Perfectly valid reasoning. I grew up with Rugers, and though the push-forward cylinder release doesn't pose any issues with me, I did spend a lot more time with the Ruger button.
To each his own I suppose. I carry the LCR in .327 magnum. Extra round of capacity, far, far more powerful than even the hottest .38 +P, recoil is similar. The trigger is simply better on the LCR as well, as are the stock sights, (which I can replace if needed.) The cylinder release is designed to prevent being accidentally bumped or pressed during concealed carry, so I don’t mind the tiny bit of extra effort it takes to press in rather than forward.
I have a great little J-frame, which has been a car gun since I got my LCR, which was promoted to EDC. Reasons: lighter weight, better trigger, better grips, points more naturally for me. To each his own.
I'm mostly into semi-autos, but my wife just got a Model 36 Chief's Special and it is a fantastic little snubbie. I can instantly see why people love them.
The cylinder on my LCR does the same thing as yours did. After I reload and close it, I can continue to rotate the cylinder. It was a bit off putting at first, but ultimately it doesn't affect the performance of the firearm. Now that I'm used to it, it doesn't bother me, it doesn't matter if the cylinder is between cogs - pull the trigger and it fires. As you stated, a lot of it comes down to personal preference. One of the main reasons I purchased the LCR over the J-Frame is because it's operation is similar to my other Ruger revolver.
It’s all about personal preference & comfort as it pertains to weapons EDC. Both the LCR & J Frame have their merits. The best consideration is to be intimately familiar with what you’re defending your life with.
Or, you can get smart and buy a revolver that does not take training to overcome the shortcomings of gun . Your life might depend on a forgiving firearm .
@@peterking2886 Every gun takes and needs training! As for the Short comings that you refer to I don't see them. I own two j Frames and two lcr's all work great. As for trigger double action all four need to be released all the way. Cylinder release all work fine Ruger different from S&W TRAINING! The cylinder lock problem an issue with that gun needs repair. At the end of the day you need to own what you are comfortable with. But you can't blame a gun for you're lack of training and not enough rounds down range period.
Absolutely agree. I never short stroked a revolver before I shot my LCR, and never did after I got rid of it. Also, it doesn’t fit comfortably in the pocket like the Smith J-Frame.
which is fine, whatever feels best, right? I'm new to j-frames but the Smith felt a bit tougher, but somewhat better in my hands, that said I'm really interested in owning an LCR or ruger LCR-styled frame, they are fantastic. (Though the Chiappa Rhino is really what I'm looking at the most right now)
he had a skill set already in place. Why bother altering it if you can get another firearm that shoots the same round with same amount of capacity at the same size? It's a no brainer, go with what your muscle memory knows.
TheFireArmGuy Its a great piece - although a lot of people prefer the 642 for its resistance to wear I guess, but I owned a 340 M&P and really put that thing through the ringer to the point it started to fail on me and the finish was fine. I had the 642 back in 2011 and I noticed the "lacquer" chipping off the trig guard but that was it. Thanks for watching! It means a lot to me!
My 442 has been around the block and around America, it's probably my top carry gun between that and my Glock 26 with the tlr6. It's my main carry gun most of the year and even when I carry my larger handguns or revolvers I still usually carry the 442 in the pocket as well. Love it when I travel, because it only holds 5 rounds and has no magazine, any state that has reciprocity with mine I'm good to go cause I know I won't break any arbitrary magazine restrictions. It's my faithful companion I even keep it on me around the house in my house pants. And it's only 3 years younger than me so we are almost the same age! Lol
I know this is an older video, but I was curious as to your problem with the cylinder continuing to spin after closing the cylinder. I've had several revolvers and don't believe I've ever encountered this problem myself, but I was wondering if you really needed to spin the cylinder after closing it to a locked position. In all fairness to a revolver, doesn't it begin to turn to the next round when pulling the trigger? Weather it is already in a locked position or not, it should just turn itself to the next available round and fire. Either way, I understand you cause for concern and decision in just getting a gun you're more comfortable with. Nice video!
@@mrmann44 it was a few years ago hard to remember exactly, It wasn’t cheap cause it had just came out, like $569 somewhere in the higher $500s I think. 🤔
I know this is an older video. But, if you want the cylinder to lock up quicker and more reliably when closing it, then you should rotate it in the normal direction that it turns. Not in the reverse direction that was shown in this video.
I like both and own both revolvers. The only issue I have with the LCR is not being able to stage the gun for a single shot. The S&W 442 has the ability to stage the cylinder. The second issue is with speed loaders. It is more difficult to use a speed loader with the LCR. The grip and frame design makes it hard to line the loader correctly. Great video!
Both are excellent CC revolvers. I really like the 638 J Frame with the recessed hammer providing me with DA or single action cocking capability
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I agree with you. I own a 38 Rugar LCR. The release button is sticky. The screw underneath the release button keeps unscrewing so you have to make sure to keep turning it back in. Definitely thinking of trading it in and going with SW. Thanks
Both nice guns. Your problems, however, with the LCR are just that, yours. Name one revolver that does not require the shooter to let the trigger fully reset in the forward position, and, the cylinder release is unique to Ruger and different than Smith or Colt. Different yes, problematic, no.
Before I bought my Ruger LCR, I looked at the Smith &Wesson and the things I didn't like was the angle of the handle (more muzzle flip) and the exposed ejector rod.
One other problem with the LCR; a friend of my mother's (we'll call him "Charlie")decided to get a concealed carry permit, and chose the LCR as his carry piece. A couple of months later, I was talking with a local dealer, in comes Charlie with his LCR. In pieces. He had been doing some practice shooting (with factory MagTech ammo) when the gun exploded. Fortunately, he wasn't hurt, but the gun was totaled. After seeing that, I swore I'd never buy a polymer revolver. EVER.
Ouch! Thanks for sharing. Local shops have not seen something like that but they do tell me the LCR is one of the most popular traded in gun at this time. This one shop told me they had one LCR have to go back for warranty work in which they replaced the whole revolver. The cylinder froze up on the customer. As a side note I had a follow up with the guy I sold this LCR to and he actually told me he is thinking of trading it in already. I asked him why but he has not responded yet. So that's interesting...
I’m buying one of these in my birthday. I sold off my Taurus revolvers and have been wanting to get back into the game, but this time with S&W. Great review sir.
Good video, I know everyone is different and mileage may vary. I own a S&W 642 plus a Ruger LCR and I'm being honest I like them both, I carry whichever one is closer Lol.
+Mike ts Thank you. I think the LCR points more like a larger frame gun than the J frame. I own the LCR and a model 637-2 Airweight Chief's Special. They both point shoot very well for me. The front sight on the LCR is replaceable.
I have a Ruger LCR 38 and I actually love it, but lately, I've been eyeing a S&W Snubby. I was considering the model 638 w/ the hammer, but I've read that many Speed Loaders don't work to well with it because of the grips. What kind of Speed Loaders were those in the vid ? And what model is it that's the same as yours, just we with a hammer ? I'm in the market for a snub w/ a hammer this time. But...then again, I may just get the LCRx 3 in. Thx, and great video. 👊🏽🎯
@@danstevens4307 I just stumbled across a 4-4-2 at a local gun shop that didn't have the lock It was a bit overpriced in my opinion, but I bought it anyway
I have a steel J-Frame steel 649 which is 7 ounces more than the aluminum 442/642/438/638 series. I looked at a 442 yesterday at the range at noticed it was hella light, but the black frame/rear sight/front sight doesn't do it for me. It's portable but I cant imagine easy to aim and shoot
It's funny how every 5 shot .38 caliber revolver maker hits the market like the wheel has been reinvented, but in the end S&W J frame is still the gold standard.
