Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > Smith & Wesson Revolvers > S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present
o

Notices

S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present All NON-PINNED Barrels, the L-Frames, and the New Era Revolvers


Closed Thread
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #51  
Old 07-17-2017, 12:51 AM
silversnake silversnake is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Sep 2015
Posts: 522
Likes: 313
Liked 523 Times in 249 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Warren Sear View Post
Can anyone recommend a good bear load for a Model 28?
For black bear, Buffalo Bore 180 gr hard cast. Browns and grizzlies, bring a rifle.
  #52  
Old 07-17-2017, 07:28 AM
Old cop Old cop is offline
US Veteran
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 7,782
Likes: 4,206
Liked 15,128 Times in 4,142 Posts
Default

While I know there's no longer a functional problem w/the internal lock (IL) I cannot bring myself to buy a new S&W equipped that way. There's a pride of ownership that goes w/owning a fine revolver and if I'm going to spend that much, it will not be on a S&W w/the IL. How many others feel the same way?
__________________
Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)
The Following 5 Users Like Post:
  #53  
Old 07-17-2017, 10:00 AM
RKmesa's Avatar
RKmesa RKmesa is offline
SWCA Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: AZ
Posts: 7,354
Likes: 27,584
Liked 45,310 Times in 4,759 Posts
Default

I don't post in this section of the forum very often. Most of my collection is in the pre-war and early post war era and more than a couple of handfuls in the 1960-1980 era. I collect pre war .22 LR's, pre-war .357 Magnums; I love the 5-screw guns, the 4-screw guns, the P&R 3-screw guns and I am not a fan of the lock (primarily an aesthetic preference). BUT all of the lock guns I have purchased and have shot are great guns AND you cannot find a P&R 10-shot K-22, a 7-shot P&R L-frame 357, nor a pre-war 8-shot N-Frame 357 Magnum - and those high capacity wheel guns are way cool - in both design and in function.








We sometimes forget that even the older guns (including the Registered Magnums) went back to the factory for some fine tuning. When it comes to S&W revolvers, I expect folks to buy what they like, but I will not turn my nose up at something new, just because "it's not the same as it was..."
__________________
Richard
Engraved S&W fan

Last edited by RKmesa; 07-17-2017 at 10:10 AM.
  #54  
Old 07-17-2017, 10:23 AM
Walkingwolf's Avatar
Walkingwolf Walkingwolf is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Apr 2017
Posts: 1,624
Likes: 2,003
Liked 1,653 Times in 809 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by rwsmith View Post
Like it or not the MIM parts should not make today's guns any worse coming off the shelf than a vintage gun in like new shape.

But yes, I have a problems with sloppy fitting parts that need repair or readjusting at the factory. If you get a good new gun off the shelf, chances are that it will stay good for a long time.

Even the IL shouldn't affect the performance and quality of a gun.

But too many have issues that only the factory can easily and reliably solve at no cost to you.

That canted barrel thing is the worst to me. A tiny indexing mark on the barrel and frame would make sense. Instead, a guy 'eyeballs' the thing with a wrench. It would be simpler for the user and the factory to have index marks but somehow that 'drives the cost up'.
Then somebody would complain about the indexing mark.
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #55  
Old 07-17-2017, 12:48 PM
Steve J M57's Avatar
Steve J M57 Steve J M57 is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Jun 2017
Location: Maine
Posts: 17
Likes: 41
Liked 126 Times in 10 Posts
Default

Over the last six years I have bought the following Smith's -
637(x2)
442
60
57
66
69
M&P 45c
M&P 22 full size (Walther made)

All were purchased new and I have been satisfied overall. Only two issues to speak of - the 66 (newest iteration) had the slightly canted barrel. Still shoots point of aim and digests hot handloads just fine. The M&P 22 will not reliably function on standard target ammo. Then again that's an imported gun.... I should note I grew up with the old smiths and own a no dash 586. I like them all. And I do happen to use a laser to check for ballpark poi. YMMV.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
  #56  
Old 07-17-2017, 05:19 PM
comiskeybum's Avatar
comiskeybum comiskeybum is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Jul 2015
Posts: 359
Likes: 12
Liked 277 Times in 139 Posts
Default

I'll say it again. Just don't use the lock.

