Quote:
Originally Posted by pennlineman
I don't think it's the best they ever made. But for what it was designed to do it was one of the best. A powerful chambering in a package much lighter than the N frame. Handy for those who carried a lot and fire a little.
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I'd agree with that. I think you will probably shoot a LOT of 38s before the gun is going to need much attention. Since the gun was originally designed and produced in the era where practicing with 38s and carrying .357s was considered normal, it was great for that purpose. I still think it one of S&W's niftiest guns.
To answer the OP's other question, yes, you can find Model 19s at reasonable prices. Lots of guys have read too many stories on the internet and are scared of them. A decent one can sometimes be found in the $300+ range - if you get lucky. (Beaters correspondingly less.) Just look around and keep your money ready.