test content
What is the Arc Client?
Install Arc

Alright, gun nuts - Give me some opinions

SystemSystem Member, NoReporting Posts: 178,019 Arc User
edited March 2011 in Ten Forward
Gun nuts, assemble!

That means you, Capulet, Ravenstein, and Daevan.

So far I don't own a single gun - it's finally come time to buy rather than rent. I'm sick of renting.

So, I would like some opinions.

I've currently got my eyes on a small-frame Taurus .357. I prefer revolvers because they virtually never jam and have both a nice weight to them as well as solid construction - if I run out or the gun fails, I can use one as a melee weapon, a la Ray Liotta in Goodfellas (hell yes). I'm on a budget, and brand new Taurus revolvers are typically $400-500. I can't afford a $900 S&W.

However, I'm open to suggestions. Does anyone know of a decent revolver under $500? Should I stick with Taurus? Should I use a different caliber (in other words, I know .357 rounds are expensive, is there a cheaper option without sacrificing stopping power)?

Go go go!
Post edited by Unknown User on
«13456

Comments

  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    hehe so strange for me im from UK so we don't have guns :eek:

    all i got is a big stick :D
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Am from Aus and all we got is Drop Bears and Wombats ...

    So I can't help you either :/
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Tabz wrote:
    Am from Aus and all we got is Drop Bears and Wombats ...

    So I can't help you either :/

    I thought Australia had some of the best sharpshooters in the world. :D
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    I thought Australia had some of the best sharpshooters in the world. :D

    only if they had wamprats :p
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    My favorite revolver that I have is a Colt King Cobra .357, but unfortunately Colt got out of the modern revolver business a few years back. :(

    My wife has a S&W .357. It's an excellent revolver.

    I do have a Taurus .38 snubby that is excellent. I've never had any problems with it and it shoots very smooth.

    I've heard mixed reviews about Taurus semi-autos (never had a problem with one myself), but overall their revolvers seem to be good. My understanding is that Taurus and Rossi merged sometime in the past and their revolvers are really nice.

    Taurus is a decent choice for a revolver. I don't think you'd have any regrets.

    What model are you looking at?

    (edit...In reference to the caliber question. I'd stick with the .357. You can always shoot .38 for practice to save money. .38+P is a good round. Then, load up .357 as your self-defense load).
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    I'm looking at a model 605 in stainless steel with fiber optic sights. In fact, the exact one I just linked there. The Kiesler's just north of the river has one for $420.

    Edit: I'd prefer one in blue steel rather than stainless, but none of the local gun shops have them.
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    That's a nice looking revolver.

    It's amazing what the prices are these days. I have Taurus model-85 that I bought about 20yrs ago (makes me feel old). I think I picked it up for under $200.
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    The first thing I would recommend...is going to a legit gun shop and seeing what feels good in your hand from a selection of various pistols that interest you. Then make the decision based on that.

    Take several .357 variants and some other calibers. Also take a look at other types...There are some really nice semi automatic pistols that could suit your needs as well....Some of the newer ones are VERY reliable, and...to coin a phrase...smexy. :D
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    well ususally if something happens, that would require a gun, i make blond jokes, untill they drop, gasping for air.
    Then i use my licenced Tribble assault catapult, and burry them in a tribble borito hill.

    But to be honest, there are a lot of kids in these forums, and i think it isn´t a good place to talk about weapons.
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    hehe so strange for me im from UK so we don't have guns :eek:

    all i got is a big stick :D

    Wierd, Texans have as may diffrent words for guns, as the Inuit have for snow.
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Nunki wrote:
    well ususally if something happens, that would require a gun, i make blond jokes, untill they drop, gasping for air.
    Then i use my licenced Tribble assault catapult, and burry them in a tribble borito hill.

    But to be honest, there are a lot of kids in these forums, and i think it isn´t a good place to talk about weapons.

