The market for concealed carry firearms has seen a notable shift toward revolvers that blend simplicity with high-caliber firepower, especially in the form of super-light wheelguns. These revolvers adapt to the demands of those seeking a reliable and easy-to-carry self-defense tool that packs a punch despite the challenge of controlling high power and recoil.
The trend is underscored by the emerging preferences of both law enforcement professionals and private citizens for revolvers made with advanced materials like scandium and titanium alloys. These materials contribute to the significant weight reduction and durability of the firearms, without sacrificing performance.
At the forefront of this trend, the Smith & Wesson (S&W) Model 43C and Taurus 942 have become subjects of interest and testing among enthusiasts and experts. The S&W Model 43C, a .22LR, 8-shot revolver, is praised for its feather-like weight at just 11.5 ounces. Similarly, Taurus’s offering, the 942, is an “Ultra-Lite” model that weighs in at a modest 17.80 ounces, with superior balance and handling. Both models cater to the need for revolvers that can be easily carried and quickly deployed.
These super-light revolvers are not only intended for self-defense but also serve as effective training tools. They allow for substantial practice without the expense and fatigue associated with larger calibers. As stated in a detailed review, “22LR means cheaper practice for those who carry the 340PD. Getting good with this gun means being more efficient with the 340PD.”
The 43C and 942 also address another critical aspect of concealed carry: the need for a snag-free and comfortable fit for everyday carry. Their respective designs ensure that whether pocket carried or in a holster, the weapons remain accessible without hindrance.
Performance-wise, these revolvers don’t disappoint. The 43C can average 1050 fps with 30-grain Aguila SuperMaximum cartridges, and in ballistic gelatin, both the SuperMaximum and CCI Stingers can penetrate over 12 inches, meeting FBI protocol for stopping power. This level of performance in a sub-caliber revolver is noteworthy, as it challenges the assumption that smaller calibers are insufficient for self-defense.
The Taurus 942, used in an actual law enforcement qualification session, demonstrated its reliability with spot-on accuracy and consistent trigger action, which echoes the sentiment that Taurus revolvers match the quality of more expensive counterparts, despite their lower price point.
Moreover, these revolvers are not just about self-defense. They hold a special place in the tradition of “kit guns”—compact and lightweight firearms that serve a variety of purposes during outdoor activities. The heritage of the kit gun is alive and well in these modern revolvers, fulfilling roles from casual plinking to emergency hunting tools.
