I've only shot semi-automatic pistols and have just purchase, but not received, a Ruger SP101, .357 for my girlfriend. I'm interested in picking up a .357 for myself. This would be a just for fun target gun. Of course, maybe I'll practice my reloads and venture further afoot. Any suggestions as to a medium frame revolver? I was eyeing the GP100, but I'm in total ignorance. Any URL's that might educate would also be appreciated.
Suggestions for first .357 Magnum Medium Frame
- Thread starter Gary H
- Start date
Stephen A. Camp
Staff In Memoriam
Hello. Many nice things are written by many folks about GP100s and the two or three that I've shot were just fine although the DA triggers were not quite as smooth as I'd have preferred and the single-action pulls were a little heavy, but such is easily remedied if you decide on that revolver and experience the same. Since the S&W sell-out, I cannot in good conscience recommend new S&W revolvers, but actually prefer the Model 19, the medium frame size, in a 4" to the GP. Having said all that, I most enjoy shooting an old but very clean and accurate M28 and 27. I just like the S&W N-frames. However, for carry or "pointability," the 4 or 6.5" M19 or 66 can't be beaten in my subjective opinion. Best and good luck.
Gary, before I purchased my Ruger Security Six I spent a lot of time with a GP100 at the range since it is about the same size as the Security Six (in fact, I'm told that the GP100 was designed to replace the Sec 6) and I must say that I really enjoyed it. I'll grant you, it was a little heavy, but since you're already looking for a medium-sized gun then weight most likely isn't a problem for you. Ruger is known for their durability, extensive lifespan and overall performance. Given the size, shooting .357s was a breeze and my accuracy was not at all that bad. I am not a marksman by any means, but the GP100 made me look like I almost knew what I was doing out there. The trigger pull is a bit on the rough side, but I like the idea of it not being extremely easy. I thought the single-action was actually quite nice-- two bullseyes in a row. So, my vote would be to take a look into the GP100 pretty seriously. If there's a range nearby, play around with it and look over the Ruger related posts here on TFL. Good luck to you!
Yes, I have read them. I wanted to make sure that my information was up to date. The trigger job was mentioned, but without a great deal of detail. I was hoping that someone had a URL with details. S&W is now offering a $50 rebate on all handgun purchases. Of course, the other side involves the political side of S&W. I haven't given that side of things much thought.
Also, what is the advantage of a short, or long shroud? The Ruger is available in both configurations. I'm sure that this is a dumb question, but I'm without a clue when it comes to a revolver. Actually, my without a clue extends into many other areas of my life... just ask any of my female friends 
Screw the fifty buck rebate. You can get a very nice police turn in model 19 for well under three hundred. The trigger off the shelf is usualy better than most other brands after having trigger work done. By buying an older one you are not helping S+W out and still getting arguably the finest handgun made. From what I have seen, the fit, finish and function of the older ones are better than the last few years. With reasonable care, hundred thousand rounds is not much through one of the old American smiths.
Sam....my favorite 9mm is the 9X32R
Sam....my favorite 9mm is the 9X32R
Yeah . . . Smith & Wesson . . .
I had a K-Frame snubby Mod. 66 that I traded for a J-Frame Mod. 60 in .357. Recent purchase is a used Mod. 10 +P 38 Spc in a 4" bbl. which is the identical gun as the .357 Mod. 10 --except for the chambering.
Absolutely the nicest production trigger I've ever seen, and I've seen zillions. Nicest production trigger too on the semi-autos.
Ruger is a fine gun too. If you go for a Smith, go for used so you don't subsidize the rats. Lots of used Smith revolvers out there for $200 - $250 in excellent shape.
For target plinking get a 4" to 6" barrel and adjustable sights. A lot of these revolvers, especially S&W have the same identical frame in different sizes J-Frame, K-Frame, N-Frame. Learn the differences and opt for a heavier frame for a target shooter.
