.357s Cheap for training

[Schmit55]

Hey guys, I mostly lurk around SIGForum but anyways I'm looking for a good deal on a S&W .357 for new shooters to try, because I only have a 629 Mountain Gun and a 642, and I also want one. What should I get and what can I get for 300-400 bucks? Model 19-5?

I've been looking at lot on GunBroker.

Thanks

 

[jpwhel]

Model 19 will be your best bet, great gun too. There are a few listed in the Classified section at this time that look like good shooters for less than $400. I picked up a great looking 6" nickel version Mod 19-4 about a year ago off GB for around $400.

IMHO, the Mod-19 is one of the K frame classics that will always be in my collection.

 

[roaddog28]

Be patience. I ran into a nice 66-4 4 inch two days ago at Turner outdoorman. Price $300.00. I bought it and now I have two 66-4 4 inch revolvers. No matter the K frame magnums are excellent training revolvers for beginning shooters. The deals are out there but patience is the key. I have overpaid for handguns in the past.

Good luck,
roaddog28

 

[deuterij]

You could consider the following family of models:

581 - 357 mag with fixed rear sight and blued finish
586 - same as 581 but with adjustable sight
681 - same as 581 but in stainless steel
686 - same as 586 but in stainless steel

These are the evolution of the K-frame (models 19 and 66) into slightly larger L-frame. I have recently seen shooter grade examples go in the $400 range.

This family is my favorite to shoot and very accurate in their 4 or 6 inch versions. Their full lug barrels seem to mitigate felt recoil.

 

[HAWKEYE10]

I also think the model 19 would be a great choice.
It's not so heavy and easy to handle. Don

 

[bmhiii]

In my opinion, the 19 is not too fun to shoot with factory .357 Magnum ammo. It's just a lot of bang for a smaller gun, but that's just my opinion. I much prefer an N frame for shooting factory .357 magnums.

I say this because if when I was a new shooter (new to handgun shooting) and I had shot my first .357 Magnum from a M19 instead of a M28, it would have not been a pleasant experience. Call me a wuss if you want, just the way I feel.

I have shot some tamed down .357 hand loads from the M19 and they were very pleasant.

Just my .02 worth and in truth, worth less than that....

 

[Gun 4 Fun]

I agree with Barry. If you want to buy a .357 for teaching others to shoot, they will be a lot happier learning with a gun that doesn't kick as much, and cause poor shooting habits right out of the gate.

Get a good 28 with a 4" barrel. Even women with their smaller hands can grasp one comfortably with the right grips installed, and they will enjoy the experience a lot more than they would with the 19. BTW, I love 19's, they are just too light to train newbies with, unless you are using lighter loads. Eventually though, they will need to learn to shoot full power stuff. A 586/686 would be my second choice.

 

[scooter123]

I am also with Barry on having new shooters using the model 19 for full power 357 Magnums, the recoil will be just too stout. However, loaded with 38 spl. it's one of the best training guns that can be found.

 

[roaddog28]

I am also with Barry on having new shooters using the model 19 for full power 357 Magnums, the recoil will be just too stout. However, loaded with 38 spl. it's one of the best training guns that can be found.

Agree scooter123. The 19/66 is a hand full on recoil with 357 magnums. I shoot 357s with my 28-2 or my 686. But the K frame is the best 38 special revolver ever made. The 19/66 is really a model 15/67 combat masterpiece. The 19/66 was modified to shoot 357s on a limited basis. I am of the opinion that for training the K frame magnum would be my first choice. Most beginners need to learn how to shoot accurately first. Its a lot easy to start with 38s. I feel the K frame is better balanced to shoot 38s.

roaddog28