Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
#189009
01/24/2018 2:37 PM
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Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 123
ScoutV2
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I need help from knowledgeable people!
I am looking for 1 Gun 1 caliber for the multiple roles listed in the title.
I do NOT handload and do not have the time or finances to start. So off the shelf ammo availability is critical.
List of needs: [list] Revolver (single or double action doesn?t matter to me) All day carry Off the shelf ammo Capability for black bear, deer, coyote (I hunt deer and coyote but have seen an increase of black bear in our area. Don?t plan to hunt but would like to have something for worst case I can?t run away situation) Fast draw. Do not want a super long barrel Iron Sights (Not interested in scope or dot sights)
Thanks for y?alls help
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: ScoutV2]
#189013
01/24/2018 3:31 PM
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Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 306
EricS
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Smith 69 combat magnum. If you like autos the Glock 20 will fill that role well also. Being proficient enough for hunting with an iron sighted handgun is expensive whether you buy ammo or load it yourself. I haven?t had the model 69 but it?s on my list. I have killed deer and hogs with the 10mm. I have been impressed with how well the lightweight handgun kills but not crazy about the blood trails or lack there of.
Last edited by EricS; 01/24/2018 3:38 PM.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: ScoutV2]
#189014
01/24/2018 3:38 PM
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Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 207
TM
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Just an opinion here, but that is what you asked for. I would think a good .44 magnum would work for that application. .44 special loads would work for most things you mentioned but then I saw black bear could be in the mix so I would go with the magnum loads. There are a lot of good factory loads for that caliber.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: TM]
#189016
01/24/2018 4:38 PM
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Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 366
JDK
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6" barrel is a good compromise between carry and hunting use. Tha 44 is great, but the .357 is adequate too for your needs. Glock 10mm is a good suggestion as well, but true 10mm powered ammo isn't cheap. Most is loaded to .40 S&W levels, which isn't too bad. To be honest, a good 4"-6" .357 is hard to beat due to the low cost of ammo and the factory load selection offering rounds suited to everything from cottontails to bear and hog. Plus, the guns are lighter in weight and plentiful. The used gun market is heavy with 357 revolvers. That's my two cents.
John
But for the grace of God, there, I go.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: JDK]
#189018
01/24/2018 5:12 PM
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Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 270
Randominator
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A revolver with a 5"-6" barrel chambered in 45LC would be my first choice.
NRA Life Member HHI Member VHA Member
"get busy living, or get busy dying"
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: JDK]
#189019
01/24/2018 5:15 PM
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Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 860
karl
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That is a broad wish list for a one gun solution. There will be lots of trade-offs. You will have to figure out what factors are important to you. How much do you want to shoot? How sensitive are you to cost? How sensitive are you to recoil? Big, medium or small hands? (Whatever you pick, I would make sure it fits your hands or can be modified to fit) Big, medium or small body build? How easy will it be to pack a big and heavy vs small and light pistol?
I recently picked up a 6" gp100 and think the 6" barrel would be a bit long for every day convenience but should be nice for hunting. The 38 special for $0.25-$0.30 a shot makes range time more affordable and 200gn hard cast at ~1300fps will handle bear with other options in between for other species. I think 357 would do what you want, but it won't be a one load solution.
The more I think about it, I think this is an excuse to get a couple new guns
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: JDK]
#189024
01/24/2018 5:40 PM
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Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 258
Jeff460
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I would echo the idea of a 4 1/4" Combat Model 69 Smith and Wesson 44 magnum/44 Special. It is a five-shot revolver and the top load would be a Garrett 300 grain 44 magnum load at about 950-1000 fps out that gun. The 44 Special loads would be good for small game and for getting used to the feel and handling of the gun. A move could be in your future or a trip to a place where bigger bears are possible. So load for bear with a 44 magnum that is easier to carry. I hope this advice is helpful.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: ScoutV2]
#189032
01/24/2018 6:41 PM
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Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 9,608
s4s4u
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I'd consider a 4" GP-100 in 357 Magnum for the tasks indicated. The recoil of a 44 magnum can be intimidating for some, especially with a short barrel, and shot placement is paramount. Size and weight of the gun may also be a concern. Black bear aren't that hard to kill, and the likely hood of needing to kill one in self defense is minute but the 357 would be up to the task. Loaded ammo is available in a wide range of performance options, from light 38 special to heavy 357. Keep in mind though, that point of impact changes significantly with bullet weight so you can't just swap out loads in the field and expect to hit the to the same POA with out a sight adjustment.
