Is This Really The Ultimate Carry J-Frame?

[@mulder4528]

Brings back memories. A very long time ago working midnights patrol a hammerless J frame in the pocket of your tuffy jacket was a comforting friend. It was your only back-up in over 225 square miles on those 0300 traffic stops and other various encounters. It would fire and function through your pocket, yes your jacket was toast but you were not. It would fire the same round as your service weapon the .38 plus P, that we were informed “would handle any threat we might encounter”. Semi-autos are the only way to go, but they won’t do it all. Like being reliable in a pocket. Nice to have your hand on the gun and a smile on your face as needed in some circumstances when it might go either way.

[@327Federal]

Best friend in your pocket

[@mattmarzula]

So semi-autos are in fact not the only way to go. Got it old timer.

[@327Federal]

@@mattmarzula young guys rock revolvers

[@waholoopesorry74]

"Semi-autos are the only way to go, but they won’t do it all." You realize you contradicted yourself there

[@golferpro1241]

Exactly. It was a great back up gun to the S&W MP 10. Good pocket gun.

[@JamesKluskens]

I always appreciate Chris’s interest in snubby revolvers, as I share that as well. I love how excited he was in this video. Clearly was a fun video to make for him. Great job, Chris!

[@HeinousinAppearance]

Always good to see some revolver support.

[@johnanthony6038]

Just have to say, Lucky Gunner is the best gun channel on KZbin bar none . My dad was a gunsmith, so I grew up in a house of guns and I’ve been behind a gun for 35 years, this is the most informative REAL gun channel I have ever come across on KZbin. Thanks Chris, you are a breath of fresh air in a gun world full of misinformation 🙏👍

[@EricDaMAJ]

I like Paul Harrell’s channel better. But even Paul Harrell liked Lucky Gunner. It’s one of the rare channels he called out by name as authoritative.

[@mattmarzula]

​@@EricDaMAJThat's all in the past now. Hate to admit it. Don't even like to say it. Either way, these are opinions. Both are subjective.

[@LuckyGunner]

Thanks for the kind words, John. We work hard to deliver reliable information and it's always appreciated when people notice

[@TwinTalon01]

@@LuckyGunner It’s definitely noticed. Ya’ll are my top fav gun channel, among many really excellent ones. Thanks so much for everything ya’ll do!!!

[@earthwormandruw]

They are good but there are several out there that are just as good but just different. I like to watch different sources and hear different opinions even if those opinions are shilling or ones I don't agree with. Gives me a broader perspective to form my own opinions with.

[@darthkek1953]

Being in Scotland all I'm allowed to carry is a sense of impending doom.

[@tanker5207]

I feel for you, amigo, but that's a really funny comment anyway. :-)

[@scottmoore5839]

I got my stainless 32 HR magnum a few weeks ago, the 32 magnum is a great load for EDC carry.

[@rhy1013]

I’m currently carrying a 2” LCRx in 327 Federal. Very happy with the performance to recoil. Feels like 38SPL+P, but with that sixth round.

[@neiloevocati]

Grand Choice but the scarecity of the round is my hesitation

[@rhy1013]

@ a bought a fair amount of carry ammo when I bought it. As long as I can order ammo online from Federal, I think it’ll be okay.

[@wisemencompany]

Great video. I was so looking forward to Chris reviewing this revolver. The specs made a lot of sense when they talked about it at the beginning of the year. I value Chris’s experience.

[@EastCoastMan603]

Comin in with the heavy glaze tonight wise guy !

[@lynnkramer1211]

It appears that SW used the barrel sleeve method again on this model like they did on their Model 19 "Classic" which didn't have that "feature". Is it an improvement? That is debatable.

[@alancranford3398]

Chris sold me on the .32 snubbie years ago. Pay attention to local laws and to who is training you for your concealed weapon permit. Texas used to limit licenses to .38 caliber and higher. When I obtained my Nevada CFP twenty years ago, the instructor refused to certify any caliber less than .38 Special or .380 ACP. The defensive handgun mission isn't gunfighting and if my NRA Personal Protection Inside the Home course was correct, 98% of the time that the defensive pistol is deployed, no shot are fired. No less a gunfighter than Bill Jordan expressed a wish for an air weight .22 WMR revolver in his "No Second Place Winner. The .22 WMR from a two-inch revolver barrel develops about the same muzzle energy as a .22 LR from a 4-3/4" semiautomatic pistol barrel--the .32 S&W Long produces 115 to 135 foot-pounds muzzle energy with lead wadcutter or round nose lead projectiles and the .32 H&R Magnum is up there with .38 Special loads (Chris pointed this out in the video). Chronographs were rare back in the Sixties and the standards for bullet test media have changed. The .32 is easy to shoot well. The self-defense mission is very limited and performance requirements are also limited--no need to lug around a pair of Smith and Wesson Model 29 revolvers with 6.5-inch barrels and bear-busting magnum loads all of the time. Ranges seldom reach 25 yards and are mostly under 25 FEET. One, two or three attackers are far more common than a dozen or twenty, with around 2/3rds of reported assaults being carried out solo. Playing the odds, a .32 H&R Magnum's 225 foot-pounds muzzle energy is going to work most of the time; "work" means that the attacker stops attacking, either by falling down and not moving or running away (shot, not shot, doesn't matter as long as the monster goes away). One reason for that 98% no-shots-fired figure is that robbers rely on intimidation to dominate and control the victim. When the victim demonstrates ability, intent and opportunity to really HURT the aggressor, Plan B is aggressor runs away. I had an interesting encounter with a dog pack over 40 years ago. I had gone for a desert hike and had misjudged my time. It was after dark, and a dog pack began stalking me. I stopped under a streetlight and commanded the dogs to go away. They charged. I had a .22 Ruger semiautomatic pistol with just one nine-shot magazine and accepted that I was going to be mauled, so I dropped to one knee as I drew my pistol, aimed and snicked off the safety and I was pressing my trigger when the dog I was going to shoot turned tail and ran away--followed by the rest of the pack. No shots fired. There were about six dogs. First rule of gunfighting is having a gun. I knelt for maximum headshot accuracy--a high-speed .22 LR from a pistol produces 85 foot-pounds energy at the muzzle. My popgun 22 was superior to the .45 I didn't have with me. At the time, I was out of .45 ammo. That's a second drawback to the .32 H&R -- ammo supply. Given the advantages over .38 Special, the extra effort to source .32 H&R or at least have a box or two of .32 S&W Long on hand is worthwhile. Gee, Chris, can you recommend a good source of .32 revolver ammunition?

