Best Revolvers

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Are you looking for the best revolvers on the market today? Well, that can be wildly interpreted, and it often depends on your use case for the revolvers. But first, why would you pick a revolver over other available options?

Why Carry a Revolver?

First, they are reliable and durable, with a simple mechanism requiring minimal maintenance. This means they are less prone to malfunctions and can be used in harsh environments.

Second, revolvers are easy to use, as they have a straightforward design with a cylinder that holds the rounds, and a hammer is used to fire them.

This makes them a good choice for beginners or those who may not be familiar with firearms.

Overall, revolvers are a reliable and easy-to-use choice for those seeking a gun for self-defense or other purposes.

Best Revolvers

Here is a list of some popular revolvers that gun enthusiasts and experts highly regard.

Smith and Wesson 642 Airweight Stock Photo

Smith & Wesson J-Frame

Caliber: .38 Special +P
Ruger LCR Stock Photo

Ruger LCR

Caliber: .38 Spl & .357 Mag
Tarus 856 Stock Photo

Taurus 856

Caliber: .38 Spl
ruger super redhawk

Ruger Super Redhawk

Caliber: .454 Casull, .480 Ruger, .44 Magnum
sw model 29

Smith & Wesson Model 29

Caliber: 44 Magnum, 44 Special
taurus raging bull

Taurus Raging Bull

Caliber: 44 Mag, 454 Casull, 45 Colt
colt anaconda

Colt Anaconda

Caliber: 44 Magnum
colt python

Colt Python

Caliber: .357 Magnum/.38 Spl
rhino

Chiappa Rhino

Caliber: .357 Magnum

Best Revolvers for Concealed Carry

Revolvers are a popular choice for concealed carry and personal protection due to several factors.

They are reliable and easy to use and require very little maintenance. This makes revolvers less prone to malfunctions that some semi-automatic guns can face and can be counted on in self-defense situations.

Best Revolvers

Revolvers are also easy to use, an essential metric to consider when picking a concealed-carry revolver.

Additionally, they are available in various calibers, including powerful cartridges that can be used for self-defense.

Overall, revolvers are a reliable and easy-to-use choice for those looking for a gun for concealed carry or personal protection.

Smith & Wesson J-Frame

Smith & Wesson 642

This small, lightweight revolver is popular for concealed carry due to its compact size and easy-to-use design.

I love how the J-Frame feels in the hand and how easy it is to conceal. If you already have a J-Frame, I recommend the Icon 2.0 to conceal carry.

One of the popular J-Frame models is the Smith & Wesson 642 due to its lightweight and hammerless design.

Smith and Wesson J-Frames are available in several calibers, including .38 Special and .357 Magnum.

Smith and Wesson 642 Airweight Stock Photo

Smith & Wesson Model 642

• Caliber: .38 Special +P
• Action: Hammerless Double-Action
• Weight: 14.4 oz
Price Check: Brownells | PSA | Primary Arms | Guns.com

J-Frame Holster

I like the Harry’s Holsters Icon 2.0 holster for concealing Smith and Wesson J-Frame revolvers.

The Icon 2.0 uses a Discreet Carry Concepts monoblock clip. This clip allows you to use the holster with and without a belt. It has a built-in wing keeps the gun’s grip close to the body. They’ve rounded everything, so it’s comfortable to carry.

Ruger LCR

One of the most well-known modern revolvers is made by Strum Ruger & Co. and is the Ruger LCR, which stands for Lightweight Compact Revolver.

This revolver is known for its lightweight and compact design, making it easy to carry and conceal. It is available in several calibers, including .38 Special, .357 Magnum, 327 Fed Mag, 22LR, and 9mm.

Ruger LCR Stock Photo

Ruger LCR

• Caliber: .38 Spl & .357 Mag
• Action: Double
• Weight: 13.5 oz.

Ruger LCR Holster

This popular revolver has several holster options and is extremely easy to use, operate, and carry, which is extremely important for concealed-carry pistols.

