Classic Revolvers

[unclebob]

Since I retired I am going to get into shooting regularly, and since I enjoy all of the knowledgeable members on this forum, I have to ask when buying used are there any certain models I should stay away from, such as defects, weakness, etc....

I currently own
Model 27 8 3/8 nickel
Model 59
Model 36.

 

[Old cop]

I'm not sure how to answer your question, I'll leave that to others, but a couple of must haves are a Model 18 and a Model 14. Do a search on how to check out a used revolver, good info out there.

 

[BAM-BAM]

A 17 w/ 6" barrel may be easier to find than a 4" Model 18.

But one of these .22lr would be on my "first to get" list.

I think the best all around/all purpose centerfire revolver would be a 4" Model(s) 19/66; a .357 magnum...... it can also shoot any .38 Special ammo from wad cutters to +P+.


As I write this.... it occurs to me that as a "retiree" you are probably 55-65 so optics are/or will be important....... ask me how I know>>>LOL

So my first suggestion is a good .22 rifle....... the best value out there for the money; IMHO, is found in the CZ line of Model 452s and 455s( $300-500 depending on style)

 

[UncleEd]

I'd say to start with look for K-frame .38s, .357s which take the .38.

The Model 18 is actually a .22LR or its longer barreled brother the Model 17.

The Model 14 or its shorter barreled counterpart, the Model 15 (Combat Masterpiece), and then the Model 19 in just about any barrel length you like are in .38 with the designated a .357.

Of course, if you're into the big bore stuff right away, then the Model 29 or any of its related N-frame cousins.

The L-frame, mid sized between the K and N is also a nice
choice for .38/.357. That'd be the 586.

Stainless models exist with different number designations for such models as the 15, 19.

And don't forget the ever wonderful K-frame M&P, now known as the Model 10.

 

[Ashlander]

I have bought a lot of used revolvers and have fun with them all. If I avoid anything, it's the aluminum frame guns -- at the range I like having the weight of steel to both help steady the gun and absorb recoil. I have a scandium frame snubbie, but that's for concealed carry (it is no fun to shoot).

 

[THE PILGRIM]

All 22s are good, IMO.
The larger calibers recoil more and can be expensive unless you reload. But are fun to shoot!
The only caliber I could never tame is the 22 Jet.
Actually had 2. Just when I thought I had it figured out I would get a set-back round and a stuck cylinder.

 

[eb07]

Two best handguns I ever fired:

5" registered magnum

4" model 19

It was love at first draw.

 

[oldafsp]

I may be a tad biased but here goes.

The K frames with 4 inch barrels are hard to beat for accuracy and dependability. Even if you find one that is a little finish challenged, they make wonderful shooters.

Most were not shot a lot, some not at all or resided in someones sock drawer.

Don't let anyone tell you differently, a fixed sight K frame (Model 10 or 13) is a force to be reckoned with the hands of the right shooter.

The ones to look for are Model 10's and 15's if you don't absolutely need a .357.

The Model 67 is a great gun and will cost you a bit more to obtain.

I left out the Model 19 and 66 for my own personal reasons.
(which I am sure I will get flamed for this)

Too many were abused with high powered handloads during their life. There are nice ones out there, but you will pay the price for them.

Good luck in your search.

 

[damienph]

As far as for must haves;
K22 6" .22LR
M15 4" .38Spl
M66 2 1/2" .357Mag
M686 4" .357Mag
1917 5" .45ACP
These would be a well rounded group that I would get... Oh wait... Those ARE mine!

 

[colt_saa]

I have to ask when buying used are there any certain models I should stay away from, such as defects, weakness, etc....

That is a gigantic question to answer.

Defects......no

Weaknesses.....of course, however most are corrected when learned about. For example if you wish to shoot lots of heavy 44 Magnums you want to stay away from the model 29s manufactured before the Endurance package was added to the firearm.

If you plan on putting a scope on one you want to choose an engineering revision after the frames were drilled and tapped for scope mounts.

If you like shooting 45LC with the original .454 projectiles you need to get one that was made before they switched to the tighter throats for compatibility with 45ACP projectiles.

