I recently acquired a Mod. 15-3 4inch which I just love. This is my first revolver as I own mostly 1911's and CZ's. The only other revolver I've shot was my brother's 10 shot .22 with a 6 inch barrel (I don't recall the model but the frame is as big as my .38.) I'm sort of hooked now and plan on acquiring more Smith's in the future...they're just great shooters. I was wondering what all you experienced folks here would recommend to round out a decent representation of S&W revolvers for a new revolver nut like myself. I'm not looking for collectible "safe queens" but decent shooters for plinking, target shooting, self-defense, and maybe even hunting up to deer size game. I'm sure everyone here has their favorite models, I'd like to hear why. What would be some of the essential Smith's to own?
Essential Smiths to own
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I recently acquired a Mod. 15-3 4inch which I just love. This is my first revolver as I own mostly 1911's and CZ's. The only other revolver I've shot was my brother's 10 shot .22 with a 6 inch barrel (I don't recall the model but the frame is as big as my .38.) I'm sort of hooked now and plan on acquiring more Smith's in the future...they're just great shooters. I was wondering what all you experienced folks here would recommend to round out a decent representation of S&W revolvers for a new revolver nut like myself. I'm not looking for collectible "safe queens" but decent shooters for plinking, target shooting, self-defense, and maybe even hunting up to deer size game. I'm sure everyone here has their favorite models, I'd like to hear why. What would be some of the essential Smith's to own?
RedBerens
Member
Congratulations on your new revolver. Something from the model 29 / 629 family is a must. Along with a small J-frame, a .22 cal. K-frame and an L-framed .357 Magnum.
You are in BIG TROUBLE NOW!!!!
There are no essentials, Just addictions.
You need J frames
A centennial, Chiefs special, Bodyguard,
A K frame,
Model 19 would ne a great one
A L frame, like a 686
and an N frame, like a model 27 or 28 or 629.
You MUST have enough to cover from the .22 up to the 44 mag.
Just get what you like!
One of my personal favorites is the 940 (9mm) 5 shot revolver, and a 50s model 32 38S&W ammo.
You opened up a big box of guns, I would guess that some here have more guns than teeth.
I wish your wallet well along your
adventure!
Peter.
There are no essentials, Just addictions.
You need J frames
A centennial, Chiefs special, Bodyguard,
A K frame,
Model 19 would ne a great one
A L frame, like a 686
and an N frame, like a model 27 or 28 or 629.
You MUST have enough to cover from the .22 up to the 44 mag.
Just get what you like!
One of my personal favorites is the 940 (9mm) 5 shot revolver, and a 50s model 32 38S&W ammo.
You opened up a big box of guns, I would guess that some here have more guns than teeth.
I wish your wallet well along your
adventure!
Peter.
Bill Bates
Member
Something is each frame size would be nice.
I think at least one M&P/model 10 should be on the list. A K-22 should be there. A Model 27 and or 29 would be on the short list for an N frame. A little .32 on an I, improved I or J frame would be on this list.
Oh and the list could just keep growing and growing.
I think at least one M&P/model 10 should be on the list. A K-22 should be there. A Model 27 and or 29 would be on the short list for an N frame. A little .32 on an I, improved I or J frame would be on this list.
Oh and the list could just keep growing and growing.
At a minimum, a J Frame 38/357, a K Frame .22 RF, a K/L Frame .357, a N Frame .44 Spec/Mag.
My personal preferences are Mod 60, Mod 686, Mod 17, Mod 29.
Of course then you MEED to start filling in the holes, Mod 34, Mod 63, Mod 19, Mod 66, Mod 24, and on and on. Don't buy a small gun safe, you will regret it.
My personal preferences are Mod 60, Mod 686, Mod 17, Mod 29.
Of course then you MEED to start filling in the holes, Mod 34, Mod 63, Mod 19, Mod 66, Mod 24, and on and on. Don't buy a small gun safe, you will regret it.
Wickahoney
US Veteran
Predicated on what barrel length you like the next gun I would get in the S&W line up would be a Model 18 in 4" or a Model 17 in 6". This is the all time 22LR and allows unlimited practice at a reasonable price. It is the same frame size and same overall dementions as the gun you have which aides in it's use as a practice tool. It is also one of the best "bumming around" or "plinking" guns ever produced.
The next step is to decided how big of revolver you want to shoot in terms of caliber.
If you think you want to shoot a few 357s and like the frame size you have then I'd get a Model 19 in whatevr barrel appeals to you.
If you invision it as a carry piece get a 2 1/2" gun and that will fil that niche just fine. The 4" and 6" might work better as "Trail" guns etc. The same gun instainless is the Model 66.
If you are thinking .357 Mag and plan on shooting it that way then it's an "L" frame either the 586 or the 686 if you want stainless.
