Navy grip refers to the smaller, rounded grip frame on this Traditions Frontier, which sits differently in the hand than the traditional army shape. For shooters with smaller hands or those who like the feel of a snub backstrap, that matters more than you would think.

The revolver is chambered in .357 Magnum, so it also takes .38 Special. That gives you the choice between mild loads for matches and plinking and heavier magnum loads for more serious work around the farm. Case-hardened color on the frame set against blued steel looks smart in a leather rig.

Single actions need a deliberate hand. Load through the gate one chamber at a time, keep the hammer on an empty chamber for carry, and cock the hammer before each shot. The slow rhythm teaches good habits to newer shooters.

Keep the case colors dry and wiped, and add a light film of oil to the blued steel. Practice with .38 Special loads first to learn the gun, then step up to the magnum if you want. It ships to your FFL dealer, and the background check takes place there.