Substitute for S&W model 12

[ECS686]

So Diamondback just released an aluminum frame 6 shot revolver in 38 Special.

I shot a few of their products at Revolverfest during industry day and they are not bad.

For those wanting a replacement for that elusive S&W Model 12 this might do!

https://www.guns.com/news/2026/01/05/new-diamondback-sdr-a-aluminum-framed-6-shot-38

 

[Annihilator]

So Diamondback just released an aluminum frame 6 shot revolver in 38 Special.

I shot a few of their products at Revolverfest during industry day and they are not bad.

For those wanting a replacement for that elusive S&W Model 12 this might do!

https://www.guns.com/news/2026/01/05/new-diamondback-sdr-a-aluminum-framed-6-shot-38

Pass, to fugley….

 

[Grayfox]

I had a S&W pre-12 at one time. Great gun to carry, but they were notorious for cracking the frame where the barrel screwed in. I was afraid to shoot it much. I finally sold it so I wouldn't have to worry about it.
Metallurgy has come a long way since the days of the S&W Model 12.
The more I hear about the Diamondback revolvers, the more interested I become. A medium frame six shooter with a S&W J-frame grip. Lots of grip options out there. I also really like the removeable cylinder for cleaning. However, I would prefer an exposed hammer. I'm sure their lightweight will be offered with one soon.
However, I have yet to see one. I'd like to get one in my hands before considering a purchase.

 

[Pitdogg2]

Looks like a Kimber and Ruger revolver did the nasty and this was born.....

 

[Old_Me]

Looks like a Kimber and Ruger revolver did the nasty and this was born.....

i hate a "messy hook up", someone always gets the wet spot in the end.

 

[Shibadog]

Well, looks nicer than a Rhino

 

[Pitdogg2]

Well, looks nicer than a Rhino

That it does!

 

[Biggfoot44]

Well, looks nicer than a Rhino

That's a very low bar . Kind of like saying such & such car is Less Ugly than an AMC Pacer .

 

[Annihilator]

i hate a "messy hook up", someone always gets the wet spot in the end.

 

[Shibadog]

That's a very low bar . Kind of like saying such & such car is Less Ugly than an AMC Pacer .

Kinda sums it up.

 

[BarryinIN]

I didn’t have an opinion one way or another on the Diamondbacks, but I hadn’t paid much attention. They had a good presence at RevolverFest’s Demo Day last October, so I tried out some.
They weren’t bad at all. I think I shot a 9mm and a .38.

If I didn’t have a few 12s, I might look.