"Are Revolvers Still Relevant?" (Updated)

A good article on whether revolvers are still relevant at Gun Nuts Media. I've discussed the advantages and disadvantages to both previously.

Updated (7/17/2014): Gun Nuts Media apparently has taken down the article I cited to above. However, they later posted a different article arguing that revolvers are obsolete. Their basic argument is (1) revolvers are harder to shoot well; (2) revolvers are not mechanically simpler; and (3) they are not more reliable than modern semi-auto pistols.

I will concede point 1 when it comes to snub-nose revolvers. I don't believe it is necessarily true as to full size handguns, however.

It is also true that revolvers are mechanically more complex than most modern semi-auto pistols. However, that misses the point which is that the revolver is generally simpler to use. That is, point and shoot. Open the cylinder to reload. It is forgiving of limp-wristing, bent arms, and doesn't require special drills to deal with ejection or feeding problems.

The reliability issue is very dependent on the facts. With a modern semi-auto, using good factory ammunition, and assuming no problems with stance, the semi-auto pistol is very reliable. However, I have shot several that hiccup on certain brands of ammunition. Most older semi-auto pistols (including the 1911) will not reliably feed hollow-point bullets.

Where the revolver falls down is reloading and magazine capacity. The revolver is slow to reload, even using speed loaders. It holds half or less of the number of rounds of a typical semi-auto pistol. (Although the disparity is less as you get into small handguns).

Advanced Survival Guide has an article discussing why they decided to ditch the semi-auto pistol in favor of the revolver which is also worth a read.