Do you use the same thought process,when using a semi auto.You push the button in to reload.I learned to shoot using autos,so it was not hard to switch to the Ruger speed six & then the LCR.
Very nice little revolver. I have that same gun. Mine doesn't have the lock either. I would not buy a S&W revolver with the built-in lock...that's just me, others may disagree. I was listening to a Mossad Ayoob podcast and one of the guys mentioned that he took Mossad's advice and that he had purchased a product from a company called Apex, and that he had installed that on his J-Frame and that it had really improved the trigger-pull. So I looked it up online and found what he was talking about. It is called their carry-duty trigger kit, or something like that. I installed it on my 442 and it really helped the trigger-pull. I would suggest that kit to you or anyone else who carries a S&W J-Frame for duty or self-defense.
My Airweight is in my ankle holster and on me yet again today. Excellent choice my friend. Fumbling is not cool for me either. I have purchased a few guns in haste over the years that did not work for me. The buffalo bore might be good for mine. Thanks for sharing.
oneeyedpatriot I'd take a look at the DPX 110gr+p or this Buf Bore load I'm currently using. The 135gr +p Short Barrel 38 Gold Dot is very promising as well!!
suburban sentinel Thanks my friend! I do think Ruger has a great platform with their SP series. Even the LCR is nice but I just couldn't get over the issues I was having personally with it. And that LCR bucked like a mother with those BufBore loads!!!!! Ouch! LOL.
+TheOl1911 How does the recoil of the same BufBore loads you shot in the LCR compare to their recoil in the 442? Which gun was more controllable for follow up shots?
Under the stress of a gunfight, I'm not worried about 'milking' the trigger. In most cases, one will not remember how many times they pull the trigger. I'm pulling that baby until the threat is eliminated. I don't think a J frame was built to be shot extensively. The frame might crack after too many 'hot' loads, and years of excessive wear. Use a k frame or larger for that. I think the J frame was designed for those special occasions (can't afford too many in a lifetime) when one has to drop a 'douchebag' for a myriad of reasons. I may use my J frame a couple of times to get acquainted with it, but that's it. I know it works, and I know how to use it. In the moment of truth, I know it will function. Just keep it clean and lubed. Some may disagree. I mean, after 22 years as a cop and the last number of years spent in the Middle East , what do I know? Rock on, Dawg. Nice vid.
Just bought the same smith yesterday, just wondering what speed loader do you use? I saw a lot of people online bashing them because they hit the release!
Yes, carry what you are most comfortable with, I own several small J frames and several LCRs, both are excellent revolvers. Your reasons are good but very subjective.
This is a question for when you had the LCR: I've never owned one and I'm wondering what would happen if you have the cylinder closed and you aren't indexed. If you're between chambers, and you pull the trigger, does it reset itself, or does it not work at all?
I've carried a ruger lcr 38 for many years, and trust me folks on this one,,,,with the smooth back top of the frame, I can conceal and draw my weapon without any part of the frame to catch coming out of my pocket, nor causing even a slight hassel upon quick removel out of my front pants pocket , as with this this s & w 442, that alone my friends, is why I choose the ruger over this one . . . .
I have the LCR chambered in 357 and let me tell you, I could not get through an entire cylinder of 5 rounds. I stopped after firing shot number 3 because my hand hurt so bad (But I still like having the option to put the slightly longer 357 cartridges in the gun if that's all I had handy.) .
oldmanwitherspoon I have the LCR .357 snub nose it’s good to have a little bit heavier frame so the recoil is handled with .38 +P even better than the LCR .38 +P
I would take Ruger any day even though I own 4 Smiths. If I didn't already have the Smiths from years ago, I'd buy nothing but Ruger revolvers. Smith, the company, is run by lawyers. Silly internal lock that will eventually lock itself during recoil, trigger pull that is heavier than the trigger gauge will measure. If you are buying your first revolver, buy a Ruger LCR. You wont regret it.
Looks like a nice piece...I've looked at these small hammerless revolvers in the past but never really was in the market for one, but I'm starting to look into them more...
***** Its definitely not a "fun" gun to take to the range nor is it really a "pretty" piece. I like to put it on the lines of a Glock. A tool for a purpose and that's it. It comes in handy in those times where I can not carry say a G19 or back in the day a 1911...
Sounds more like you just are stuck in your ways on the Smith and Wesson, and won't learn the new gun, rather than there being any problem with the Ruger. That's fine, to each his/her own, but not grounds for dissing the Ruger at all!
+Bob Smith in a stressful situation, you are more likely to not let the trigger reset as far. you are anxious, you are tense, you are fearing for your life. even muscle memory won't account for the unecessarily long stroke of the LCR trigger. the video poster has a very good point - read the complaints all over the Ruger forums about it.
+jgg204 And yet, the video demonstrates that issue on the J-frame, not the Ruger. Look, I have both, and have no problem with either. As the poster said, these are personal preferences. I find both are excellent weapons, but with differences which each person should evaluate. As an aside, virtually every gun out there has complaints of one type or another on the forums. That's not dispositive of anything. It's always going to come down to individual preference, absent an obvious malfunction potential, which this clearly is not.
+Bob Smith there is a reason why there is thread after thread on short stroking the LCR on the Ruger forums...and little to nothing on the S&W forums. no one is calling it a malfunction...it's just a bad design but from my understanding of the cam system...a necessary one. without the long travel, Ruger could not have had the cam the way it is. so yeah...in exchange for a super smooth trigger, the LCR has longer travel and is more prone to short stroking due to that longer travel. you can claim you are used to it all you want and that you have developed muscle memory to account for it....the fact is, it's longer and more prone to short stroking. end of story in a true life or death situation - give me the 442 / 642 any day over the LCR. BTW - he is showing you what the problem is on the LCR, by using the 442 and intentionally short stroking it (if you watched the video and paid attention you would have realized he doesn't have the LCR anymore). you missed his intent of the demonstration and you're trying to project it back onto the 442. come on dude
+jgg204 Boy, you just have to not only be a know-it-all, but you have - just have - to be absolutely right, don't you? No one can have a preference different from yours, can they? So you just have to keep beating the issue, like the bully you obviously are. Go away.
Welcome back to the j frame my friend. I think the 642/442 is s&w best selling firearm and for good reason. I had thought about an lcr but it just didn't conceal as well in the pocket as my 442. When I was new to carrying I would always strap on a heavy full size auto on my hip. With age comes wisdom. Now a days it's my 442 that rolls with me like 80 percent of the time. Once in a while I'll grab the full size and say "man I should have grabbed the j frame. The Times when I want more firepower I'll grab my sp 101 357. Nothing concealed better IMO than a revolver.I used to carry my snub 686 but the weight and stupid lock eventually made me sell it. That's when I found the sp101. It's a great compromise of size and weight with no stupid lock and I've never heard of an sp going back for repairs...
