Revolver or Semiautomatic?

The age-old argument between those who like revolvers and those who do not is probably just left alone. 

S&W MP .357 Magnum (can use .38 Special ammo)

However, I just wrote an article about bug-out bag systems and recommended the revolver; so I thought I would list the advantage revolvers have over the popular semiautomatic pistols …

While semiautomatic pistols are easier to reload and carry more ammunition at one time, revolvers allow more flexibility when it comes to ammunition; for example, .38 Special ammo will fire safely in .357 Magnum chambered revolvers. The cheaper .38 Special caliber is good for range target practice and the .357 caliber load can be kept in gun for home defense and in bug out situations.

Note: never fire .357 ammo in a handgun chambered for .38 Special!

Revolvers, as a rule, are more economical, requiring less parts and easier to manufacture. It is easier to inspect a used revolver than a used semiautomatic.

Cleaning is a breeze because there are no major disassembly required and less parts to deal with. disassembly and assembly is also easier.

Depending upon what method you choose to carry a concealed weapon, the revolver, even those with hammers and have short barrels are easier to conceal – and weigh less.

The revolver has fewer moving parts, thus less chance of something going wrong. This makes them more dependable, and why I suggest the revolver for the bug-out bag system.

Quick Reloading Revolvers

As far as reloading, reloading devices are available for quick reloading of revolvers; but the semiautomatic beats revolvers in reloading time and convenience.

In the end argument, it is personal preference. People concerned that there are only six rounds in a revolver (unless you have a .22 revolver) is moot. If you cannot hit what you are aiming at and stop intruders and attackers with six rounds, having eight or more rounds will not make much of a difference.

Whether using a revolver or semiautomatic handgun, one should be proficient with it and be able to fire accurately when under stress. The old saying “practice makes perfect” applies here.