semi auto vs revolver for all purpose handgun

[huntinhick]

Hello all,

I have been thinking of getting a 4" revolver in 357 for all purpose woods/CCW.  now I am thinking that maybe a springfield xd or glock might be a better choice since it is a little more concealable.  I think I would go for the 40sw instead of a 9mm or even the 10mm or 45acp  in the glock.  what do you think is that a better choice.  just a note when I say woods carry I mean something that I could maybe get a rabbit for the pot with and then drop a cougar if it is be a problem.  and if the situation called for it maybe drop a deer at close range.

thanks

HH

[Redhawk1]

Hello all,

I have been thinking of getting a 4" revolver in 357 for all purpose woods/CCW.  now I am thinking that maybe a springfield xd or glock might be a better choice since it is a little more concealable.  I think I would go for the 40sw instead of a 9mm or even the 10mm or 45acp  in the glock.  what do you think is that a better choice.  just a note when I say woods carry I mean something that I could maybe get a rabbit for the pot with and then drop a cougar if it is be a problem.  and if the situation called for it maybe drop a deer at close range.

thanks

HH

A nice 357Mag would fit the bill vert well. JMHO.  

[RKBAHolsters]

If you go semi-auto, I'd suggest a Glock 29 which is the compact-ish 10mm.

Otherwise, you would be well served with a 4" S&W 686 or Ruger GP100.

Steve

[huntinhick]

well the GP100 was my first choice.  I would like to carry it as CCW so I was worried about size. what would be the best method to conceal it?  I guess cold weather would not be a big deal as I always wear a fleece jacket when I go out,  but the spring and summer might be a challenge....

thanks,

HH

[myronman3]

you would be further ahead getting a 4 inch 357 for what you listed.  they pack pretty nice.  in fact,  i think my 357 packs easier than my 1911; which surprised me.

[Jerry Lester]

I'm not fond of centerfire semi-auto's for woods carry at all. The calibers available are not really all that great for most actual hunting, and the pistols designed for them are even less "hunter friendly".

My vote would also be for something along the lines of the GP-100...

[Mikey]

A good quality 357 magnum revolver or a 10mm with a set of decent sights should take care of all the needs you mentioned.  JMHO.  Mikey.

[knight0334]

I dont know about your game laws, but I know some states require a certain barrel length, approved caliber, or be manually operated(PA).

The .357 revolver is pretty much legal just about everywhere that allows handgun hunting.  Not sure about the 10mm.

[Badnews Bob]

I carry a 2.5 inch ruger .357 alot, I don't think a 4 incher would carry much diffrent. If you can find one a Ruger single six is just a little smaller than the GP, If not the stainless GP 100 4" will handle just about anything your gonna come across in this country.

[Patriot_1776]

huntinhick,

Like 480 Ruger suggested, I think you will really like the S&W 686.  Some good points it has over the GP-100 IMO:

1. It is slightly lighter and just as compact.

2. It holds 7 rounds of 357, whereas the GP-100 holds 6 rounds.

3.  The trigger feels smoother and, overall, better to me over the GP-100 (I've got both a 686 and SRH, which has pretty much the same trigger as the GP-100).  

4.  I don't give a hoot about whether it has the integral lock or not; it is so unobtrusive I don't even know its there most of the time.  That's the straight truth about that. :wink:

I also believe the S&W 686 coupled with the 357 Magnum would serve you better for the purposes you intend (self-defense, CCW, woods protection, can take a couger or rabbit in a pinch with the right loads.)

If you want something a little more, then a 4" 44 Mag. from S&W would be even better.  You could use 44Spl. loads for lighter target practice, or lower end 44 Mag. loads for self-defense as well.  But the sacrifice there is extra weight.....I know, so many things to consider! :x  

Hope I've helped you out some.


-Patriot