Thanks for the great comment my friend! The LCR was a nice little revolver but I guess I am much more use to the j-frame platform. What types of holster do you use for your 442. For the most part I've been using the same DeSantis pocket holster I got back in 2011...but looking to find a newer one that is more functional.
Great thread. I sold mine also. simply because of the short-stroke condition which I consider a jam. I don't have the patience to allow the trigger to reset completely to the front before the next shot. My Smith model 60 doesn't need the extra thought.
Just a footnote, though you sold the Ruger, the cylinder would still rotate and properly lock by simply pulling the trigger rather than spinning it until it locks. I have one and noticed that issue as well, and a little testing solved the issue. I also have an S&W revolver which as you pointed out this does not occur on. You were right though to trade it off. I am that way with Glocks. They are great guns and when needed I can shoot them quite well. However having shot 1911 type pistols for 25 years and the fact that every other pistol I have has the 1911 17 degree grip to frame angle and therefore my muscle memory transfers through all of my pistols. With the Glocks more severe angle I would have to retrain my muscle memory for one firearm which considering how many other guns I own that my current muscle memory is correct for make no sense. So both of the Glocks I have bought were sold for other guns I wanted more.
Hardwood Hollow Bushcraft thanks for the comment. I believe the HK USP has a very similar grip like the 1911. That was something I noticed... but thanks for your thoughts on this!
***** Yes sir you are correct about the H&K USP. The German engineers specifically designed that pistol for the US market. They maintained the 17 degree grip angle from the 1911 due to that being the favored angle by US ahooters.I have a H&K USP .45. It is my go to pistol being absolutely the most reliable semi auto I've ever owned. 33,000 rounds and counting since 1995.
I am a Smith & Wesson fan however I ditched my last 442 when the LCR came out. Hitting at 47 yards with the LCR made me a believer. I have plenty of ammo and train regularly. I also get short reset when firing quickly. I still think the LCR is the better choice and I have two of them.
The reason I prefer the Smith is that I'm old-school. I just can't get with polymer guns. They look like toys. I know all the advantages, but plastic for me is a deal-breaker.
Tom Nelson I recently did an EDC vid and have been carrying the G29 lately. But if I can't carry that its always the j-frame. So basically its been a revolver or a Glock...
Thanks for the quick reply. Unless I change my mind or situation changes - I'm staying with revolvers, 38/357's to not have to stock up / keep up with multiple calibers & so far J Frames so same holsters fit every gun.
I own one of each. Never an issue with either one. If I could only have one, would be the Ruger. A little lighter & I prefer the trigger. Their both excellent all time carry choice.
The LCR has a better trigger pull but you do have to let it pretty much all the way out so you don’t short stroke it. I’ve seen other people have problems with that.
My 442 is strictly a pocket gun. I recently bought a galco suede pocket protector but went back to my cheap ol uncle Mike's size 3 pocket holster. The galco will certainly last longer but it seems to be a little thicker than my uncle Mike's. I want the thinnest possible for deep concealment.
I'm heavily considering the S&W 442 or 642 airweight, though the LCR i could be perfectly happy with. My main carry weapons are either a Glock 19, w g26 backup (my back can't take it anymore, injuries sustained in battle won't allow and id still ike to be effective at my private security gig which can be high risk at times), or a SIG SP2022 which I highly, highly recommend to anyonw esp first time gun owners who want a firearm that they won't need to trade-up once they learn it. decocker, DA/SA feels very familiar to the SIG P226 but comes in at nearly half the price, trained on the M9 and operated with it for years, same with J frame revolvers before that. The Glock 19 has become m yfavorite all-around firearm outside of the Chiappa Rhino (Which I don't own but have fired enough to know Imn going to own one by the end of hte year, m ygod, what weapon!) Anyway, really excited to pick up one of these puppies, prob the 442 of the 642, this one is looking really attractive though.
Try that LCR 327. You get six rounds of any of three different 32 cartridges. There's the powder puff light, the regular medium, and the walloping Federal mags that'll match the 38 +P.
I will recommend that to my pops, thanks a bunch. I was given the 442 as a b-day present, still got the Glock 26 and all my others so I just feel so spoiled right now (having been gifted my long-lost Glock 19 3rd gen back new, G26 new, and Smith 442 new in quick succession from Christmas to my b-day 30 days ago exactly. Really, really enjoy it, by far the most difficult firearm i have to master in a fairly long list for someone like myself (my favorite firearm is my 1911, a Kimber TLE 2, my best is the Glock 19, my newest-favorite if the SIG SP2022 I was just given by an old service-buddy, but my absolute favorite to shoot and master is the Smith and Wesson 442, anyway, hard to have a favorite, that's how I break it down)
just started looking into snub nose revolvers for more carry options. Super glad I came across your channel. Thanks for the info. I'm thinking about trading in another carry gun I have to pick up a 442.
I agree I've a J frame 22 magnum and love that little gun! On a slightly different note, I've gone back to the 1911 platform for the similar reasons - familiarity
amacro11 That's good! I have some 1911s coming in the future. But I do not know if I would go back to that platform. We shall see. I carried a Gov't size 1911 (of many brands) for many years. So I do feel very confident with one - but ever since going back to a Glock platform if I were ever to go back to the 1911 I'll need a "refresher" course. What type of 1911 you favor?
***** I'm sporting the EMP in 9mm I had a 40 caliber but it was a bit heavy the 9mm is a sweet shooter, also I pocket carried the P938 yesterday. I know you had the EMP in the past watched the videos. Look forward to more in the future keep up the good work Al
Training issues. Shoot what you're comfortable with, but everything you're describing sounds like differences between guns (my wife likes Smiths, I like Rugers, I've noticed the same things.) Sweep the cylinder counter clockwise and it locks instantly in my experience.
For years my LCR has shot to the right even though I'm right handed which is weird. If I'm milking the grip it's gonna be low and left. I might send it back because the cylinder release is sticky too.
I have the same 442, But I notice right after I put my spd/ldr (5 shot) the edge or rim interferes with the thumb release cylinder mechanism and does not allow me ( Due to no clearance) to effectively use the spd/ldr. I have a 442 with a locking mechanism, if it were designed to be placed a fraction of a milimeter to the right for clearance, this would be an awesome tool. I like my 442 but the HK speed loader does not work the way it should with this model.
