This post seeks advice re a potential .357 magnum purchase.
I own - and frequently shoot - several semiautomatics (a Sig P220 and a P226, a Kimber stainless 1911A1, a Glock 23C, and a Colt/Browning hammerless 1908 in .380 ACP). For reasons I really can't explain, I now want to buy a .357 revolver that will be used for target shooting and general plinking (with .38 Special FMJ) as well as for occasional concealed carriage (probably with .357 magnum Hydra-Shock).
After some research plus following relevant threads on TFL for months, I've tentatively limited my options to the Ruger GP-100 series and the S&W 686 series - both in stainless with a four inch barrel.
I know both weapons have generally outstanding reputations. Also, I've shot both and have no clear preference. In addition, I appreciate the slight advantage the 686 may have in "trigger smoothness" and the GP-100 may have in general durability (although both revolvers seem to be excellent in these categories). The slight price differential is not a major consideration.
I would appreciate your experiences with these two revolvers, particularly any competitive factors (such as customer service, warrantee conditions, out-of-the-box accuracy, long-term reliability, CCW safety, etc.) that I have not mentioned.
Many thanks.
[This message has been edited by RWK (edited January 05, 2000).]
[This message has been edited by RWK (edited January 05, 2000).]
I own - and frequently shoot - several semiautomatics (a Sig P220 and a P226, a Kimber stainless 1911A1, a Glock 23C, and a Colt/Browning hammerless 1908 in .380 ACP). For reasons I really can't explain, I now want to buy a .357 revolver that will be used for target shooting and general plinking (with .38 Special FMJ) as well as for occasional concealed carriage (probably with .357 magnum Hydra-Shock).
After some research plus following relevant threads on TFL for months, I've tentatively limited my options to the Ruger GP-100 series and the S&W 686 series - both in stainless with a four inch barrel.
I know both weapons have generally outstanding reputations. Also, I've shot both and have no clear preference. In addition, I appreciate the slight advantage the 686 may have in "trigger smoothness" and the GP-100 may have in general durability (although both revolvers seem to be excellent in these categories). The slight price differential is not a major consideration.
I would appreciate your experiences with these two revolvers, particularly any competitive factors (such as customer service, warrantee conditions, out-of-the-box accuracy, long-term reliability, CCW safety, etc.) that I have not mentioned.
Many thanks.
[This message has been edited by RWK (edited January 05, 2000).]
[This message has been edited by RWK (edited January 05, 2000).]