[@anonymousbosch9265]

I agree mostly, but I was in a self defense situation with my j frame 442 with 158gn Buffalo bore hard cast hollow points and two guys with larger duty sized pistols tried to rob me at work. I remembered really hoping that my 5 shots were going to be enough because I’m about have two way gunfire. No shots ended up being fired and me having the gun bought me the seconds I needed to escape but that fear of dying while making good hits lives with me. My little anecdote proves your point as much as it brings up another. I’m in a very high crime inner city all day all week for the last 23 years and mostly pepper spray and a j frame is enough but it gets nerve wracking at times

[@alancranford3398]

@@anonymousbosch9265 You did well--and you don't need my approval. Surviving is its own reward. The reason you carried a J-frame and pepper spray is that you didn't have room in your pocket for a squad of fully-armed paratroopers.

[@anonymousbosch9265]

@@alancranford3398 all true

[@nickamalfitano3613]

Elmer Fudd has spoken. You could not be more wrong in current day 2024

[@la_old_salt2241]

Alan, I love the .327, .32H&R, and .32S&W Long also. Currently have a Ruger LCR in .327, and very impressed with this Smith. By the way, did I mention that the Charter Arms 7 shot Professional and 6 shot Undercoverette are my fault? I was looking at the original Undercoverette 5 shot, and it occurred to me that it would be perfectly safe as a 6 shot. Well, CA has a contact us page on their website, so I pointed that observation out, and suggested one with a 3 inch barrel would be cool while they were at it. Not 15 minutes after I submitted that comment I got a call from a nice man named Nick Eker, the President and CEO of CA. We visited about 20 minutes about my idea and signed off. About 8 months later on their website I see a cool looking revolver in .32 H&R and a 7 shot to boot. Fun times. Sorry for the rambling, cheers!

[@Graydog-sx6le]

I always love any revolver content. I saw these advertised at shot show and haven’t seen any in the wild yet. I’m a 38 guy and reload light loads and wadcutters for range sessions. Chris you have put out some extra good stuff on carry options for revolvers. Thanks.

[@usernamesrlamo]

Been waiting to get one of the new 32 H&Rs since seeing those shot show clips!

[@genesmith6512]

I have carried a model 442 for almost 30 years. It is combat proven. While working retail, I was attacked, knocked to the ground, the life of my wife and myself were threatened. He said your money or your life. While on the ground, I pulled my 442 and offered option 3, his life. Police said good job Gene. All those wonderful upgrades in sites and reworked trigger are would not have changed my outcome. my plain 442 was more than adequate as the fight started at 5 feet and ended 4 shots later at 10 feet. The grips, I swapped mine out for a pacmyer set, were the best upgrade I could make for the j-frame 442. I swap this with my S&W M&P9c. Never fired the 9 but that's a good thing.

[@kennethwilliams8521]

And then they all clapped

[@jamesf6391]

A J-Frame is so easy to carry. I bought one for fun and ended up loving it.

[@mattmarzula]

I bought two. One for my mother and one because her's shot better than my Kimber 6S. Which has been loaned out to a buddy for three years now and I didn't think about until this very moment.

[@zacharydalton8132]

The best grab and go gun.

[@robertswanson5269]

I carry a 642 and love it

[@dgambrel9241]

I really like a j frame. I’ve carried one for 20 years, it’s the gun I take when I don’t take anything else.

[@51ddb]

I’ve had my 442UC for a couple of months, 300+ rounds. Sight picture, grip, trigger, and fit and finish are exceptional straight out of the box. I have 6 other J frames and have spent a boatload of gunsmith dollars trying, without success, to achieve what the UC provides. Thanks to Lipsey’s.

[@mattmarzula]

That's sad that you gave other people all that money to make not one but six quality revolvers designed to do exactly what they do do something else without success. Just an out and out waste. So sad. You wouldn't happen to have a Mustang GT that doesn't run sitting in the garage that you paid three mechanics to swap a V6 automatic into do you?

[@51ddb]

@@mattmarzula 🤣🤣not that sad. I’m 78 and purchased my first J frame, a 49 flat latch over 50 years ago. Then a 36, a 640, a 637, a 642 and a 43. Spent some money on all but the 43, but none are as nice as the UC. Oh, and I’m a Chevy guy that doesn’t pay much attention to dipshits

[@almightymachine9930]

Chris should fist fight yankee marshall.

[@watchface6836]

What did that clown do this time?

[@BulletsBeefandBS]

Lofl!

[@joelmclamore1898]

Yankee does not like 32 Cal revolvers.