I had a K-Frame snubby Mod. 66 that I traded for a J-Frame Mod. 60 in .357. Recent purchase is a used Mod. 10 +P 38 Spc in a 4" bbl. which is the identical gun as the .357 Mod. 10 --except for the chambering.
Absolutely the nicest production trigger I've ever seen, and I've seen zillions. Nicest production trigger too on the semi-autos.
Ruger is a fine gun too. If you go for a Smith, go for used so you don't subsidize the rats. Lots of used Smith revolvers out there for $200 - $250 in excellent shape.
For target plinking get a 4" to 6" barrel and adjustable sights. A lot of these revolvers, especially S&W have the same identical frame in different sizes J-Frame, K-Frame, N-Frame. Learn the differences and opt for a heavier frame for a target shooter.
For a new 357 revolver, the Ruger is the best deal. Shop around and you will probably be able to find a new stainless steel one for about $350. It is worth it. S&W's are very good also and a little smoother, but I would not even consider a new Smith since they pulled their stunt a few months ago. Many claim the Ruger is more durable anyway. The GP100 is quite comfortable even though it is on the heavy side and recoil isn't too bad. When I got my GP100, the trigger was a little rough. After firing about 100 rounds through it it smoothed out quite a bit. I am quite happy with it now. Even when new, the trigger still felt better than most autoloaders. Go ahead and get one then send a postcard to Sarah Brady and Rosie O'donnel telling them you have another gun they can't have.
Go with a used S&W. For your stated purpose, a fun target gun, I'd suggest one of the L-frame revolvers (586, 686) with six inch barrel. Although a four inch would work fine.
If you think someday you may want to carry it, then go with a four inch Model 19 K-frame. Slightly smaller and lighter.
I don't have anything against Rugers, I just prefer Smiths. However, If I was gonna buy a Ruger, I prefer the old Security Six to the GP100.
JMHO
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Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity.
If you think someday you may want to carry it, then go with a four inch Model 19 K-frame. Slightly smaller and lighter.
I don't have anything against Rugers, I just prefer Smiths. However, If I was gonna buy a Ruger, I prefer the old Security Six to the GP100.
JMHO
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Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity.
Not sure why you want a medium frame if it is just for target shooting. I bought a pinned and recessed S&W mod 27-2 with 8 3/8" barrel in the original two piece blue box and it is VERY accurate. I can hit a Coke can at 100 yards with 158gr JSP, no problem. If you are stuck on a medium frame and want a NIB gun the GP100 with a 6" barrel is hard to beat and any decent smith can do an action job for a reasonable price. I do have a 6" 686 and those can be found on the used market at a reaonable price.
I started by buying my girlfriend an SP101 and thought of purchasing bigger brother for myself. As feedback comes in and I research things further, I am no longer limiting myself to a medium frame. The SP101 was dictated by Amy's very small hands. She is just a tad over 4'9". I'm rather large boned and 6'3". I don't have a problem with large autofeeders, so a larger framed revolver would be just fine. What do you get by paying the extra big bucks and going with a performance model of the S&W 27? They seem to be readily available, but with different features. Also, what is "fully lugged" and what is a shroud? Why do the Rugers come with different length shrouds in an otherwise identical pistol?
<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>What do you get by paying the extra big bucks and going with a performance model of the S&W 27? <snip> Also, what is "fully lugged" and what is a shroud? Why do the Rugers come with different length shrouds in an otherwise identical pistol?[/quote]
The 27 isn't a "performance" model -- it's the full-size "N" frame (actually, the original platform for the .357 Magnum). What you're gaining is more strength -- and size and weight, which may or may not suit Amy.
Lugs and shrouds. Originally, the ejector rods on revolvers were bare under the barrel. Colts, which didn't engage anything, just hung out in the breeze; S&Ws engaged a catch under the barrel.* At some point in time, manufacturers enclosed the ejector rod (I guess to keep it from getting bent, which would disable ejection). Later -- and I think the Python was the first, but I could be wrong -- the shroud was extended the full length of the barrel. This added weight, making the revolver easier to control in firing for faster follow-up, and also making it steadier for deliberate firing (at least, if you've developed the required muscles). Many think the full lug also added visual appeal.
