In order, as I can:
The DS made before the 1972 heavy, shrouded barrel models were not factory rated for the +P. However, many people did, and do practice with standard .38 ammo, and load up with +P for carry.
The heavy, shrouded barrel steel frame "D" models were factory rated for "up to" 3000 rounds of +P ammo, the aluminum framed models for up to 1500 rounds.
After shooting the limit, the guns were to be sent in to Colt for inspection and possible repairs or frame replacement.
Since Colt no longer has frames, you're best to practice with .38 Special and limit the use of +P.
Do some occasional practice with +P to maintain the feel.
The Colt "D" frame is slightly smaller than the S&W "K" frame, but has a cylinder almost exactly the same size. They're so close you can use the same speed loaders.
I'm not sure exactly what the trigger reach is between the Colt, S&W "K", and the Ruger, but the Ruger seems to be about the same general size as the "D" frame, although the frame seems to be a little beefier.
As far as I can remember the SP-101 and Colt have a very close trigger reach, with the Colt "possibly" just a little closer.
The Colt cylinder release is nothing more than something you get used to. Once you've used it a while it becomes perfectly natural, and in fact, many people find it easier to operate then the S&W and often, much easier than the Ruger.
One advantage of the Colt release is that you can't accidentally press the release and open the cylinder.
Many people find the Colt release easier to operate for fast reloads, because you can just hook your thumb over the release and pull it to open, where with the S&W and Ruger most people have to shift their grip to operate the release.
All this is personal preference and getting use to whatever you have.
Colt repairs and the supply of parts is getting to be a little difficult.
Colt still repairs them and will for some time.
Cylinder & Slide Shop, and Frank Glenn are experts, if you can wait for several years Grant Cunningham is excellent.
Some "replica" parts are being manufactured by companies like Jack First Gun Parts, and I expect more to be made as otherwise good Colt's need ordinary maintenance in the future.
However, the gun IS out of production and has been since the last run that were assembled from left over parts in 1995.
Getting repairs may get harder, although as with parts, there ill be people who will meet the market need.
The stories about the "delicate" Colt's is WAY over done. With good maintenance and by not abusing the gun there's no reason a Colt won't last a lifetime.
Obviously you're going to have a much easer time of it with a gun like the SP-101 that's still in production and probably will be for a long time.
Accessories like grips and holsters are still readily available. Some of the big mass market holster makers may not offer much anymore, but most offer at least something, and other makers still offer a good selection of many types.
I just don't even try to keep up on the current market value of guns, especially Colt's due to the fast changing prices.
So with +p being dangerous, what defense loads do you guys suggest for a 4 or 6 barrel D frame?