[@almightymachine9930]

@@joelmclamore1898 yank this eh....

[@ssn711]

Never mind fist fight, let them debate.

[@kay-win2014]

This is Tim. I carried a 30-1 S & W in 32 (3" RB, yes, with pearl handle grips) for 35+ years as a backup/off duty. I still do but now use BB hard cast.

[@CyborgZeta]

What's the recoil like on the BB hardcasts? I just got that same revolver for my mom from a pawn shop so she could have a low recoil snub.

[@TheRealBobBasher]

Now I feel better about my carry choice. I have many to choose from, but I find myself carrying my 38 J frame the most.

[@user-ex9zm7bg3x]

They're so dam carry-able

[@williamryan9195]

They sell millions of them still for a reason.

[@mattmarzula]

I'm a 442 guy. I just never needed anyone's validation.

[@slickydicky]

642 guy here, I also have a few carry options. But I always reach for the j frame first. That little gun has been everywhere. The smokies to Memphis, somewhere in butthole Indiana to orange beach. From the trout stream to my wedding day. The stories that little thing could tell.

[@taylorharbin3948]

Me too. It goes with me more than my Glock or my Shield Plus.

[@robc5082]

Just ordered another case of ammo from you guys. It was only $10 more than the cheapest I could find. A small price to pay to thank you for your quality content. I'll keep buying. You keep making great content.👍👊

[@andrewfossatti4937]

Those Cherry grips though! Damn that’s good looking!

[@golferpro1241]

My 39 year old S&W Chief model 36 is the ultimate carry gun! My first off duty. Usually carry a 9 mm now but the Chief is still a great pocket carry. Made some good pinches with it back in the 80’s. I know guys who still edc their Chief. The old timers had ones made in the 1950’s!

[@ES1976-3]

I was waiting for you video on this gun! It looked right up your alley.

[@Hugatree4me]

Chris pretty much sold me on the benefits of .32 after his 2019 video, and I also carry a S&W 43C - in no small part thanks to this channel's coverage of different carry options. Soooo I suppose that means I'm also in the target market for the 632UC. It's too bad I can't currently afford it, but it's on my radar!

[@bigverg]

I just got my 632 and have put about 150 rounds through it. Fit and finish were great, and I'm seeming to be even more accurate with it at close distances than my semi autos. Those sights are just awesome and the .32 HR federals shoot much more pleasent than .38s while not feeling wimpy. So stoked to have another great option to my HK P2000 for my EDC. Cheers!

[@alexfresel6198]

Good for all involved producing this. I hope that 32 gets some more love it's really the round for the snub nose especially the airweight. On the other hand the J frame doesn't conceal that easily and isn't that comfortable IWB so if I'm not carrying my Kel-Tec P-32 in warmer weather, I think I'd want to carry one of my steel J frames and mix it up between wadcutters for antipersonnel accuracy and something a bit hotter and harder for barrier penetration.

[@bitterandjaded_]

I put a big dot front on my 649. Shrouded hammer so you can shoot single action if you need to, but it won’t snag. Yes, it’s about 24oz loaded, but you can shoot 357 comfortably. I remember some poor sod at the range that was having trouble knocking down 6” plates at 20yds with a full size semi. He kept giving me sideways glances as I’d drop 5, reload, reset, and do it again and again. I’d never seen anyone rage quit target shooting before. One of my favorites.

[@mattmarzula]

I've seen plenty of that. Hits count. Practice adds up. That guy should stay home.

[@Southernguitar74]

I carry a 638 airweight with shrouded hammer. It’s a great little gun. You are right. A person gets good with whatever they shoot, if they shoot enough, and a double action j frame is amazingly accurate in the right hands.

[@Able-Man]

Thanks for posting... You've "given me something to consider"!

[@srh4401]

Dude been in love with the 32 mag since I was a kid

[@stephenedwards5038]

So glad to see you as always, Chris !

[@RDuude]

Great review as always, haven't tried it yet but i do love my ruger lcr .327

[@crankygunreviews]

Fantastic video Chris. I never get tired of revolvers, and this video is another great addition to your carry series. I recently picked up two 32 S&W long revolvers, and man I love them

[@Hugatree4me]

I'm looking forward to having a longer-barreled revolver someday!

[@RidersRange]

I just received my .32 Long and .32 H&R ammo from you (delivered two days after I ordered it). Thanks for this review and for the quick service of my order.

[@runlevelone]

I'd love to see this concept advanced to a slightly larger gun with a 3 inch barrel, and 6 shot (38) / 7 shot (32).

[@JimLBon]

I absolutely love your revolver content. Keep it up!

[@ggmanatee]

Respectfully requesting that you guys update your ballistics testing on your website in the labs section. Half of the tests you guys show in common calibers are for ammunition that aren't even in production anymore or are rarely sold.

[@wahyasaquii7563]

SECOND!!! Important to me, as I buy ALL of my ammo from LuckyGunner.

[@meisteckhart]

Bought this in .32 as a deep conceal option mostly based on this video and checking it out in the store. My first revolver and I absolutely love it.

[@MyCatCarriesAGlock]

*Inserts revolver video directly into my cranium*

[@itsgonnabeeug]

My daily carry was a ruger lcr in 32. Now you've sold me on yet another 32. Great under appreciated round.

[@ignatiusDOWN]

The smith can’t shoot 327 fed however

[@FMDad-dm5qo]

I like .32 H&R Mag and have owned them. In 2024, you gotta handload to run a revolver in this cartridge. It’s a matter of cost, supply chain, and the relative paucity of genuinely good defensive loads. (The .327 Mag never would have been a thing if factory ammo in .32 Mag hadn’t been consistently downloaded.). At least if you’re going to shoot your carry gun as much as you should. IMO a review should face up to this. It’s like carrying a .44 Special. Sweet round! Love it. But you gotta handload.