You won’t want to carry the gun if you don’t have the right holster. The Ruger LCR’s grip is slightly more square than other revolver grips.

So it’s more likely to print through your shirt. You’ll want to make sure your holster as a claw or wing that helps keep the grip close to the body.

I wouldn’t suggest this gun for pocket carry because it’s much bigger than other options like the J Frame and Taurus 856. It’s still a great gun for IWB carry.

Taurus 856

The Taurus 856 is a small revolver produced by Taurus International, a well-known firearms manufacturer based in Brazil. It is a popular choice for concealed carry and personal protection due to its compact size and lightweight design.

The Taurus 856 is chambered in .38 Special and has a six-round capacity. It features a double-action trigger, which means that the hammer can be cocked and the revolver can be fired by pulling the trigger, or the hammer can be manually cocked, and the revolver can be fired by pulling the trigger.

This gives the user the option of a lighter trigger pull for more accurate shots or a heavier trigger pull for added security.

Overall, the Taurus 856 is a popular and reliable revolver suitable for various purposes, including concealed carry and personal protection.

It is known for its compact size, lightweight design, and versatility. The Taurus 905 is another good option for a 9mm revolver.

Tarus 856 Stock Photo

Taurus 856

• Caliber: .38 Spl
• Action: Double/Single
• Weight: 22.00 Oz

Taurus 856 Holster

A nice thing about the Taurus 856 is you can get it with a 2-inch or 3-inch barrel.

Unfortunately, this can make finding holsters difficult. Fortunately, Harry’s Holsters offers the Icon 2.0 for the 2 and 3-inch 856 guns.

The nice thing about the Taurus small frame guns is most are built on the same frame. So, if you have a 605 or 905, they’ll fit in my 856 holsters like the Harry’s Holsters Icon 2.0. 

Best Revolvers for Hunting

Hunting with revolvers is an interesting niche and while you don’t see it a lot, a select few (you know who you are) exclusively hunt with revolvers.

Here are some of the top reasons to hunt with revolvers.

Reliability

Revolvers have a simple mechanism that requires minimal maintenance, which makes them less prone to malfunctions. This can be particularly important in a hunting situation where a malfunction could result in losing a shot or even a dangerous situation.

Accuracy

Revolvers generally have a longer sight radius and a more stable barrel than other handguns, making them more accurate. This can be important when hunting, as taking a clean and accurate shot is critical to a successful hunt. Power: Revolvers are available in various calibers, including powerful cartridges that can be used for hunting medium to large game.

Capacity

Most revolvers have 5-6 shots per cylinder, which can be more than allowed in some bolt action rifle magazines. While this isn’t a big deal, it is still a consideration when determining whether you will hunt with a revolver.

Versatility

Revolvers are available in various calibers and configurations, making them suitable for various hunting situations.

Please note that revolvers are not the only type of firearm that can be used for hunting, and the best choice will depend on the hunting situation and the hunter’s preferences.

Before making a purchase, it is important to carefully consider your intended use and any local laws or regulations. Additionally, it is important to practice proper gun safety and ensure that you are legally permitted to hunt with handguns in your jurisdiction.

Ruger Super Redhawk

ruger super redhawk

The Ruger Super Redhawk is a large revolver produced by Sturm, Ruger & Co., a well-known firearms manufacturer based in the United States. It was first introduced in 1979 and is still in production today.

The Ruger Super Redhawk is known for its powerful chambering in calibers, such as .454 Casull, .480 Ruger, and .44 Magnum.

It is a popular choice for hunting and self-defense due to its powerful chambering and reliable design.

The Super Redhawk is also known for its durability and accuracy, making it a good choice for outdoor use or as a backup gun.

The Ruger Super Redhawk has various finishes, including black, stainless steel, and blued.

It is also available in various barrel lengths and grip styles, allowing users to customize their revolver to their specific needs and preferences.

