Revolver/semi for occasional shooting?

Greetings from Maine lads..

So, I'll be soon buying a home defense piece.
Originally, I was looking at a S&W 686 6"
but with 5-6 bills, it would have to be used...and I would like
to buy new.

My criteria that will likely drive the type of gun, is that:
1) I will shoot very occasionally:
as in the gun will likely sit for extended(several weeks) at a time without being shot, and
2) I would like the option of picking it up at a moments notice, and having it ready to fire with as little chance of a jam/malfunction
as possible.
3) Also, there IS a chance I would carry(6'1" 200lbs)


I know a revolver has far fewer moving parts than a semi-auto, but in your folks opinion is a semiauto doable
for this scenario? Do they like to sit...do the mag springs tire out and cause issues if left loaded for weeks on end?

Many thanks in advance for thoughts.

Peace,
Rich

you have no concerns
being a semiauto is not a problem
and springs don't wear out being loaded and stored

Open carry or concealed carry?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by hideit

you have no concerns
being a semiauto is not a problem
and springs don't wear out being loaded and stored

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I found a mag in the door pocket of my old Chevy truck one year that I had forgot about. It had been in there many, many months(I ain`t telling exactly how long LOL). I dusted it off, slapped it in the gun, racked a round and it never missed a beat. Unloading, loading,unloading, loading every day will wear out a mag spring quick.

ok, thanks fellas for the replies so far..like that Chevy story..

Can't imagine carrying openly, which I'm fairly sure is way illegal in Maine I believe, though I'm curious to dig into it just out of curiosity.
I do like the notion of being able to carry concealed though at some point.

I'm going into a local store this Sat to try out several brands & see how they feel in my hand.
Seriously considering semi auto..

I am not a lawyer.
That said, I believe OC IS legal In Maine.

As for the original question, there are a lot of good guns out there that fit your described use. I would lean toward a FS or compact semi-auto(beretta 92, M&P, Glock, CZ, etc) or a k frame sized 357. My preference for the latter is a 3" barrel. Easy to shoot and easy to conceal.

I would recommend a revolver. Both Ruger and S & W make stainless steel medium frame versions. The stainless steel handles neglect well. Revolvers have a simpler operation and if you are not using the weapon often I think that would be the most significant issue. Both autos and revolvers can be equally as accurate and equally as deadly. But I think for occasional users that the revolver is safer to handle.

too late Packard!
due to costs, I opted for a semi....
but preeciate your chimin in!