Rod, too.
Short cuts often lead to long recoveries.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: s4s4u]
#189035
01/24/2018 7:20 PM
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Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 72
az_shooter
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I think a S&W 329PD would fit the bill, a DA/SA .44 mag revolver that is ~25 oz. empty. Granted I wouldn't want to shoot full-tilt .44 loads all day, but you aren't looking for a plinking gun.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: karl]
#189040
01/24/2018 8:24 PM
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Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 123
ScoutV2
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I?m a large fella... 6feet 275lbs large hands. I?ve shot for a long time. Not particularly recoil sensitive. Largest handguns I have shot 10inch 500s&w and 300wsm savage bolt action pistol.
Just looking for a good all around gun. I like the 5 inch Ruger Super Redhawk Toklat in 454 then I could carry 45 colt or if I get the chance to go out west or Alaska I?d have the capability of the 454.
Any advise against that?
Last edited by ScoutV2; 01/24/2018 8:25 PM.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: az_shooter]
#189041
01/24/2018 8:30 PM
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Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,057
Gary
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I would go with a 44 Magnum personally. It has distinct advantages in off-the-shelf ammo options over any other cartridge in the same class. I would suggest a barrel length for a revolver of 4 3/4 to 6" but I would personally opt for the shorter one. I would't go below that length because they get too hard to shoot accurately at any distance given a short sight radius and the thickness of the front sight relative to the target. I don't care for DA guns so I would be looking at a Ruger or BFR. At the end of the day, plan on spending a lot of time shooting the gun if you want to be proficient with it.
You can't wait any longer. Join the NRA and start writing your Congressmen and Senators.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: Gary]
#189049
01/24/2018 10:21 PM
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Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 523
Walkingthemup
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First principle: "The best gun for the job is the one you have on you at the time you need it".
It might sound trite, but the point is that what you need is something that is so comfortable to carry that you won't be tempted to leave it at home. You've already indicated a requirement for a revolver so I would suggest something not too heavy and a barrel length of 4-5" Maximum.
You stated "Don?t plan to hunt but would like to have something for worst case I can?t run away situation". To me this indicates that your primary driver is black bear defense up close and personal. If so we're talking about quick response shooting at a charging target. While placement is still required, finesse may not be an option. Therefore I'd be choosing either a .44 or .45/.454 calibre option.
I don't know anything about ammo availability in your area and so can't comment on that aspect. A quick tour around the local gunshops will tell you whats readily on the shelves. This may be irrelevant if you will only be carrying for protection and only doing and minimum of practice. A couple of boxes a year may be all you need.
A 24/7 all weather carry workhorse suggests stainless construction.
Actually I'd go Glock 10mm, however you've specified revolver. So I'd kinda swing to a DA rather than SA due to ease of load and unload. Also DA for rapid multiple shots. But then that's just me. There are plenty of people on this forum with vastly greater experience who'd choose SA. You need to work out what works for you.
You've specified iron sights. If possible try out a fibre optic front sight for quick pickup.
Put these together and possibilities include the Ruger Redhawk with 4.2" barrel, Ruger Toklat (possibly too heavy/bulky but varies with the individual), S&W 629/329 with 4-5" barrel. Alternatively any SA of that size. Stick with a reliable brand.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: Walkingthemup]
#189053
01/25/2018 12:28 AM
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Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 228
Ramjet-SS
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The 10mm revolver from Glock G20 or G40 lol
Last edited by Ramjet-SS; 01/25/2018 12:28 AM.
You can't fix stupid!
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: Walkingthemup]
#189055
01/25/2018 12:44 AM
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Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 123
ScoutV2
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First principle: "The best gun for the job is the one you have on you at the time you need it".
It might sound trite, but the point is that what you need is something that is so comfortable to carry that you won't be tempted to leave it at home. You've already indicated a requirement for a revolver so I would suggest something not too heavy and a barrel length of 4-5" Maximum.