Your comments on the Ruger are not all founded. First, the opening of the cylinder is a training issue. If you do it the way it is designed, it works fine. Colt was different than S&W also. Second, regarding the trigger, there is no problem. You let it all the way out and pull the trigger again, like any other revolver. Training. The smoothness and weight of the pull of the trigger is most important. The Smith is very hard, but smooth. Since this is a shooting matter, I find the smooth and lighter trigger very important. Third, the thickness of the handle may be combersome for reloading with speed loader, and the fit and drawing from a pocket or inside the belt. That is a valid concern. I think that is the most important to test, reloading. I would use a strip anyway, since the speed loaders are cumbersome to carry. However, the Tamer grip on the Ruger does a great job of reducing felt recoil, and shooters found that they could shoot .357 in it without killing their hand. One person shaved a little off the rubber of the Hogue and the reloading worked much better. Fourth, the spinning of the cylinder. I called and spoke with Ruger on that matter and was told that the cylinder rotates counter clockwise, looking from the back. Spinning it counter clockwise works fine and locks into the very first slot. You were spinning it clockwise and it did lock into the second slot. I tested clockwise at Cabelas and got the same result as you did. It locked in the 2nd slot. But, I didn't try counter clockwise, but the support person at Ruger I spoke with did test it counter clockwise and it worked and locked fine, for about 3 tests. Also, without spinning it at all, the Ruger, and all revolvers by the major mfrs, locks itself as you pull the trigger or cock the hammer. I think spinning the cylinder in combat is a waste of time. Close it and shoot. With a pistol, you wouldn't insert a magazine, release the slide, and then pull the slide back slightly to see of the cartridge was in the chamber, nor turn it on its side to see the shiney sliver of brass in the slide. I am going to have to judge it by the trigger pull, grip effectiveness vs. wearing and drawing. Sights are optional. I would want a big white dot front sight. But, as a NYC detective, who was a master class combat shooter, said was that you point the gun in a chaotic situation, not aim it. You practice pointing and aiming to cover both bases. I too have to make a decision on a Smith, whom I totally respect, having first had a .38 spl 6'" revolver compared with the Ruger. Since then, after selling the .38 revolver, I had an all steel 9mm auto, in my inventory. Since-then, I have narrowed so I can master one defensive weapon and chose the Sig P239 compact .40. Now, I want to add a revolver that I can carry in warmer weather, when long shirts, sweaters, and jackets are not feasible, and one that my wife can use as well. She is not comfortable with the mechanics required to totally handle a semi-auto, after much FAM firing and handling practice.
I think you mean "well-founded". His choice here IS well-founded because it's based on HIS preference. It doesn't matter that he could have practiced to eliminate the issues he was having when he can just change platforms and not have the issues. It has nothing to do with the LCR, he acknowledges that it's a quality gun.
My wife test shot the Airweight in .38 cal and did not like the trigger or the grip. She much prefers shooting her 327/32 H&R Magnum LCR and will be getting another LCR chambered in 38 cal. Sounds like you just needed to spend more time with the LCR and retrain your brain. But then again, you have to go with what you feel most comfortable with, and for you that seems to be the S&W.
Those little girls are accurate as hell. I was able to shoot quarter size groups at 7 yards with my 642. I’m picking up a 442 today which is basically the same gun and a different finish. I had the Ruger LCRX, and wasn’t as accurate. However I feel like the Ruger has a better finish
#1 seems to be YOUR problem. I've been shooting various handguns, mostly S&Ws, since 1961 and haven't had that problem with my LCR. I believe you made a wise choice in switching to the 442 since it fits more closely to the muscle memory your hand has become used to. Be safe, my friend.
Well your reasons are your reasons and my opinion is you could have trained through it all but for I suspect the real reason was you just wanted the 442 because as you and I know it's a better revolver so have fun, stay safe and enjoy your new 442 PRO - my I suggest a Galco Triton (kydex) IWB holster very nice rig ... for your new 442
hazman440 I bought 3 boxes from Cabela's and one box was given to me from a LEO. I have not seen this specific loading (158gr LSWCHP) at Cabela's in over 6mo. I'm unsure if it got discontinued? I'm sure online is the best bet but you have to pay like $20 in shipping to get the stuff.
Tom Nelson Slight differences. I have owned the 642 in the past. But both have alloy frames but the 642 has a stainless cylinder while the 442 has a carbon steel cylinder. So technically speaking the 442 will show wear more than the 642. I've "abused" a 340 M&P and it showed minimal wear but it did tear up to the point of needed to send it back a few times for adjustments/repair.
This proves that a person should carry what they like and are comfortable with. I like both revolvers.
Thanks for loading.
Perfectly valid reasoning. I grew up with Rugers, and though the push-forward cylinder release doesn't pose any issues with me, I did spend a lot more time with the Ruger button.
Small frame 38spl 5 shooters are always a great choice !!!No matter whats your flavor !!Thanks for sharing!
To each his own I suppose. I carry the LCR in .327 magnum. Extra round of capacity, far, far more powerful than even the hottest .38 +P, recoil is similar. The trigger is simply better on the LCR as well, as are the stock sights, (which I can replace if needed.) The cylinder release is designed to prevent being accidentally bumped or pressed during concealed carry, so I don’t mind the tiny bit of extra effort it takes to press in rather than forward.
I have a great little J-frame, which has been a car gun since I got my LCR, which was promoted to EDC. Reasons: lighter weight, better trigger, better grips, points more naturally for me. To each his own.
I'm mostly into semi-autos, but my wife just got a Model 36 Chief's Special and it is a fantastic little snubbie. I can instantly see why people love them.
The cylinder on my LCR does the same thing as yours did. After I reload and close it, I can continue to rotate the cylinder. It was a bit off putting at first, but ultimately it doesn't affect the performance of the firearm. Now that I'm used to it, it doesn't bother me, it doesn't matter if the cylinder is between cogs - pull the trigger and it fires. As you stated, a lot of it comes down to personal preference. One of the main reasons I purchased the LCR over the J-Frame is because it's operation is similar to my other Ruger revolver.
I like my LCR, it's my EDC, but I want a S&W J-frame too. Guess I just like guns…all of them! Thanks for the video.
Erik Martin I just got one. I got the pro series and I love my toy. Completely
If the FBI EDC’d the LCR and the CIA EDC’d the S & W, I’d EDC a S & W 442 PDK unless the NRA went H & K then I’d be SOL !
It’s all about personal preference & comfort as it pertains to weapons EDC. Both the LCR & J Frame have their merits. The best consideration is to be intimately familiar with what you’re defending your life with.
Sounds like you just needed to train more.
Ellijah Smith agreed
Too bad he's too dense to learn about his handgun...just not smart enough to own one.
Or, you can get smart and buy a revolver that does not take training to overcome the shortcomings of gun . Your life might depend on a forgiving firearm .
@@peterking2886 Every gun takes and needs training! As for the Short comings that you refer to I don't see them. I own two j Frames and two lcr's all work great. As for trigger double action all four need to be released all the way. Cylinder release all work fine Ruger different from S&W TRAINING! The cylinder lock problem an issue with that gun needs repair. At the end of the day you need to own what you are comfortable with. But you can't blame a gun for you're lack of training and not enough rounds down range period.
barefoot bob Well said, operator error is the operator's fault, no one else's& not the machine's fault.
Absolutely agree. I never short stroked a revolver before I shot my LCR, and never did after I got rid of it. Also, it doesn’t fit comfortably in the pocket like the Smith J-Frame.
every issue you had with the LCR sounded like a lack of training/ technique
which is fine, whatever feels best, right? I'm new to j-frames but the Smith felt a bit tougher, but somewhat better in my hands, that said I'm really interested in owning an LCR or ruger LCR-styled frame, they are fantastic.
(Though the Chiappa Rhino is really what I'm looking at the most right now)
He admitted that lol. But true.
How many rounds did you put through the LCR before you decided to offload it?
