choosing my first smith and wesson .357 magnum

[Evil One]

My first S&W .357 was a M27-2 nickel 5"er...
Actually, thats the only S&W .357 I have bought... but cant think of a better introduction.
I would handle the J, K, L, and N frames... see which one fit best... and go from there.
Pictures and other people opinions will only get you just so far.


Jim

 

[S&W-Keeper]

It is hard to beat a 4" L-Frame.

 

[Speedo2]

Both the 4" M686 and 3" M60 are great guns. For indoor target practice, the 686 would be the better choice. However, if that would be the gun's sole intended purpose, I'd have to question why you would want a 357 magnum. The M686 is no slouch, but if it were me I would be more inclined towards a M14, or possibly a 6" M19. Being the lazy sort of person that I am, I might even be looking for a 6" target-tricked out M66 and shoot nothing but wadcutters in it. If I was truly the cheap sort of person that my wife frequently accuses me of being, I'd probably stick with a M17 or 617. Hmmm....come to think of it, I do own a few of them 17's.

Regarding the 3" M60; I've got one of those M60-4's which is an adjustable sighted, full lugged 38 spl edition and it is extremely accurate. Probably not as inherently accurate as a 6" target K or L frame S&W, but it's pretty darned close, so don't let anyone sell those things short. Anyway; good preliminary choices, either of which you will most likely very much enjoy owning. -S2

 

[Douglas Ditto]

Definitely the 686 to shoot. Model 60 is beautiful and nice to carry but packs a vicious wallop.

 

[Bob D]

Option 3: 4 inch model 66, the most versatile .357 Smith makes. I have owned only 5 S&W .357s. Two 8-3/8 686s, one 6" Model 27, one 4" mod 66 and one 2" mod 60. I sold the 27 and 686s. I've kept the 60 and 66, the 60 for concealed carry and the 66 for carry while deer or bear hunting. I use my 29 classic for handgun hunting.