[@DWalter.27]

That's why I went 22 mag. I can actually find and afford the ammo.

[@FMDad-dm5qo]

I actually ran the math. The cheapest factory practice ammo for this revolver is .32 S&W Long lead bullet stuff that is currently $0.87/ rd at Lucky Gunner. Meanwhile you could handload true .32 H&R Magnum ammo with good hollow points and Starline brass - essentially practicing with carry rounds - for about $0.42 / round, assuming you can get 3 loadings out of each case, which is a super easy assumption. At $0.45 per trigger pull cost savings you are more than half way to paying for the gun after a single case of ammo - and you’re practicing with much better, more realistic carry type ammo. (If we made it apples to apples, LG is selling Federal factory .32 Mag defense ammo for $1.50/rd, so that’s a dollar bill’s difference each and every time you pull the trigger vs comparable handloaded ammo.) I know LG doesn’t sell reloading components so it makes it awkward, but this really is a case where the difference is drastic. Chris is doing a disservice to recommend the .32 version to anyone who doesn’t handload. They should surely stick with the good old .38.

[@abuamiri8523]

Picked one up on a whim today at a gun show. Appreciate the detailed review.

[@showtime1235]

32 magnum is very underrated for a j frame

[@EclecticBuddha]

Good luck finding it. You'll shoot whatever you can get, not what you want.

[@borkwoof696]

Do you get reliable hollow point expansion + penetration with it?

[@danielboggan2479]

@@EclecticBuddhait’s actually kinda the opposite. The companies that make it do it regularly. Most of the options are solid anyways

[@longhunter5935]

My local big box store (Scheels) is now carrying .32 H&R Mag critical Defence ammo.

[@stevee8318]

Even Lucky Gunner only has a single type of .32 mag ammo in stock right now, and its $1.50/shot wadcutter match ammo

[@64samsky]

I have a 432PD j-frame in 32H&R Magnum that my father bought about 30 years ago. I bought the 38 at the same time. I traded the 38 for a small boat, trailer & motor. My dad passed away in 2012, and I have the 32H&R Magnum now. I will never let it go! I currently carry a Glock 32c in 357Sig, backed up by my J-frame.

[@SFsc616171]

For those of us who can only "pocket carry", I fear that the raised rear sight with its point, might catch on the pocket holster of choice, making that move a bit sloppy, having to unholster the gun once drawn from the pocket. (it once was taught to thumb away the pocket holster upon draw.)

[@murrayjimm]

The Alabama Holster fits perfectly and has a thumb area to release the revolver.

[@romans6two338]

I agree with murrayjimm, get an Alabama kydex holster, your fears will be put to rest. I've been using Alabama holsters for over 11-12 years now, they work.

[@mattmarzula]

Pocket draw is always sloppy. That sight won't get in the way anywhere near as much as your own knuckles.

[@nfaisnfgay]

You’re a goober if you actually pocket carry lol

[@carryeveryday910]

Fit and finish on my 432-UC is nuts. Can’t believe I got one for MSRP. Love the gun and it is my new EDC.

[@Durandalski]

I have 2 J frames, an Airweight 642 model, and a bodyguard. I got both for under 400 apiece and they’re my drop-in-pocket guns. Literally, when I go outside on my property or down the road and don’t feel like putting on my primary carry I feel comfortable dropping a J frame with a heavy double action trigger in a pocket or tucking it in the waistband without a holster. I don’t carry them all day that way, if I’m grabbing one of these instead of my primary carry I’m only going out for a few minutes. Sadly, while I love those J frames part of the selling point was that I got them used for less than 400, I couldn’t see spending 700 on a drop-in-pocket gun.

[@Hugatree4me]

If I may offer a suggestion: you've probably already heard of them but Sticky Holsters makes a pocket holster that fits J-Frames for 20 or 30 bucks. Really helps increase the safety to have the trigger covered, and hardly any extra bulk or weight.

[@mattmarzula]

​@@Hugatree4menaw. Let him roll like he does. He's fine. You could tie a cord to that gun and your belt dragging it through the woods over piles of sticks all shaped like fingers and it would be unlikely for it to go off. Plenty safe and the first shot clears all the lint out. Besides, he seems like a smart fella. Only took him two time to explain the same two things he was thinking.

[@Hugatree4me]

@@mattmarzula I've been down KZbin's negligent discharge rabbit hole before, it's quite a trip. I wonder if there's already a video of what you've described 🤔

[@Kelly-oq9nh]

@@Hugatree4meHave one and completely agree. Also have a clip that screws to the frame allowing for pocket carry that works well. I find myself carrying the snubby more and more as I age with back and hip issues. I’ll be buying this revolver as soon as I come across one.

[@Hugatree4me]

@@Kelly-oq9nh I wish you all the best in finding one soon!

[@danielswartz6818]

Great Job. I have a Smith & Wesson 442 and I have it a while. The only weight bullet that works well is 158 grain. It shoots point of aim and fairly accurate. Anything of a lesser weight target looks like it was hit by a the shotgun that’s how broad the shot group is. I don’t mind because I have become a custom to the additional recoil. However, great demonstration.

[@LandonWills]

ive been waiting for you to review this! Thank you!

