.38 for Home Protection?
The Smith and Wesson was a favorite of my Dad's and, now that I'm thinking of a getting a Home Protection weapon, it comes to mind. However, there seems to be a bewildering number of models. BTW, I've thought about a shotgun, but I'm much more familar with pistols, and I think I'll stick with one of them for the time being.
I have a few questions for you fellows:
1. Which Manufacturer of .38 should I get? I've heard good things about the Taurus here and elsewhere, but I lean toward the SW (nostalgia, I suppose).
2. What model specifically? I think I'll buy used from here (there are Dealers here who can accept gun shipments). Would you reccomend any particular series of years or models of Taurus/SW?
3. Should I reconsider the .38? I've heard that .40 and up is best for home protection. Note that the walls of my home will be brick and stone, I'll be on a 1.3 acre lot, I'll be living alone, and I have no children.
4. I've never bought a gun before: all my weapons have been willed to me by my Father and Uncle. I find the idea of registering a weapon a bit offensive (well, more than a bit). Is that what happens when a new or used gun is bought, or is it merely a matter of a background check? (I live in Oklahoma)
Thanks guys.
Frank Knuppel
I have a few questions for you fellows:
1. Which Manufacturer of .38 should I get? I've heard good things about the Taurus here and elsewhere, but I lean toward the SW (nostalgia, I suppose).
2. What model specifically? I think I'll buy used from here (there are Dealers here who can accept gun shipments). Would you reccomend any particular series of years or models of Taurus/SW?
3. Should I reconsider the .38? I've heard that .40 and up is best for home protection. Note that the walls of my home will be brick and stone, I'll be on a 1.3 acre lot, I'll be living alone, and I have no children.
4. I've never bought a gun before: all my weapons have been willed to me by my Father and Uncle. I find the idea of registering a weapon a bit offensive (well, more than a bit). Is that what happens when a new or used gun is bought, or is it merely a matter of a background check? (I live in Oklahoma)
Thanks guys.
Frank Knuppel
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The best home protection gun is the one you shoot best.
If you have been shooting revolvers all your life, why change to an auto? Remember an auto may have it's advantages but there also a number of malfunctions that can and will happen when you need that pistol most. (Murphy's Law)
I learned how to shoot with autos, all I really know are autos so it wouldn't make sense for a person like me to switch to a revolver for personal protection.
As for caliber. That debate will always go on and on. Stopping power is shot placement and penetration. 9mm and up will work fine if you hit your target IMHO. So bottom line is shoot what you are comfortable with.0 -
A .38 is all you need for home protection. Smith and Wesson can't be beat. Find an old police gun, what a classic.
Taurus is also good.
You aren't exactly registered when you buy a gun from a dealer, but there is a record that the Feds can get access to.
To be safe, buy the local "trader" magazines and buy a gun from a private individual. There will be no paper trail, and it is perfectly legal. Pay with cash.
The local "trader" paper here is called the IWANNA. It sells for a buck at the 7-ll. Every week it comes out, there are about 500 guns for sale there, always a couple of .38s.0 -
Frank...... If you like revolvers, Smith & Wesson is a good choice. I would suggest the medium "K" frame with a 4" barrel.
There are numerous models to choose from. The model 15 or 67 in .38 spl can handle +p higher pressure ammo. They are the same gun with the 15 in blue steel and the 67 in stainless.
If you want the added power of a magnum the model 19 or 66 are also "K" frame but shoot .357 magnum.
If you want bigger bullets the model 25 or 625 can be had in .45acp or .45 long colt.
There is no substitute for accurate shooting. As already mentioned, shot placement is vitally important. For home protection I suggest lots of practice.
Joe
"Never let school interfere with your education"0 -
hfk: I'd say a clean used S$W Model 19 or S$W Model 66 with a four inch bbl. They will be easier to control than a snub nose lightweight and it doesn't sound as though you will be carrying it much so the extra weight won't matter. If you do, the four inch will be nicer to carry than a six inch or longer bbl. These guns are chambered in 357 Magnum which you can shoot 38 Special in from now on if you like or later if you feel the need for more power you can shoot the Magnum Round in it. It gives you more options...... Good Luck........[8D] 0 -
S&W Model 15 Combat Masterpiece 4" barrel 0 -
Guys,
Many thanks for your advice. You've been very helpfull.
I will look into the local gun trader paper: I am in no way what can be called a 'gun nut', but the thought of the Feds tracking my gun purchases really irritates me (guess my Dad raised me right).
Thanks again.
Frank Knuppel0
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