Favorite Revolver for Combat Matches, etc.

**1832** · November 7th, 2008, 09:32 PM

When I shoot in the IDPA Service Revolver class, I use several revolvers, but I still come back to my old-time SW Mod.15 Combat Masterpiece.

Let's see your favorite wheelguns for this type of shooting.

**DCChris** · November 7th, 2008, 09:43 PM

I don't shoot in competition yet, but would like to. My dad won Team and Individual first place with this Smith model 19.

**1832** · November 7th, 2008, 10:37 PM

The Mod.19 is a great revolver. I'm a retired Trooper myself and still have my Mod 19s (2.5", 4" and 6" bbls). They will be among the last guns I would ever let go. My regards to your Dad, from one old LEO to another.

**BUCKMARK** · November 7th, 2008, 10:53 PM

I have been thinking of joining you wheel gunners. I have been looking at the 686 SSR. I might have a few questions on gear you use if and when I buy one.

**1832** · November 7th, 2008, 11:57 PM

Buckmark,

Revolver shooters in competition may not use the elegant equipment that our friends with the semi-autos do, but its cheaper to get started in. I tend to like the IDPA form of combat revolver shooting. If you check their website, you can view the lists of approved weapons and equipment.

Being in Bedford Co., there are several IDPA shoots taking place near your area, the Holidaysburg and Altoona clubs come to mind, but there are others.

The 686 is a great weapon, but you can save some cash by scouting the used gun racks for a SW Mod 10 or Mod. 13(.357 version of the Mod. 10). These are K Frames with heavy barrels and are nicely balanced for DA shooting. In fact, some of the best Stock Service Revolver class shooters I've ever seen were using these models. Since these SWs were used a lot by old time LEOs, there's a lot of them floating around. The ones manufactured in the mid 70s have actions that are, IMHO, far superior to the production line Smiths of today. I know a lot of folks like the .45 ACP SW revolvers, but that's an individual preference. I like the .38 Spl - lower cost = more practice.

Your speedloaders are going to be an important variable in your performance. You may have to experiment with various ones to find out which type works best for you. Holster types must be approved under IDPA rules and there is a list of those on the website as well.