[@blizakebowman]

Just wanted to say I have will sometimes carry my grandfathers Chief Special and am not anywhere near in the market for another revolver. I just clicked the video to give LG a view and a thumbs up. 👍🏻 Good day

[@BertShackleford]

Had the pleasure of handling a 432UC when I picked up my wife's Dan Wesson Specialist OR .45ACP. To be fair, the Ultimate Carry was already on my list of acquisitions. So two days later I decided to go back and grab it. Unfortunately, the gentleman in front of me had _literally_ purchased the revolver a few minutes before I had arrived. Needless to say, we both had a good laugh. Smith & Wesson clearly has a winner here with this new Ultimate Carry J-Frame. I surmise they will be in short supply for quite some time. Thereby driving up demand for more [affordable] .32 H&R Magnum ammo. Nevertheless, I hope this new offering from Smith & Wesson prompts the ammo manufacturers to consider producing .32 H&R Magnum in higher quantities. Side note Chris - You forgot to mention the fact that these new Ultimate Carry revolvers have deleted the Internal Lock System [IE - Hillary Hole] we all despise. Perhaps one of _thee_ biggest selling points for this new series of Ultimate Carry J-Frame Revolvers. As always... Stay classy my friend.

[@anonymousbosch9265]

It’s on my list in 32 H&R magnum but my wife who is a marine and also a skilled shooter has a bit of a face on about adding a new ammo type to the house. She unfairly hates my .38 air weight and just won’t be reasonable about a smaller caliber in the same package and she said I bought a glock 43x last week (which serves a totally different purpose) and made promises about a new RV but I don’t think I actually “promised” anything and we’re too young to give up tent camping anyway. *this comment is so absurd because I’m speaking it out loud as I’m writing it laying next to her in bed

[@thomassiddle6711]

Model 632uc owner here. The problem with the standard composite grips is that they are too large IMO for pocket carry, so I use the stock grips from a Smith model 642 on mine. Oh yeah I love this revolver ! I'm using a Mika pocket holster.

[@Dan-vh8yh]

Been waiting for you to review this!

[@stevev1758]

thanks. my 442 with Altamont grips is great. 38+p. nobody aims a J Frame in a self defense situation (or any pistol/revolver)... that said you are a great reviewer as always.. thanks.

[@msudawg1997]

For those of us who ARE familiar with 32 HR MAG, you slighted us by not addressing why S&W chose not to chamber it in 327 FED MAG. Maybe it was to save weight? Maybe so the cylinder is a fuzz shorter? Surely they had specific reasons since you can shoot 32 HR in a 327 chambered gun.

[@Cryptid505]

It was a weight saving choice. These guns are optimized for pocket and ankle carry as well as belt carry

[@erikwaters238]

Perhaps this may help. The chamber pressure of a .38 Special is 17,500 psi. .38 Special +P is 20,000 psi. .357 Magnum is 35,000 psi. .357 Magnum also has a scandium cylinder, which boosts the MSRP considerably ($300 or so, IIRC). .32 H&R Magnum has chamber pressures close to, if not equal to, the .38 Special +P. .327 Federal Magnum has chamber pressures of close to 45,000 psi. Almost 30% more than .357 Magnum, and that has a scandium cylinder. If this UC were to be in .327 Federal Magnum, it would have to be a scandium cylinder … and the price point would be way more than $750. Yes, Ruger does chamber the LCR in .327 Federal Magnum, but the specs are a LOT closer to the .357 Magnum version than the .38 Special (+P) version.

[@charlesmckinley29]

@@erikwaters238thank you.

[@thomascondon9447]

I'm sure it was to save a few ounces, same reason it isn't offered in 357 magnum. Personally I'll take the few extra ounces for a 327 federal magnum. Its the best small revolver cartridge out there today. I like my LCR, but it should really have dovetail sights like this one has. Frame cutouts for "sights" are just stupid, there is no legitimate argument for not having some kind of real sight on a handgun anymore.

[@williamryan9195]

@@erikwaters238 Thanks for the good info. I didn't know 327 was putting out that kind of pressure

[@jeffschultz8817]

I have a 632UC and put an APEX kit in it. I felt like it was better stock and actually felt like it crept up slightly in pull weight. Caveat: I do not own a trigger pull scale so that is just my subjective opinion. Overall - I love mine and it has replaced my M&P340PD as my daily BUG at work and lawn mowing / grocery store run gun on days off. Happy to see someone listen to customers and make a gun people have been asking for.

[@BlueJayWaters]

Shit, only extremes of the bell curve use Snubbies? Well I ain't no expert, so I guess I'm on the bad end of that extreme 😂

[@gebeme11]

Sorry you had to find out like this.

[@Kelly-oq9nh]

@@gebeme11Oh no. Not me too

[@ShaunPanzer]

Probably won’t get love for this but I always have my scandium 357 Jframe on me even when I use it as a back up . I just love Jframes . I put a rubber packmyer grip on it and that helps my hand from feeling a little tingly when I shoot .

[@jimbarrofficial]

All well and good, but S&W support for malfunctioning or imperfect firearms is spotty at best. My last 22LR pistol was "repaired" 3 times over 9 months before I sold it to a dealer in Maine. I just got tired of not having direct access to a gunsmith and having to send typewritten letters along with the returned firearm like its 1975. S&W does not make quality products or provide modern support options. I argued that the smith should setup a Zoom call direct from the workbench to get the full picture of what's happening. Instead, I was told "you didn't make it clear in your letter," rather than someone taking the time to check in with me once the gun was being serviced. This resulted in long delays and 3 trips to the factory. I think the gun was in the shop longer than I actually owned and operated it. Good riddance

[@williamglass3100]

This is a shame and the main reason I've avoided buying from S&W as of late. I had work done on an old Colt revolver roughly six years ago by Cylinder & Slide. When the time came for them to start work on the pistol, the individual that was to do the work did call me to thoroughly discuss the issues prior to repair. A Zoom call from the work bench is an excellent suggestion. Its sad that a once great company such as S&W can't figure out that poor customer service is chasing even their most loyal buyers away.