You stated "Don?t plan to hunt but would like to have something for worst case I can?t run away situation". To me this indicates that your primary driver is black bear defense up close and personal. If so we're talking about quick response shooting at a charging target. While placement is still required, finesse may not be an option. Therefore I'd be choosing either a .44 or .45/.454 calibre option.
I don't know anything about ammo availability in your area and so can't comment on that aspect. A quick tour around the local gunshops will tell you whats readily on the shelves. This may be irrelevant if you will only be carrying for protection and only doing and minimum of practice. A couple of boxes a year may be all you need.
A 24/7 all weather carry workhorse suggests stainless construction.
Actually I'd go Glock 10mm, however you've specified revolver. So I'd kinda swing to a DA rather than SA due to ease of load and unload. Also DA for rapid multiple shots. But then that's just me. There are plenty of people on this forum with vastly greater experience who'd choose SA. You need to work out what works for you.
You've specified iron sights. If possible try out a fibre optic front sight for quick pickup.
Put these together and possibilities include the Ruger Redhawk with 4.2" barrel, Ruger Toklat (possibly too heavy/bulky but varies with the individual), S&W 629/329 with 4-5" barrel. Alternatively any SA of that size. Stick with a reliable brand.
Thanks for the input. I will probably hunt deer with said revolver. But black bear have moved in on our hunting property. I know they are generally calm. Just want more than my LCR and single shot pistol with me if it went south. I really like the Toklat. Just don?t know if the 45/454 is what I need.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: ScoutV2]
#189056
01/25/2018 12:45 AM
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Joined: Dec 2016
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ScoutV2
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Also have hopes and dreams of going out west and Alaska. Bucket list style!
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: ScoutV2]
#189060
01/25/2018 1:58 AM
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Joined: May 2013
Posts: 1,596
racksmasher1
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5.5? 45 Colt or 5.5 44 mag
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: racksmasher1]
#189063
01/25/2018 2:52 AM
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Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 543
ruger4570
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Based on your needs I would give a lot of consideration to a 4.2" or 5.5" Ruger Redhawk in 44 mag or 45 colt, or a Smith 29 variation in 44 mag for DA revolvers. For a SA revolver look at the Ruger Super Blackhawk in 4 5/8" or 5.5". Also the Blackhawk in 45.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: ruger4570]
#189086
01/25/2018 1:01 PM
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 1,725
500WE
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A Toklat wouldn't be my first choice, because a .454 is more than is necessary for your stated needs, and powerful-enough .45 Colt ammo is hard to find off the shelf. But you've hit us over the head twice saying you really like the gun (and we've kind of failed to listen) so buy it. Nevertheless, in my view a .357 or .44 Mag. is plenty for your needs as I understand them. I agree with Gary's advice.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: 500WE]
#189089
01/25/2018 1:53 PM
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Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 123
ScoutV2
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Not trying to hit anyone over the head here... just wanting information. Yours is great. I don?t know much about the 45 colt. So if you are suggesting that off the shelf 45 colt is not enough and 454 is too much that is useful information and I appreciate it. Thank you
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: ScoutV2]
#189095
01/25/2018 3:41 PM
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Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 366
JDK
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Not trying to hit anyone over the head here... just wanting information. Yours is great. I don?t know much about the 45 colt. So if you are suggesting that off the shelf 45 colt is not enough and 454 is too much that is useful information and I appreciate it. Thank you I believe with the .45, you may find yourself in the same situation as the 10mm, with much of the ammo being sedate. Much of the .45 Colt ammo is made to work in all guns chambered for it, like old Colts and Italian replicas. It sounds like you would be interested mainly in the so-called "Ruger Only" loads, so named because Ruger was the first maker to mass market guns capable of handling more powerful loads. These are easily found on the 'net, but not in Walmart. They aren't cheap though. As a matter of fact, these boutique loads in all calibers are down right expensive IMHO. Anyway, .357 and .44 Magnums don't really have this issue since they don't need to be run hotter than spec., though hot boutique loads are available for them as well. That said, if you buy or load hot ammo, the .45 can do more than the .44. I've never had one, so I can't say if the difference is appreciable. But, it exists on paper for sure. I've not had a .454 either, but it's reputation for recoil seems well deserved. So, it in a short barrel may be rough. I have shot a shortish FA .475 Linebaugh and it wasn't something I'd use for a plinking session! Plus, the .454 may not be as efficient as other rounds in a short barrel. I don't really know. Again, as for as cost, I can't see the .454 being nearly as cheap or available as the common magnums. Though I have a custom Dave Clements 4" Redhawk, I ended up getting a Glock 29 10mm for hiking in questionable (animal wise) places and working on my land where hogs roam. The reason being that I shoot Glocks regularly, so it's natural for fast shooting, and it's a true pleasure to carry.
