Summary and Key Points: The .38 Special revolver is a classic choice for self-defense, valued for reliability, simplicity, and effective stopping power.
-Key models include Smith & Wesson’s Model 686 Plus, offering seven rounds with the option to fire .357 Magnum and .38 Special;
-The lightweight S&W Bodyguard .38 with an integrated Crimson Trace Laser ideal for concealed carry;
-Ruger’s accurate and portable LCRx 5431 with polymer grip;
-Colt’s robust King Cobra, a .357 Magnum frame allowing comfortable practice with .38 Special ammunition;
-And the durable, accurate Ruger SP101.
These revolvers combine power, ease of use, and comfort, suitable for both novices and experienced shooters.
5 Best .38 Special Revolvers For Self-Defense
The .38 Special has been around for a long time. For a long time, police forces carried it everywhere. The .38 Special revolver has long been a favorite for its reliability, ease of use, and versatile applications.
It is still a very good cartridge for stopping power if your life is in danger. It is much more controllable than the .357 Magnum. However, the heavier frames for the .357 Magnums make great .38 Special handguns, as you can still shoot .38 Special rounds through them.
Here are some options to consider for a self-defense .38 revolver.
Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus:
Having owned Smith & Wesson’s before, they make some of the very best revolvers in the world. Their automatics have never felt comfortable in my hand, but I know many people who swear by them. But back to the Model 686 Plus. The plus means you have seven shots rather than six in a normal wheelgun.
Smith and Wesson 686 Image Credit – Creative Commons
I would opt for the one in .357 Magnum, which is a potent cartridge. The choice here is simplicity. If this weapon is going to be used by an inexperienced shooter, then a misfire is easily fixed—just keep pulling the trigger. And training with .38 Special rounds is easier and cheaper.
Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard .38:
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard has a five-chamber cylinder. This count doesn’t sound like a lot of firepower. However, each round will do more damage to a potential attacker than a .32 or a .380.
The S&W sights aren’t the greatest, but the handgun comes with an integrated laser—and it works. It’s called the Crimson Trace Laser, and (obviously) it is red and works very well.
This model is S&W’s most inexpensive revolver. Because of its lightweight and ease of action, it is a very good concealed-carry weapon, especially for first-time buyers or women.
Ruger LCRx 5431 3 Inch 38 Special:
If you are looking for a revolver, this is an excellent choice. The Ruger is a double-action revolver, but unfortunately, it is only a five-shot handgun, which is a bit of a concern.
However, the 3-inch barrel makes the weapon easy to control, accurate, and straight-shooting. The sights and trigger are fantastic. This handgun lives up to its promise by offering an excellent combination of portability, handling characteristics, and power.
Ruger LCR. Image: Creative Commons.
The handgun is part of Ruger’s LCR lineup of revolvers with polymer grip frames. It is easy to conceal and carry. It’s just 7.5 inches long, 5.8 inches tall, and 1.28 inches wide. It weighs just 15.7 ounces unloaded, which makes it light enough to carry all day.
Another advantage is that the .38 Special has been popular for over 100 years, so shooters have a wide variety of choices for either .38 Special or .38 Special +P loads.
Colt King Cobra 3-Inch Barrel:
Wait, what? Colt’s snake gun is a .357 Magnum, right? Yes, but hear me out. One look at the King Cobra reveals that this weapon is built for a big cartridge: the larger, more robust frame and the beefy, over-molded Hogue grip.
Its weight (28.1 ounces) and 3-inch barrel make it feel right in your hands. So, buy one box of .357 Magnum ammunition and several boxes of .38 Special. Load up the .357 first and fire six rounds through it.
Image: Creative Commons.
You will feel the weapon’s recoil and power. Then, practice with several boxes full of .38 Special ammunition. With the heavier frame and grip, you’ll feel like you are practicing with a .22 LR. It is a great handgun; you can always pick it up with larger ammo.
Ruger SP101:
The Ruger SP101 is another excellent choice. Like all Ruger revolvers, it is larger-framed and rugged. This Ruger tips the scales at about 25 ounces, so it is not too heavy, but it does feel like you’re holding a weapon, not a light-as-a-feather pistol that, after a day on the range, your hand feels like it’s been through the ringer.
The model’s .38 Special shoots accurately and comfortably. It’s concealable, and like all Rugers, it’s rugged as hell.
About the Author:
Steve Balestrieri is a 19FortyFive National Security Columnist. He served as a US Army Special Forces NCO and Warrant Officer. In addition to writing for 19FortyFive, he covers the NFL for PatsFans.com and is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA). His work was regularly featured in many military publications
