Need pocket pistol recommendation

[G.W. Strong]

I was thinking it might be nice to start exploring pocket pistols. They seem to be able to had pretty cheaply (relatively).

What recommendations would you all have if I were to start looking for one before the next nationals. I have a Model 1901 Forehand but it is too late and does not lock up tightly.

[Tjackstephens]

I like the S&W top breaks in 38 S&W. If you can't find that a S&W in 32 is ok. One in really good shape don't come cheap though, but worth it. Tj 

[Pancho Peacemaker]

I was thinking it might be nice to start exploring pocket pistols. They seem to be able to had pretty cheaply (relatively).

What recommendations would you all have if I were to start looking for one before the next nationals. I have a Model 1901 Forehand but it is too late and does not lock up tightly.

Go over to the S&W collectors forum. I'd recommend a Safety Hammerless in 38 S&W  or. 38 DA model.  Look for a later production as these will run smokless powder.  $150 to $250 should get you a good shooter.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/guns-sale-trade/

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[OklaTom]

There is a huge field of pocket pistols out there.  And you have to be pretty careful about selections as many out there are not live ammo worthy.  The S&W are good shooters no doubt and the Safety Hammerless (aka New Departure) are really nice.  Harrington & Richardson top breaks, both "hammerless" and with exposed hammers, are also well made and inexpensive.  You have to be sure about the lock-up on any of these if you are looking to shoot them though.  I have some for sale, if you want to PM me.

[Books OToole]

You can't go wrong with a Smith & Wesson.
The 2nd Model DA .38 is the strongest, and consequently the best for shooting.
(That is what I have used in the NCOWS DA championship for the last few years.)

They are not cheap; but you get what you pay for.  A nice one will cost you about the same as a new Uberti SAA.

Books

[River City John]

I think Okla. Tom would be a solid choice to find the best at the most reasonable price, G. W.

I'll bring my 2nd model S&W .38sw to the Dept. of Mo Muster and let you play with it, if you'd like. (Not for sale as it's the only double action I can actually hit something with.)

RCJ

[bear tooth billy]

I bought an Iver Johnson hammerless in 32 S&W several years ago for $85 . It shoots good and have not any problems with it,
you can shoot it at the Midwest reg.

                                BTB

[Sam Perfye]

G.W. don 't overlook the 48 and 49 pocket colt C&B revolvers. My go to pocket gun is a 49 Wells Fargo with loading lever. 10-15 grs. of 3f under a .320 ball at pocket pistol distance is very accurate. Also the S&W baby russian is agood choice. Any of the period top-breaks ( H&R, IJ, H&A, and others) can be picked up @ most gunshows for about $100. A word of advice, if they are not shootable when you buy them the repairs will cost more than another  gun. Buy a shooter and if it breaks, buy another. Al.

[St. George]

And - if you go looking for tight, shootable top-break Smith & Wessons - especially the Baby Russian - be prepared to pay for them - they're not going to be cheap.

Scouts Out!

[Pancho Peacemaker]

Remember that NCOWS definition of a "pocket pistol" is any period revolver with a 4" or shorter barrel.

[OklaTom]

GW, you asked for this.   Hahahaha    

[WaddWatsonEllis]

My Club had one stage monthly that required a 'pocket pistol'. I started with a Remington Pocket Pistol that I was lucky to hit anything with it ...



I sold the pistol back to the original owner ...then there was this guy in the club that collected and dabbled in S & W  pocket pistols. So I got him to keep his eyes out for one for me .... and here is the result:

[URL=http://s854.photobucket.com/user/WaddWatsonEllis/media/SWModel4withHolster.jpg.html]

The grips were pristine, which I believe is collectible in itself, so i had them removed and Big T made these stag grips for me ...



Since they now match my Schofields, I made this holster up ... not a pocket design, but it keeps the hands free until I need it ....



It is a real nail driver ... so if I miss, it is entirely my fault!

[Major 2]

Poncho is correct

[Johnny McCrae]

You will be able to shoot this one at the 2013 NCOWS Midwest Regionals