Sounds to me like he dont know how to shoot
he had a skill set already in place. Why bother altering it if you can get another firearm that shoots the same round with same amount of capacity at the same size? It's a no brainer, go with what your muscle memory knows.
I really dig that 442 and the size and weight is excellent.
TheFireArmGuy Its a great piece - although a lot of people prefer the 642 for its resistance to wear I guess, but I owned a 340 M&P and really put that thing through the ringer to the point it started to fail on me and the finish was fine. I had the 642 back in 2011 and I noticed the "lacquer" chipping off the trig guard but that was it. Thanks for watching! It means a lot to me!
***** When you say "Fail on Me"....What Failed ??, What Happened ??
My 442 has been around the block and around America, it's probably my top carry gun between that and my Glock 26 with the tlr6. It's my main carry gun most of the year and even when I carry my larger handguns or revolvers I still usually carry the 442 in the pocket as well. Love it when I travel, because it only holds 5 rounds and has no magazine, any state that has reciprocity with mine I'm good to go cause I know I won't break any arbitrary magazine restrictions. It's my faithful companion I even keep it on me around the house in my house pants. And it's only 3 years younger than me so we are almost the same age! Lol
I know this is an older video, but I was curious as to your problem with the cylinder continuing to spin after closing the cylinder. I've had several revolvers and don't believe I've ever encountered this problem myself, but I was wondering if you really needed to spin the cylinder after closing it to a locked position. In all fairness to a revolver, doesn't it begin to turn to the next round when pulling the trigger? Weather it is already in a locked position or not, it should just turn itself to the next available round and fire. Either way, I understand you cause for concern and decision in just getting a gun you're more comfortable with. Nice video!
I used my LCR in 327 as my winter pocket carry for a couple years now and it’s been great. 👍🏻
How much did it cost ya'?
@@mrmann44 it was a few years ago hard to remember exactly, It wasn’t cheap cause it had just came out, like $569 somewhere in the higher $500s I think. 🤔
So it was you and not the gun?
+nickanto ..... Exactly..........
😂😂 TOTALLY!!!
I know this is an older video. But, if you want the cylinder to lock up quicker and more reliably when closing it, then you should rotate it in the normal direction that it turns. Not in the reverse direction that was shown in this video.
Excellent information in a concise review. Thanks!
I like both and own both revolvers. The only issue I have with the LCR is not being able to stage the gun for a single shot. The S&W 442 has the ability to stage the cylinder. The second issue is with speed loaders. It is more difficult to use a speed loader with the LCR. The grip and frame design makes it hard to line the loader correctly. Great video!
Both are excellent CC revolvers. I really like the 638 J Frame with the recessed hammer providing me with DA or single action cocking capability
I agree with you. I own a 38 Rugar LCR. The release button is sticky. The screw underneath the release button keeps unscrewing so you have to make sure to keep turning it back in. Definitely thinking of trading it in and going with SW. Thanks
I Have BOTH The LCR &
The 442, Nothing Wrong
With Either One...
Both nice guns. Your problems, however, with the LCR are just that, yours. Name one revolver that does not require the shooter to let the trigger fully reset in the forward position, and, the cylinder release is unique to Ruger and different than Smith or Colt. Different yes, problematic, no.
Elissa Curcio he said that .. why are you all saying the same thing. He says over and over he is used to this gun
Never liked anything ruger makes
@@mrbee145 had to send a Ruger LCP back after it jammed once every magazine a few weeks back. It was hard to trust it after that and sold it
Colts is different from Smith & Wesson- to the rear.
Before I bought my Ruger LCR, I looked at the Smith &Wesson and the things I didn't like was the angle of the handle (more muzzle flip) and the exposed ejector rod.
One other problem with the LCR; a friend of my mother's (we'll call him "Charlie")decided to get a concealed carry permit, and chose the LCR as his carry piece.
A couple of months later, I was talking with a local dealer, in comes Charlie with his LCR. In pieces. He had been doing some practice shooting (with factory MagTech ammo) when the gun exploded. Fortunately, he wasn't hurt, but the gun was totaled. After seeing that, I swore I'd never buy a polymer revolver. EVER.
Ouch! Thanks for sharing. Local shops have not seen something like that but they do tell me the LCR is one of the most popular traded in gun at this time. This one shop told me they had one LCR have to go back for warranty work in which they replaced the whole revolver. The cylinder froze up on the customer.
As a side note I had a follow up with the guy I sold this LCR to and he actually told me he is thinking of trading it in already. I asked him why but he has not responded yet. So that's interesting...
I like having a hammer. If you carry iwb there is no snagging when you draw. Short barrel revolvers are def the way to go for up close protection.
I’m buying one of these in my birthday. I sold off my Taurus revolvers and have been wanting to get back into the game, but this time with S&W. Great review sir.
Good video, I know everyone is different and mileage may vary. I own a S&W 642 plus a Ruger LCR and I'm being honest I like them both, I carry whichever one is closer Lol.
+Mike ts Thank you.
I think the LCR points more like a larger frame gun than the J frame. I own the LCR and a model 637-2 Airweight Chief's Special. They both point shoot very well for me. The front sight on the LCR is replaceable.
I have a Ruger LCR 38 and I actually love it, but lately, I've been eyeing a S&W Snubby. I was considering the model 638 w/ the hammer, but I've read that many Speed Loaders don't work to well with it because of the grips. What kind of Speed Loaders were those in the vid ? And what model is it that's the same as yours, just we with a hammer ? I'm in the market for a snub w/ a hammer this time. But...then again, I may just get the LCRx 3 in. Thx, and great video. 👊🏽🎯
I am 80 years old and speed load my 638 in 4 sec. You might need to dremmel off a bit of the grip
What's the difference between the 442 & the 642?
Is it just a different coating?
The finish
Also the 642s i see at the local academy have the 'Hillary hole' and the 442 doesn't seem to
@@artwebb6939 I have a 642, purchased earlier this year without the 'Hillary Hole'. Appearantly, S&W are making the lock optional?
@@danstevens4307 I just stumbled across a 4-4-2 at a local gun shop that didn't have the lock
It was a bit overpriced in my opinion, but I bought it anyway
I have a steel J-Frame steel 649 which is 7 ounces more than the aluminum 442/642/438/638 series. I looked at a 442 yesterday at the range at noticed it was hella light, but the black frame/rear sight/front sight doesn't do it for me. It's portable but I cant imagine easy to aim and shoot
A Chaps pain the sight. And it's all good
Go with what ya know, smart move!
I’ve really liked my Bodyguard .38, put me some Hogue grips on it which makes it even better.
It's funny how every 5 shot .38 caliber revolver maker hits the market like the wheel has been reinvented, but in the end S&W J frame is still the gold standard.
Do you use the same thought process,when using a semi auto.You push the button in to reload.I learned to shoot using autos,so it was not hard to switch to the Ruger speed six & then the LCR.
Great video! Thanks for sharing.
Very nice little revolver. I have that same gun. Mine doesn't have the lock either. I would not buy a S&W revolver with the built-in lock...that's just me, others may disagree. I was listening to a Mossad Ayoob podcast and one of the guys mentioned that he took Mossad's advice and that he had purchased a product from a company called Apex, and that he had installed that on his J-Frame and that it had really improved the trigger-pull. So I looked it up online and found what he was talking about. It is called their carry-duty trigger kit, or something like that. I installed it on my 442 and it really helped the trigger-pull. I would suggest that kit to you or anyone else who carries a S&W J-Frame for duty or self-defense.
