The 9x19mm parabellum or commonly known as the 9mm is a venerable, extremely famous, and widely used small arms cartridge since its development in 1901.
While the 9mm is mostly considered a semi-auto or full-auto firearms cartridge due to its size and operating pressure. Aficionados also steered its use towards revolvers.
This article intends to delve deeper into the unsettling debate of whether a 9mm is good for revolvers. While also presenting and reviewing the best 9mm revolvers from the boatload of options out there.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for 9mm Revolver
- OUR TOP PICK: Taurus 905SS2 2"
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Charter Arms Pitbull 9mm Luger
- BEST SMITH AND WESSON 9MM REVOLVER: Smith & Wesson 986 Pro Performance
Comparison of the Best 9mm Revolvers
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Factors to Consider Before Buying a 9mm Revolver
The 9mm is a very controllable, cheap, and effective caliber with good penetration. Firing it from a revolver has its own indigenous and important considerations. Let’s understand these before you move towards buying one:
Importance of Moon Clips
The 9mm is a tapered rimless case semi-auto round. Since the cylinder of the revolver fits these rounds almost flush and have to be emptied for reloading. The 9mm cartridges tend to fit so flush that you sometimes have to use your fingernails to pull out stuck cases.
The 9mm operates at a pressure of 35,000 psi and sometimes the expanding brass case can stick to the cavity. That’s why revolvers have extractors. Using a moon clip lets you utilize the extractor and quickly empty the cylinder for a fresh reload.
However, on the contrary, when using a full moon clip ejection is only good after all the rounds have been fired. Also, make sure that you preload and carry multiple moon clips.
Beware of Possible Malfunctions
A revolver is a simplistic design but it is also not immune to malfunctions. Problems like ‘crimp jump’ where the recoil of the revolvers rarely causes the bullets to jump the crimp of the case that can cause a locked up revolver. This is a possible risk with ultra-lightweight revolvers.
Photo credit: gundigest.com
Exposed or Concealed Hammer
Revolvers mostly feature a curved hammer spur on the rear. This is used to cock the hammer and also to decock it. Some revolver designs keep this hammer concealed inside the frame, preventing snagging and making the weapon easy to holster/re-holster.
Hammerless revolvers also help with reducing printing when carrying the weapon concealed. Remember that an exposed hammer is a necessity for single action revolvers.
Size, Capacity, and Use
A 9mm revolver can have a short 2.5-inch barrel or a longer six inches+ barrel. Plus, different revolvers feature specific capacities. It all depends upon how many rounds you actually want in a single cylinder.
Compact revolvers with short barrels are mostly used for EDC and CCW applications, due to their easily concealable size and lesser weight. Longer barrels are suitable for range use, competitions, and even hunting. The 9mm is a versatile caliber and also easily available (unless there’s a panic hoarding going around).
Review of the Best 9mm Revolvers
Below is a list of the best 9mm revolvers. You may have a good idea of what your ideal 9mm revolver will look like and how it should function. Keep that in mind while going through this list. If you find one that checks off the boxes of what you’re looking for, that’s when you know you have a winner on your hands.
With that said, let’s get into the action by unveiling our first 9mm revolver on the list:
Best Overall:
Taurus 905SS2 2"
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New users were happy with the pistol’s size and ability to be concealed in most holsters. Most of them used an IWB holster for better concealability, while some used an OWB holster. Either way, they were satisfied with how it doesn’t bulge or make them feel uncomfortable. Performance-wise, it does a good job firing off quick and accurate shots. The hammer pullback is smooth and doesn’t feel stiff in the slightest.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Taurus brand is known for making some reliable revolvers across many calibers. So it comes as no surprise that they make one that lives up to the standard of reliability. On top of that, the Taurus has firepower that is hard to match. Yes, it’s small and compact but it does pack a punch. Never underestimate what a small-sized revolver can do in any application.