John
But for the grace of God, there, I go.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: az_shooter]
#189097
01/25/2018 4:01 PM
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Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 4,155
Gregg Richter
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I think a S&W 329PD would fit the bill, a DA/SA .44 mag revolver that is ~25 oz. empty. Granted I wouldn't want to shoot full-tilt .44 loads all day, but you aren't looking for a plinking gun. My thoughts precisely, az-shooter. I have carried mine for all of the above and also many many miles on horseback. My other favorite choice would be a short barrel SBH; mine is a customized version. But the 329 would be lighter and is a double action which means it could be fired faster that way in an emergency situation if needed.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: JDK]
#189098
01/25/2018 6:30 PM
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Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 258
Jeff460
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I would recommend a gun that is easy to carry but powerful when called upon. I like double-action revolvers because if you break your arm or have to defend yourself with one arm and still need to shoot you just pull the trigger and BOOM!! The Model 69 Smith and Wesson with a 4.25 inch stainless steel barrel is light at 34-37 ounces. It only holds 5 rounds and is easy to carry. And 44 magnum has every loading from mild to wild to shoot. And 44 Special is also a round to use in a Model 69 Smith and Wesson. Go with the 4.25 barrel and not the 2.75 inch barrel. Just my two cents worth buddy.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: Jeff460]
#189106
01/26/2018 12:12 AM
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Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 4,155
Gregg Richter
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The 329 is 12 ounces lighter than the 69 and holds 6 rounds if you so desire. Both same barrel lengths (well almost: 4.125" vs. 4.25")
Also, IMO the sights are superior on the 329: Light Gathering HI-VIZ? Red Dot front and black v-notch rear, adjustable; vs. the 69: Front Sight: Red Ramp and Rear Sight: White Outline, Adjustable.
Jeff, that one-armed thing you wrote is almost a "digital copy" of what I have written before in these pages and also tell the women in my handgun classes (and guys for that matter) I have taught quite a few ladies and girls and guys to shoot and I always use similar wording when asked to recommend a self-defense handgun, especially for the in-experienced.
And when I was a Certified Handgun Hunting Tester for the old Colorado Division of Wildlife I also expressed those ideas to my prospective hunters and actually had a few of them change their handgun to a DA when it came time to qualify.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: JDK]
#189109
01/26/2018 1:41 AM
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Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 224
GG
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I have been trying to find the perfect gun for many years. Dozens and counting. Hope I never find it......lol
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: Gregg Richter]
#189110
01/26/2018 1:48 AM
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Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 366
JDK
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I agree with Gregg. If it is not absolutely reflexive, you will not do it in a crisis. That includes cocking a hammer. Thats really only important during self defense use, so it may not weigh heavily in your decision, but it's good to keep in mind if your carrying for protection.
John
But for the grace of God, there, I go.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: GG]
#189111
01/26/2018 2:06 AM
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Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 123
ScoutV2
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Thanks for all the information. I believe I will start looking for a 44. I want something I can shoot a lot with many different loads so I will probably lean towards a Ruger. I?m not super concerned about the weight. I?m not a big fan of the scandium frames.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: JDK]
#189112
01/26/2018 2:19 AM
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Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 293
Muddy
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With the criteria given:
Easy for all day carry Factory ammo Powerful enough for up to black bears/hogs May use for some hunting Would like to someday go where bigger stuff roams....
My choices would be one of these two;
S&W 4" M629 Ruger Super BH 4 5/8" SS
Both 44 mags of course. You'll be able to get ammo anywhere and it will be powerful enough for your needs. The choice between these two is simply SA vs. DA and there are volumes written and opinions vary...all correct of course. The 329 Smith is a great gun to carry but can be a tough one too shoot for some. You want your gun to be fun to shoot. My choices are probably biased because I have been shooting N frame Smiths and Ruger BH's as long as I've been shooting.