Some traditionalists refuse to buy S&Ws after they stopped making P&R guns, others refuse to buy after wood grips were discontinued, others only want forged hammers and triggers, after all they don't build them the way they used to. While those that embrace advancement like the CAD/CNC firearms for their greater strength and are willing to overlook the artistic beauty of the old blueing that the EPA took away from us.

Some embrace the extraordinary accuracy that the multi-piece barrels have brought to the revolvers in recent years, rivaling the legendary performance of the older Dan Wessons. Other will tell you it is a way to cut costs and just make the gun cheaper and they want nothing to do with it.

Some love plastic guns because they weigh less other prefers blue steel and Ivory for their automatics.

There are hundreds of little idiosyncrasies and tidbits. If you do not already have one, a copy of the Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson (SCSW) will tell you most of this stuff. The 4th Edition will be releasing within the next 6-12 months if you want to wait.

If you want to discuss it here, at least narrow down what you like to less than "Everything S&W"

 

[shawn mccarver]

Since I retired I am going to get into shooting regularly, and since I enjoy all of the knowledgeable members on this forum, I have to ask when buying used are there any certain models I should stay away from, such as defects, weakness, etc....

For shooting purposes, I prefer nothing before there was good heat treatment, and for convenience, I prefer guns made after the ejector rod thread was changed to left hand. Also, I prefer not to buy a K frame made during that unfortunate period when they moved the gas ring to the yoke. Finally, with the 44 Magnum, I like the ones with the endurance package. Oh, almost forgot - by choice, I stay away from used guns with internal locks.

Naturally, the weapon in question, even if it meets the above conditions, still has to work correctly, carry up, have not been modified, or subjected to, or show evidence of, "kitchen table gunsmithing," etc.

 

[shouldazagged]

M60 or 36, M10 or 64 4", M15, 67 or 19, M640 or 40, M17 or 617, M686, M624 or 696--too many choices!

All have their uses; but if (God forbid!) I could only have one for all-purpose use it would be the four-inch Model 10.

 

[CajunBass]

If you reload, a Model 58 in 41 magnum is a classic that doesn't turn up too often.

But the Model 19, 357, with a 4" barrel is number one on my list.

 

[howiema]

I am biased also as OLDAFSP. I cannot get enough k Frame 38's, Just my preference even the crunchy ones shoot well. Generally the price point is not that bad.They are addicting be careful and enjoy them.

Pete

 

[bananaman]

Model 64's did not get mentioned enough, so I am doing it. My 64-3 shot quite well the first time at the range. What is there not to like? Nice examples can be found reasonably priced. Good luck on your hunt! By the way, this Saturday is my last day to work. Hope it works out well for you. Bob

 

[loeman]

Model 681

Tons of great choices, tons of good advice. I own many of the above suggestions. However the one gun that I'd be on the hunt for is the Model 681. Modern, but classic! A stainless steel jewel in .357/38 Has a perfect 4 inch barrel, fixed sights, terrific trigger and superb accuracy.

 

[silentflyer]

Don't pass up a deal on any Dan Wesson's made in Monson, Ma., some of the most accurate handguns ever built.

 

[StrawHat]

I am biased toward the large slow bullet and recommend grabbing any of the S&W revolvers in 45 ACP that look good to you. My preferences are the blued ones, 1917, Brazilian 1917, 1950, 1955, M25, M22-4 but there are some stainless ones also.

Kevin

 

[BAM-BAM]

I see unclebob (OP) add a list of the guns he already owns.

So I'll stick with my original recommendations.......... a .22 17/18 and a 4" 19/66...... as the first 2 I'd look for.....

I would add a 4 (carry) or 6 ( range or hunting) inch 586/686 for heavy .357 magnum use and a Model 14 6 inch .38 for the range................

A Model 41; .22 with a optic might be good for a retiree at the range

 

[DWalt]

There is a saying that goes something like: Buy S&Ws for shooting, but buy Colts for collecting and appreciation. You will find many fascinating Colts, but their prices are frequently somewhat more than the equivalent S&W models in the same condition. You can find some (relatively) inexpensive S&Ws, but seldom an inexpensive Colt.