BUG side matches

My Beretta Tomcat let me down in the last IDPA match by jamming several times. Subsequent range trips showed that it was consistent regardless of whether using factory magazines or aftermarket Promags. It was also the case with solids and hollow-points. So, the Tomcat was sent off to Beretta today.

In the meantime, I picked up a nifty little S&W 340PD. This is an amazingly light .357 magnum and it rides in a Don Hume belt holster like it isn't there. Of course full load .357 are a handful, but its a pussycat with .38 Specials. It's so pleasant to carry that I've worn it everywhere since I got the holster. Now I'm looking forward to using it in the next BUG side match where I'm sure the .357 will be slightly more effective in knocking down the steel plates than the .32 auto was. Now here's two questions. First, what's the preferred method of speed loading for these J Frame Smiths? And second, does anybody know of a ready source for the preferred method be it strips, speed loaders, moonclips etc.?

I use strippers to carry spare ammo for my bug. They take a little practice to use them under pressure, but a very concealable and easy way to carry spare ammo.

I havent seen Bianchi Strippers in a gun store in ages. Best bet is most likely going to be online.

Update on the Beretta Tomcat. It's already back from the factory. They said they had to adjust the ejector. Visually it seems to be more aligned with the magazine feed lips than it was before. I haven't had a chance to fire it yet, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they fixed the problem.

Ray

when I carried a BUG..I used strippers..takes a little practice..and there really is no way to do it quick..you just do it..

I finally got to the range with the Tomcat. I put over 100 rounds through it with no failures of any kind, including both hardball and hollow points. With four magazines now and all of them tested I'm ready for the next BUG match.

I have a DeSantos pocket holster for it and it fits in my jeans pocket without printing. Of course, drawing from a tight jeans pocket isn't too easy, but it also fits into light jacket pockets without being noticable as well.

Ray