Gun Tests Magazine has shot and compared 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.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled our Top 10 Snubnose Revolvers in the listicle below. The guns are all double-action revolvers and come in multiple chamberings, including 38 Special, 357 Magnum, 44 Special, 22 WMR, 9mm Luger, and 327 Federal Magnum.
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
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 M686-6 164300 357 Magnum, $904 (Feb-March 2026)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
This S&W Model 686 is a seven-shooter, not a six-shooter, and it comes drilled and tapped for a red dot, both of which we love. But it still has that action lock. We didn’t like this one quite as well as we did the same model tested below. Overall Length, 8 in. Weight Loaded, 38.5 oz. Barrel Length, 3 in. Capacity, 7.
Taurus Model 85 2-in. 38 Special, $345 (March-April 2026)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
The Taurus 85 is a good revolver in the snubnose category. We liked the fit, finish, and smoothness. The piece performed well, but we prefer the Heritage. Overall Length, 6.56 in. Weight Loaded, 23.9 oz. Barrel Length, 2 in. Capacity, 5.
Colt Python BP3WTS 357 Magnum, $1400 (Feb-March 2026)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
We thought the deeply-blued finish was the most pleasing of the pistols tested, while we recognize that it won’t be as corrosion resistant as the others. Pricey, the Python was the fastest and most accurate, making it our pick. Overall Length,8.3 in. Weight Loaded, 41.4 oz. Barrel Length, 3 in. Capacity, 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.
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.
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.
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.
Heritage Roscoe HR38B2W 2-in. 38 Special +P, $325 (March-April 2026)
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
The Heritage Roscoe is a nicely finished handgun, among the nicest examples of factory blue we have seen. Very smooth. Accuracy is outstanding for the type. Overall Length, 6.55 in. Weight Loaded, 22.9 oz. Barrel Length, 2 in. Capacity, 5.
Smith & Wesson Performance Center Pro Series Model 640 178044 38 Special/357 Magnum, $909 (Aug-Sept 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
Rossi RP63 2-RP639P 357 Magnum, $380 (Feb-March 2026)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B
The smallest tested here, the Rossi would have been the easiest to carry, but it also kicked the most — no surprise. We had a few issues with the sights, but we loved the price on this dependable little sixgun.
Ruger GP100 01715 357 Magnum, $820 (Feb-March 2026)
GUN TESTS GRADE: B+
Big, solid, and beefy, the Ruger GP100 was the heaviest handgun in this test. If you want a steady diet of 357 Magnums, even the top-end loads, your shooting hand might want you to pick this one.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
About 8 years ago we needed a dangerous animal gun in .357 magnum for our hiking trips in the lower 48 states sans Grizzely country. After searching for local used options and finding nothing in our price range I went to the net and found a new EAA Wittiness in 357 maginum/38 Special. It was a German offering made by Werner. It’s definitely a budget gun, however, the action is solid and it shoots straight with basic sights. There is some slight side to side play in the trigger and the trigger edges are sharp but the trigger pull weight is on par with my 1895 Colt DA 38 that has had some trigger work done in the past.
Perhaps if you are doing another comparison piece in the future you might consider adding it to your list. I would be glad to loan it to you for your testing.