    Actually a civilized discussion of weapons is fine. However possibly the title.....may be questionable. :D

    I was a Gunner's Mate (Guns) 3rd Class in the US Navy, with a specialty in Small Arms

    Raven is a mature gun owner...and several other people are as well.

    Just because some people may have qualms with firearms....doesn't mean it's not kid safe. :D
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    It has been a while since I was in the market for a good side arm however one rule is pretty universal about anything your life depends on. You get what you pay for.

    That being said, Revolvers are reliable and easy to maintain. They can misfire but never jam like a clip fed semi-auto. If you live in a state that allows single action revolvers go for them, dual action will really cut down the numbers of rounds you can put on target.

    My personal opinion is; Do some research. There are plenty of magazines out that review guns of every kind and give objective ratings on reliability, cost, and accuracy. After you narrow it down a bit, head out to a shop that has them in stock and check it out. Guns are like shoes, they all look great on the shelf but not all if them fit comfortably. Unless you can shell out for new grips you may find the piece a bit awkward for your hand size.
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Gun nuts, assemble!

    That means you, Capulet, Ravenstein, and Daevan.

    So far I don't own a single gun - it's finally come time to buy rather than rent. I'm sick of renting.

    So, I would like some opinions.

    I've currently got my eyes on a small-frame Taurus .357. I prefer revolvers because they virtually never jam and have both a nice weight to them as well as solid construction - if I run out or the gun fails, I can use one as a melee weapon, a la Ray Liotta in Goodfellas (hell yes). I'm on a budget, and brand new Taurus revolvers are typically $400-500. I can't afford a $900 S&W.

    However, I'm open to suggestions. Does anyone know of a decent revolver under $500? Should I stick with Taurus? Should I use a different caliber (in other words, I know .357 rounds are expensive, is there a cheaper option without sacrificing stopping power)?

    Go go go!

    Asking for gun advice and you don't even mention my name?

    I feel so........insulted.


    Helllloooooo I'm a Redneck, I own more guns than anybody here and I shoot once a week.

    I would have figured I would be the forum expert on this subject.


    But nooooooooooo...

    *Throws chair*

    *Pouts* :(
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Asking for gun advice and you don't even mention my name?

    I feel so........insulted.


    Helllloooooo I'm a Redneck, I own more guns than anybody here and I shoot once a week.

    I would have figured I would be the forum expert on this subject.


    But nooooooooooo...

    *Throws chair*

    *Pouts* :(

    If you own so many guns why do you always resort to throwing chairs? out of ammo? :p
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Asking for gun advice and you don't even mention my name?

    I feel so........insulted.


    Helllloooooo I'm a Redneck, I own more guns than anybody here and I shoot once a week.

    I would have figured I would be the forum expert on this subject.


    But nooooooooooo...

    *Throws chair*

    *Pouts* :(

    Well in my defense you've never talked about it at length before (that I can remember), whereas Raven, Cap, Daevan and I have shared many thoughts and participated in extended discourse regarding firearms. :p

    But if you would like to add something, go for it! :D
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Capulet wrote: »
    If you own so many guns why do you always resort to throwing chairs? out of ammo? :p

    You heard him, he's a redneck, he can't afford to keep buying buckshot! :rolleyes:

    And the thrown chair is the standard sidearm for rednecks everywhere! :D
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    As with all things, if used safely and responsibly guns can be a fun and enjoyable experience. Unfortunately they have acquired a negative stigmata in modern media mostly due to the misuse of guns. What we here in Ten Forward are advocating is a safe and informed usage of guns. If kids visit these forums then I hope they listen to people like me who can provide a mature and safe opinion on firearm ownership and usage.

    That being said, the primary trait I look for in a gun is of course safety. Ask the dealer if he knows the history of the gun if it is used. If it is a new gun, there is less worry here. Taurus is a well known and reliable maker of fire arms; I would trust a new model Taurus.