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
__________________
Smith all the things
  #57  
Old 07-17-2017, 06:14 PM
ISCS Yoda's Avatar
ISCS Yoda ISCS Yoda is offline
US Veteran
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Dallas, Texas
Posts: 8,386
Likes: 2,475
Liked 13,044 Times in 4,531 Posts
Default

I have had much better experiences with new revolvers from S&W. Especially with my 686+ 4 inch because I put it to the test in part of a close quarters combat class. Offhand, I can think of three "NEW" S&W revolvers I have acquired in the past year or more (actually more - call it several years), with locks (yawn; I don't care), and they are all nicely put together and shoot just great.
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #58  
Old 07-17-2017, 06:41 PM
VaTom VaTom is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Jul 2016
Location: SW Virginia
Posts: 2,012
Likes: 9,135
Liked 5,177 Times in 1,309 Posts
Default

My newest S&W revolver is a 1981 Model 63. Never shot any newer so can't comment in that regard.

IMHO the new ones on the shelf aren't as pretty as the older classic ones. Not talking finish but rather the design and lines.

Same with corvettes. The current design is too angular for me.
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #59  
Old 07-17-2017, 08:32 PM
JDinAZ's Avatar
JDinAZ JDinAZ is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Location: AZ
Posts: 498
Likes: 42
Liked 463 Times in 170 Posts
Default

locks mim and qc issues, bout like lions tigers and bears I reckon.
I avoided the new wheel guns like the plague for years and stuck with my 5" 629-3 till I cracked and had to have a 329PD 4" I found local here in AZ private sale for a good price. Chucked the G30 in the safe and been carrying 329 ever since full of 240G white box. It's neutered now with one of my lock delete part sets I make and no transfer bar that thing rattled like all git out. Before I did that I thought I needed a trigger job bad but I'm here to tell you that transfer bar hammer block part made my trigger have a serious hitch in its giddyup. Dump it and the lock you'll be surprised what it feels like with that bar gone. Pretty nice now but not a tuned match gun thats for sure. The trigger is kinda heavy but I like it that way for carry that little pig can get unruly during rapid fire. Now on the other hand my 629-3 has a hare trigger on SA man you fart and it goes off.
__________________
R/S
J.D.
  #60  
Old 07-17-2017, 10:54 PM
sw282's Avatar
sw282 sw282 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2009
Location: CSRA
Posts: 2,125
Likes: 869
Liked 1,629 Times in 779 Posts
Default

l don't need a Lazer to tell me where the barrel is pointed.

That's what they make bullets for..
  #61  
Old 07-18-2017, 12:34 AM
Dpris Dpris is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,016
Likes: 0
Liked 679 Times in 313 Posts
Default

It's not a transfer bar & it's very ill-advised to remove it.
Denis
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #62  
Old 07-18-2017, 06:54 AM
OLDSTER's Avatar
OLDSTER OLDSTER is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: North Dakota
Posts: 10,146
Likes: 14,187
Liked 12,739 Times in 3,480 Posts
Default IL, MIM, ETC AGAIN !!!

Here we go again



__________________
John
The Following 7 Users Like Post:
  #63  
Old 07-18-2017, 07:01 AM
ImprovedModel56Fan ImprovedModel56Fan is offline
US Veteran
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: MA
Posts: 7,330
Likes: 7,502
Liked 5,556 Times in 2,547 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by comiskeybum View Post
I'll say it again. Just don't use the lock.

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
Read the history (do a search). Your answer makes no sense in the face of the facts.
  #64  
Old 07-18-2017, 08:13 AM
MJFlores MJFlores is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Apr 2014
Location: New Hampshire
Posts: 407
Likes: 156
Liked 570 Times in 158 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by sw282 View Post
l don't need a Lazer to tell me where the barrel is pointed.

That's what they make bullets for..
You never read, or understood wht the laser was for. Unless you have a gunshop that lets you test fire revolvers before buying them? Can you post their address? Id love to do business with them.
  #65  
Old 07-18-2017, 08:15 AM
MJFlores MJFlores is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Apr 2014
Location: New Hampshire
Posts: 407
Likes: 156
Liked 570 Times in 158 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by comiskeybum View Post
I'll say it again. Just don't use the lock.