Those buffalo Bore rounds you have are the ONLY rounds I carry in my revolvers. Great video.
My Airweight is in my ankle holster and on me yet again today. Excellent choice my friend. Fumbling is not cool for me either. I have purchased a few guns in haste over the years that did not work for me. The buffalo bore might be good for mine. Thanks for sharing.
oneeyedpatriot Thank you friend! What type of load are you using now?
Hornady Critical Defense.
oneeyedpatriot I'd take a look at the DPX 110gr+p or this Buf Bore load I'm currently using. The 135gr +p Short Barrel 38 Gold Dot is very promising as well!!
That sounds good to me. I plan to check them out. Thanks.
Nice when things work out. I generally like Ruger wheel guns but probably wouldn't dig the polymer models too much either.
suburban sentinel Thanks my friend! I do think Ruger has a great platform with their SP series. Even the LCR is nice but I just couldn't get over the issues I was having personally with it. And that LCR bucked like a mother with those BufBore loads!!!!! Ouch! LOL.
+TheOl1911
How does the recoil of the same BufBore loads you shot in the LCR compare to their recoil in the 442? Which gun was more controllable for follow up shots?
Under the stress of a gunfight, I'm not worried about 'milking' the trigger. In most cases, one will not remember how many times they pull the trigger. I'm pulling that baby until the threat is eliminated. I don't think a J frame was built to be shot extensively. The frame might crack after too many 'hot' loads, and years of excessive wear. Use a k frame or larger for that. I think the J frame was designed for those special occasions (can't afford too many in a lifetime) when one has to drop a 'douchebag' for a myriad of reasons. I may use my J frame a couple of times to get acquainted with it, but that's it. I know it works, and I know how to use it. In the moment of truth, I know it will function. Just keep it clean and lubed. Some may disagree. I mean, after 22 years as a cop and the last number of years spent in the Middle East , what do I know? Rock on, Dawg. Nice vid.
Just bought the same smith yesterday, just wondering what speed loader do you use? I saw a lot of people online bashing them because they hit the release!
Illumirod for the j-frame I use a SL Variant.
Yes, carry what you are most comfortable with, I own several small J frames and several LCRs, both are excellent revolvers. Your reasons are good but very subjective.
Choosing a carry piece is extremely subjective. Be subjective AF because it's your life on the line. Train with it, trust it.
This is a question for when you had the LCR: I've never owned one and I'm wondering what would happen if you have the cylinder closed and you aren't indexed. If you're between chambers, and you pull the trigger, does it reset itself, or does it not work at all?
+Christopher William Hogan It works like its supposed to.
The thing that made me sell my LCR 357 was the false trigger reset. I couldn’t get past it. So I’ll be getting a a good ol’ Smith to replace it.
I've carried a ruger lcr 38 for many years, and trust me folks on this one,,,,with the smooth back top of the frame, I can conceal and draw my weapon without any part of the frame to catch coming out of my pocket, nor causing even a slight hassel upon quick removel out of my front pants pocket , as with this this s & w 442, that alone my friends, is why I choose the ruger over this one . . . .
The only time i would sell my lcr is to buy another lcr chambered in 357
I have the LCR chambered in 357 and let me tell you, I could not get through an entire cylinder of 5 rounds. I stopped after firing shot number 3 because my hand hurt so bad (But I still like having the option to put the slightly longer 357 cartridges in the gun if that's all I had handy.)
.
oldman, Do u think maybe the heavier gun might help with recoil from .38?
oldmanwitherspoon I have the LCR .357 snub nose it’s good to have a little bit heavier frame so the recoil is handled with .38 +P even better than the LCR .38 +P
@@cliftt It's merely 3.6 oz heavier in the exact same configuration, only due to the steel cylinder frame. That's about 36 pennies (36¢) in weight.
@@exothermal.sprocket That's 27% percent heavier.
The ruger does have a short stroke issue I've owned both the 357 lcr and 38 both fail to lock up if short stroked so now my edc is the 642 smith
Also, you must have got all your money back on the lcr, unless those airweights are a lot cheaper than I remember, what did you pick it up for?
badazzmaro I'll send ya a PM later tonight!
I would take Ruger any day even though I own 4 Smiths. If I didn't already have the Smiths from years ago, I'd buy nothing but Ruger revolvers. Smith, the company, is run by lawyers. Silly internal lock that will eventually lock itself during recoil, trigger pull that is heavier than the trigger gauge will measure. If you are buying your first revolver, buy a Ruger LCR. You wont regret it.
The Ruger LCR is definitely better than the S&W 442 & worth the extra money.
Did you have trouble pocket carrying the LCR? I know it is marginally bigger than the J-frame. Thanks in advance.
old vid no longer have this - but I recall it was a tad larger yes in the pocket. I much prefer the j-frame.
Thank you
Love my 442, thinking about getting some hogue grips for it ! 😊food video, thank you 😊
A Ruger Man never has a problem opening the cylinder...
what made you go with the 442 over the 642? i decided to go with the 642 so i'm just curious if there was a particular reason
Like a car color, it's just a preference. it's six of one, half a dozen of another..
no there is a difference. the cylinder on the 642 is stainless steel whereas on the 442 it's carbon steel
Looks like a nice piece...I've looked at these small hammerless revolvers in the past but never really was in the market for one, but I'm starting to look into them more...
***** Its definitely not a "fun" gun to take to the range nor is it really a "pretty" piece. I like to put it on the lines of a Glock. A tool for a purpose and that's it. It comes in handy in those times where I can not carry say a G19 or back in the day a 1911...
***** Good "extra" info Bro thanks...
Good choice I have a 642 I like it 👌think you will too good luck
What kind of speed loaders are you using?
The S&W 422 is very nice, I'm not sold on the LCS yet but I like the my SP 101 in 327 Fed. Mag. a bunch and with 6 shots can't go wrong either way.
Sounds more like you just are stuck in your ways on the Smith and Wesson, and won't learn the new gun, rather than there being any problem with the Ruger. That's fine, to each his/her own, but not grounds for dissing the Ruger at all!
+Bob Smith in a stressful situation, you are more likely to not let the trigger reset as far. you are anxious, you are tense, you are fearing for your life. even muscle memory won't account for the unecessarily long stroke of the LCR trigger. the video poster has a very good point - read the complaints all over the Ruger forums about it.
+jgg204 And yet, the video demonstrates that issue on the J-frame, not the Ruger. Look, I have both, and have no problem with either. As the poster said, these are personal preferences. I find both are excellent weapons, but with differences which each person should evaluate. As an aside, virtually every gun out there has complaints of one type or another on the forums. That's not dispositive of anything. It's always going to come down to individual preference, absent an obvious malfunction potential, which this clearly is not.