Overall, the Ruger Super Redhawk is a popular and reliable revolver suitable for various purposes, including hunting and self-defense. It is known for its durability, accuracy, and powerful chambering.

ruger super redhawk

Ruger Super Redhawk

• Caliber: .454 Casull, .480 Ruger, .44 Magnum
• Action: Single/Double
• Weight: 53 oz.
Price Check: Cabelas | Gun.Deals| PSA | Guns.com

Smith & Wesson Model 29

This classic revolver is popular for hunting due to its powerful chambering in .44 Magnum, a powerful cartridge suitable for hunting medium to large game.

The Model 29 is one of the classic Smith and Wesson revolvers and is well-known by revolver enthusiasts. It’s a decent hunting gun but lacks the bells and whistles on newer revolvers.

It still is worth mentioning for anyone looking for a true classic to hunt with.

sw model 29

S&W Model 29

• Caliber: 44 Magnum, 44 Special
• Action: Single/Double Action
• Weight: 43.8 oz.
Price Check: PSA | Guns.com

Taurus Raging Bull

taurus raging bull

The Taurus Raging Bull is a unique revolver due to its powerful chambering in .454 Casull, a powerful cartridge that can shoot .45 Colt and .45 Schofield rounds.

In addition to its chambering, the Taurus Raging Bull is also known for its unique design, which features a large, ventilated rib on the top of the barrel and a full underlug on the bottom. These design elements are intended to reduce recoil and muzzle flip, making it easier to shoot accurately.

The Taurus Raging Bull is also known for its durability and reliability, as it is made with high-quality materials and has a simple mechanism that requires minimal maintenance.

taurus raging bull

Taurus Raging Bull

• Caliber: 44 Mag, 454 Casull, 45 Colt
• Action: Single/Double
• Weight: 53 oz
Price Check: PSA | Guns.com | Grab-A-Gun

Colt Anaconda

It was first introduced in 1990 and was produced until 1999, when it was discontinued due to declining sales.

The Colt Anaconda was designed to be a powerful and reliable revolver that could be used for hunting and self-defense. It was chambered in .44 Magnum and .45 Colt, which are powerful cartridges suitable for hunting medium to large game. It is a classic and highly collectible revolver.

The Anaconda was known for its high quality and craftsmanship, as well as its smooth trigger pull and excellent accuracy.

It was popular among law enforcement officers, competitive shooters, and collectors due to its reputation for reliability and performance.

In the decades since its introduction, the Colt Anaconda has become a highly collectible firearm, with many enthusiasts seeking vintage models.

In 2021, Colt announced that it would bring back the Anaconda as a limited edition release, with production beginning in 2022.

colt anaconda

Colt Anaconda

• Caliber: 44 Magnum
• Action: Double Action
• Weight: 47 oz
Price Check: Brownells | Grab-A-Gun| PSA | Guns.com

Smith & Wesson 627 Performance

The Smith & Wesson 627 Performance Center is a revolver known for its accuracy and smooth action, making it a popular choice among competitive shooters.

It is chambered in .357 Magnum, a powerful cartridge that can also shoot .38 Special rounds. This makes it suitable for hunting medium to large game and for self-defense.

sw 627

S&W 627

• Caliber: 357 Magnum, 38 S&W
• Action: Single/Double Action
• Weight: 41.4 oz
Price Check: Brownells | Grab-A-Gun| Guns.com

Best Revolvers for Fun

Buying a gun just for the range? Why not! There are so many great revolver options to enhance a range day and add that extra cowboy experience.

Ruger Single Six/Wrangler

Ruger Wrangler Stock Photo

This classic revolver is popular for recreational shooting and small-game hunting due to its versatility and affordability. It is available in both single-action and double-action configurations.

Another fun Ruger model is the Ruger Wrangler, which I have and is a fun and slightly cheaper single-six substitute.

