We have tested dozens of snubnose revolvers over the past few decades. As a direct result of this experience, we have isolated areas of the greatest import in making the snub most effective. The trigger action must be smooth, the sights useful, and the stocks should be hand-filling grips that limit recoil. The role of the snubnose as a backup handgun must be considered as well. This is a light, but formidable, firearm carried just in case. The snubnose revolver will easily survive in an ankle holster, where other types may not ride in this carry position and come up shooting. Whether in a primary carry role on the belt or in a pocket, or as a backup on the lower leg, a concern with nearly every snubbie is capacity. While the snubnose usually has five or six cartridges, five rounds aren’t very many, so being able to put them where they’re needed is paramount. The classic snubnose has a barrel 2 inches or shorter, but we think 3-inch tubes also fill the weight, length, and portability needs of the wheelgun carrier. The guns in this list are all double-action revolvers unless otherwise noted and come in multiple chamberings, including the stalwart offerings in 38 Special and 357 Magnum, but also 44 Special, 22 WMR, 9mm Luger, and 327 Federal Magnum.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled our Top 10 Snubnose Revolvers in the listicle below. Of course, we haven’t tested every handgun on the market, so we’ll be interested to see which one is your favorite in the comments below. As always, prices reflect what we paid for the gun at the time of the test. Expect the prices of new or used guns to be different. — Todd Woodard
10 Ruger GP100 1761 44 Special, $649 (January 2018)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B
Normally, we wouldn’t put a B gun in the top ten, but those shooters who enjoy a little recoil for breakfast should at least know about this one. If the contest had been among just 44 Special revolvers, the GP100 might have gotten the top rating, but the other revolvers were 44 Magnums and offered more energy. For many of the raters, they liked shooting the Ruger GP100 the most among the revolvers tested. However, this is the largest and heaviest revolver as well, so it was expected it might be more docile with 44 Special rounds. Accuracy was outstanding. The GP100 44 Special is more accurate than all but a very few revolvers we have tested. Overall Length, 8.5 in. Weight Loaded, 37.8 oz. Barrel Length, 3.0 in. Capacity, 5.
9 Taurus Tracker 692 38 Sp./357 Mag./9mm Luger, $487 (October 2021)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
The Taurus 692 revolver is a credible choice for home defense. The 38 Special cartridge has all the recoil occasional shooters wish to handle. Loaded with a 38 Special +P, a homeowner is well armed. The 9mm Luger offers fast reloads and real economy. This is a great idea. For shooters willing to master higher recoil, the 357 Magnum offers impressive terminal ballistics and moves into the arena of big-animal defense. For its flexibility, some wanted to rate this revolver as the Best Buy, and it would be as an enthusiast’s handgun. Overall Length, 8.14 in. Barrel Length, 3 in. Weight Loaded, 39 oz. Capacity, 7.
8 Smith & Wesson Model 351 PD 160228 22 WMR, $766 (April 2021)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
The M351 offers light weight, 7-shot capacity, and a bright Hi-Viz fiber-optic front sight that we really liked. Accuracy was good for the length. The smooth grip allowed easy pants-pocket carry. Some will hesitate to carry a 22 Magnum, but some will not. Overall Length, 6.2 in. Weight Loaded, 15.4 oz. Barrel Length, 1.87 in. Capacity, 7.
7 Charter Arms Boxer 53620 38 Special, $349 (July 2023)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
The most affordable gun on the list. The revolver works as designed and is reasonably smooth and more accurate than expected. It is a reliable utilitarian piece. Despite the short sight radius and light weight, the Boxer was accurate in slow fire. Overall Length, 6.95 in. Barrel Length, 2.2 in. Weight Loaded, 20.7 oz. Capacity, 6.
6 Smith & Wesson Ultimate Carry 642 13995 38 Special, $699 (August-September 2025)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
A classic carry choice. This is a lightweight revolver chambered in a serious cartridge, so recoil is present. The grips go a long way in handling recoil. The action is smooth. Reliability is a given. The XS sights are by far the best addition to the J-frame. Overall Length, 6.3 in. Weight Loaded, 18.1 oz. Barrel Length, 1.88 in. Capacity, 5.