Dan
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: ScoutV2]
#189118
01/26/2018 3:41 AM
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Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 378
BRASF0311
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I just picked up one of these as a "Do-It-All" gun, and so far, it's awesome. The 45 acp is cheap to shoot, and the 45 Colt can be loaded heavy enough for anything I will encounter. I added Fiber Optic sights to mine. Ruger's Video Gunblast Review
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: BRASF0311]
#189119
01/26/2018 3:50 AM
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Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 366
JDK
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I just picked up one of these as a "Do-It-All" gun, and so far, it's awesome. The 45 acp is cheap to shoot, and the 45 Colt can be loaded heavy enough for anything I will encounter. I added Fiber Optic sights to mine. Ruger's Video Gunblast Review To borrow a phrase from John Taffin, that is a perfect packing' pistol!
John
But for the grace of God, there, I go.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: JDK]
#189120
01/26/2018 4:24 AM
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Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 378
BRASF0311
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It carries well in a pancake holster, and it also shoots 45 Super, 460 Rowland, and 45 Schofield ammo. Not all that common of ammo, but it's out there, and it just adds to the versatility of the revolver. Kind of reminiscent of the old Medusa gun concept, but in a big bore now. Medusa M-47
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: ScoutV2]
#189122
01/26/2018 4:54 AM
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 920
billa
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My backwoods packin? gun is a stainless Super Blackhawk, Bisley 3 3/4 inch in 44 mag. Carried in a Simply Rugged pancake holster. Usually Crossdraw. sometimes I carry my vintage Colt 1911 in 45ACP or my Redhawk 44 mag. If I was buying a lightweight everything gun I would probably go with a 6 inch Light frame S&W 44 mag as several of the others have noted or possibly a GP 100 in 44 Special or perhaps in 357 mag if its not a high risk bear area. A light frame 45LC would also be a good choice. Funny thing is I don?t own such a gun as I usually carry a full size steel gun.
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,... " Matthew 28:19
Handgun hunter since 1979 - haven't used a rifle since! HHI member #992, NRA, SCI.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: billa]
#189126
01/26/2018 12:46 PM
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Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 123
ScoutV2
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My backwoods packin? gun is a stainless Super Blackhawk, Bisley 3 3/4 inch in 44 mag. Carried in a Simply Rugged pancake holster. Usually Crossdraw. sometimes I carry my vintage Colt 1911 in 45ACP or my Redhawk 44 mag. If I was buying a lightweight everything gun I would probably go with a 6 inch Light frame S&W 44 mag as several of the others have noted or possibly a GP 100 in 44 Special or perhaps in 357 mag if its not a high risk bear area. A light frame 45LC would also be a good choice. Funny thing is I don?t own such a gun as I usually carry a full size steel gun. I have been looking at the bisley 3-3/4 in 44. How do you like it? I know it?s not long enough to hunt with in some states. But it does look and feel nice.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: Gregg Richter]
#189129
01/26/2018 3:17 PM
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Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 258
Jeff460
enthusiast
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Thank You! I recommend the Model 69 with 4.25 inch barrel over the lighter Model 329 that holds six rounds because of the titanium cylinder. Shooting lighter bullets at a high velocity can break down the leading edge of the cylinder. It has happened using the 357 magnum version using the titanium cylinder with lighter bullets going very fast. Even the instructions provided by Smith and Wesson declare that lighter bullets at the higher velocity will break down the titanium on the face of the 357 magnum cylinder. And a little more weight in the Model 69 would help with recoil. You can use an X-frame Hogue grip on the model 329 that helps with the additional recoil of the lighter gun. The 329 is a scandium frame with a steel lined barrel. The model 69 is all stainless steel on a L-frame and it really feels light compared to a N-frame. The point is this should be a piece legal to hunt with and any shorter barrel than 4 inches is not generally legal to hunt with.