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
Or like Jerry M, Smith & Wesson's own factory competition shooter, removes the lock all together on all his competition guns. I wonder why he does that?
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #66  
Old 07-18-2017, 08:22 AM
ladder13 ladder13 is online now
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: NC
Posts: 30,691
Likes: 57,544
Liked 52,812 Times in 16,465 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by RKmesa View Post
I don't post in this section of the forum very often. Most of my collection is in the pre-war and early post war era and more than a couple of handfuls in the 1960-1980 era. I collect pre war .22 LR's, pre-war .357 Magnums; I love the 5-screw guns, the 4-screw guns, the P&R 3-screw guns and I am not a fan of the lock (primarily an aesthetic preference). BUT all of the lock guns I have purchased and have shot are great guns AND you cannot find a P&R 10-shot K-22, a 7-shot P&R L-frame 357, nor a pre-war 8-shot N-Frame 357 Magnum - and those high capacity wheel guns are way cool - in both design and in function.








We sometimes forget that even the older guns (including the Registered Magnums) went back to the factory for some fine tuning. When it comes to S&W revolvers, I expect folks to buy what they like, but I will not turn my nose up at something new, just because "it's not the same as it was..."
If folks like Rick and Doc44 own IL guns that's good enough for me. The usual bashers who make their living here bellyaching don't hold sway in their views, imo.

Clocked barrel and ****** crown, oh the horror. They sure don't make em like they used to.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/138174372-post6.html

Have a nice day.
__________________
GOA/SAF

Last edited by ladder13; 07-18-2017 at 08:34 AM.
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #67  
Old 07-18-2017, 08:29 AM
SailDesign's Avatar
SailDesign SailDesign is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Jun 2017
Location: RI
Posts: 242
Likes: 336
Liked 425 Times in 171 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by ridgewalker View Post
<snip>

The lock is only a problem if you make it a problem.
Thank you. It's like the advertising on the barrel - if you bought the gun to shoot, then the lettering on the barrel is immaterial. If you bought the gun to sit and fondle and make a fetish of, then you bought it for the wrong reasons IMNSHO.

Go shoot - forget what the barrel looks like if it shoots well. If the lock really bothers you, then don't look at it.
  #68  
Old 07-18-2017, 08:44 AM
Jessie's Avatar
Jessie Jessie is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Virginia
Posts: 8,865
Likes: 10,603
Liked 15,202 Times in 5,250 Posts
Default

More obviously, the laser cartridge in a revolver will tell you how a round sits in the cylinder. It will tell you absolutely nothing about the barrel or what that bullet will do once it leaves the cylinder.
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #69  
Old 07-18-2017, 07:05 PM
Dennismn Dennismn is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Location: Minnesota
Posts: 46
Likes: 60
Liked 32 Times in 18 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by HamHands View Post
Do I like the lock... hell no! I let it stop me from buying quite a few new Smiths. I spent months looking for minty vintage Smith's and (1) Colt... and I paid a premium for them. I like them so much that I would do it again. I spent a year looking for a Model 25 in .45acp. No 25's to be found in my area that wasn't grossly overpriced so I took a chance on a 625-8. I have to say it's been nice. No, it isn't as quite as nice as my 70's Smiths but it's a decent bit better than I was told it was going to be. So I'm replacing the lock and plugging the frame and enjoying shooting .45acp and Super's from a revolver. YMMV.
I'm with you.

I don't think S&W has reduced the "quality" of their guns one bit. What they have done is taken away the "artistic" touches like the beautiful deep blue finish and the forged parts. Even that damn pimple on the side of the guns isn't really a problem.

I routinely shoot older model 80's revolvers along side a new production 686 Pro Series - the new 686 is as good, or better. other than the nicer look of the older parts and bluing, there is no real difference.

I know some guys are going to bash me on that and claim their newer revolvers are not as smooth, ect. And that is true - the new revolvers haven't had a chance to break in.

Put a thousand rounds through them - they will come out as sweet as you actually need, at least mine have.
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #70  
Old 01-11-2018, 10:38 PM
rwsmith's Avatar
rwsmith rwsmith is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: (outside) Charleston, SC
Posts: 30,906
Likes: 41,494
Liked 29,147 Times in 13,778 Posts
Default The same as any.........

If I bought a new S&W or any new gun, I'd like to inspect THAT gun before I bought it, not a display modell. Mim, Il, barrel type, that's the way they come nowadays. If I couldn't tell on close inspection something as obvious as a canted, misaligned or overclocked barrel, finish problems or even function problems to some extent without shooting it, it probably doesn't need to be returned or sent back to S&W until something actually BREAKS.
__________________
"He was kinda funny lookin'"
  #71  
Old 01-11-2018, 11:45 PM
Practical Practical is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Apr 2003
Posts: 661
Likes: 4
Liked 289 Times in 166 Posts
Default

Most the S&W revolvers I see in gun shops are fine guns. You do see some 686-6 with not so great finishes or triggers but these are made for the big box stores.