5 Taurus Defender 605 2-60539NS 357 Magnum, $467 (July 2023)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
A smooth and reliable handgun. The tritium front sight is a good feature. We liked the ability to chamber 357 Magnum rounds more than we liked firing them in this handgun. The Taurus is a good defense revolver worth its price. If you’re on a budget and want a hammer and 357 Magnum capability, shoot one with both 38 Specials and 357s and see what you think. Overall Length, 7.5 in. Barrel Length, 3 in. Weight Loaded, 25.1 oz. Capacity, 5.
4 Ruger GP100 01753 357 Magnum, $1050 (June-July 2025)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
Smooth, controllable action. Modest recoil with all loads, and good-to-excellent accuracy potential. This is a credible combat revolver well suited to any serious role. Overall Length, 8.0 in. Barrel Length, 3.0 in. Weight Loaded, 39.0 oz. Capacity, 6.
3 Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus 164300 357 Magnum, $896 (May 2025)
Gun Tests Grade: A
The Model 686 Plus has a smooth double-action trigger pull, a rubber grip that absorbs recoil, large sights, and good accuracy. The 3-inch barrel is an optimal compromise between 4- and 2.5-barrel revolvers. The seven-round capacity is a definite plus. This is a good choice for an everyday carry revolver. Overall Length, 8.1 in. Barrel Length, 3 in. Weight Loaded, 39 oz. Capacity, 7.
2 Ruger SP101 Model 5784 327 Federal Magnum, $749 (August 2021)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
The SP101 in 327 FM offers excellent accuracy and versatility with the ability to fire multiple 32-caliber cartridges. It is heavy and that helped reduce felt recoil with hotter loads. Trigger pull was exceptionally smooth, but heavy. Overall Length, 8.0 in. Barrel Length, 3.0 in. Weight Loaded, 28.3 oz. Capacity, 6.
1 Smith & Wesson Performance Center Pro Series Model 640 178044 38 Special/357 Magnum, $909 (August-September 2025)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
This revolver isn’t as light as the two Smith & Wessons tested alongside it, but neither is it a heavyweight. The 640 Pro’s weight and heavier barrel, coupled with the rubberized grips, make for a light-kicking revolver. Add in the moon-clip option, and you have a formidable revolver. A fine choice for concealed carry. Overall Length, 6.6 in. Weight Loaded, 24.1 oz. Barrel Length, 2.13 in. Capacity, 5.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Colt Python Python-SM3RTS 357 Magnum, $1224 (June-July 2025)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
This newer, relatively affordable Python is smoother than any other Colt we have fired. While it isn’t as showy as the bright-stainless guns, it has a businesslike appeal. Accurate. Overall Length, 8.5 in. Barrel Length, 3.0 in. Weight Loaded, 40.2 oz. Capacity, 6.
Smith & Wesson Performance Center Pro Model 640 178044 357 Magnum, $774 (March 2025)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
Same model as the one listed above, but a different gun. The Model 640 has a smooth trigger and large, useful sights. Recoil is stout in 357 Mag, but gentler in 38 Special loads. Took moon clips and was sleek and snag-free. Accuracy was acceptable for a DAO revolver. It’s a good choice for an EDC revolver. Action: Double action only. Overall Length, 6.6 in. Barrel Length, 2.1 in. Weight Loaded, 24.4 oz. Capacity, 5.
Taurus 856 Defender Ultra-Lite 2-85639ULNS 38 Special +P, $405 (August 2021)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
The six-shot 856 offered good accuracy and is ultra-lightweight. The DA trigger pull was smooth but heavy, with a bit of stacking. We liked the bold AmeriGlo day/night front sight. Overall Length, 7.5 in. Barrel Length, 3.0 in. Weight Loaded, 18.2 oz. Capacity, 6.
Ruger Model LCRX 5439 22 WMR, $599 (April 2021)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
The LCRx is light weight, offers a great grip, and had good accuracy. The double-action trigger pull was very heavy. We would have liked increased cylinder capacity and a different front sight. Overall Length, 6.5 in. Weight Loaded, 19.0 oz. Barrel Length, 1.87 in. Capacity, 6.
Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 986 10227 9mm Luger, $1129 (March 2021)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
The 986 is an all-business, made-to-perform revolver that offered excellent accuracy with Hornady Critical Duty ammo. This highly modified L-frame had a smooth DA trigger due to the titanium cylinder. The SA trigger was crisp. We liked the large, bold sights and full-size grip, which offered good recoil management. The 986 takes effort to conceal and carry. Overall Length, 7.5 in. Barrel Length, 2.5 in. Weight Loaded, 35.12 oz. Capacity, 7.