Last edited by Jeff460; 01/26/2018 6:04 PM. Reason: Additional clarification
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: ScoutV2]
#189131
01/26/2018 4:00 PM
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 920
billa
old hand
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old hand
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 920 |
My backwoods packin? gun is a stainless Super Blackhawk, Bisley 3 3/4 inch in 44 mag. Carried in a Simply Rugged pancake holster. Usually Crossdraw. sometimes I carry my vintage Colt 1911 in 45ACP or my Redhawk 44 mag. If I was buying a lightweight everything gun I would probably go with a 6 inch Light frame S&W 44 mag as several of the others have noted or possibly a GP 100 in 44 Special or perhaps in 357 mag if its not a high risk bear area. A light frame 45LC would also be a good choice. Funny thing is I don?t own such a gun as I usually carry a full size steel gun. I have been looking at the bisley 3-3/4 in 44. How do you like it? I know it?s not long enough to hunt with in some states. But it does look and feel nice. I really like the Lipsey special. It is my first Bisley grip handgun and it feels great. Every other Shooting gun I have has Neoprene grips. I do not like the standard Ruger plow handle as it tends to bite from the trigger guard. Ideally I would probably prefer a 5? as a true hunting tool but as a backup to my primary hunting gun or for just walking around this gun is great. I would feel good with it on deer or bear out to 35 yards or so. Probably push to 50 with little concern.
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,... " Matthew 28:19
Handgun hunter since 1979 - haven't used a rifle since! HHI member #992, NRA, SCI.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: billa]
#189132
01/26/2018 4:05 PM
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 920
billa
old hand
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old hand
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 920 |
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,... " Matthew 28:19
Handgun hunter since 1979 - haven't used a rifle since! HHI member #992, NRA, SCI.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: billa]
#189134
01/26/2018 5:33 PM
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Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 430
Craig44
addict
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addict
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 430 |
For this role, I like a moderately loaded big bore all over the .357. It will do the job without making my ears bleed. So anything that propels a 240-260gr cast bullet to 900-1000fps (.44Spl, .44-40, .45ACP, .45Colt) out of a relatively light sixgun is plenty. A Colt-sized single action or N-frame usually gets the nod but I'm really digging the new half lug .44Spl GP-100.
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: Craig44]
#189137
01/26/2018 8:05 PM
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Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,556
junebug
Gun Slinger
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Gun Slinger
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,556 |
Weight is always a consideration for a gun you carry a lot.I have a 4 5/8th Black Hawk and a 5 1/2 in Bisley in .45 Colt. The aluminum frame and ejector rod housing on the Black Hawk make it noticeably lighter on the belt compared to the steel framed gun both carried cross draw.It gets carried and the Bisley sits at home.The only gun that does you any good is the one you carry always and shoot well, so weight is a consideration. As Craig said anything 44 special and up works . If the 357 is chosen I would want at least 3 Punch bullets or heavy cast up first in bear country. The 357 would NOT BE my first choice.
junebug
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: billa]
#189147
01/27/2018 2:30 AM
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Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 123
ScoutV2
OP
member
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OP
member
Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 123 |
Thanks I?ll have to check it out!
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: Craig44]
#189172
01/27/2018 11:38 PM
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Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 123
ScoutV2
OP
member
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OP
member
Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 123 |
For this role, I like a moderately loaded big bore all over the .357. It will do the job without making my ears bleed. So anything that propels a 240-260gr cast bullet to 900-1000fps (.44Spl, .44-40, .45ACP, .45Colt) out of a relatively light sixgun is plenty. A Colt-sized single action or N-frame usually gets the nod but I'm really digging the new half lug .44Spl GP-100. I looked at one of these GP100 44s just a few minutes ago. I really liked the feel of it. Would the 44 Special have enough go juice for black bear? That and hogs would be my only concern here in GA
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Re: Universal Hunting/Hiking/Camping Revolver
[Re: ScoutV2]
#189179
01/28/2018 1:03 AM
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Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 366
JDK
enthusiast
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enthusiast
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 366 |
The old rule of thumb, from what I recall, was for hogs\black bear\etc. You want: Minimum .40 caliber Minimum 200 grains Minimum 1000 FPS
I can't speak to how accurate that info is, but I've heard it for years. I assume the GP100 will handle Elmer's .44 Special load of a 250 gr. slug at 1100 FPS. If so, I'd say it's plenty for just about anything You'll run into.
John
But for the grace of God, there, I go.
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