I have two semi-auto handguns, one of which is a SW. I have been thinking about purchasing another handgun and think I would like a revolver to take to the range and maybe use as a backup gun for carry. I have never owned a revolver and have not shot one in many years.

My question is which SW revolver would you recomend for me to look at. I would not mind buying used if I knew which model would be the best to look for. Thanks

If it's for the range, grab a .22. Nothing is more fun than that.

A 617 model, perhaps? They are a little pricey, though. I found a nice, used Model 34-1 for $400.

Otherwise, keep an eye out for a police-trade in .38 or .357.

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Because of the metric system?

Range use and carry options don't often come together in one gun. For a great all around revolver you can't go wrong with a 586 (blue) or a 686 (stainless) .357...4" or 6" for the range or 3" for carry options. Under 4" is hard to find in the 586 but still made in the 686. The 3" will still be a fun gun at the range but the 4" or 6" will be easier if you want to shoot more than 30-40 rounds. This, of course, also depends on the ammo you shoot. That's the great thing about a .357...anything from bunny fart .38's up to bone jarring .357's all out of the same gun.

There are many other fine revolvers but it is MHO that starting with the 586/686 will provide the best all around fun. Then you will fall in love with revolvers and start looking at 19's ,66's, 10's, 27's, 29's, oh my the list is just starting!

Let us know what you decide.

A 4" model 19 will be my next purchase.38s for fun,357 if you need more power.A model 15 is nice too,38s only.I just sold another 6" 586.They are nice for dampening the recoil of a 357 if that's all you're shooting,but overall too clunky and muzzle heavy IMHO.

All carry guns are range guns. Ya gotta practice somewhere. A lot.

I love the 4" heavy barrel Model 10, 38 Spl. I'm looking for another one myself. (Another sale I regret.)

I like the balance and recoil dampening of a heavy barrel or full length underlug. I already have an old 4" Model 581, 357 Mag, otherwise I'd order a 4" Model 586.

Grips are important. No matter which gun you choose - it can be improved by buying grips that fit YOU. There are many many grips available for revolvers. None of my revolvers wear the original grips.

I carry this Model 581 in a Mernickle PS6-DA holster. http://www.mernickleholsters.com/ps/ps6dar1.html

Attached Images

S&W Mod 581 rosewood grips.jpg (83.1 KB, 48 views)

+1 for Ihump1961.

The 586/686 with the full underlug almost can't be beat. I prefer the .357 Magnum rounds, but also being able to use .38Specials in the same revolver adds a touch of class and versatility.

You also won't go wrong if you buy a Model 19.

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That's what we do!

While I agree w/all the previous posts if you're looking for a ccw revolver be sure to check out the J frames. They're not fun to shoot but can be mastered w/time & make great ccw options.

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Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)

Thanks to all for your input on this topic, you have given me a few options to look at and guns to look for as I make it out to my LGS.

nice looking grips u got there and thanks 4 the holster link

My only (so far) revolver is a 686 4" barrel. Great range gun. Actually got a holster inbound today to use for carry, now that is cooled down a little. Don't think I can hid it beneath my normal T shirt.

You will enjoy it. And like the earlier posts have warned you, you will want more revolvers. I know I do

Model 686 for the range, in a 4" best gun EVER! For a back up, the model 60...

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Still just a kid at heart

I like what the writers said about a platform that will shoot both the .38 Special and the .357 Magnum. Don't go any smaller than a K frame for the .357 Magnum. I owned several of them, 3 I think, back in my youth. Outstanding revolver. I carry, when I carry, a 325PD in .45ACP I picked up used but looking new. A 4 inch barrel will make it easier to carry regardless of what you buy. We all got our favorites so you'll just have to go with what cranks your tractor.

Reb

I think a 586 or 686 4-inch is the best choice, 4-inch barrel fun at the range and not uncomfortable to carry around.

Revolver lovers will tell you that there's nothing like starting out on the classic k frames and because of that I'm going to recommend the model 15 or model 10. You get a revolver with a smooth trigger, pinned barrel, and they tend to show up at really great prices on the used market.

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Ephesians 6 (Armor of God)