+Bob Smith there is a reason why there is thread after thread on short stroking the LCR on the Ruger forums...and little to nothing on the S&W forums.
no one is calling it a malfunction...it's just a bad design but from my understanding of the cam system...a necessary one. without the long travel, Ruger could not have had the cam the way it is. so yeah...in exchange for a super smooth trigger, the LCR has longer travel and is more prone to short stroking due to that longer travel. you can claim you are used to it all you want and that you have developed muscle memory to account for it....the fact is, it's longer and more prone to short stroking. end of story
in a true life or death situation - give me the 442 / 642 any day over the LCR.
BTW - he is showing you what the problem is on the LCR, by using the 442 and intentionally short stroking it (if you watched the video and paid attention you would have realized he doesn't have the LCR anymore). you missed his intent of the demonstration and you're trying to project it back onto the 442. come on dude
+jgg204 Boy, you just have to not only be a know-it-all, but you have - just have - to be absolutely right, don't you? No one can have a preference different from yours, can they? So you just have to keep beating the issue, like the bully you obviously are. Go away.
Welcome back to the j frame my friend. I think the 642/442 is s&w best selling firearm and for good reason. I had thought about an lcr but it just didn't conceal as well in the pocket as my 442. When I was new to carrying I would always strap on a heavy full size auto on my hip. With age comes wisdom. Now a days it's my 442 that rolls with me like 80 percent of the time. Once in a while I'll grab the full size and say "man I should have grabbed the j frame. The Times when I want more firepower I'll grab my sp 101 357. Nothing concealed better IMO than a revolver.I used to carry my snub 686 but the weight and stupid lock eventually made me sell it. That's when I found the sp101. It's a great compromise of size and weight with no stupid lock and I've never heard of an sp going back for repairs...
Thanks for the great comment my friend! The LCR was a nice little revolver but I guess I am much more use to the j-frame platform. What types of holster do you use for your 442. For the most part I've been using the same DeSantis pocket holster I got back in 2011...but looking to find a newer one that is more functional.
Great thread. I sold mine also. simply because of the short-stroke condition which I consider a jam. I don't have the patience to allow the trigger to reset completely to the front before the next shot. My Smith model 60 doesn't need the extra thought.
Just a footnote, though you sold the Ruger, the cylinder would still rotate and properly lock by simply pulling the trigger rather than spinning it until it locks. I have one and noticed that issue as well, and a little testing solved the issue. I also have an S&W revolver which as you pointed out this does not occur on. You were right though to trade it off. I am that way with Glocks. They are great guns and when needed I can shoot them quite well. However having shot 1911 type pistols for 25 years and the fact that every other pistol I have has the 1911 17 degree grip to frame angle and therefore my muscle memory transfers through all of my pistols. With the Glocks more severe angle I would have to retrain my muscle memory for one firearm which considering how many other guns I own that my current muscle memory is correct for make no sense. So both of the Glocks I have bought were sold for other guns I wanted more.
Hardwood Hollow Bushcraft thanks for the comment. I believe the HK USP has a very similar grip like the 1911. That was something I noticed... but thanks for your thoughts on this!
*****
Yes sir you are correct about the H&K USP. The German engineers specifically designed that pistol for the US market. They maintained the 17 degree grip angle from the 1911 due to that being the favored angle by US ahooters.I have a H&K USP .45. It is my go to pistol being absolutely the most reliable semi auto I've ever owned. 33,000 rounds and counting since 1995.
Hey, I'm debating on the LCRx 38+P and the 442. Is there options on front sights for the 442?
If a gunsmith... Look at the LCR 327 with 6 shots. That 32 Federal mag is a powerful load and the others it shoots are nicer for range and plinking.
Accuracy at 20 ft is outstanding-all five of my shots(LCR) hit the crosshair line on a 3inch paste on neon sticker.
I am a Smith & Wesson fan however I ditched my last 442 when the LCR came out. Hitting at 47 yards with the LCR made me a believer. I have plenty of ammo and train regularly. I also get short reset when firing quickly. I still think the LCR is the better choice and I have two of them.
The reason I prefer the Smith is that I'm old-school. I just can't get with polymer guns. They look like toys. I know all the advantages, but plastic for me is a deal-breaker.
You probably already told me but I forgot - what gun(s) might be your EDC in a normal week lately?
Tom Nelson I recently did an EDC vid and have been carrying the G29 lately. But if I can't carry that its always the j-frame. So basically its been a revolver or a Glock...
Thanks for the quick reply. Unless I change my mind or situation changes - I'm staying with revolvers, 38/357's to not have to stock up / keep up with multiple calibers & so far J Frames so same holsters fit every gun.
No problem with my Ruger .38 +P locks with no spin. I like the cylinder switch.
I just bought the pro series. I'm so excited. Hope you do more vids on this
The cylinder sets properly on the next round when you squeeze the trigger. Same as the smith.
I carry the Ruger LCR 357, never had any problems.
D.J. Smith Same here!
I own one of each. Never an issue with either one. If I could only have one, would be the Ruger. A little lighter & I prefer the trigger. Their both excellent all time carry choice.
The LCR has a better trigger pull but you do have to let it pretty much all the way out so you don’t short stroke it. I’ve seen other people have problems with that.
My 442 is strictly a pocket gun. I recently bought a galco suede pocket protector but went back to my cheap ol uncle Mike's size 3 pocket holster. The galco will certainly last longer but it seems to be a little thicker than my uncle Mike's. I want the thinnest possible for deep concealment.
thanks for the tip. I have been using the same DeSantis pocket holster for the last 2.5yrs. Was thinking of getting a new one soon.
I'm heavily considering the S&W 442 or 642 airweight, though the LCR i could be perfectly happy with. My main carry weapons are either a Glock 19, w g26 backup (my back can't take it anymore, injuries sustained in battle won't allow and id still ike to be effective at my private security gig which can be high risk at times), or a SIG SP2022 which I highly, highly recommend to anyonw esp first time gun owners who want a firearm that they won't need to trade-up once they learn it. decocker, DA/SA feels very familiar to the SIG P226 but comes in at nearly half the price, trained on the M9 and operated with it for years, same with J frame revolvers before that. The Glock 19 has become m yfavorite all-around firearm outside of the Chiappa Rhino (Which I don't own but have fired enough to know Imn going to own one by the end of hte year, m ygod, what weapon!)
Anyway, really excited to pick up one of these puppies, prob the 442 of the 642, this one is looking really attractive though.
Try that LCR 327. You get six rounds of any of three different 32 cartridges. There's the powder puff light, the regular medium, and the walloping Federal mags that'll match the 38 +P.
I will recommend that to my pops, thanks a bunch. I was given the 442 as a b-day present, still got the Glock 26 and all my others so I just feel so spoiled right now (having been gifted my long-lost Glock 19 3rd gen back new, G26 new, and Smith 442 new in quick succession from Christmas to my b-day 30 days ago exactly. Really, really enjoy it, by far the most difficult firearm i have to master in a fairly long list for someone like myself (my favorite firearm is my 1911, a Kimber TLE 2, my best is the Glock 19, my newest-favorite if the SIG SP2022 I was just given by an old service-buddy, but my absolute favorite to shoot and master is the Smith and Wesson 442, anyway, hard to have a favorite, that's how I break it down)
just started looking into snub nose revolvers for more carry options. Super glad I came across your channel. Thanks for the info. I'm thinking about trading in another carry gun I have to pick up a 442.