[@garyK.45ACP]

I have carried J frame, concealed hammer revolvers for 51 years. As an off duty revolver and now as a retired police officer as a concealed carry choice. I own Model 40, 640 and 642 revolvers, (all in .38 Special and .38 Special +P) and I bought a Model 332 Airlite/Ti .32 H&R Magnum for my wife in the early 2000's (2002 or so). S&W dropped the cartridge and the revolvers have become extremely expensive on the used market. Hers is not for sale. IMO the sights and trigger job of the Lipsey's models are designed to separate you from your $$$ and have -0- benefit for close range self defense purposes except in someone's vivid imagination. The option of the .32 H&R Magnum is THE BEST feature of this revolver and I hope it indicates a return of this cartridge to the S&W lineup. For close range self defense the .32 H&R is just as useful as anything in the .38 Special chambering and gives you 1 extra round. Anyone choosing to buy this revolver and NOT getting it in .32 H&R Magnum is making a mistake. Going from 5 to 6 shots is a MUCH more useful increase in capacity than going from 8 shots to 11 or 12. The only drawback to mere mortals is the ammunition availability. I am a handloader and don't give it a consideration as I use all handloaded ammo for practice shooting. My wife uses wadcutter handloads loaded in .32 S&W Long cases for practice. This revolver, in .38 Special, offers NO useful advantage over any other J frame in .38 Special, but it is the lowest cost way to get a J frame in .32 H&R Magnum at present.

[@edwinchandeck7231]

This Limpsys special looks nice. Personally I prefer LCRs better, but these ones deserve a good look.

[@327Federal]

The LCR Trigger sets them apart. Agreed. ✅

[@edwinchandeck7231]

@@327Federal exactly. Personally I don't do pocket carry but I love the LCR 3" in a remora type holster and snubby grips for EDC all year round. My eyes are not what they use to be and I need the better sights and the improved ballistic is a plus

[@markbabcock40205]

Interested in this revolver. Thanks for the thorough review.

[@RevGunn-jq3cq]

I was think about one but none of the gun stores in my area carry ammo that will run in that gun. Ultimately I settled for an 8 round 22Mag which is available just about everywhere.

[@albertforletta1498]

Good choice! 😊

[@ScreechingPossum]

My situation is that I stumbled onto one of these at one store...but they don't sell *ANY* .32 caliber, revolver cartridges I found another store that has .32 S&W Long, but no .32 H&R Magnum or Short. Guess that's where the internet fills in the gaps

[@luiscavazos8026]

Which 22magnum revolver did you get.. ?? Do you recommend it.. ??

[@RevGunn-jq3cq]

@@luiscavazos8026 2inch and 3inch Taurus 942, then I bought the same guns in 22lr as I have over 32k rounds of 22lr ammo.

[@DWalter.27]

S&W's j-frame 22 mag is 7 rounds. I made the same choice; even Walmart sells 22 mag and it's around the same price as 9mm so you can afford to practice with it

[@jacobmarley4907]

Thank you Chris for another outstanding and practical video, especially regarding the 32 H&R Magnum. My thoughts are as follows. The sights on the Lipsey's J frame are nice however I seem to have no sighting issues (at ranges I expect to use the J frame) with my 642 Airweight. Granted both pistols are not going to be used for 25 yd. matches. As far as triggers go, a 13 or 14 # trigger return spring from Wolff Gunsprings will reduce double action pull of the J frame to 9 - 9.5 lbs. The grips on the Lipsey model look really nice however the large Hogue grips that cover the backstrap really softens recoil to the web of the hand. Not having the good fortune to handle the Lipsey model, I shouldn't compare the two. Keep the great videos coming.

[@paulgrogan8032]

Wow what a coincidence, I was on my motorcycle in warm weather today and carried a jframe 3" magnum today.💥💥💥💥💥

[@lovesbeer9973]

Great video, thanks. I have a old Tiger I frame in .32 and its a tiny gun, accurate and fun to shoot. .32 is more popular in Europe as its a target cartridge, or used to be. That's why you can still get Euro target grade ammo in .32 Long.

[@eddiexoc8430]

Very informative.

[@InGratitudeIam]

We are blessed to have so many options available. I used to carry a J-Frame (.38 Spl.), and now carry a small semi-auto. The revolver has always served me well. Well placed hits are what matter. It's not so much the weapon but rather, the nut behind the butt. :)

[@connorsmith9464]

You put out some of the most approachable but interesting revolver content online and I really appreciate it. I know it hasn't really been your thing in the past, but would you consider doing some content on predator defense loads? It's one of those things where documented use is somewhat rare, acceptable penetration standards in grizzly skulls aren't as well established as for normal defensive ammo, etc, and I think people almost always default to either .44 mag or just bringing a rifle, but I think it would just be kind of interesting to explore that. Maybe it's a case where handguns in general are not that useful and it's just a security blanket until you move up to rifle calibers, or maybe it's a case where we assume we need more than we actually do and the faster follow-up shot from a .357 is enough to overcome the disadvantage in muzzle energy and penetration. Likewise, maybe the little .44 snubbies marketed for survival kits are sacrificing too much velocity with the shorter barrel and you really need a 5+ inch barrel to achieve acceptable penetration. I don't know anywhere near enough about this to do any more than speculate, and I live in the northeast where I don't really have to worry about it, but I think it would be interesting and, if a chance for an Alaska hunting trip ever pops up in my future, it might be nice to know

