22LR revolver selection

R

Ranger357

Inactive
New to the forum gentlemen. Great questions and comments by all on the other threads.

I too am looking for a 22LR revolver, SS, 4" barrel. I am surprised no one has commented on the Ruger SP101. Other threads regarding Ruger quality are troubling since I am quite fond of my Rugers. I have considered the Tuarus 94, the S&W 617, and the Ruger SP101. I am leaning towards the SP101. However, the rear sight concerns me. Are they adequate? Capacity is not important to me, but reliability is. Also, what is the possibilty of finding one of the original "Kit Guns" from S&W. Now that, I thought, would be the ticket.

What would a S&W model 63 cost and can one be found?

Any thoughts?
 
Like you, I'm a Ruger fan, grew up with 'em. My first rifle was a 10/22 and my first pistol a MkII.

When I recently decided on a .22lr revolver, the SP felt better in hand than the Taurus models, and although I was looking for a 4", I ran across a smokin' deal on the long-discontinued 2-1/4" SP and bought it. Tomorrow I'll take 'er to the range and see what I've got.

FWIW, the 4" SP's on Gunbroker, as well as a local gun I found were going for anywhere from $390 to $425. Less than retail, but kinda pricey for a .22 revolver. But if you're a Ruger fan, I think you'll love it. There are still quite a few new 4" SP's out there if you look.

The S&W's must be great guns, everyone seems to love them and you can't go wrong with one of these.

Good luck!
 
Hello
I HAD a model 34 which is the Blued version of the model 63. These are as called a KIT gun. I could NOT get that rascal to group tight and suppose it was ME as the frames are a tad on the small side and they are a action that is tough to tame. On the other hand now, if you are looking for top ten ring scores I would suggest a K-22. There are plenty out there and I have NEVER had one that was NOT a tack driver. Here is my baby. Hammer It.

SWK-22Nickelrevolver005.jpg
 
I am a fan of Ruger and would grab a single six at the right price. I've also read good reviews of the Colt Officer's Target model. If I'm not mistaken I think the Colt is a SA. In a 22lr that may not be a deal breaker for me. The Ruger would likely come with a 22mag cylinder.
 
I have had this Ruger Super Single Six .22lr/.22mag w/ 5 1/2" barrel since the mid 1970s and it is a nice gun...
Revo-Pics016.jpg


but I like my new 10-shot S&W model 617 w/ 4" barrel better.
SW617-Pics009.jpg
 
To tell the truth, there are not many out there. The best 22 single action is the Uberti Stallion at present. Excellent value. Used Ruger Bisley grip Single Sixes are the best target single actions. The S&Ws are so overpriced as to make them all a no go. Used Colt Diamondbacks and Troopers are pushing $500.00 when you can even find them. The Commanche I double action 22s have been pretty decent for the money. Taurus Tracker 22s are the best deal on the market. A Iver Johnson Sealed 8 Target model is a decent used bargain when you can find one. I like used H&Rs myself.
 
I've got experience with most of the models mentioned so will throw in my 2 cents.
You can find a nice mod 63 for $375-$475 if you look on the web. Their blued ( or nickled) sisters, the 34's go about $50 less on average. Great little guns but they can be hard to shoot accuratly due to their size. Quality is exceptional on the 4 I've owned. You might also look at a used model 17 or 617. Prices are about the same as a used 34. These tend to be easier to shoot and are 'nice "sized. Fit and finish on the S&W's is usually great. I have yet to find a 17 or 617 that didn't shoot impresively. Having said that, I had a new 4" Sp 101 in 22 untill a month ago. It shot OK. Sights were decient @ 50' w target ammo but lacked precision beyond that. The trigger and overall fit and finish was HORRABLE on mine. Worst I've ever seen . Spent hours makeing it decient and finally sold it off. The Ruger single six's are great , especially if you find a nice used one. Still, if accuracy is what you want, then go with a 17/617.

No experience with recient production Taurus but 3 of 5 older Taurus I've owned were poorly built and got several trips back to the factory.
 
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