Greeting's martin6,
The time tested and proven Smith & Wesson model 19,
and it's stainless counterpart the model 66 are truly
"classic" revolver's. You said, "It's big and it's heavy"
as compared to some of the more popular semi-auto's
currently on the market. While this is true, most .357
magnum revolver's need the extra weight; in order to
tame the recoil of the hot 125 grain JHP's. After it's
introduction by Smith & Wesson, just about every
LEO desired to carry the model 19 as a duty weapon;
apparently due to it's light weight and ease of operation.
I don't know the extact number's; but with a 4" barrel
model 19 weighing in at 35 ozs., there is a considerable
difference between it and say a model 27and/or 28.
Did I mention that the model 19 is out of production?
Yes, you can bank on it; as the L-frame model 586/686
replaced it. However, one can still find S&W model 66's;
cuz I know a fellow that just had his favorite shop to
order one of the 2.5" barrel versions from a distributor.
With all that said, I would not hesitate to purchase a
Smith & Wesson model 19; if that is indeed what I
wanted.
Regards,
Ala Dan, Life Member N.R.A.