If you want to "drive" 357 Mags as fast as you can and invision a steady diet of them then either the Model 27 or 28. The Model 27 is the Cadillac of the S&W line up and is the best finished revolver they ever made predicated on age. Every body should own one. This is a large gun built on the original "N" or 44 frame and is a bit heavy but is a durable as a tank.
Above that the logical choice would be the Model 29 or 629 instainless n the same "N" frame. This is the classic and original .44 Magnum.
If you want a small concealed carry 38 then the Model 36 or Chiefs special is the clasic "J' or small frame 38 belly gun.
That would pretty well round out the range and needs of the everage shooter.
After that there are many more specialized guns in each frame size, again predicated on use.
I started out like you in the early 70s, a small grup of S&Ws to cover the wide spectrum. I sort of made it there a few years back with 45 or so. Be careful what you wish for!!! ;-)
As an aside the 45 number is just about all post WWII guns by Model with some duplication. That is not however each model and each barrel length within the model nore each engineering change within each model. I once figured that out and it was something like 273 guns!! That only included standard cataloged guns not special runs or Preformance Center guns, nore the "6"/stainless version of each guns. So this could get VERY spendy. ;-)
You really need to purchase a copy of the 3rd edition of the STANDARD CATALOG OF SMITH & WESSON by Spuica & Nahas before you start on this goal. It'll be the best money you ever spent even if you quit at 3 or 4 guns.
the best
RWT
The next step is to decided how big of revolver you want to shoot in terms of caliber.
If you think you want to shoot a few 357s and like the frame size you have then I'd get a Model 19 in whatevr barrel appeals to you.
If you invision it as a carry piece get a 2 1/2" gun and that will fil that niche just fine. The 4" and 6" might work better as "Trail" guns etc. The same gun instainless is the Model 66.
If you are thinking .357 Mag and plan on shooting it that way then it's an "L" frame either the 586 or the 686 if you want stainless.
If you want to "drive" 357 Mags as fast as you can and invision a steady diet of them then either the Model 27 or 28. The Model 27 is the Cadillac of the S&W line up and is the best finished revolver they ever made predicated on age. Every body should own one. This is a large gun built on the original "N" or 44 frame and is a bit heavy but is a durable as a tank.
Above that the logical choice would be the Model 29 or 629 instainless n the same "N" frame. This is the classic and original .44 Magnum.
If you want a small concealed carry 38 then the Model 36 or Chiefs special is the clasic "J' or small frame 38 belly gun.
That would pretty well round out the range and needs of the everage shooter.
After that there are many more specialized guns in each frame size, again predicated on use.
I started out like you in the early 70s, a small grup of S&Ws to cover the wide spectrum. I sort of made it there a few years back with 45 or so. Be careful what you wish for!!! ;-)
As an aside the 45 number is just about all post WWII guns by Model with some duplication. That is not however each model and each barrel length within the model nore each engineering change within each model. I once figured that out and it was something like 273 guns!! That only included standard cataloged guns not special runs or Preformance Center guns, nore the "6"/stainless version of each guns. So this could get VERY spendy. ;-)
You really need to purchase a copy of the 3rd edition of the STANDARD CATALOG OF SMITH & WESSON by Spuica & Nahas before you start on this goal. It'll be the best money you ever spent even if you quit at 3 or 4 guns.
the best
RWT
Sgt 127
Member
A model 36 or 60 Chiefs Special
A model 10/13 or 64/65
A model 14 or 15
A model 18
A Model 27.
You should be able to hold your head up amongst any group of Smith collectors.
A model 10/13 or 64/65
A model 14 or 15
A model 18
A Model 27.
You should be able to hold your head up amongst any group of Smith collectors.
Centurian77
Member
Everyone has an opinion.
29/629
66/19/27/28
686/586
60/36
Really just get a few and go from there.
29/629
66/19/27/28
686/586
60/36
Really just get a few and go from there.
wraco
Member
As many as you can comfortably afford and find.
Regards:
Rod
Regards:
Rod
yugolovr
Member
Well since you already know that you like K frames I would just round out the collection. That will take you from .22 long rifle to .357 magnum. That and they just feel right in the hand.
Allen-frame
Member
The essentials are, in no special order:
1. a model 25 in 45 a.c.p.
2> a model 25 in 45 Colt ctg.
3. a model 27 3 1/2 in.
4. a model 27 4" or 6".
5. a Highway patrolman in 4" and 6".
6. a model 29 and /or a 629, one short barreled, one 6" or longer.
7. a model 57 preferably 4" but any one will do.
8. a model 24 or 624 or any N frame specifically chambered in 44 Special.
This is a good start on the N frame list, it grows with different barrel lengths and finishes, and 4 and 5 screws. And post war and pre war.
The K frame list is just as long, and includes the smaller calibers, 22, 32, 9m.m.
It.s a never ending search and rescue mission, with trips to the range weekly to shoot the newest members.
Good luck ,,Al
1. a model 25 in 45 a.c.p.
2> a model 25 in 45 Colt ctg.
3. a model 27 3 1/2 in.