Who Will Use This Most
This could be used for self-defense purposes or outdoor target shooting. You’ll be able to load it in no time once you get the hang of it. And if your hands are of average or smaller size, you’ll be able to handle this little unit with ease.
Bottom Line
For the best in concealability, accuracy, and reliability, the Taurus 9mm Revolver might be up your alley if you’re looking for a handgun with these three qualities. It doesn’t matter what application you use it for, you’ll be glad in knowing you have a 9mm revolver that you can depend on.
Best for the Money:
Charter Arms Pitbull 9mm Luger
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Users of this good little revolver seem very impressed by its performance.The revolver works with all types of 9mm ammunition and shoots flawlessly and accurately. The gun is very compact and has minimal recoil. The revolver has been reported to work perfectly even after spewing out hundreds of rounds at the range.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The revolver is quite compact and allows the user to shoot the very common and popular 9mm caliber. Which is quite unexpected from a revolver. The specially designed extractor eliminates the need for moon clips for loading ammunition. Additionally, the shrouded extractor pins stays protected from getting deformed or damaged.
Who Will Use This Most
The Pitbull 9mm can be used as a backup weapon by on-duty officers as a backup weapon. It can also be used as a possible EDC weapon by people who want to pack the power of a semi-auto round in a revolver. This revolver is also an amazing range weapon since the 9mm ammo is easily available and inexpensive.
Bottom Line
Charter Arms has been around for quite some time and has manufactured some very popular revolvers among police and defense personnel. The Pitbull 9mm is an innovative revolver which can be used for EDC, backup or range use.
Best Smith and Wesson 9mm Revolver:
Smith & Wesson 986 Pro Performance
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most new buyers were satisfied with the revolver’s overall performance. The loading was quick and easy, and cocking the hammer was smooth like butter. In short, it’s reliable and won’t jam or malfunction on you at all. Most users were able to give this a whirl on the outdoor range and noticed consistent accuracy with targets set to around 30 yards.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Smith & Wesson brand is best known for making some excellent guns and are especially high in quality. Overall, this is a revolver that is built to last and will never cause you to lose your grip so easily. The polymer-based grip will take on any kind of weather or sweat and will allow you to keep a good hold on it. While it may not be small enough for conceal carry, you can still take it to the range for some good old-fashioned outdoor shooting fun.
Who Will Use This Most
This will probably be put to good use if you’re more apt to either keep the revolver at home or with you to the range. If you’re a competitive shooter, you’ll know that the barrel is long enough to give you a boost in accuracy. In an application where accuracy matters most, this might be a revolver that’s right up your alley.
Bottom Line
The Smith & Wesson 986 Pro Performance 9mm Revolver stands out as one of the revolvers to own for various applications. But it will shine the brightest as a home defense or competition handgun. No matter what, you’ve got something that can go the distance and can hit precisely right where you want it to.
5.Best Ruger 9mm Revolver:
Ruger SP-101 SS
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new buyers were quite satisfied with the revolver. They were able to fire accurate and precise shots from a distance of 25 yards, right out of the gate. Most of them used this pistol for target shooting, although a majority have said this will also be ideal for concealed carry use.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This 9mm revolver is compact but delivers a good deal of firing power. Not to mention, it’s small enough to be a great handgun for concealed carry. The grip allows for nice, tight handling so you are shooting straight ahead every time you pull the trigger. It’s perfect for when you’re out in nasty weather or if your palms tend to sweat. Regardless, the last thing you’ll do is lose control of this revolver.
Who Will Use This Most
This will likely be used by concealed carry users. Alternatively, it may stand out as one of the best 9mm handguns for target shooting (casual and competitive). So in practice, it might be another one of those revolvers that will work great for general purposes. Either way, it’s proven itself to be a reliable revolver you can trust.
Bottom Line
The Ruger Sp 101 9mm Revolver might soon put up a fight for the best overall spot. But make no mistake, it does prove itself to be one of the best in a few ways. If you want better accuracy, thanks to excellent stability and a revolver that’s excellent for every day carry, this might be the revolver worth looking at.
