Is the LCRx essentially the same gun with an exposed hammer?
I have a GP100 .357 6" that I have had forever. Great gun. If it's similar to that might be worth a look
But again weight and overall size/width are primary considerations here.
That's probably going to be the final two. I've watched a bunch of YouTube reviews on them and seems like both have advantages and disadvantages vs the other.S&W 442 or Ruger LCR. Both are excellent. Whichever you prefer.
Personally I don't see much point in using a .357 in a gun with a 2" barrel...excessive flash and blast and too much lost velocity. In a snubby I think two quick hits with a good .38 Special works better than one loud blast from a .357 you have to pull out of recoil, blinded if in low light and that's if you don't drop the piece to hold your ears from the blast. A snubby that's chambered for a .357 is certainly nice and strong but probably not better for the immediate job.
That's probably going to be the final two. I've watched a bunch of YouTube reviews on them and seems like both have advantages and disadvantages vs the other.
Ruger:
Lighter weight
Better grips
Smoother trigger
S&W:
Smaller size
Lower price
Better factory sights
He doesn't want to melt his eyebrows off shooting from the hip.because you might set your target on fire?
S&w 642 light, 5 shot, +p. Laser lite, more comfortable but bulkier grip.
The thought with the laser was help with the follow up shots. See where its pointing with a visual assistance. Might be too much to think about.I tried hard to like a laser grip on my 642. Went back to thin rubber grips. Laser grip is too bulky. It's awkward shape and feel screws up my accuracy. It tends to focus my attention on the laser dot, making me too lazy with shooting stance and overall technique.
The thought with the laser was help with the follow up shots. See where its pointing with a visual assistance. Might be too much to think about.