Carrying with my new pocket revolver

[phrogg]

So I had started a thread in trying to find a pocket revolver a couple months ago. In doing so I received tons of useful info and a few folks there actually led me to look at an LCR which wasn't even on my list before. Since then I've actually purchased an LCR 357. That led to another discussion about what pocket holster to get for it. That led to a Desanti Nemesis as recommended by another member. Since then, I've decided to put in a week of carrying it and see how it works for me and whether people notice, etc.

First off, I've kept my wallet in my front right pocket for the last 10 years or so. Its been very weird to have my wallet in my back pocket again after so long. For some reason I don't notice a wallet in my back left pocket but my back right one I really do. I actually carry 2 wallets, one with cash and the important cards in it, the other with biz cards and the assorted extra cards that I might need to use at Mission Burrito, Best Buy, or Insurance cards and the like. That way I keep my wallets both fairly flat since I don't like to carry stuff in my back pockets. So that was the first thing to adjust to.

Otherwise, I've found that its quite comfortable to carry. It is so darned lightweight that its been great! It doesn't really make much more bulge than my other pocket with a wad of keys or the wallet that I used to keep there. Even among my other CHL buddies here, no one has noticed that it was there. I surprised one of my CHL buddies when we went out to the parking garage to show off my new toy and it was in my pocket the whole time. He was expecting that we'd go by my car to get it out. He's been a .380 owner for a while and we often have the discussion about how I don't feel comfortable carrying only a .380. It has uses as a BUG and if there is nothing else you can possible conceal. But this is something that he might actually go and pick up after seeing how small and light it is and the fact that he can put all his fingers on the grip instead of just 2 with the LCP.

I also took it out to the range and found that I could hit the center area of the target consistently with it at 7 yards even though its just a 1.875" barrel. I also picked up a couple speedloaders so I can keep one in my pocket all the time as well. The only downfall I have found so far is that I'm only carrying 10 rounds of .357 magnum. I'd prefer to have more with me. I can carry another speedloader but I'd just as soon not have to reload with a bit more capacity. But, I had been only carrying 7+1 and another 7 before with my .45 so I'm not that far off. Next up, I'll probably pick up an IWB holster for it. I'm thinking the ultra-thin kydex one from Fist-Inc.

Overall, I'm super happy with another carry piece!

Next up, my first 1911. Its the 100th year so I should be sure I buy one this year . I already know which one (Colt LW Defender .45) I'm just saving up for it.

[74novaman]

Thanks for the update! I had the same journey, but my pocket piece is a Taurus .357 5 shot with an enclosed hammer. It is incredibly easy to throw it in a pocket and go on your way, isn't it?

The other use I love it for is an "around the house" gun. If I'm wearing sleep pants and a robe, I can throw it in the front pocket of the robe, etc. Easy to carry around, and I figure if I ever needed it, the 5 shots it has should buy me enough time and space to get back to the other hardware.

Enjoy your pocket revolver!

[karder]

Great choice on the LCR. I have the .38 version and I love it. If the .357 had been available at the time I bought mine, I probably would have gone that route. Personally, I can't deal with pocket carry as the lump in my pocket drives me bananas, but I wish I could. Don't worry about the limited capacity. I can't imagine you will find yourself in a situation that 10 rounds of .357 can't get you out of. Happy shooting!

[74novaman]

Don't worry about the limited capacity. I can't imagine you will find yourself in a situation that 10 rounds of .357 can't get you out of. Happy shooting!

The other thing I make sure to do if I'm just carrying the pocket revolver is bring a knife too. My current favorite is this:

Disclaimer: Not my picture.

It is the SOG Visionary II. 3.75 inch blade, very light and with an ambidextrous arc lock. This little blade is sharp, locks up tight, deploys easily and carries light. I figure if you're only going to have 5 rounds ready to go, it can't hurt to carry a good "fighting folder" as well.

[Valhalla1]

thanks for the review.. I really liked the LCR when I was pocket pistol shopping last year. I didn't know they now make them in .357
my dad bought a scandium 357 S&W pocket revolver and really likes it. I wasn't sure about how much a revolver would buldge in my pocket so I went with a Ruger LCP, but it really feels like a toy in comparison to these pocket .357 revolvers!

also, thats a pretty sweet knife and paracord bracelet novaman

[Salty1]

I sold my LCR in 38 for the 357 version when they first were released. The 357 adds a few more ounces although I did not notice much of a difference in the weight. I am not personally a fan of pocket carry and prefer a tuckable IWB holster, which I use on a daily basis. The big difference was time between shots as the muzzle flip on the 357 loads take much longer to come back on target for me. I carry it with the first 3 chambers holding 38 +p and the last 2 with 357 in case they are ever needed. I added the CT grips from my 38 model as well as a Hi Vis front sight, the Hi Vis made a world of difference for both accuracy and getting the sights on target very quickly. The Hi Vis was fairly easy to install for those who may be interested in one, the cost is around $35.00 or so. IMO opinion the LCR is a fine revolver to carry wiothout breaking the bank and the trigger is the best of any of the revolvers in this market and would be a fine addition to everybody's carry rotation.