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”

The Smith & Wesson L-Frame Story

With a company history that dates back to 1852, Smith & Wesson has seen a lot of milestones and has delivered a host of classic designs to the shooting public. Some of those favorites have come and gone from the Smith & Wesson catalog over the years, but the ever-popular L-Frame family of revolvers remains, and continues to sell strong for the team from Springfield, Massachusetts. Continue reading “The Smith & Wesson L-Frame Story”

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”

A Gun to Ride the River With: The Smith & Wesson 686

Many of the guns I have purchased have been done so with the idea of being the “last rifle” or “last pistol” I’ll ever need to buy. Of course this never actually works out in practice – something new comes along and I catch the bug. Once in a while, though, I find something that is pretty much perfect as-is, and it endures. An example of this phenomenon: the venerable Smith & Wesson 686. It is my One if I could have only one, my hell or high-water sixgun, my “gun to ride the river with.” Continue reading “A Gun to Ride the River With: The Smith & Wesson 686”