Many of you are probably wondering why I didn't select a double-action only (DAO) snub-nose revolver as a platform for this build. For me, the answer is simple. Although J-frames typically possess a shorter trigger travel than other revolver brands, snubbies containing double-action-only triggers often have pull weights in excess of 12 pounds, and usually require the skill of a professional gunsmith to in order to lessen the pull enough to shoot with delicate precision. To compound matters, the absence of a single-action capability significantly hinders one's ability to shoot summon greater accuracy at distant targets, which places even more emphasis on a shooter's sight alignment, trigger control and follow-through. So, in terms of overall shootability, and ease of operation, an external-hammer variant just seemed the logical solution.
Yet, considering a woman's limited concealment options, the hammer need to be easy to access for single-action shooting, while reducing the likelihood of snagging on garments and the interiors of things such as pockets and purses. At first I thought about simply bobbing the hammer and serrating the top to provide the necessary purchase needed to cock it should the need arise. But, I was unsure if the serrations would provide enough real estate for my fiancee to successfully cock the hammer under stress. So instead I considered using a original Smith & Wesson Bodyguard (the steel-frame model as opposed to the alloy-frame version) for the build, given its shrouded hammer. In fact, I would have done just that, if it wasn't for an alternative suggestion offered by friend and fellow gunscribe, Wiley Clapp, who upon hearing my idea confessed his utter discontent for the old series of Bodyguard revolvers. Feeling the need to defend my choice I launched into the need for the enhanced precision through single-action capability, and the wide upswept coarsely serrated spur of the Bodyguard's hammer.
Wiley simply responded by saying, "If you want a Bodyguard hammer, then get one and put it in a Model 36."
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