    Second is the cartridge. You also need to think about availability and price here if you plan on using the weapon recreationally. As for the caliber you mentioned, the .357 is good starting point. Would be strong enough to put someone down while not being too rare and hard to get. You can get .357 rounds just about anywhere.

    Third is you. You said this would be your first gun. Have you had any firearm maintenance classes or someone who has taught you the safe way to load, fire, and clean your weapon?
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    The first thing I would recommend...is going to a legit gun shop and seeing what feels good in your hand from a selection of various pistols that interest you. Then make the decision based on that.

    Take several .357 variants and some other calibers. Also take a look at other types...There are some really nice semi automatic pistols that could suit your needs as well....Some of the newer ones are VERY reliable, and...to coin a phrase...smexy. :D

    I would love to own a Steyr M-A1 or Sig Sauer P229, but I can't afford either. :rolleyes:
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    You heard him, he's a redneck, he can't afford to keep buying buckshot! :rolleyes:

    And the thrown chair is the standard sidearm for rednecks everywhere! :D

    This...

    :D
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Ravenstein wrote: »
    As with all things, if used safely and responsibly guns can be a fun and enjoyable experience. Unfortunately they have acquired a negative stigmata in modern media mostly due to the misuse of guns. What we here in Ten Forward are advocating is a safe and informed usage of guns. If kids visit these forums then I hope they listen to people like me who can provide a mature and safe opinion on firearm ownership and usage.

    That being said, the primary trait I look for in a gun is of course safety. Ask the dealer if he knows the history of the gun if it is used. If it is a new gun, there is less worry here. Taurus is a well known and reliable maker of fire arms; I would trust a new model Taurus.

    Second is the cartridge. You also need to think about availability and price here if you plan on using the weapon recreationally. As for the caliber you mentioned, the .357 is good starting point. Would be strong enough to put someone down while not being too rare and hard to get. You can get .357 rounds just about anywhere.

    Third is you. You said this would be your first gun. Have you had any firearm maintenance classes or someone who has taught you the safe way to load, fire, and clean your weapon?

    Don't forget safely unloading and clearing the weapon. That's right kids, it is a weapon not a toy. *The more you know star* Firing is not always the most viable way to unload and still leaves safely clearing the weapon.
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Ravenstein wrote: »
    Third is you. You said this would be your first gun. Have you had any firearm maintenance classes or someone who has taught you the safe way to load, fire, and clean your weapon?

    It'd be my first to own, but yes, I have taken a course on gun safety and maintainance. I shoot regularly, so proper use and gun safety is my #1 concern, and I feel I know what I'm doing. I've cleaned both revolvers and semiautos, and I find revolvers much easier to clean and maintain. Fewer moving parts.

    That said, my second conern is effectiveness. I want something that will put someone down, even knock them on their TRIBBLE if they're wearing a flak vest or something similar, which is why I'm looking at the .357 caliber.

    So far, the research I've done on Taurus revolvers has shwon them to be both effective and reliable.
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    I'm late to the conversation as usual.... Whats your proficiency level, SaintHazard?

    If you're really adamant about a revolver, I'd save up a couple months and get the S&W, sometimes you get what you pay for...

    Are you looking to shoot at a range or for sport?

    If you are looking for a home protection device.. Unless you are a marksmen, I recommend a pump action shotgun for a few reasons...

    1. The sound of a shotgun action being readied is enough to send most home invaders fleeing...
    2. In close quarters, even light shot is gonna put someone down..
    3. With shot you aren't going to get as much penetration through walls as you would with a bullet... thus reducing the risk of hitting unintended targets..


    Another thing.... "Stopping Power" isn't really as important as you think, a well aimed .22 will put someone down just as fast as a poorly aimed .357.. just ask mossad lol

    If you'd like to talk shop, feel free to hit me up on PM sometime ^_^
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Ok well, are you getting a gun for home safety or for sport?
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Ok well, are you getting a gun for home safety or for sport?

