I shot this target with SSR, testing some of my 38s loads. I was testing for variation in the 125 grain and 158 grain Berrys plated bullets. The target was shot at 75 feet. You will note the 125 grain have two groups of three touching each other. The others were 158grn. I have been unable to duplicate this grouping with the standard 686- six inch barrel. I could be wrong but my guess is the SSR is a little more accurate. I could be wrong but the SSR has a Recessed Crowned Barrel, the 6 inch does not, does that matter, draw your own conclusions, I'm not sure if it affects accuracy. I may get jumped on for this but in my book 75 feet is a fairly long shot for a 4 inch revolver, not likely to be required very often. Hope this helps with the discussion. By the way I have owned the SSR for almost a year and have shot about 5000 rounds, needless to say I like the weapon.

I'm psyched for this thing to get here, but it isn't going to ship anytime soon from the sound of it.

And I have to wait my ten days AFTER it arrives. WTF?

Just to touch on a topic brought up in the thread.. Grips. There isn't much that is nicer looking than a Smith with quality wood grips, either factory or after market but for shooting the key is what shoots the best and for me that means goodyears. Others have great luck with wood but they don't work well for me...
Back on topic. Congrats on the new unit. Several people,in the last year or so have asked me what I would buy if I was buying a new 357 mag. You picked the one I would choose, followed by the regular 686 or + followed by the 620.

When I get back to work, I think this will be my X-mas gift to myself .

I picked up mine today. Although I have not had the first range trip, I am very impressed with everything except the grips. The wood grips look and feel fine but the fitting on the backstrap is a little sloppy. The frame butt is rounded but the grips are cut square and that leaves a gap. I CAN live with it.

On first impression I was pleased with the balance and aim and it really seemed lite. I wasn't sure if it would serve as a carry gun but now I know it definetly will.

quote:

The wood grips look and feel fine but the fitting on the backstrap is a little sloppy. The frame butt is rounded but the grips are cut square and that leaves a gap

For IDPA, a square butt grip helps get the consistent high hand position needed. I've been using square butt Pachmayr Pro-grippers on a round butt revolver for years.

Aside from one idiot who got hysterical when he saw the grips didn't match the frame shape, most people don't even notice, and I can't feel the gap when shooting.

Finally came in. I can pick it up October 21st. I can use it at the range I bought it at before then but unfortunately it decided to finally come in during my two midterm weeks.

I have owned an SSR for several months now. Aside from the need to send it back to Smith as soon as I bought it for a minor issue, my experience with it has been entirely positive.

Accuracy maybe is in the eyes of the beholder, but mine is quite accurate for my intended use which is IDPA competition. In that context, accuracy is A zone hits as fast as you can shoot from 3 yds to 25 yds.

Off a pistol rest, it shoots groups as well as my 45acp 625. Suits me fine.

And, as an aside, it does have a great out of the box trigger.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: d625,