[@LuckyGunner]

It’s an interesting topic, but not one I’m really qualified to offer an opinion on. The website Ammo Land has done some interesting articles on it. They’ve compiled a list of every documented account of a firearm used in defense against a bear. Long story short, caliber is fairly irrelevant. Turns out bears don’t like being shot, and tend to leave you alone regardless of what you shoot them with as long as you get meaningful center mass hits. Take that with a grain of salt… it’s an informal study and it’s been a few years since I saw any updates, but that’s what I remember from it

[@Kelly-oq9nh]

Ron Spomer has an interview with an Alaska guide who shot and killed a charging 900 lb brown bear with a 9mm. But, I’ve also seen a picture of a half eaten Alaska hiker who was found with an empty 38. I think prayer 🙏 is always a good thing… It is interesting.

[@bradmiller9993]

I was never a j frame fan until I bought one ; short version....now I have seen the light. For around town casual carry, it is my go-to. This version is whispering my name....

[@Lq32332]

The Taurus 856 UL is a 6 shot .38 special for less than half the price. You can get 2in or 3in barrels. Optics ready models too. It’s been my go to carry for a while now - it’s so comfortable and conceals nicely.

[@co8539]

Too bad it’s got a hammer tho

[@mikeblair2594]

@@co8539 Its pretty easy to bob A hammer. I did that with my k frame. Took twenty minutes to do it carefully and an hour to polish it better than I got it and she's just exactly what I wanted.

[@07thunderhawk]

Yes! I've been waiting for this review

[@illtake2chickens]

I have carried a 642 for some time now and have always found it perfect to carry in the pocket. I picked up a kahr cm9 recently to try it as another pocket carry option and for the same size and weight as my 642 I’m getting 6+1 9mm with a flush mag and a much faster 7 round reload from a spare mag. Kahr has a very similar double action trigger feel to my broken in 642 as well. I feel like recoil is also mild on the kahr compared to the 642. It would be cool to see a comparison video to get your take. Thanks for the content.

[@lbcsv]

❤ those J frames😊

[@thinman8621]

I reload for and really enjoy 32acp pocket autos. This video makes me really tempted to try a 32 revolver. Ammo availability argument lost merit when we had the covid driven ammo shortage. Better approach is to order ammo online and stock enough to take care of basic needs.

[@timyoung715]

I don’t know if I missed the explanation or if there eve was one. But I was wondering why they didn’t do a model in 327 fed?

[@jimmynagy2662]

My best guess would be too much pressure for this model to handle. All of the lightweight .357 j-frames use special alloys to strengthen the frame, and I imagine a model chambered for .327 would require the same. The alloys end up driving the cost up so I can see them not wanting to try to keep the model’s price down.

[@timyoung715]

Oh ok that makes sense

[@DWalter.27]

​@@jimmynagy2662Yup that's what Daryl and Bryan (who were mentioned in the video) basically said

[@benjamin3290]

I’ll be honest this video totally sold me on this gun. Been wanting a snubby in the edc rotation, this might just fit the bill

[@fauxtool952]

the stainless finish is just ok. The cherry grips look wonderful.

[@keysgirl7699]

I use the same grips on my LCR .38 & a 442. No clothing snag & they really don’t hurt too bad with a high grip.

[@richerich853]

If only it was 327 Federal Mag.. 😢

[@cruzmartinez347]

Love my 327

[@phileasler5401]

Just got the 432 uc black, 32 h&r love it!!!

[@fauxtool952]

I bought them both. No regrets

[@garolstipock]

Do love those vz grips. I've a 442 that I think I'll upgrade with those. Intrigued by the 32-mag as an alternative to .38spl too… but I don't know about snubys anymore for edc. We seem to live in a time where folks seem to carry a near military-esque patrol loadout. 5-6 shots from an 'in your face' belly gun seems an option of last resort… then you go to your flick-knife. Then harsh language. lol.

[@votekyle3000]

Yeah I’m gonna keep my 360PD

[@Harley.Davidson]

Bought my wife a S&W model 640 5-shot J-frame revolver to carry. All stainless steel. .357/.38 1" barrell. Internal hammer. Perfect.

[@Gideon_Judges6]

340PD is the ultimate j-frame imho

[@watchface6836]

I'd agree if it weren't for the price tag. Unfortunately that gun has worse sights and costs about 300 more.

[@Doorgunner50]

​​@@watchface6836Get a 442 or 642 and then swap in a titanium j frame cylinder from Brownells. Drops 2oz weight and hundreds cheaper than the 340.

[@markzemanek2081]

Dang, I wish i could afford one of these right now, but I can't so I guess I'll be holding on to my (much heavier) five shot NEF model R73 H&R .32 magnum. It's in awesome condition and I only paid 20% of what the 432UC costs. Thanks for posting Chris...bang up job :) as usual.

[@popinfresh3088]

I always like the videos that Chris does while tipsy! We always think nobody can tell! Lol!

[@LuckyGunner]

wtf?

[@romans6two338]

Lol, I saw it and noticed it too.

[@popinfresh3088]

I'm joking, no offense.

[@folksurvival]

For anyone wondering I'm pretty sure the watch he's wearing is the Citizen BM8180.

[@levibarton7650]

Ruger LCR. Lots of calibers, better company.

[@BULLDOGHOTSHOT1]

Gimme the address we're fighting at... I'm joking btw...