Ruger Wrangler Stock Photo

Ruger Wrangler

• Caliber: 22LR
Barrel Length: 4.62″
• Weight: 30 oz

Colt Python

The Colt Python is a classic revolver produced by Colt’s Manufacturing Company, a well-known firearms manufacturer based in the United States. It was first introduced in 1955 and was produced until 1999, when it was discontinued due to declining sales.

The Colt Python was known for its high quality and craftsmanship, as well as its smooth trigger pull and excellent accuracy. It was chambered in .357 Magnum, a powerful cartridge that can also shoot .38 Special rounds. The Python was popular among law enforcement officers, competitive shooters, and collectors due to its reputation for reliability and performance.

In the decades since its introduction, the Colt Python, like the Anaconda, has been a highly collectible firearm, with many enthusiasts seeking original models. In 2021, Colt announced that it would bring back the Python as a limited edition release; production began in 2022.

Overall, the Colt Python is considered one of the best revolvers ever made and has a strong reputation among gun enthusiasts and collectors.

This revolver is known for its smooth trigger pull and excellent accuracy. It is chambered in .357 Magnum and is considered one of the best revolvers ever made.

colt python

Colt Python

• Caliber: .357 Magnum/.38 Spl
• Action: Single Action
• Weight: 30 oz
Price Check: PSA | Grab-A-Gun| Guns.com

Chiappa Rhino

The Chiappa Rhino is a revolver produced by Chiappa Firearms, an Italian firearms manufacturer.

It is known for its unique design, which features a barrel aligned with the bottom chamber of the cylinder rather than the top chamber, as is traditional with revolvers.

This design is intended to reduce recoil and muzzle flip, making it easier to shoot accurately.

The Chiappa Rhino is available in several calibers, including .357 Magnum, .40 S&W, and 9mm. It is a popular choice for self-defense and recreational shooting due to its unique design and low recoil.

It is also available in various finishes, including black, nickel, and chrome.

rhino

Chiappa Rhino

• Caliber: .357 Magnum
• Action: Single/Double
• Weight: 1.97 lbs
Price Check: PSA | Grab-A-Gun| Guns.com

Best Revolver FAQ

What is the best revolver to have?

The best revolver to have is whatever feels the best to you, and you are comfortable shooting. If the gun comes from a reputable manufacturer and shoots a mainstream revolver cartridge, it will be a fine revolver for your needs.

What is the easiest revolver to shoot?

This will completely depend on the shooter and what they are comfortable with. Typically a lower caliber revovler is always going to be easier and friendlier to shoot for most people.

What is the most powerful revolver today?

Identifying the “most powerful” revolver is difficult, as different revolvers are chambered in different calibers and designed for different purposes.

However, some revolvers are known for their powerful chambering and are among the most powerful available today. These include:

Smith & Wesson Model 500: This revolver is chambered in .500 S&W Magnum, a powerful cartridge known for its stopping power. It is often used for hunting and self-defense.

Taurus Raging Bull: This revolver is chambered in .454 Casull, which is a powerful cartridge that can also shoot .45 Colt and .45 Schofield rounds. It is a popular choice for hunting and self-defense.

Ruger Super Redhawk: This large revolver is popular for hunting due to its powerful chambering in calibers such as .454 Casull, .480 Ruger, and .44 Magnum. It is known for its durability and accuracy.

What are the qualities that make a great revolver?

Reliability, capacity, weight, and construction are all qualities you want to consider when looking for the best revolvers.

What is the best revolver for a woman to carry?

Whichever revolver feels the best to her. There is no one-shot answer for any individual’s best revolver or firearm. If the shooter does not like how the firearm feels, they will not use or like the firearm and they will not consider it “the best”.

Michael Savage
Michael Savage

Michael is the President of Lynx Defense and an avid gun owner and outdoors man. He's passionate about helping find the best bang for your buck and helping others learn about firearms and the industry as a whole.

Articles: 262

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