustable sights.

Cra1948: I would lean toward the 2" Model 60.
The 3" Model 60 next, as long as neither has the dreaded and valuation diminishing "hillary hole"!
Best of luck with whichever you choose.
Hold into the wind
VarmintGuy

Ditto. One of the best "woods carry" companions you could ask for.

Get the 3", especially it it's a 60-4!

Second only to a 4" Model 63

Everyone should have a few of those nice J frame Smith's.

I feel blessed.

I’ve got one of those with a scandium frame and fiber optic front sight, pre-lock.

Thanks for all the interest.

Trying hard to cut back, so not going to get them all.

Woods walking, yeah, but the scandium 4” model 357 would handle that role, once I develop a mild .41 mag cast bullet load.

Really like 3” j frames, ex wife had a 3” 36 or 37 that was sweet. Also have found 3” guns much more shootable than 2”, but this is to be a pocket gun.

Blue vs stainless…I spend a lot of time around salt/brackish water…

Probably one of the biggest factors: an associate had a 2” model 60 when I was adventuring in SEA many decades ago. Stainless revolvers were a new thing in those days and I envied the hell out of him, although the P38 I carried at the time was considered a pretty hot set up, double action and all (remember, this was decades ago.)

I’m thinking one of the 60’s will get the nod, probably the 2”.

BTW. all are pre-lock.

I'm a fan. Would love to add a model 60 Pro, but haven't found one that fits my wallet.

Those are too heavy for pocket carry. You do not need heavy revolver for .38 Special round, obvious choice is Al- framed Model 637. Old classic cartridges like .38 Special, .44 Special,.... are fine with 2" barrels because unlike in some magnums loss of velocity is not serious concern. With correct loads blast and noise can also be reduced. The 3" barrel seriously reduces holster selection.
Buy "silver finish" as those show cosmetic carry wear well, sort of like white automobile versus black one.
Some of you need to get out more and shoot those guns, you ain't getting any younger and it is no fun to leave mint stuff for others.

My 60 was the first issue when they were .38 Special only. At 22 ounces it was just too chunky for a front pocket CCW piece when a little semi-auto .380 was flatter, held more rounds and weighed the same. Then an early no lock 337 PD appeared and at 12 ounces loaded became my preferred pocket pistol. A couple of snake loads then some +P stuff when I was woods walking down south. Now just the +P Specials. It fits nicely in an ankle holster or pocket without being obvious and sagging the clothing.

If you really want an oddball, try to locate a 5” M60 or 5” M63. 😁