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Bryant Ridge's Analysis: Since 1950, Smith & Wesson J-Frame revolvers have been a trusted companion. These compact firearms were purpose-built to handle full-power rounds while maintaining simplicity and reliability. Available in various calibers and featuring three distinct hammer designs, the Smith & Wesson J-Frame has earned its reputation as the most popular small-frame defense revolver on the market. One notable variant is the Smith & Wesson Model 63 .22/32 Kit Gun, crafted …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: Ruger SP101 Double-Action Revolver provides magnum firepower in a small-frame revolver meant for concealed carry. Built with a solid stainless steel frame, with extra metal where it's needed, the SP101 also serves well for field carry while fly-fishing or backpacking in the backcountry. The angle of the SP101's peg-style grip frame, with its cushioned rubber grip that has no exposed metal in the backstrap, makes shooting the sidearm comfortable and extreme …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: When it comes to revolvers in the US, the “Big Three” of Colt, Smith and Wesson, and Ruger remain strong. However, in the 1970s, a new company emerged and attempted to challenge these three (Smith in particular) with an innovative new design. This company was Dan Wesson, and the Model 15 was that design. Founded in 1968 by Daniel B. Wesson II after the acquisition of his family company by conglomerate Bangor Punta, Wesson sought to create a company to continu …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Colt Diamondback revolver, introduced in 1966, was designed to be a premium, small-frame revolver resembling the highly regarded Colt Python but scaled down. Built on Colt's "D" frame, which was also used for models like the Detective Special, the Diamondback was equipped with high-quality features such as a long, grooved target hammer, target-style walnut grips, and the Colt Accro adjustable sight. Its barrel, inspired by the Python, was produced on the same machine …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: Colt's introduction of the Model 1889 marked a watershed moment in revolver design, pioneering the first double-action revolver with a swing-out cylinder. This innovative design was swiftly adopted by the US Navy as the Model of 1889 and later by the US Army in the Model of 1892, which featured slight improvements. The commercial variant of the Model 1889 also gained immediate popularity among civilians. Colt continued to refine the design with subsequent models such as …