Calling all experts

[gotts63]

Greetings,

Calling all experts....

Looking to purchase a trail revolver 2.5" to 3". Been looking at models like the 686, 60 series. From reading it sounds like the 686 handles the mag loads, while the other models are basically 38 shooters and a once in awhile a 357 shooter. Like stated I'm looking for a trail gun, I wouldn't mind picking up 60 series but would like to shoot off a couple of mags through it without damage to the gun. I probably would not be shooting more than 500 loads a year of mags through the 60 series. Would this be too many loads for a 60 series gun to handle, or would it be fine? Also does the 686 come in a k frame?

Thanks for the help looking forward to learn and discover fuure possibilities on the S&W.

 

[cobra44]

The 60 series are fine revolvers. They would probably handle the loads fine. Keep in mind that it is a smaller frame than a 686, and will recoil worse than the 686. I probably would not feed it a steady diet of heavy loads. I have noticed several that were fairly loose from heavy loads.
However, the 686 (which is a L frame) would do a much better job. The 686 is one of the finest revolvers that was ever produced. I have the 2 1/2 and the 3 inch model. I prefer the 3 inch over the 2 1/2, they just shoot and balance better.
Simply, I would go with the 686 3 inch.
Hope this helps.

(disclaimer - I am not an expert)

 

[bamabiker]

Welcome to the forum.
I believe the M60 will handle more 357s than you'll want to shoot in it.
The M686 is a L frame, a little bigger frame that has the same size grip frame. You can use K frame grips on a L frame and vice-a-versa.
P.S. I'm no expert. JMO.

 

[buckyjames1]

I have both

60-10 <---IMHO the best of the 60 series.
- 3inch barrel, .357mag, adjustable sights, full underlug,last of no lock.
- I 2nd the comment, It'll handle more 357mag than you will want to
shoot. Consider rounds also. It only holds 5 rds and kicks quite a bot
more than K/L frames.

686+ 4inch:
- 7 shot, .357mag, more weight, K frame adjustable sights, does have IL
People praise the 686 for reason. It will withstand all you
throw at it and handle the heavier loads a considerable amount better
than a j frame (revolver and your body). generally more accurate due
to sight radius and barrel. Better grip control but over all bigger.
*when range time comes my wife goes for the 686*

For backpacking...I'd give edge to 686.
-+2 rds
can handle heavier loads
concealment isnt an issue (state parks)
generally more accurate

 

[ab4ka]

I'm no expert, but I highly recommend the 686. I've got one with the 2-1/2" barrel and it is a dream to shoot. You can put magnums through it all day and have fun. The model 60 is a great gun, but it's not something I'd want to shoot a lot of magnums through.

 

[Snowbandit]

My daughter recently picked up a 2-1/2 inch 686 plus. It's the ideal trail gun as far as I'm concerned as long as big bears are not on the agenda. I tend to think of the model 60 as more of a "city" gun.