Best Concealable 9mm Revolver:
Ruger LCR
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
As expected, this revolver did not disappoint with a lot of users. They fired off multiple shots at the range, only to see them consistently land exactly right where they wanted them. In other words, it’s quite accurate. The distances range from 25 to 35 yards out in an outdoor setting. One other user said the sight was small enough so the target was not obscured.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Ruger LCR is undoubtedly the best hammerless revolver on the market today. The frame of this revolver is made from aerospace-grade aluminum. That means it’s one of the most durable revolvers on the market. This space-age material will take on any abuse and impact that would otherwise damage other revolvers. Aside from its toughness, it’s a compact-size revolver that will do a good job with concealability and won’t bulge at all, regardless of which holster type you’re wearing on your belt.
Who Will Use This Most
The Ruger LCR will be used by those who want a revolver that not only is reliable but has the potential to last them a long time. We’re talking years or possibly decades (assuming that you are cleaning it properly at times). Application-wise, it may be a great revolver to have on-hand for self-defense or even just regular target shooting.
Bottom Line
If you’re a fan of the Ruger brand and want a revolver that will give you some decent firepower and accuracy, the LCR will, without question, exceed all your expectations. This 9mm hammerless revolver will be perfect if you’re also looking for something that is concealable enough for you to carry around all day, every day.
7. Chiappa Rhino 50DS
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New buyers said that they’ve got what they’ve paid for with this revolver. They were able to use this to their advantage in self-defense and target shooting situations. Most of them also added that they use this revolver for home use only for self-defense, but will usually take it out to the range for target shooting with the intent to tune it up a bit.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This revolver is anything but cheap and flimsy. And it sure isn’t low quality either. But rest assured, it is one of the more affordable 9mm revolvers you can find on the market. Its performance excels like nothing else. It's lightweight, packs a pretty good punch, and stands out as the go-to revolver in any home defense or target shooting situation. The construction itself is hard to match since its made from some high-quality and durable materials.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be the more affordable option for those who intend to use this revolver for home defense or casual target shooting. If you’re a competitive shooter, you can probably use this to your advantage, as well, especially if you’re using a fiber optic sight to make your shooting groups a lot tighter.
Bottom Line
If you want a 9mm revolver that is accurate, reliable, and doesn’t suck the life out of your bank account, then the Chiappa Rhino 50 DS 9mm Revolver would be worth your hard-earned dollars. It performs much better than the price tag, so expect high-end performance at an affordable price.
Smallest 9mm Revolver:
Taurus 905
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new buyers were using this revolver for concealed carry. The majority were beginners that just started training. They said this was easy to store in most OWB holsters and stays secure. Aside from EDC and self-defense purposes, some have relied on this for casual target shooting.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is the smallest 9mm revolver on the market with a barrel measuring at two inches in length. The measurements make this one of the most concealable 9mm revolvers out there. Given the small measurements, the grip is still large enough to fit most hand sizes. It also has solid material so you’re able to keep a good hold on it each time you fire off a shot.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be another option for beginner-level concealed carry users. Whether you’re starting with training or wrapping up, this is the perfect revolver to use for practice and the real deal itself (if and when the time comes). Besides, it’s small enough for you to carry around without it bulging out of your holster. It may even feel like you’re not carrying it at all. But rest assured, you’ll know when to use it, if and when you’re in a dangerous situation.
Bottom Line
The Taurus 905 is small. But it’s tough and packs some pretty good firepower. It is the epitome of why big things sometimes come in small packages. If you want a really good revolver that will stick with you for a while and will be useful in any EDC or target shooting application, this might be your cup of coffee.
Best Uses For a 9mm Revolver
A 9mm revolver can be used across many applications. Yet, some will excel in one application or the other depending on some factors, like performance. Here are some of the best uses you can get out of a 9mm revolver:
Concealed Carry/EDC
As is the case with 9mm pistols, the revolver version of the 9mm caliber can be an excellent fit for those who practice concealed carry (or EDC carry). These revolvers will be able to get you out of a dangerous situation if you have one on-hand. You never know if and when danger will occur. But if danger threatens you or your family, you’ll have full confidence in knowing that you’re prepared.
