Revolver or semi-automatic-which is better for self defense?

Answer 1

only fearmogers need guns for self-defense. I'd choke someone who threatened me with me bare hands.

why not get a tank? a fortress with a moat?


fraidy cat!

Answer 2

There are benefits and draw backs of both. With a revolver your limited to six (or five if you are carrying the S&W 500 which I would do if I lived in Montana due to grizzleys) while a revolver may jam it will jam less frequently than a semi-autos and you can advance to the next round easier if it doesn't fire.

Semi-autos you can have upwards of 9 rds and can reload a lot quicker.

If your talking home defense, I would get a 12 gauge shotgun

Answer 3

If you're a good shot, a revolver would probably be your best choice. Revolvers usually pack more punch, but also have a much slower reload rate than semi-automatics. If the person you're defending yourself from has a semi-automatic, you're basically one shot (maybe two if you're lucky) away from dead or injured.

If you're not as well trained, a semi-auto has less recoil, a faster firing rate, and less power. All depends on how you feel you'll need to handle a situation. Personally I would go with the semi-auto.

Answer 4

The main thing is you must be comfortable and know your weapon. Some people are better with a revolver because of the feel. Some a semi automatic. Go to a gun store that has a range (some rent guns) and try both in different calibers and see what is comfortable for you. If it comes down to a time you need to use it you will be safer with a gun that is comfortable for you.

Answer 5

either is good. Small revovlers that chamber the 38 round tend to be very concealable.

Larger framed revolvers are very accurate and can be chambered in 38, 357, 44, or 45 cal.

Semi-autos can have double the ammo capacity but with larger calibers you will have a hard time concealing.

If concealing is not your concern...get a 45 caliber. Glock or springfield armory have great selections are are widely used across the country by law enforcement.

Answer 6

It depends on a few factors. An auto is good because of the rate of fire and quick reloading. However autos are fairly complex and can be difficult for beginners to use. A revolver is good because it's simpe and effective. If you've never owned a handgun, consider a double action revolver in .38 special. But shop around, see what feels best. If you have friends who own handguns, ask if they will let you got to the range with them.

Answer 7

Revolver is more reliable in my opinion. If you get a bad round in a tight spot you wont burn seconds up clearing the stoppage. revolver is a simpler design but adds time to reloading. solution: smaller caliber auto backed up with a large caliber revolver.

Answer 8

A revolver. Low maintenance (no rotating mags), and reliable (no jams). You probably won't need more than six shots in a self defense situation.

Answer 9

Depends partly on you.
Automatic is quicker to load and get ready if you don't want to keep a loaded gun in the house.
Revolvers have fewer jams and shorter barrels for getting it out of a pocket or holster.

Guns are tools. Learn to use them and take care of them. Don't use it for a hammer.

Answer 10

I prefer semi but that is what I am trained with. Try both, it is the round that hits the target that saves your life.

Answer 11

semi-auto... reload is easier and faster, the clip holds more rounds...

Now if your revolver is a .357 mag with some hydroshock bullets... it wont matter.. cause no matter where you hit the guy hes going down