I'm more into semi autos but revolvers are growing on me recently. I have an M&P R8 on order and hope to receive it soon.

For my next revolver purchase, I thinking either the GP100 Match Champion with adjustable sights or the 686 SSR. My main reasons are for general range shooting, maybe a HD gun (although I have others for that role), possibly join competitions later on (requires a 6 shooter), and even for collection as both are actually very rare where I'm from.

Unfortunately, our local dealer do not display their guns and it's impossible to rent also. Plus reselling guns later on is not so simple. So basically, I have to be careful whenever I make a new gun purchase decision.

Between the two, which would you say is better out of the box? Especially if you've handled both, why do you think so? It's also not convenient for me to visit local gunsmiths so this matters to me. The Ruger costs a bit less although the price difference is not really a big factor for me.

I understand that this is a S&W forum but I think many probably own Rugers as well. Thanks to all for your advice!