4-inch barrel, .357 magnum

Definately a pre-lock Smith & Wesson. Either an "L" frame or "K" frame. depending on what you want in revolver weight. I prefer the lighter S&W Model 66 "K" frame. You may prefer the heavier S&W Model 686 "L" frame.
S&W has other models that would be excellent choices also. I know enough to never buy a Taurus and to stay away from the Ruger GP100 (I used to own one). I've heard good things about the Ruger SP101 though. Smith & Wesson "fit and finish" is superior to most other brand of revolvers. Your opinion may differ.
 
I was issued a 686 that had been used for a few years before I got it. We qualified about 6 times a year used the .357 ammo. We also shot tons of wad cutter each trip to the range. Were encouraged to shoot it on our own time too...well I did shoot it alot with all kinds of reloads. We never had many problems as I recall. I think the ejection rod came loose on mine one time and that is an easy repair if you have the tool. I really liked that gun and I am surprised to see that so many here have voted for it. I don't remember which version I had, it was old. I didn't know there were so many versions availible in the 686!
I had the option to purchase my issued weapon when I retired as they were switching over to semi autos at the same time. The gun company that did the whole department exchange deal only wanted 430 bucks for a well used 686. I decided my memory was good enough and didn't need to buy it for a keepsake at that price.

:rolleyes: Bastarrrds! :mad:

Great gun and IMO, they look very impresive when you draw and point them. Reminds a little of a Python. The Colt Pythons are great guns too but I would take the 686 for about third or more less in price.


And someone said above, ...... If Rugers, I don't believe you would go wrong to choose a 4 inch Speed Six, Security Six or a GP 100.

Bringing back memories now...I have a speed 6 ? ... or a security 6 ? but can't remember which one? It's a nice piece too,. I did a spring kit and some stone work to the trigger but still liked the 686 much better! :D

There are plenty of choices here and they are mostly S&W. Can't go wrong with any of them IMO. Look at them all, and buy just as many as your wife will allow!!! :eek:

Nice thread, great reading!
 
Only exp. with S&W

I've got a S&W model 19 with a 4" barrel. By far the best pistol / revolver I own. I'm 'working on' being able to shoot 4" groups at 50' in fast double action.
 
Out of the Python,686 and gp-100, which one can take the most "field abuse"?

I'm looking for a revolver to take camping so it needs to be able to withstand a bit of rough treatment.

Cheers
 
S&w 686

Another vote for the 686
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For an all-purpose revolver, a 4" S&W 686 or 686+ (seven-shooter) is hard to beat.

If you like the svelte look of a semi-lugged barrel better, the new S&W 619 is essentially the same thing as a 686+, minus the full lug.
 
Another vote for the Smiths mentioned (any). K frame if mostly shooting .38s except for "serious times." L otherwise. Another feature not mentioned, to me the Smith (copied by others admittedly) push action cylinder release is superior to others, esp Colt. Again just MO.
 
Since my last post on this thread, someone else has come into my life, who turns out to be the best of the best. Beauty with action to die for... :D
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4-6 inch 357 prices?

Hello!

I just started reading your forum this afternoon, lots of great oppnions! Thank you!

I was looking at 357s this afternoon, and wonder if you had advice on prices and sources? I just want a good deal! I looked at two new S&W 686s in stainless for $550 range. (seems a little high)

I looked at a new Ruger GP100 in stainless and thought I saw $450 range.

I looked at a used security 6 that appeared in good condition for $350, and the one that has caught my eye is a used blued colt trooper III for $425. (looks very nice so far)

Anybody have any advice?

Thanks!
 
I'd get the Security Six. They don't make them anymore and those that have them don't often sell them. They are lighter and have a better trigger than a GP-100 and are still plenty strong (and in my opinion are better looking). The only reason they were replaced is that the GP-100 is cheaper to make.
 
if you realy want a mag get a longer barrel i chronoed my 4" 66 taurus
with 158g hp only got 1100fps might as well be shooting a hot 9mm
 
Even though the velocity was the same as a 9mm, the bullet weight was significantly more. No one even makes 158grn 9mms and if they did it probably wouldn't go 1100fps. If you look at velocities of 125 or 110grn .357's you'll find them to be much more impressive.
 
forget the python. they are essentially collector's item's now. expensive, fragile and hard to work on. YOur two choices are either the 686 or the gp100. Id take the gp. it's more rugged more affordable and doesnt have a frame lock like the smith (if your buying new). I have 2 gp's both triggers are fine both guns accurate and reliable. I like the rugers the best but the smith is a good competiter ( your going to spend more for a smith than treat it rough? the ruger was made ground up for rough treatment and priced better .,In the event you could break it but thats tough to do). If you read more of these forums you will find out quickly how bad the colt python would be for the job your asking of it. You probably couldnt even find one in a gun store that easily. colt is the "invisible" gun company now.
 
p.s I believe the cylinder release on the ruger's are a work of genious. very fast working, better than the smith's even. colt forget it.
 
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