Range Report: The RIA AL22M .22 Magnum Revolver

It has been quite some time since I’ve spent appreciable time with a revolver. That recently changed when Mike asked me to review a couple guns from Rock Island Armory. I planned to review the RIA AL22M in .22 WMR first, followed by the .357 Magnum RIA AL3.1, but it didn’t quite work out that way. I’m sorry to report this is one gun I would strongly recommend against buying; Read on to find out why. Continue reading “Range Report: The RIA AL22M .22 Magnum Revolver”

The Smith & Wesson 547: Ahead of its Time?

Smith and Wesson brought out a brace of 9mm handguns in 1980. The 2nd generation of autos was introduced with the Models 439 and 459. These were anticipated and appreciated, but the other 9mm they brought out was not expected at all–it was a revolver. Continue reading “The Smith & Wesson 547: Ahead of its Time?”

The Case For The Modern Defensive Revolver

In today’s world, the idea of anyone recommending or advocating the carriage of a revolver as a primary defensive handgun is usually met with scorn and ridicule by self-appointed firearms “experts.” Continue reading “The Case For The Modern Defensive Revolver”

Range Report: S&W 648 .22 Mag K-Frame

It’s nice to occasionally be reminded that life can still pleasantly surprise you. When I went to my FFL to pick up a couple of T&E revolvers, I had no idea there were not one but two revolvers from S&W waiting for me. I was also surprised at how studiously my girlfriend observed the three stainless wheelguns on the counter, and how before I even began filling out the 4473 she asked, “can I shoot this one?” Finally, I’m most surprised at how much I just like the S&W 648-2, even though it doesn’t fill any “need” I have, real or imagined. Continue reading “Range Report: S&W 648 .22 Mag K-Frame”

Universal Holster: The Galco Switchback

I suppose I’m not like most gun owners. One way in which I likely differ is I like a full complement of support equipment for each gun I own. At a minimum this means one high-quality holster and a couple speedloaders for each of my revolvers. When the Galco Switchback was announced I found myself wondering what utility a universal fit holster would offer me. Continue reading “Universal Holster: The Galco Switchback”

The Great Revolver Frame War – Part I

Back in the days before drastic, fantastic, plastic pistols ruled the day, companies like Sturm, Ruger and Smith & Wesson were locked in a battle to decide who would be crowned the King of the double action revolver market. The distinction was important, as the double action revolver represented the largest segment of the commercial and law enforcement handgun markets. Continue reading “The Great Revolver Frame War – Part I”

VZ Grips L-Frame Tactical Diamonds

Since reading Protect Yourself with your Snubnose Revolver by Grant Cunningham, I’ve been convinced I need to try revolver stocks sans finger grooves. Unfortunately, finding stocks for a square butt revolver isn’t the easiest task. After my dismal experience with the Pachmayr Presentation, I decided to just go with something I had a bit more confidence in: the VZ Grips L-Frame Tactical Diamonds. Continue reading “VZ Grips L-Frame Tactical Diamonds”