Photo by Zorin Denu / CC BY
Understanding Pocket Carry Revolvers
Mostly, pocket carry revolvers are small-frame revolvers that are specifically designed for easy concealment in the pocket (duh!). Because of their reduced size and lightweight, carrying them in the pocket (or purse) is very comfortable. They are usually chambered with calibers like .32, .38 Special, or even .357 Magnum, which makes them more than capable enough of putting holes in bad guys who want to hurt or rob you. Above all these aspects, though, is that the revolver is simple in nature; with no complicated operations, it makes for a most suitable option for people who are not familiar guns and can get confused with overly complicated semi-automatic pistols like the Glock.
Criteria for Selection
Now, folks need to keep many aspects in mind when they buy that first pocket carry revolver:
Size and Weight: A revolver, which is going to be carried in a pocket, has to be of light weight and of compact size so that it can fit in a pocket without printing (the shape of the gun being visible) and still be comfortable to carry. There are small pockets that are built like WW2 tanks and will drag on your pocket (for example, a Ruger SP101—great for trails but bad for quick runs around town).
Caliber: The weapon should have the minimum caliber that is sufficient to stop a target, but also it should be an easy-to-control one for quick shots.
Reliability: A revolver by its very nature is reliable in design. However, aspects such as brand reputation and quality of execution are very important issues which should not be missed out. Suffice to say, the author (yours truly) has had bad experiences with certain brands (like Taurus) and would not recommend them here.
Ease of Use: The revolver is built for the operation to be as easy as possible. But the trigger pull should be soft, and the handling has to be easy and intuitive.
Price: Folks are always looking for affordability along with quality and this factor is very important for many buyers as we can see clearly from the market.
Top Pocket Carry Revolvers:
1. Smith & Wesson Model 642
A Smith & Wesson Model 642 revolver is a lightweight air-frame revolver chambered for the .38 special cartridge. The revolver is only 15 ounces and therefore it can be easily carried in a pocket. Its double-action-only (DAO) mechanism simplifies the operation and thus it is a self-defense choice you can trust.
The Model 642 has a 1.875-inch barrel and an ergonomically shaped grip, which enables the hand to be comfortable. Also, its stainless construction assures the durability and corrosion resistance, so it can be still good for everyday carry.
Furthermore, it comes in a Performance Center model with an improved trigger (this model is what I personally carry all the time. Loaded with underrated and very effective 148-grain wadcutters).
2. Ruger LCR
The other frontrunner in the pocket carry category is Ruger LCR (Lightweight Compact Revolver). The LCR is a .38 Special and .357 Magnum chambered revolver with a polymer frame, which thus drastically reduced its weight to 13.5 ounces.
The revolver is well-known for its smooth trigger pull and its innovative design, that is an internal hammer for snag-free draws. LCR’s comfiest grip along with customizable options continuously make it rank high among shooters. It looks weird. Some might say it’s even ugly (that someone is me), but if you don’t care or you have unique tastes, this could serve you well.
3. Colt Cobra
The Colt Cobra is a classic revolver that was resurrected like a steel zombie for the 21st century. It is designed to fire in the .38 Special caliber and features a 2-inch barrel and a thin build which makes it ideal for pocket carry. Although a bit heavier than some competitors at a robust 25 ounces, it provides a smooth as silk trigger pull and excellent ergonomics.
The Colt Cobra comes in the same timeless design as one reliable brand that has been around for a long time and is a good choice for those who are fond of traditional firearms. That added weight could also be an advantage since it makes recoil more controllable. Just makes sure you wear a study belt.
Considerations for Pocket Carry
Even though pocket revolvers are an excellent choice for concealed carry, there are still some points that need to be kept in mind:
Holster Selection: Choosing the right holster is of utmost importance for safe and comfortable pocket carry. They should be furry on the outside so the holster sticks in your pocket when you pull out your gun, and smooth on the inside so your gun will slip out easily from the holster. Pocket holsters should also prevent the gun from moving around the pocket.
Ammo: The right cartridge selection can make a significant difference. Sure, hollow-point bullets are often cited as the best option, but pocket revolvers have such short barrels, those whiz-kid hollowpoints might not expand, which defeats their own purpose in the end. I personally opt for more old-school rounds like lead round nose or, even better, full wadcutters.
Conclusion
So, bottom line: revolvers of the pocket carry type are an ideal solution for people who need a reliable, easy-to-conceal firearm for personal self-defense. The Smith & Wesson Model 642 and Ruger LCR (both of which I own), and Colt Cobra pistols all have their own pros and even a few cons. Personally, since you’re carrying it around everyday (everyday carry means “everyday carry!”), I’d opt for the lightest gun you can comfortably shoot. Go to the local gun range and experiment. Shoot some rounds and if they’re too harsh, get some wadcutters and see how your palms and wrists do. If this means going all the way up to the Colt Cobra to make your hands and shooting comfortable, go for it! This is a free country, after all, so you can get whatever you want.
Good luck!