Colt King Cobra KCOBRA-SB3BB 357 Magnum, $838 (May 2020)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
The King Cobra shares a lot with the new Cobra except this is a 357 Magnum powerhouse. The revolver offers good performance with the 3-inch barrel and is well made. Concealed carrying this revolver takes a bit of effort since it is longer and bit heavier. Overall Length, 8 in. Barrel Length, 3 in. Weight Loaded, 30.9 oz. Capacity, 6.
Smith & Wesson Model 637-2 163050 38 Special +P, $389 (December 2018)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
The 637 had all the right quality and features in a concealable revolver: consistent trigger pull, DA or SA trigger mode, recoil absorbing grip, and lightweight. Overall Length, 6.3 in. Barrel Length, 1.8 in. Weight Loaded, 15.3 oz. Capacity, 5.
Colt Python Classic PYTHON-SP2WCTS 357 Magnum, $1317 (May 2025)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The Python Classic had retro-cool good looks, but the grip is dated and not as comfortable to shoot with hot 357 Magnum ammo. The double-action trigger pull is very smooth, and the single-action trigger pull is fairly crisp. Accuracy was good, and the large sights were easy to see. Overall Length, 8.0 in. Barrel Length, 2.5 in. Weight Loaded, 39.3 oz. Capacity, 6.
Taurus Model 605 Executive 2-605EX39 357 Magnum, $567 (March 2025)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The 605 Executive is the best-looking 605 we have ever seen. The finish is nice, and the wood grip is comfortable, especially with 357 Magnum loads. Accuracy was excellent. Overall Length, 7.5 in. Barrel Length, 3.0 in. Weight Loaded, 25.5 oz. Capacity, 5.
Smith & Wesson PC Pro Series Model 60 178013 357 Magnum, $869 (August 2024)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The Model 60 is easier to shoot well with powerful 357 Magnum ammo, but that comes at the cost of increased size. Accuracy was good, and the double-action trigger pull was smooth. Overall Length, 8.7 in. Barrel Length, 3.0 in. Weight Loaded, 24.9 oz. Capacity, 5.
Rossi RP63 2-RP639 357 Magnum, $373 (August 2024)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The RP63 is a no-nonsense 357 well suited for everyday carry. The sights are large and easy to acquire. The double-action trigger pull is heavy at 15 pounds, but it’s serviceable for close-range defensive situations. The grip helps dilute felt recoil. Overall Length, 7.95 in. Barrel Length, 3.0 in. Weight Loaded, 30.1 oz. Capacity, 6.
Smith & Wesson PC Model 19 Carry Comp 13323 357 Magnum, $1199 (August 2024)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The Model 19 is set up for conceal carry. Even though it is heavier, the revolver is easy to shoot well, and the port helps tame powerful 357 Magnum ammo. Accuracy was good. The trigger could have been better. Overall Length, 7.5 in. Barrel Length, 2.5 in. Weight Loaded, 35.4 oz. Capacity, 6.
Colt Python PYTHON-BP4-WTS 357 Magnum, $1600 (October 2024)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A- [OUR PICK]
We think Colt did a great job of modernizing the Python revolver without losing things that were right with the first generation. It was very smooth to shoot, and the Python panache is still there. If you have the extra cash, take a look at the Python.
Smith & Wesson Model 586 150909 357 Magnum,$900 (October 2024)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
A very close second to the new Colt Python, we think the S&W Model 586 is an outstanding revolver in its own right. If the extra cost of the Colt is a consideration for you, buy the Model 586 and never look back.
Smith & Wesson Model 360 PD 163064 357 Magnum, $1099 (August 2024)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The Model 360 PD is the gun to carry all day, but that light weight makes for terrific recoil with 357 Magnum ammo. The fiber-optic front sight pops. Accuracy was good. Overall Length, 6.3 in. Barrel Length, 1.88 in. Weight Loaded, 13.8 oz. Capacity, 5.
Smith & Wesson Model 66 10061 357 Magnum, $874 (October 2022)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The 66-8 is a good successor to the Model 66 line, offering light weight and good accuracy. We’d replace the front sight and reduce the DA trigger pull. If this were an EDC gun, we’d consider a smaller grip. Overall Length, 7.8 in.Barrel Length, 2.75 in. Weight Loaded, 36.3 oz. Capacity, 6.