[@levibarton7650]

@@BULLDOGHOTSHOT1 Let the discussion continue sir. What is your preferred and why?

[@BULLDOGHOTSHOT1]

@@levibarton7650 oh I was just joking xD probably s&w. I am not happy about their QC though. I've been bitten. Ruger doesnt have any issues other than it's appearance. I just prefer the looks of s&w. The aftermarket seems better for s&w a little bit.

[@francosamericanmusings1560]

This channel has made me more intrigued about revolvers.

[@stevee8318]

Rock Island can make a $250 snubnose .38 with six shots, what's Smith's excuse for not releasing a six shot .38 J-Frame? Just coasting on their brand, if you ask me.

[@105alatorre]

And RIs revolver doesn’t come with that crappy safety the newer SW revolvers have

[@homelessman3483]

The rock island is bigger and heavier than a j frame

[@feartheoldblood]

​@105alatorre thing about the safety is if you don't use it then you don't have to worry about it.

[@bwofficial1776]

@@feartheoldblood There are documented accounts of the S&W key lock engaging on its own while firing. It can't engage if it's not there but if it's there it can engage.

[@66smithra]

The j frame is not big enough for 6 shots in 38. It’s physics. No need to be mad at physical reality.

[@CyborgZeta]

Chris, your video on .32 helped sell me on a Taurus 327 earlier this year. I've now sworn off .38 snubs and quit carrying my 642. .32 Long and .32 H&R Mag are extremely pleasant to shoot, and even .327 Federal is manageable in the Taurus. Hopefully, I can can acquire one of these new .32 J-Frames at some point in the future.

[@WinterInTheForest]

I don't see the advantage in carrying a lightweight snubby. Steel J frames are far better with recoil. If you're looking for comfortable carry there are better options available in sub compact semi-autos with higher round capacity.

[@Iron_Road]

Some people like and, shoot revolvers better bud.

[@WinterInTheForest]

@@Iron_Road I'm not knocking revolvers and own a few myself. Doubtful the average person is going to shoot better with the short sight radius, hard trigger pull and stronger recoil of a lightweight snub.

[@microchrist6122]

@@Iron_Road I do , but not an air weight J. Worst recoil I’ve owned. Granted it’s for self defense but if you ever get range reps in it’s unbearable.

[@wsieber89]

I have the air weight 442. I shoot your average .38 ammo and after about 6 cylinders it's a bit tiresome. With +p it's noticeably less comfortable. But it makes up for that by being the most comfortable carry pistol I've ever had. A canted IWB holster makes it a dream. Sitting, walking, driving.

[@Saku19]

I pocket carry a 442 with service grips, BK grip adapter and Underwoods FBI load.

[@craigr.h.laurent240]

30 April 2024 - Thank you for your comprehensive review. Your information is clearly and completely stated without hesitation or repetition. Your concise well thought out and practical level-headed advice is unparalleled. Again, I thank you!

[@HighStrangeDrifter]

I think I’m done with this round. 32H&R/327 seems like the revolvers 30 Super Carry. The gun is expensive, the ammo is expensive, and I’m thinking it could be outshot by a .380 that carries more rounds, is less expensive, and easier to conceal. I’ve also seen other reviews of this gun that found its fit & finish to less than S&W’s normal level. Sharp edges, burrs, etc.

[@bobperrine6193]

I have a Performance Center 640 and want to change the grips. Thank you for showing the VZ grips.

[@coldandaloof7166]

32 H&R? Why not the 327 Fed Mag? If your going 32 go for the hot one.

[@pharmdiddy5120]

Came to the comments just to make sure somebody said this

[@BertieW0oster]

I'm tempted by the .32 H&R Mag, however I would love to see it offered in just the standard Model 642. I like the extra round of ammo, but have no interest in the sight... the standard ramp 642 sights work perfectly fine for me, and I added a nice pair of rosewood aftermarket boot grips to my J-frame anyway so their grip isn't tempting me either.

[@hardball107]

I have a Smith 642 and a 3" Ruger SP101 in 327 Fed Magnum. Even with the weight of a stainless gun the Ruger is a handful, that's why I carry 32 H&R Mags in it and it's no slouch BUT I have been personally waiting for a 6 shot 642 in 32 H&R. My 642 has done CCW duty for over 20 years during the summer as a pocket weapon in basketball shorts and a T shirt were that was the dress of the day. I'm going to get my hands on one of those new J Frames, it has to be the perfect deep concealment revolver.

[@OldGregsMangina]

Would love to see a review with .22 Magnum 351 PD thrown into the mix versus all of these models! Love your content btw, I appreciate the seemingly unbiased opinions that you have. I never feel like you're trying to sell me something but rather endorse it based on data/facts.

[@alecmatteson692]

Chris, I want to thank you for the top-notch information and reviews you put on this KZbin channel. To piggyback off of the J Frame reviews, I would love to see a review of the M&P Bodyguard .38 special variant. there is not a ton of content or information about them. However, it was the first handgun I ever bought some years ago and would appreciate your input on it. Thanks a lot

[@NoTimeForThatNow]

I tried getting a 327 federal magnum revolver a couple of years ago for my daughter, mostly because of the versatility in 32 caliber ammo. I was specifically looking for a sp101 in that caliber, but would have taken a s&w. Could even have gone for a ruger lcr. But there was none available for many months. I ended up buying a 357, and a couple boxes of 38 Short to help her learn. It’s good and heavy, holds six shots and can still shoot 357 when she becomes proficient. Also ammo is cheaper and more widely available.