Printable View
In regards to a BUG, for on-duty use, Im having a hell of a time weighing pros and cons between a J-Frame (model 442) and a 26. I feel I have two strong points for both but just cant seem to make up my mind. Any opinions?
442 Pros:
-better concealment
-reliability (cant limp wrist if injured, wont go out of battery for contact shots, ect...)
26 Pros:
-same operation as primary weapon, Glock 17
-higher capacity/ ability to use primary mags
Having a back up using the same mag is nice. Having a J frame when the ability to use 2 hands is not an option, even better. You plan to carry in an ankle holster? If so I use a 638, you might look at a 640.
Tough decision indeed. I would prefer a revolver myself as it pretty much guarantees you five shots. Find yourself without a magazine in that 26 somehow and you now have a nice single shot. Another drawback for the revolver is it won't use your standard issue duty ammo. If it were me, I'd probably look for a 9mm revolver that doesn't use moon clips. You could reload it straight from your duty mags if necessary.
I went through that same process, sold a 27 and bought a lightweight J frame. From the standpoint of carrying, I much prefer the Smith. I'd rather shoot the Glock. However, it's a BUG (and occasionally my primary) so that's a secondary consideration. Ease of carry is primary.
I like the reliability of a revolver, especially for contact shots.
The J can be comfortably carried on an ankle. The Glock can be carried there, but it will wear a hole in your leg.
Mine is 11 ounces and chambered in .357 mag. It's unshootable by me with full power loads. If I could do it over, I'd save some money and buy one just rated for +P.
I'm happy with my choice and wouldn't go back to the Glock.
I'd also suggest you consider a 9mm revolver for BUG.
I am another who sold a G27 and went to a 2" revolver.
I always carry a j frame on the ankle (as a backup) when I leave the house. Its so light, so small its easy to "forget" you are wearing it. dependable, unobtrusive, etc.
I vote g26
It will depend on how you envision the BUG will be used primarily. If your primary G17 is lost or taken away and you're in a prolonged firefight, go with the G26 that uses your G17 mags and continue the fight. If your injured and down and just need something to get you out of harms way, the lighter 442 works. G26 bulkier, accurate, more commonality with primary, 442 lighter, easier to carry and conceal, can fire while injured, different ammo, less rounds. You'll need to determine how you believe it will be mostly used to make that decision.
I carry a 642, have to force myself to shoot it. It pocket carries better then anything I have looked at. No fun practice is available.
If I was to start over I might go G26 as you can have fun shooting local USPSA or IDPA matches and have some fun training.
I carried a g26 for approx a year its big bulky and heavy, but nice and comfortable to shoot. I have pocket carried a 642 for 2 years now every day, I cant even tell its there super comfortable to carry, sucks to practice with.
I opted for the 442, been pretty damn happy with it
Having owned both, my preference will always go towards the G26. Wear it around in an ankle holster for awhile and I can pretty much assure you'll forget it's there.
I've never carried a BUG. Not even while in patrol. My plan was to use what I had on my belt to get to the shotgun in the car. Now I just carry an extra magazine along with either a SIG P250, or P229. Not being in uniform gives me more latitude in deciding when and where to use a firearm.
If I were to carry two handguns, they would have to be in the same caliber and preferably use the same mags. My $.02
Be safe.
I've used both on duty, beginning with the G27. (Duty weapon is a G22, for now). I'm pretty small framed and found that while shooting left handed unsupported I would often limp wrist it and cause a malfunction. Carried it on my ankle and it was obnoxious, even after months of repetition. I ended up buying a S&W bodyguard, with the built in laser and I couldn't be happier. It's lighter, smaller, and I can't limp wrist it. Plus I figure if I'm ever using my BUG I'll probably be on my ass with some junkie on top of me so drawing from an ankle wont be an option, plus I might have blood, dirt, oc, ect. in my eyes so the laser seemed to make sense. I carry it in my pocket (both on and off duty) and it is never uncomfortable. As much as I hate to admit it, of all my guns it has become one of my favorite pistols. It's the only revolver I own, so I'm not a revolver fan at all but that thing is just plain handy. The bodyguard model has the cylinder release on top instead of on the side, so operation is the same with either hand. The laser control is usable with either hand as well.
http://www.mainegundealer.com/SMITHW...ODYGUARD38.jpg
This is the one I have, and it is probably the most practical gun I have. Absolutely love it.
You are a bastard.Quote:
Originally Posted by lead_magnet
I'm pulling extra shifts, struggling to try and make ends meet after a few medical/financial catastrophes, and you have to post all this insight?
Damn you.
Now I need one.....
Anyone have any insight on the SW 632 that uses the .327 Fed Mag round? Saw an article in the Daily Caller about it, but would like to hear from someone who might not be paid to write about it.
Stick with readily available OTC ammo. When in stock everyone carries 38 & 357. The 327, GFL.Quote:
Originally Posted by Dave
Some of us are unable to reach almost anywhere, due to physical limitations. I like my 26 and 638. The 638 with pocket holster is a comfortable, carry anywhere piece. Fortunately we are not limited to specific firearms, like some states.Quote:
Originally Posted by hurley842002
Welcome to the world of revolvers, this is how it starts!Quote:
Originally Posted by lead_magnet
And it's a very slippery slope!! [Coffee]Quote:
Originally Posted by Big E3
The Bodyguard is a good idea, for sure! The 638 is a great suggestion as well. Cstone presents some excellent points to ponder too! If I had to ankle carry a G26, I'd choose something else. I could never get used to it, after trying for many months...
Isn't the Bodyguard...plastic? [Coffee]
Find a 940 on the used market, attach some Crimson Trace grips, and carry some spare 9mm in full moon clips.
I shoot an lcr in 38, among others. you'd never know it's plastic OR lightweight even after 75 rds. I don't like the feel or composition of the CT grips.Quote:
Originally Posted by davsel
There are 2 S&W 940's on GB right now... [Coffee]
Carry an Ruger LCR .357. Trigger is much smoother and feels like a 6 lb trigger. Unless you get a apex trigger job is better than 642 or 638
The hypnotized never lie
My stock 442 tigger is awesome. The LCR's all had locks when I was in the market for a snub so I passed them by.
Valid point for some folks, however if the OP is using this for a "duty" weapon, I'm hoping he doesn't have those types of limitations.Quote:
Originally Posted by Great-Kazoo
I like mag and caliber compatibility myself. Food for thought as well... I have multiple glocks of varying Gen's and have never experienced a problem "limp wristing" with one hand shots. More rounds in the gun and lots of mag options.
Have you purposely limp wristed though?Quote:
Originally Posted by Mattallen0506
Yes. Sorry should've been clearer. I tried to make it fail and couldn't. Definitely not saying it doesn't ever happen... Just hasn't for me. Not saying glocks are better than j frames either. Been thinking about picking one up myself, gotta love sexy little .357's! But in reference to the OP, I just prefer my glocks for said scenario.