Ruger GP100 Model 1790 357 Magnum, $759 (October 2022)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The GP100 is a heavy-duty revolver with a comfortable grip, even when shooting hot magnum loads. With 38 Special loads, recoil is very comfortable. It had the shortest trigger span in double-action mode. Overall Length, 8.0 in. Barrel Length, 2.5 in. Weight Loaded, 38.8 oz. Capacity, 6.
Taurus Defender 856 2-85639NS 38 Sp. +P, $306 (October 2021)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
Offers six-shot capacity, a 3-inch heavy barrel, and a tritium-insert front-sight set in a small-frame revolver. It handles +P loads well and offers a smooth double-action trigger for combat shooting. Overall Length, 7.5 in. Weight Loaded, 28.0 oz. Barrel Length, 3.0 in. Capacity, 6.
Taurus 856 Model 2-856021 38 Special, $278 (December 2018)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The 856 has a consistent trigger pull in double-action or single-action mode, a small grip that feels like a large grip, and it offers 6 shots in about the same package as a 5-shot revolver. The price is reasonable. Overall Length, 6.55 in. Barrel Length, 2.0 in. Weight Loaded, 22.9 oz. Capacity, 6.
Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 38 103039 38 Special +P (December 2018)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The M&P Bodyguard 38 was easily concealable and lightweight. The DAO trigger pull was smooth. Though it offers only five shots, it is well suited for conceal carry. Overall Length, 6.6 in. Barrel Length, 1.8 in. Weight Loaded,15.1 oz. Capacity, 5.
Colt King Cobra Carry KCOBRA-SB2BB 357 Magnum, $949 (November 2024)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B+
Slightly larger than the five-shot S&Ws, this six-shot Colt might make a better belt gun than pocket pistol. If weight is not an issue, take a look at the Colt. It was accurate, and we thought the trigger was better than the new Pythons we tested recently. Overall Length, 7.25 in. Weight Loaded, 1.84 lbs. Barrel Length, 2.125 in.Capacity, 6.
Smith & Wesson Model 442 UC Lipsey’s Special 13996 38 Sp., $759 (November 2024)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B+
With better sights, better grips, and some good detail work, we might have to give the Model 442 Ultimate Carry model some consideration as a replacement for what we already know to be a very good revolver. Overall Length, 6.5 in. Weight Loaded, 1.19 lbs. Barrel Length, 1.875 in. Capacity, 5.
Charter Arms Off Duty 53811 38 Special, $404 (June 2016)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The Off Duty started off with a gritty trigger but soon slicked up; it was the lightest and most compact in this test.
Ruger LCR Model 5456 9mm Luger, $532 (March 2016)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
Not a 38 Special but a similar-power chambering that fits in this list. Buttery-smooth trigger. Grip design stands out from traditional snub-nose revolvers. Light weight.
Ruger LCR No. 5401 38 Special, +P (November 2013)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The LCR is a leap from traditional DAO revolvers with its use of polymers and mechanism. The trigger was smooth and easy to use. Recoil was nil because of the larger rubber grips, though we would want smaller grips for better concealment.
Smith & Wesson 642 Airweight 103810-2 38 Special, $515 (August-September 2025)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B
The 642 snubnose is affordable and enjoys a good reputation. It was bested by more expensive revolvers with better sights and features. We would recommend the 642 as a backup and for general use. Action Type, Double-action-only. Overall Length, 6.31 in. Weight Loaded, 16.8 oz. Barrel Length, 1.88 in. Capacity, 5.
Ruger LCRX Model 5460 357 Magnum, $669 (April 2018)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The LCRx had decent accuracy and made concealed carry uncomplicated. It transmitted a lot of recoil to the shooter’s hand. We’d like a more user-friendly front sight.
Smith & Wesson Model 638 Airweight No. 163070 38 Special, $459 (March 2013)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
We felt this small 38 Special revolver was a little tough to control with its smaller, narrower grip; but it would still be our choice for a backup due to its light weight and small size. Not needing moon clips and having the option for single action makes the Model 638 the winner in this test. For a lower-priced blued option, look for a Model 38 on your favorite auction site.
