When people talk defensive revolvers, snub-nosed .38s usually hog the spotlight. But let’s be real—they’re not for everyone. If you want a little more barrel, better control, or just don’t love the feel of those tiny grips, you’ve got other options. There are plenty of mid-size wheelguns out there that can still pull home-defense or concealed carry duty—just without the short barrel and wrist snap.
Here are 15 defensive revolvers that aren’t snub-nosed but still get the job done.
Ruger GP100 (3-Inch)
The 3-inch GP100 gives you a bit more sight radius and better balance without being a boat anchor. It’s chambered in .357 Magnum, but it shoots .38 Special just as well when you want less recoil.
It’s also got a solid grip and decent weight to soak up some of the kick. If you like a revolver that feels planted in the hand, this one checks that box.
Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus (3-Inch)
The 7-shot cylinder is what makes this one stand out. That extra round is a nice perk if you’re using it for defense. The 3-inch barrel hits that sweet spot between carry comfort and shootability.
It’s chambered in .357 Magnum, but again, you can run .38 Special if you want a milder round. The L-frame helps manage recoil without feeling oversized.
Taurus 856 Defender
Taurus has stepped up their game with the Defender model. It’s a six-shot .38 Special +P revolver with a 3-inch barrel, which gives you a better sight picture and smoother shooting.
It’s budget-friendly but doesn’t feel cheap. The grip is solid, the trigger’s decent, and it’s sized just right for a glovebox or belt carry.
Colt King Cobra (3-Inch)
This one’s a modern take on a classic, and it’s built like a tank. The 3-inch barrel gives you good balance, and .357 Magnum power means it’s no slouch in the defense department.
It’s got a smoother trigger than you’d expect out of the box and a nice, comfortable grip. Definitely worth a look if you like Colt’s styling and feel.
Kimber K6s (3-Inch)
Kimber made a name with their 2-inch K6s, but the 3-inch version is a better shooter, plain and simple. It’s got six rounds of .357 Magnum and a great double-action trigger.
The all-steel frame adds weight but keeps recoil manageable. If you want something sleek and modern without sacrificing performance, it’s a solid pick.
Smith & Wesson Model 10 (4-Inch)
This one’s old-school but still very much in the game. The 4-inch barrel helps with accuracy and recoil control, and the .38 Special chambering is soft-shooting but still effective.
A lot of folks overlook it, but it’s a dependable, easy-to-shoot revolver that just works. Great for newer shooters or anyone who wants something simple.
Ruger SP101 (3-Inch)
The SP101 is a bit smaller than the GP100 but still tough as nails. The 3-inch barrel gives you better control than a snubby without making it too bulky.
You can get it in .357 Magnum, and it handles the recoil better than you’d expect for its size. It’s a great “in-between” revolver for carry and home use.
Charter Arms Professional
This one flies under the radar. It’s a 7-shot revolver chambered in .32 H&R Magnum, which gives you decent ballistics with less recoil than .357. The 3-inch barrel adds to the smooth shooting.
It’s light enough to carry but still gives you good control. If you want something a little different but still effective, give it a look.
Rossi RM66 (6-Inch)
Six inches is long for a defensive revolver, but if you don’t plan on carrying it, the RM66 makes a great home defense piece. It holds six rounds of .357 Magnum and has a nice, smooth trigger.
The longer barrel makes follow-up shots easier, and it’s one of the more affordable options out there that still performs well.
Smith & Wesson Model 13 (3-Inch)
This one was designed for law enforcement, and it still fits the defensive bill today. Chambered in .357 Magnum with a 3-inch barrel, it balances power and control.
It’s not flashy, but it’s reliable and easy to shoot. If you like your revolvers simple and tough, it’s a solid choice.
Ruger Speed Six (2.75-Inch)
Just a hair longer than a snub but still a better shooter. The Speed Six is a discontinued classic, but if you find one used, it’s worth grabbing. Chambered in .357 Magnum, it’s known for durability.
The grip is comfortable, the action is smooth, and the weight helps with recoil. It’s an underrated option if you like vintage wheelguns.
Colt Trooper Mk III (4-Inch)
The Trooper might not get as much love as the Python, but it’s a great shooter. The 4-inch barrel gives you solid accuracy, and the trigger’s nice once it breaks in.
It’s chambered in .357 Magnum and was built for police use, so it can handle some serious range time. Great if you want something with a little old-school charm.
Dan Wesson Model 15 (4-Inch)
The Model 15 has a reputation for accuracy, and the interchangeable barrel system was ahead of its time. The 4-inch barrel version is very manageable and shoots like a dream.
It’s chambered in .357 Magnum and has a solid double-action trigger. These aren’t super common, but if you can snag one, they’re great defensive revolvers.
Smith & Wesson Model 19 Carry Comp
This Performance Center model has a 2.5-inch compensated barrel—not a full snub, but not quite mid-length either. Still, it shoots better than most snubs thanks to the porting and weight.
It’s a six-shot .357 with premium features and a smooth trigger. If you want something carryable that doesn’t feel like a brick or a flamethrower, this one’s worth a look.
Ruger Redhawk (4.2-Inch)
Yeah, it’s a .44 Magnum, but hear me out. You can also shoot .44 Special, which is surprisingly manageable. The 4.2-inch Redhawk gives you power, solid capacity (six rounds), and tank-like durability.
This one’s not for pocket carry, but for a defensive gun you keep nearby, it packs a serious punch and handles it well.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