    How about sporting home safety? :D
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    One observation from the shooting range: A large calibre gun does you no good if you can't hit anything with it...I see a lot of .45 lovers who miss at 7 yds. Use something you can be accurate with.

    I carry a Glock 19, but I agree that jams are an issue for all automatics, especially under stress.
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Ok well, are you getting a gun for home safety or for sport?

    Home safety. Its primary function will be self-defense.
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Naevius wrote:
    One observation from the shooting range: A large calibre gun does you no good if you can't hit anything with it...I see a lot of .45 lovers who miss at 7 yds. Use something you can be accurate with.

    I carry a Glock 19, but I agree that jams are an issue for all automatics, especially under stress.

    It takes time to get good with a larger caliber weapon.

    I wasn't nailing headshots with the M-14 I used in the Navy the first day....It took a while to get used to the weapons idiosyncrasies....

    The one I used liked to pull a bit to the left, no matter what I did to compensate, or adjust....Eventually I learned to work with it and nailed heart shots 99% of the time....Pistols really aren't any different.

    Some have a stronger recoil then others, and even some pistols from the same manufacturer will fell completely different.

    We had several ithaca 45s and several Colts....None felt the same as the other...tho the Ithacas were my favorite.

    The revolvers we used were 38s...and they felt flimsy in my hand....Never liked them at all....but I don't have anything against them. The technology may be really old....but it's tried and true.
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    Naevius wrote:
    One observation from the shooting range: A large calibre gun does you no good if you can't hit anything with it...I see a lot of .45 lovers who miss at 7 yds. Use something you can be accurate with.

    I carry a Glock 19, but I agree that jams are an issue for all automatics, especially under stress.

    Glock has gotten better in regards to jamming, but I don't trust a single action semiauto. Obviously you don't keep a round chambered in those suckers, or you'll blow your leg off holstering it. If I get a semiauto, it'll be a double action.
  • Archived PostArchived Post Member Posts: 2,264,498 Arc User
    edited April 2010
    I'm late to the conversation as usual.... Whats your proficiency level, SaintHazard?

    If you're really adamant about a revolver, I'd save up a couple months and get the S&W, sometimes you get what you pay for...

    Are you looking to shoot at a range or for sport?

    If you are looking for a home protection device.. Unless you are a marksmen, I recommend a pump action shotgun for a few reasons...

    1. The sound of a shotgun action being readied is enough to send most home invaders fleeing...
    2. In close quarters, even light shot is gonna put someone down..
    3. With shot you aren't going to get as much penetration through walls as you would with a bullet... thus reducing the risk of hitting unintended targets..


    Another thing.... "Stopping Power" isn't really as important as you think, a well aimed .22 will put someone down just as fast as a poorly aimed .357.. just ask mossad lol

    If you'd like to talk shop, feel free to hit me up on PM sometime ^_^

    This is 100% true. In fact, the .22 round is allmost a garanteed kill if you get hit in the head with it. It will break up and bounce around, and you will have scrambled eggs for brains.

    I have a Winchester Pump Action Rifle that I use to defend my animals against other animals.

    It's extremely effective.

    As for Home defense options. I would allways suggest (For a revolver), a .38 special. It has good stopping power, it won't destroy your property and it's elitivly cheap compared to others things.

    So my suggestions.

    Home defense against Animals: Winchester Pump Action Rifle
    Home defense against Intruders;
    Small Arms: Taurus M85 .38 Special Revolver

    As for shotguns, honestly, a good pump action 20 gauge shotgun is the best choice. Most say "12 gauge! 12 gauge", but these are the ones who don't have property to lose when you start shooting up your own house. Mossberg 500 series has a lot of good choices.

    My choice in personal home defense will allways be my Winchester Model 1894.

    If you want a gun for sport, then thats more of a personal thing. Some people like to use big guns, others like to use smaller guns. Honestly, I'm not going to help with sporting, thats up to you.

    For Home Defense, I can lend my experiance.

    I own every gun I have listed thus far.
Sign In or Register to comment.