Recoil/Accuracy?

Question

I currently carry a S&W 642 .38+p(airweight), and it has quite a powerful kick, making it difficult for a good follow up shot. And being a snubnose, it isnt very accurate. I am thinking about a glock 23, and was wondering if a 23 was better then a 642 control/recoil/accuracy wise.

Answer 1

The Airweight S&W are the very most unpleasant things I have ever shot, they seem to bang on the bone at the base of my thumb with every shot. But if you were using it "in the gravest extreme" you probably wouldn't feel it. But I'd rather shoot my 308 Encore pistol than one of those little suckers.

Try the Glock, go to a range that has them. Most do. I have used a friends G23 quite often but never owned one, I found it comfortable, like a souped up 9mm. But in general I find semi autos more forgiving than revolvers. Accuracy was as good as any pistol, better than my shooting and I can keep every shot in the black at 25 yards.

I have a G20, which is somewhat larger (1/3rd heavier), but I shoot maximum loads from it (around 750 ft.lbs). I find it comfortable, way nicer than a 357 revolver.

Answer 2

I own a Glock 23 and a Glock 17 and both are fine weapons. If the recoil from a .38 bothers you then I doubt you will like a .40S&W any better. In terms of accuracy I'd ask how often you fire your weapon? Practice does make perfect where that is concerned. Have you considered a Glock 19? It's chambered in 9MM and is also an excellent weapon. The recoil may be more to your liking also. You may also consider purchasing a .357 revolver in a shorter barrel say 2.25 inches and loading it with .38 +P ammo to reduce recoil while still providing acceptable power.

Answer 3

An airweight snubby shooting +P is pretty hard to control by anyone. There are a lot of factors working against control and accuracy. It's sure not going to give you good results as a target pistol. But it's meant to be a lifesaver, to put holes in that guy with the knife or gun who's right on top of you and coming fast.

Even a steel 640 is a lot better shooting than the airweight, I have one.

Just about any semi-auto is going to offer more control, as you have more barrel and more weight. I suggest you seriously look at all of your options before deciding on the G23. Popular does not always indicate superior.