Choosing first 357 revolver

[all4mine]

Thank you everyone. I certainly came to the right place for advice. I'm going to start by trying different frames to see what feels best in my hand, and go from there. I'll keep you posted.

 

[b_san]

Thank you everyone. I certainly came to the right place for advice. I'm going to start by trying different frames to see what feels best in my hand, and go from there. I'll keep you posted.

Great plan, too many times people get buyers remorse because they buy the 1st gun they see and don't compare them in hand or shoot them to see what they like they best. Good luck and let us know what you come up with.

 

[revolver686]

I have a 4 inch 686 that I take to the range and to the woods. It also serves as my home defense weapon. I have a 2 1/2 inch 686 that is my carry and truck gun.
They are both superb guns and I wouldn't give up either, but if I were forced to pick just one .357 to fill those roles I would split the difference and go with a 3 inch 686.

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[Kilibreaux]

I'm looking to buy my first 357 revolver. I used one at a class I took last year and loved it, but I don't remember the exact model. I've been looking at model 586 and 66. Does anyone have opinions on what I should go with? I'm a novice gun user and only have a 22 semi automatic right now.

Model 60 3". Buy it, you'll love it, and never regret it.

 

[riverrat38]

Check out the 4 inch M686 SSR.
It has some nice features for about $100 extra.
I like the interchangeable front sight.
I think it would be a nice all around 357 Magnum revolver. I have got my eye on one, pending sale of another gun.
I have had the 3 inch plus, and should have kept it. It was the upper limit of what I consider concealable. It shot nice groups at 50 feet.
Some of the new M66 revolvers are showing up on Gubroker. About the same price as the 686's. I would like to see a 2.5 or 3 inch version, new model 65.


Best,
Rick

 

[nawilson]

Sometimes it helps to compare buying a new firearm to buying a new tool...bare with me for a moment and I'll explain! First question you have is "What are you going to do with it(as explained before i.e. CC , open carry or field use , range gun or a little dual purpose)? The next one would be" How much use would this tool get?" This can help you determine finish. A stainless will show little holster wear if any and is a lot easier on maintenance.
And most importantly above all else is "Can I effectively use this tool for the application intended?" You and you alone must feel comfortable and confident that you can use your new firearm ( should the need arise) and be able to put rounds on the intended target.
The best think to do is try them out and see what suits you for the job your trying to do with it. Nothing will replace hands on range time. Lucky for you S&W is the best manufacturer when it comes to options on frame sizes, sights, barrel lengths, calibers, type of metals, and finishes. Now take the info these fine gentlemen have shared and go and be free and explore the wonderful world that is Smith&Wesson!
Thank you for you time gentlemen hope this helps or maybe I sound crazy!


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Hammer, meet nail head.

 

[BigBill]

Wait now guys this is his first 357 revolver.

If most of you were like me my first 357 was a python and I shot the snots out of it. I'm sure you guys did the same? So these first time 357 owners need a revolver they can hammer.

 

[M3Stuart]

Welcome to the forum!

No shortage of opinions here!

You can't go wrong with a 3" or 4" 686.

 

[islamoradamark]

you know enough i got a 4 inch and a 6 inch enjoy them both ay farther distancecs i out shoot others at the range

 

[harp4blues]

686

As several have said, choosing your 2nd 357 is tougher. My first S&W was a 686 4-inch and then came the 686 Plus 3-inch (Talo). My favorite - both.

 

[jtcarm]

Model 60 3". Buy it, you'll love it, and never regret it.

And he should do that, why? What makes the M-60 good as a first .357?

Starting with a short barrel/small frame is like telling someone interested in fishing to begin by fishing for trout on the dry fly.

Starting out he is best off with a gun with some heft and more sight-radius.