I agree I've a J frame 22 magnum and love that little gun! On a slightly different note, I've gone back to the 1911 platform for the similar reasons - familiarity
amacro11 That's good! I have some 1911s coming in the future. But I do not know if I would go back to that platform. We shall see. I carried a Gov't size 1911 (of many brands) for many years. So I do feel very confident with one - but ever since going back to a Glock platform if I were ever to go back to the 1911 I'll need a "refresher" course. What type of 1911 you favor?
***** I'm sporting the EMP in 9mm I had a 40 caliber but it was a bit heavy the 9mm is a sweet shooter, also I pocket carried the P938 yesterday. I know you had the EMP in the past watched the videos. Look forward to more in the future keep up the good work
Al
Training issues. Shoot what you're comfortable with, but everything you're describing sounds like differences between guns (my wife likes Smiths, I like Rugers, I've noticed the same things.)
Sweep the cylinder counter clockwise and it locks instantly in my experience.
For years my LCR has shot to the right even though I'm right handed which is weird. If I'm milking the grip it's gonna be low and left. I might send it back because the cylinder release is sticky too.
Nice peace ✊ first revolver I ever purchased...🎄
I have the same 442, But I notice right after I put my spd/ldr (5 shot) the edge or rim interferes with the thumb release cylinder mechanism and
does not allow me ( Due to no clearance) to effectively use the spd/ldr. I have a 442 with a locking mechanism, if it were designed to be placed a
fraction of a milimeter to the right for clearance, this would be an awesome tool. I like my 442 but the HK speed loader does not work the way it should with this model.
Is the 642 just like this gun? What's the difference?
Your comments on the Ruger are not all founded.
First, the opening of the cylinder is a training issue. If you do it the way it is designed, it works fine. Colt was different than S&W also.
Second, regarding the trigger, there is no problem. You let it all the way out and pull the trigger again, like any other revolver. Training. The smoothness and weight of the pull of the trigger is most important. The Smith is very hard, but smooth. Since this is a shooting matter, I find the smooth and lighter trigger very important.
Third, the thickness of the handle may be combersome for reloading with speed loader, and the fit and drawing from a pocket or inside the belt. That is a valid concern. I think that is the most important to test, reloading. I would use a strip anyway, since the speed loaders are cumbersome to carry. However, the Tamer grip on the Ruger does a great job of reducing felt recoil, and shooters found that they could shoot .357 in it without killing their hand. One person shaved a little off the rubber of the Hogue and the reloading worked much better.
Fourth, the spinning of the cylinder. I called and spoke with Ruger on that matter and was told that the cylinder rotates counter clockwise, looking from the back. Spinning it counter clockwise works fine and locks into the very first slot. You were spinning it clockwise and it did lock into the second slot. I tested clockwise at Cabelas and got the same result as you did. It locked in the 2nd slot. But, I didn't try counter clockwise, but the support person at Ruger I spoke with did test it counter clockwise and it worked and locked fine, for about 3 tests. Also, without spinning it at all, the Ruger, and all revolvers by the major mfrs, locks itself as you pull the trigger or cock the hammer. I think spinning the cylinder in combat is a waste of time. Close it and shoot. With a pistol, you wouldn't insert a magazine, release the slide, and then pull the slide back slightly to see of the cartridge was in the chamber, nor turn it on its side to see the shiney sliver of brass in the slide.
I am going to have to judge it by the trigger pull, grip effectiveness vs. wearing and drawing. Sights are optional. I would want a big white dot front sight. But, as a NYC detective, who was a master class combat shooter, said was that you point the gun in a chaotic situation, not aim it. You practice pointing and aiming to cover both bases.
I too have to make a decision on a Smith, whom I totally respect, having first had a .38 spl 6'" revolver compared with the Ruger. Since then, after selling the .38 revolver, I had an all steel 9mm auto, in my inventory. Since-then, I have narrowed so I can master one defensive weapon and chose the Sig P239 compact .40. Now, I want to add a revolver that I can carry in warmer weather, when long shirts, sweaters, and jackets are not feasible, and one that my wife can use as well. She is not comfortable with the mechanics required to totally handle a semi-auto, after much FAM firing and handling practice.
I think you mean "well-founded". His choice here IS well-founded because it's based on HIS preference. It doesn't matter that he could have practiced to eliminate the issues he was having when he can just change platforms and not have the issues. It has nothing to do with the LCR, he acknowledges that it's a quality gun.
My wife test shot the Airweight in .38 cal and did not like the trigger or the grip. She much prefers shooting her 327/32 H&R Magnum LCR and will be getting another LCR chambered in 38 cal. Sounds like you just needed to spend more time with the LCR and retrain your brain. But then again, you have to go with what you feel most comfortable with, and for you that seems to be the S&W.
I live in Florida I would much rather have the 642 with the stainless cylinder I carry bobbed 637 love it.
I have both, I carry the LCR more than the other. It is just a matter of getting used to it.
Those little girls are accurate as hell. I was able to shoot quarter size groups at 7 yards with my 642. I’m picking up a 442 today which is basically the same gun and a different finish. I had the Ruger LCRX, and wasn’t as accurate. However I feel like the Ruger has a better finish
My lcr will spin by to the second chamber past closing clockwise, but it locks to the first when you roll it counterclockwise.
Sounds to me like you suffer from operator error .
#1 seems to be YOUR problem. I've been shooting various handguns, mostly S&Ws, since 1961 and haven't had that problem with my LCR. I believe you made a wise choice in switching to the 442 since it fits more closely to the muscle memory your hand has become used to. Be safe, my friend.
Well your reasons are your reasons and my opinion is you could have trained through it all but for I suspect the real reason was you just wanted the 442 because as you and I know it's a better revolver so have fun, stay safe and enjoy your new 442 PRO - my I suggest a Galco Triton (kydex) IWB holster very nice rig ... for your new 442
Everyone you can get the trigger spring replaced as well and bring the trigger pull down.
The 442 is a great revolver , enjoy it ! ... where are you getting the Buffalo Bore ?
hazman440 I bought 3 boxes from Cabela's and one box was given to me from a LEO. I have not seen this specific loading (158gr LSWCHP) at Cabela's in over 6mo. I'm unsure if it got discontinued? I'm sure online is the best bet but you have to pay like $20 in shipping to get the stuff.
Dear movie director, it seems you are a "real specialist".
Congratualations for this production.
Deleted!
Abteilix
German Army (retired)
What's the difference (besides looks) between the 442 and the 642?
The 642 is in Stainless.
Tom Nelson Slight differences. I have owned the 642 in the past. But both have alloy frames but the 642 has a stainless cylinder while the 442 has a carbon steel cylinder. So technically speaking the 442 will show wear more than the 642. I've "abused" a 340 M&P and it showed minimal wear but it did tear up to the point of needed to send it back a few times for adjustments/repair.
Okdoky. Thanks.
I have the same one and i love it. Great video
Thanks man!
Post a link to both of the speedloaders please ?
I have both I personally like the Ruger LCR 38 the grips from the factory for me are better they absorb the recoil better then the 642,
442 currently on sale for $300 at impact. Just picked one up.
Just bought one right now good review