If you go to a S&W Stocking dealer and look you will see top of the line guns.

If you go to the hottest online dealer or a gun show dealer you will see the monday morning and friday afternoon production and parts bin gun.

Frankly, if you look for a bargain and go to the discount seller you will see the base model of any product.

I have seen some really good S&W guns from good dealers and distributors.

My only gun with a lock is great.
  #72  
Old 01-12-2018, 12:01 AM
epj's Avatar
epj epj is offline
US Veteran
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: Birmingham, Alabama
Posts: 4,481
Likes: 227
Liked 2,397 Times in 1,081 Posts
Default

All you guys who can’t stand the newer guns and want guns built the way they used to be, just get your wallets out and be prepared to pay $1500+ for a new revolver. Then when they aren’t up to your expectations you can bitch all you want. Yes, a Registered Magnum cost about $80 as I recall. That was a much different dollar for one thing. For another, a S&W employee couldn’t necessarily afford to buy a new S&W.
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #73  
Old 01-12-2018, 08:53 AM
jmclfrsh's Avatar
jmclfrsh jmclfrsh is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Location: Central Ohio
Posts: 261
Likes: 27
Liked 338 Times in 94 Posts
Default

I understand what the OP is saying. I prefer the older guns myself. But I’m older, having purchased my first Model 57 in 1980. I since have purchased a 29-3 and a 629-1, so all three of mine are older models.

However, I am glad the company has survived. I am glad they are making models like the 460XVR.

And although I, too, dislike the lock (on Marlin rifles, too!) and am not happy with the CS issues that have cropped up, it is what it is. I don’t think ANY S&W revolvers should leave the factory with a canted barrel. Period.

I can’t help but feel the old school employees were more skilled, but that is true of most American industry nowadays.

However, I am glad folks like their new S&Ws, knowing that feeling well myself back in the early 80s.

I was able to find my latest two acquisitions in the last six months, so they are still out there. As for you newer-model owners, rock on!
Attached Images
File Type: jpg 6120C410-787D-4D5A-AD0D-24D5D9ECA523.jpg (81.5 KB, 32 views)
File Type: jpg 88474B87-ABF2-4CE1-9973-4888681DA1DC.jpg (61.1 KB, 28 views)

Last edited by jmclfrsh; 01-12-2018 at 09:00 AM.
  #74  
Old 01-12-2018, 10:54 AM
jeffrefrig jeffrefrig is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Jan 2017
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Posts: 5,044
Likes: 6,757
Liked 7,843 Times in 3,112 Posts
Default

I know nothing of the quality of the newer S&Ws, as the only 2 I own are my Model 10-8 I bought in '98 when it was around 10 years old and my dad's old K22 Masterpiece that I believe he bought new in/around 1951. They obviously made both of them to perfection because I can't miss a thing with the .22 up to maybe 40 yards (I will never put a screwdriver on the rear adj. sight...never!) and the .38, if it misses at the same distance, is user error. Very well-spent $200 20 yrs. ago. I have one or two friends and none have ever complained about new S & Ws. Spend the extra $40 and buy the gun at your LGS where you can touch it, fondle it, look down the barrel, etc. A few places around here will let you shoot it at their range in the basement or out back if they have one. Save your mail-order guns for the inexpensive handguns, like those used Italian guns and the 1911s from the Philipines. I would not drop $800 on a revolver that I could not shoot first. For every S&W that has a factory defect I would bet there are 10,000 or more excellent revolvers/pistols.
  #75  
Old 01-12-2018, 01:17 PM
BigBill BigBill is offline
Absent Comrade
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Planet earth
Posts: 13,869
Likes: 2,079
Liked 13,352 Times in 5,549 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by hammer 1 View Post
I have the same opinion, I would like them to feel as close as possible, my 57 is close to my old 19-4 inthe feel of the trigger. I need to try the moly though, every little bit helps
I can pick up any of my revolvers and expect the same trigger let off. It also makes me more accurate with each one.
  #76  
Old 01-12-2018, 10:27 PM
Bill Raby Bill Raby is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Oct 2017
Posts: 444
Likes: 0
Liked 753 Times in 257 Posts
Default

I like the new ones just fine. I only wish that that were more blued ones. Plenty of junk was made before 1980.
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #77  
Old 01-15-2018, 03:06 PM
BigBill BigBill is offline
Absent Comrade
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Planet earth
Posts: 13,869
Likes: 2,079
Liked 13,352 Times in 5,549 Posts
Default

