Too often, our race to embrace new and improved technologies prematurely consigns the serviceable and advantageous to the dustbin of history. Newer is often better, but that doesn't necessarily mean that old is bad or not even better, in some ways, than the more recent innovation. These facts are often overlooked with respect to revolvers, leaving truly excellent handgun technology underappreciated to the detriment of all, most especially those who would have benefited had they given the old-fashioned sixgun a second glance.

S&W 686 with a 2.5-inch barrel.

All the pedantic pontification in this article aside, for the longest time I was one of those people who wrote off revolvers as relics. Careful consideration and the wise words of others led me to reconsider; although I can't guarantee any particular wisdom in this article, I hope those who are otherwise skeptical about sixguns will reconsider and take a second look at the venerable (yet still quite relevant) revolver.

If you agree or disagree with any of the points made, or believe I've omitted an advantage or disadvantage, don't be shy! Send an email and set me straight. All comments are welcome.