Charter Arms Pitbull 9mm No. 79920 9mm Luger, $465 (March 2013)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The largest of the revolvers in the test, the Pitbull was by far the most accurate. With the size increase comes added weight and the bulk of the bigger grip. Concealing this revolver in an ankle holster would be very difficult, so as a true back up, it might be too big. As a primary carry gun we liked it, and because it operates without moon clips, this six-shooter competes favorably head to head with the five-shot S&W 638.
Rock Island Armory AL3.1 3520S 357 Magnum, $504 (October 2022)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B+
A capable revolver, offering good accuracy and shooting comfort at a good price. Though it is harder to conceal than the others, it is a good option if you want to get into revolvers without paying a premium.
S&W Model 60 38 Special, $459 (December 2021)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B+
Stainless-steel construction throughout. We docked it a grade for the very heavy trigger.
Kimber K6S Model CDP 357 Magnum, $1155 (April 2018)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B+
The K6s has a smooth consistent trigger pull, small grip for more easy conceal carry, and offers six shots in 357 Mag. The price caused us to recoil as much as a K6s with hot magnum loads.
Smith & Wesson Model 642 Airweight 103810 38 Special, $519 (November 2024)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B
Even with a 12-pound trigger and fixed sights, this little revolver still shot very well. If you are looking for a small and reliable pocket pistol at the best price, grab the base Model 642 Airweight and hide it wherever you like it.
Ruger Light Compact Revolver (LCR) 5401 38 Special, $699 (December 2021)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B
A little lighter, with recoil that goes with that. One of the best revolver triggers we have seen.
Rock Island Armory M206 51283 38 38 Special, $240 (October 2021)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B
We disliked the too-long hammer spur, and the wooden concealment grips are not well designed.
Taurus Model 942 2-942M029 22 WMR, $309 (April 2021)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B
Upside: The 942 offers an 8-shot capacity. Downsides: It is heavy, so concealability in a pants pocket is not practical. The weight does negate recoil, though recoil with the cartridge is minimal anyway. Trigger pull was heavy. Accuracy was mediocre.
Colt Cobra COBRA-SM2FO 38 38 Special, +P (April 2018)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B
The Cobra had a good trigger pull in double action and good sights, which made it easy and accurate to shoot. Though heavier and slightly larger than the other models, it offers six shots and is well suited for conceal carry.
Rossi Model R35102 38 Special, +P $390 (June 2016)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B
The R35102 had the best trigger and the most comfortable and largest grip; the spurred hammer could get hung up in a draw from concealment.
Taurus 905 Model 905SS2 9mm Luger, $528 (March 2016)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B
Like the LCR reviewed above, this is not a 38 Special, but a similarly-powered 9mm Luger. The 905 was faster to reload than a traditional 38 Special and performed well.
OTHER TESTED FIREARMS
Ruger SP101 5737 38 Special, $859 (December 2021)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B-
Stainless-steel weight mitigates recoil. Too heavy for pocket carry. Okay for home defense.
Smith & Wesson Model 69 Combat Magnum 10064 44 Special/44 Magnum, $732 (January 2018)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B-
The Model 69 Combat Magnum is the shortest and most concealable revolver tested this month. Recoil was pleasant with the 44 Special. When it came to the 44 Magnum, we started cutting skin and having to bear down with a gorilla grip. This revolver has much merit for personal defense when loaded with 44 Specials. When loaded with 44 Magnum, it’s a lightweight last-ditch defense against big bears.
Rock Island Armory Model 206 51289 38 Special, $320 (June 2016)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B-
The Model 206 gave good accuracy for a DAO revolver; the grip was dated.
Smith & Wesson M42 150502 38 Special +P $635-798 (November 2013)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B-
The S&W Model 42 was too difficult for many shooters to shoot well and comfortably. It was easy to hide, though, and we feel there are good reasons why the 42 evolved into the 442/642.
Smith & Wesson 940 9mm Luger, $595 to $671 (March 2013)
GUN TESTS GRADE: C+
The stainless-steel rear sight’s finish reflected lights from behind the shooter. This 9mm is also the only revolver tested that doesn’t offer the option of single-action firing. Unlike the Pitbull, it also required moon clips to eject the rimless 9mm Luger rounds.
Charter Arms Police Undercover No. 73840 38 Special, $402 (March 2013)
GUN TESTS GRADE: D
Almost a copy of the Pitbull, the Undercover felt good, but with nearly no grooves in the barrel, it vastly underperformed. It functioned, so it passed, but that’s as far as we can go.