It’s like a new pair of shoes most need breakin?
  #78  
Old 01-15-2018, 04:02 PM
ImprovedModel56Fan ImprovedModel56Fan is offline
US Veteran
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: MA
Posts: 7,330
Likes: 7,502
Liked 5,556 Times in 2,547 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Old cop View Post
While I know there's no longer a functional problem w/the internal lock (IL) I cannot bring myself to buy a new S&W equipped that way. There's a pride of ownership that goes w/owning a fine revolver and if I'm going to spend that much, it will not be on a S&W w/the IL. How many others feel the same way?
I almost feel the same way, but for every IL, there is a Plug waiting to be sold. Or other more insidious solutions.

While most of the older guns of a certain period (NOT late sixties and seventies) were better made, they did not include a 325PD. Want one? Buy it and fix it. Same for the reproduction 1917 (22-4). It has better sights, and was offered in nickel. There aren't any originals out there in nickel and 1/8" sights.

Life's a bitch, and then you die.
  #79  
Old 01-15-2018, 04:08 PM
ImprovedModel56Fan ImprovedModel56Fan is offline
US Veteran
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: MA
Posts: 7,330
Likes: 7,502
Liked 5,556 Times in 2,547 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by MJFlores View Post
You never read, or understood wht the laser was for. Unless you have a gunshop that lets you test fire revolvers before buying them? Can you post their address? Id love to do business with them.
You are quite right. However, I have found a solution. Deal with one LGS for everything, and buy only used guns. My LGS lets me test fire used guns, and it has worked out very well for both of us.
  #80  
Old 01-15-2018, 06:51 PM
SailDesign's Avatar
SailDesign SailDesign is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Jun 2017
Location: RI
Posts: 242
Likes: 336
Liked 425 Times in 171 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Old cop View Post
While I know there's no longer a functional problem w/the internal lock (IL) I cannot bring myself to buy a new S&W equipped that way. There's a pride of ownership that goes w/owning a fine revolver and if I'm going to spend that much, it will not be on a S&W w/the IL. How many others feel the same way?
If having a functioning lock that appears as little more than a well-machined pimple on the left-hand side RIGHT next to a large release button bothers you, well, I guess that's your loss. It does NOT make it any less of a fine revolver.

But leave the news ones alone - more for the rest of us who don't mind.
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #81  
Old 01-15-2018, 10:56 PM
therealsmithfan therealsmithfan is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Dec 2017
Posts: 172
Likes: 14
Liked 211 Times in 94 Posts
Default

I'm not a fan of the internal lock, for more than one reason...but I prefer frame mounted firing pin, and for out of the box smoothness you can't beat the MIM hammer/trigger (I've read many armorers that specialize in S&W wheel guns note that a fresh MIM set will be as smooth as forged with action job..and it gets better with use. My pre-lock 625-6 has an incredible trigger from the box). How many broken heat treated and case hardened MIM triggers or hammers have you seen?

I only point out the above, to say that we don't all "despise" all of the new features...and some actually like some of them better (although I've yet to read the post of the guy that prefers the IL...even if they don't mind it).

As far as bore laser sight; as noted in another reply, this only gives you an idea of how the cylinder and specific chamber is aligned with the frame. If the barrel was not centered with the cylinder/chamber...it would still shine the laser down the barrel and appear on target. However, they do make a "real" laser bore sighter that I have, that actually goes in the muzzle, not the less reliable bullet shaped variety. This type would give you a good idea of bore to "centered" sight alignment. It's a good investment, since it can be used from .22-.50 caliber and also to 12 gauge shotgun, and everything in between. Link below for example. I use it after installing new sights, and can even be used at 50 yards or so with a rifle to get scope nearly perfect before heading to the range. It's shortcoming is that you need about 3.5" to 4"barrel minimum. So not good for snubbies or sub compacts.



Lastly, why do you think hundreds of millions of guns made over the last couple hundred years have adjustable rear sights? Obviously not because the factories expect POI and POA to be exactly superimposed on each other on a new gun. If the barrel "looks" straight and not obviously overclocked, canted, etc., you should be able to get your sight (your point of aim) to correlate to the hole you are making down range (your point of impact). My 625-6 has the rear blade about 1/16" right of center to get me right in the center of target at 20 yards. Should I send it back to S&W for repair? Barrel appears perfectly straight to my naked eye. If you are only interested in guns with "perfect alignment", I'm afraid you will find a very limited selection.

