Comparing the Ruger GP100 and S&W 686

I went thru the same thing a couple of months ago.
I read everyone's comments, went out
And handled both and choose the
Ruger last month. One more thing.
My hand is a medium size hand and the
Ruger grip felt like it was
Hand made for me. Good luck!!!
 
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I've owned both, my first .357 Mag was a 4" GP100, since then, I've also acquired a 686 and a 681 (fixed sight version of the 686). Both the S&Ws are pre-lock.

I like the S&W better. It looks and feels more refined, but is durable enough to last multiple generations of shooters. Grip on both of these guns can be changed, so you can get the feel you want.
 
I started buying older S&W's a few years ago, really liking the K-frame...particularly the Model 15.
Eventually, I had to have a 686, and found a 4" 686-1 for a bargain price. I shot it well, but I never bonded with it like my Model 15.
Sold it.
About a year and a half ago, I got a 3" GP100. I promptly replaced the Hogue grip with an original compact Lett grip.
Out of the box, the trigger was fantastic, both DA and SA. It rivals my older, very well used Smiths.
Pretty much, if I can see something out to 100yds, I hit it.
 
You can't go wrong with either. Seriously, which ever feels best to you and points the best should be what you go with.

They are both fantastic guns and both have many reasons why people swear by them.
 
Re: Built heavier.

I think the Ruger is thicker because it's a casting and the extra metal is to make it stronger, S&W are forgings and don't need the extra metal. I've never shot a Ruger D/A that I like as well as the S&W. Different strokes for different folks tho.
 
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