What is a good revolver to learn the basics of revolver shooting? Less than $500 and preferably 38/357?

I am a very good shot with a pistol and want to bring my revolver skills up to a similar level. I shot revolver recently and the results were embarrassing. So my plans are to fix the deficiency in 2020.

Thougths?

I like my Ruger GP100. For what you described, look at the SP101.

DS

Used Model 10. You can find a cosmetically rough one for well under $500.

Pair it with some comp3 speed loafers and you'll be good to go, and it'll work great for idpa.

You can shoot a 6 shot in uspsa too, but an 8 shot 627 would be more competitive.

I also really like the new model 66-8 if you might want to carry it too. 6 shot 2.75" .357 K frame. The new 66s are great guns.

I may know where a Dan Wesson could be had for that price.

I don't know a tone of details. A family friend passed and his wife is selling off some of his guns. I think it is the 8". My dad said it looked great. There is also a Ruger #1 in .22 Hornet. If some one is serious I can get more info and work on getting pictures.

Be careful on the age on that Dan Wesson. If it is from the original company and not the current incarnation, warranty and repairs are a no go. My dad had one literally blow uo in his hands some years ago and we couldn't get the current company to even look at it. Not blaming them - they didn't make or QC it.

If you didn't want to go looking for a used S&W (likely a great choice), you might look into one of the Ruger LCR's
LCRx

I found a Rohm .38 Special 2" (not sure the model number) today at a pawn shop and got it for $125. Wanted it for my car because my 4" .357 doesn't fit in the console. I know they're considered junk by many but this one has a decent action, is pretty tight, and if it is reasonably on target it will be fine. I plan to have something on body most of the time so this will be a backup. We'll see how it shoots this weekend.

Need a cover holster for it. Probably an Uncle Mikes pocket.

Any recommendations on good defense loads for .38 specials?

I'd stick with standard pressure "FBI" loads.

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1001518322?pid=453925

I have seen Ruger security six or similar at gun shows for under $300. Good guns IMO.

S&W 642 .38 SPL + P

Thanks for all the suggestions. I might not end up buying but doing more of a long term trade with a friend.

But I still intend on fixing my inability to shoot a revolver well in 2020.

CS78 said:

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I'd stick with standard pressure "FBI" loads.

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1001518322?pid=453925

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I looked at those. I think I'm going to go with the Hornady Critical defense:

Hornady Critical Defense Ammunition 38 Special 110 Grain FTX

Academy carries it.

SanAntoneAg said:

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In true OB fashion:

It is slightly higher than you current budget by the Colt Python is the obvious choice. Buy once, cry once.

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I will absolutely be buying a new Python when they come out

https://www.kingsfirearmsonline.com/product-details?id=53199