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Target Shooting (Casual and Competitive)
It is a fact that target shooting is quite fun, especially when you’re either using an excessive numbers of rounds or just shooting to keep the revolver in the best working shape. Alternatively, you can also use a revolver for the sake of competition. In an application where accuracy and reliability matters, you’ll need a revolver that will come through in the clutch in both aspects.
Handgun Hunting
While you won’t be able to knock down a big game target with a revolver, you can knock down pretty much any small game target with a revolver. Specifically, you’ll be able to hunt varmints that tend to destroy your property with the use of an accurate and high-powered 9mm revolver.
How Accurate is a 9mm Revolver?
Most revolvers (regardless of caliber) are said to be effectively accurate at around 25 yards or more. But is that the case with the 9mm? It depends on the model you’re using. But you can expect an effective accuracy at distances no less than 25 yards. The farthest it can go may be anywhere between 45 to 50 yards, depending on the environmental settings. This may occur more outdoors than in an indoor setting like a range.
Why Are These the Best of the Year?
The characteristics and features of an excellent 9mm revolver will stand out a lot more than those considered unreliable or low-quality models. Knowing what they are is essential and will help you distinguish a great revolver from one that isn’t so great at all. Here are the following characteristics and features you need to look for:
Price
The price tag may not matter much to you. Or it might be a critical factor if you’re on a budget. Don’t let it be the only reason why you buy the 9mm revolver though. It’s important to invest in quality and performance rather than sacrifice them with the intent to save a few dollars. Even if it means spending a bit more, it’s the value and added quality that counts.
Photo credit: gunsholstersandgear.com
High-Quality Materials
Every revolver that stands out as the best is high in quality. That’s because it comes down to the materials chosen, including steel, polymer, aluminum, and whatever else is proven to be strong enough to take on impact and abuse. At the same time, some materials are used to provide you with better performance. As an example, most revolvers have a grip made from polymer since it will allow you a better vice-like grip than those made from other materials.
Reliability
Most of these pistols are reliable and won’t jam easily (assuming you take care of them and clean them regularly). If you’re in an application where time may be a factor (like competitive shooting or self-defense), you will want something that will work when you need it most. It should also be held to a high standard, regardless. Choose the best pistol that stands out in your mind as the most reliable according to what other users say, as well as your own opinion.
Benefits of Investing in a Quality 9mm Revolver
If you’re considering the idea of purchasing a revolver or if you’re a fan of the 9mm, you’re probably aware of some of the benefits and perks you’ll get. Here’s what you’ll get to enjoy if you get a 9mm revolver of your own:
Fast Shooting
Most 9mm rounds usually weigh around 140 to 150 grains. So it will give you an excellent amount of velocity. Compared to a .38 special, it’s about 100 to 200 fps faster. So if you want something able to reach the target quicker, a 9mm revolver might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Photo credit: thegunrights.com
Concealable
Regardless of whether you’re using a revolver or a pistol, a 9mm is one of the most popular calibers among the population of concealed carry users. Most of the revolvers are smaller in size and therefore, are the perfect size to make concealability possible. The better you can conceal a revolver, the better chance you can use it for EDC use.
Faster Loading and Reloading
Unlike pistols that have more capacity in their magazines, the cylinders are typically quicker to load because of the low number capacity. Regardless if it’s a five-shot, six-shot, or even a ten-shot you can load each round quicker and with less of a struggle like with some pistol magazines.
Conclusion
One of these seven 9mm revolvers will be yours if you want something that will give you great reliability, accuracy, and will be excellent for most applications. Be sure to find one that will fulfill your personal needs and preferences. Whichever one you choose will stick with you for the long run. Choose wisely and you’ll have a revolver that will keep you happy for a long time.