*If you go back 50-75 years and look at the S&W and Colt adds, there was a PR battle over the manner of lockup and the direction of rotation. I don't know if there's anyone out there who still gets passionate over the difference.
The 27 isn't a "performance" model -- it's the full-size "N" frame (actually, the original platform for the .357 Magnum). What you're gaining is more strength -- and size and weight, which may or may not suit Amy.
Lugs and shrouds. Originally, the ejector rods on revolvers were bare under the barrel. Colts, which didn't engage anything, just hung out in the breeze; S&Ws engaged a catch under the barrel.* At some point in time, manufacturers enclosed the ejector rod (I guess to keep it from getting bent, which would disable ejection). Later -- and I think the Python was the first, but I could be wrong -- the shroud was extended the full length of the barrel. This added weight, making the revolver easier to control in firing for faster follow-up, and also making it steadier for deliberate firing (at least, if you've developed the required muscles). Many think the full lug also added visual appeal.
*If you go back 50-75 years and look at the S&W and Colt adds, there was a PR battle over the manner of lockup and the direction of rotation. I don't know if there's anyone out there who still gets passionate over the difference.
<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Gary H:
I've only shot semi-automatic pistols and have just purchase, but not received, a Ruger SP101, .357 for my girlfriend. I'm interested in picking up a .357 for myself. This would be a just for fun target gun. Of course, maybe I'll practice my reloads and venture further afoot. Any suggestions as to a medium frame revolver? [/quote]
There's a lot of Ruger fans here, but you'd be doing yourself a diservice if you didn't look at the Taurus Tracker in stainless steel.
This is every bit as well made as any Ruger or Smith and Wesson...maybe better. However, Taurus quality does have an occasional brainfart.
One of the nicest things is the double lock up on both the cylinder and the swing arm that holds the cylinder. Also, the safety lock is nice (but I wouldn't buy it for that particular feature).
And, until sometime in October, Taurus will pay for you NRA membership (new or renewal).
I've only shot semi-automatic pistols and have just purchase, but not received, a Ruger SP101, .357 for my girlfriend. I'm interested in picking up a .357 for myself. This would be a just for fun target gun. Of course, maybe I'll practice my reloads and venture further afoot. Any suggestions as to a medium frame revolver? [/quote]
There's a lot of Ruger fans here, but you'd be doing yourself a diservice if you didn't look at the Taurus Tracker in stainless steel.
This is every bit as well made as any Ruger or Smith and Wesson...maybe better. However, Taurus quality does have an occasional brainfart.
One of the nicest things is the double lock up on both the cylinder and the swing arm that holds the cylinder. Also, the safety lock is nice (but I wouldn't buy it for that particular feature).
And, until sometime in October, Taurus will pay for you NRA membership (new or renewal).
riddleofsteel
New member
i picked a new in the box Ruger Speed Six for $250.00. concealable, accurate and powerful. i added a set of Eagle rosewood Secret Service grips and a set of Wolff springs and it's my new knock around, backpacking, leave locked in the truck pistol. try one you won't be disapointed.
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Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what is for lunch.
Liberty is a well armed lamb contesting the outcome of the vote.
Let he that hath no sword sell his garment and buy one. Luke 22-36
They all hold swords, being expert in war: every man hath his sword upon his thigh because of fear in the night. Song of Solomon 3-8
The man that can keep his head and aims carefully when the situation has gone bad and lead is flying usually wins the fight.
------------------
Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what is for lunch.
Liberty is a well armed lamb contesting the outcome of the vote.
Let he that hath no sword sell his garment and buy one. Luke 22-36
They all hold swords, being expert in war: every man hath his sword upon his thigh because of fear in the night. Song of Solomon 3-8
The man that can keep his head and aims carefully when the situation has gone bad and lead is flying usually wins the fight.