One more lastly: I've been looking for certain pre-lock guns on gone-broker as they will never be found at any local dealer. Such as 5" 27/28/627 as example. I will pay at least $500 more than the very abundant PC627, 627Pro, for a gun that I have to buy sight unseen without checking things like trigger push off, cylinder gap clearance, timing, lockup, etc. I'm at the mercy of the seller and their description. I'm starting to think about going new instead on some, lock or no. I would most likely delete it, and plug it just out of spite. Getting very hard to justify paying the extra cash these days....I'm not made of money. I wonder if the hogue extended cylinder release would cover hilary's hole? Might be a good "fix"
  #82  
Old 01-15-2018, 11:11 PM
Mister X Mister X is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Apr 2010
Posts: 1,908
Likes: 414
Liked 2,249 Times in 1,032 Posts
Default

I've purchased several new S&W revolvers over the last few years and have no real complaints. A couple even had the internal lock. I never had any actual functional problems with the lock, but it still bothered me nonetheless. Enough so that and I didn't keep those specific guns, but I'm lucky my preferred models are now offered without it. If they weren't, I'd just learn to live with it.
  #83  
Old 01-16-2018, 12:14 AM
DonD DonD is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Central TX
Posts: 2,070
Likes: 431
Liked 877 Times in 447 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by MJFlores View Post
I think more than "just a few" are lemons. S&W has a whole system for issuing return labels, and a team to work on them when they get back. Just a few are worthy of the price tag, the rest are junk with alignment and finish problems. I'm sick of sifting through junk.
That's simply BS, just another bogus "They don't make them like they used to!" thread that will simply never die.

Don't like new don't buy it. New are mostly made of superior metallurgy and to tighter tolerances, simple fact that you won't iike. MIM parts are often aerospace items and don't require time consuming hand fitting to get good results. And old won't get you great guns like the 500s and 460s.

Plenty of the old stuff returned to the factory but the internet shouts to the rooftop about every minor defect in the new guns, that didn't happen with the old stuff.

Just like "My old 1965 Chevy, great tough skin, tough as nails." Yeah, horrid brakes, tires, handling, miserable mileage, poor power, obscene emissions and guess what? Get in a crash with a new car and you, not the new car driver will die. Like that? Don

Last edited by DonD; 01-16-2018 at 12:15 AM.
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #84  
Old 01-16-2018, 02:34 AM
therealsmithfan therealsmithfan is offline
Member
Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers Had a thought in regards to buying NEW revolvers  
Join Date: Dec 2017
Posts: 172
Likes: 14
Liked 211 Times in 94 Posts
Default

May be true in many respects DonD, I get your point. I don't have ANY probs with MIM trigger/hammer or frame mount firing pin (and see the advantages of both). But...there is more that just a little anecdotal evidence (along with many well done videos and write ups documenting issues) of poor quality control in later model smith wheel guns. These are not issues with the materials/methods, etc of otherwise fine guns. They are just sloppy work done by less than attentive craftsmen, and poor QC. Just like your 1965 chevy could have been a real lemon with problem after problem, and 5 trips to the dealer in the first 10K miles, while others you know had no probs with their's at all. I'm talking performance center guns with .010 gap between barrel and frame with light shining through, horrible chamber chamfers, crooked barrels, chipped up forcing cones, horrific barrel crowns, etc. With today's modern technology and ability to hold tolerances unheard of 50 years ago, these inconsistencies should be caught and fixed in final inspection stage prior to going into a box and out to the dealers, to become the problem of us, the consumer. We can be fans of S&W products, and appreciate the old and new...but we can also be honest of their shortcomings and expect quality consistent with the price tag.

Last edited by therealsmithfan; 01-16-2018 at 02:35 AM.
The Following User Likes This Post:
Closed Thread

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Are many people buying new S&W revolvers? bushmaster1313 S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present 297 08-10-2019 08:27 AM
Holster buying as a second thought... adams484 Gun Leather & Carry Gear 16 10-18-2016 10:41 AM
Gun Show buying Tactics - for S&W Revolvers gizamo The Lounge 8 02-13-2012 10:52 AM
Big 5 hunting with revolvers...a thought? mac2 The Lounge 11 07-27-2011 10:20 AM
Thought I was through buying .38's! Old Corp S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 4 11-16-2009 03:07 PM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 09:41 AM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)