4. a model 27 4" or 6".
5. a Highway patrolman in 4" and 6".
6. a model 29 and /or a 629, one short barreled, one 6" or longer.
7. a model 57 preferably 4" but any one will do.
8. a model 24 or 624 or any N frame specifically chambered in 44 Special.
This is a good start on the N frame list, it grows with different barrel lengths and finishes, and 4 and 5 screws. And post war and pre war.
The K frame list is just as long, and includes the smaller calibers, 22, 32, 9m.m.
It.s a never ending search and rescue mission, with trips to the range weekly to shoot the newest members.
Good luck ,,Al
Sir, if you're after a representative sampling, a good start would be a Model 36, Model 10, and Model 29. These three cover the most common frame sizes, and each is a classic in its own right.
JMHO, FWIW.
Hope this helps, and Semper Fi.
Ron H.
JMHO, FWIW.
Hope this helps, and Semper Fi.
Ron H.
VAdoublegunner
Member
Wow, everyone is gonna name everything on this thread! I'll just say one often overlooked but most fun and often used is a decent .22 revolver, a Model 17/18/617 or 63.
And for that matter, don't discount any 3rd generation autos either. Some really decent 45ACP (4506-1, 4516) and 10mm (1006) handguns there.
And for that matter, don't discount any 3rd generation autos either. Some really decent 45ACP (4506-1, 4516) and 10mm (1006) handguns there.
smousefam5
Member
Why do we do this to ourselves? Essential...?
1 each stainless and blued for each frame size just to start...
Specifically...
a J frame .22 and .38
a K frame .22 and .357
a 27 and 29 for the N's
That is just for starters...
1 each stainless and blued for each frame size just to start...
Specifically...
a J frame .22 and .38
a K frame .22 and .357
a 27 and 29 for the N's
That is just for starters...
tom turner
US Veteran
I agree!
You have a K-frame already, and the K-frame is loved by most folks as being a great shooting platform that points and shoots soooo well.
So, get an older K-framed .22LR, buy a brick of 550 rounds of Federal ammo at Wal-Mart cheap, and really learn to shoot a K frame until you could probably hit your target perfectly blindfolded.
During this time, you will totally go nuts for Smith revolvers, because they shoot so accurately and smoothly. Then . . . you are hopelessly hooked for life . . . and your autos will shrink in interest once you experience the accuracy and smooth trigger of the Smith revolvers!
Other than the K-22 type, there are no good or bad choices . . . just specific good deals that you stumble upon over the years to come that help you economically round out your always evolving collection.
I started with a neat Model 65-3, with a 3" barrel years ago. At the time I thought stainless was best and went that way for a while.
Then I got a blued gun and fell in love with their deep, rich beauty and realized that my guns were well cared for and that my blued ones would look great for years to come.
Then, I stumbled upon the "Cadillac" . . . the Model 27 with it's gloriously checkered full-topstrap. It was nickle plated and suddenly I realized how gorgeous the nickle ones are!
Today? I'm not too picky. There are so many models and variations I've never owned or tried. So I'm so open to any interesting Smith revolver.
FAVORITES?
The big framed .45ACP revolvers
I love 'em! My favorite is pictured at the top of the following photo . . . a chopped to 3 1/4" barrel Model 25-2 from 1980 (with a couple of the little J-frames beneath it)
Here's my latest . . . picked up a week ago, a 1982 Model 19-5 (K-frame) .357 Magnum with the classic 2 1/2" barrel. I finally get to go out and shoot it tomorrow!
PS: My newest lust is for the gorgeous Elk Stag grips custom made by fellow forum member/cowboy action sports shooter/and craftsman Patrick Grashorn of Grashorn Gunworks in Colorado. I'm steadily putting 'em on my favorite toting Smiths.
IMHO, they make a great revolver look even better . . . and I can thus save some original grips too!
You have a K-frame already, and the K-frame is loved by most folks as being a great shooting platform that points and shoots soooo well.
So, get an older K-framed .22LR, buy a brick of 550 rounds of Federal ammo at Wal-Mart cheap, and really learn to shoot a K frame until you could probably hit your target perfectly blindfolded.
During this time, you will totally go nuts for Smith revolvers, because they shoot so accurately and smoothly. Then . . . you are hopelessly hooked for life . . . and your autos will shrink in interest once you experience the accuracy and smooth trigger of the Smith revolvers!
Other than the K-22 type, there are no good or bad choices . . . just specific good deals that you stumble upon over the years to come that help you economically round out your always evolving collection.
I started with a neat Model 65-3, with a 3" barrel years ago. At the time I thought stainless was best and went that way for a while.
Then I got a blued gun and fell in love with their deep, rich beauty and realized that my guns were well cared for and that my blued ones would look great for years to come.
Then, I stumbled upon the "Cadillac" . . . the Model 27 with it's gloriously checkered full-topstrap. It was nickle plated and suddenly I realized how gorgeous the nickle ones are!
Today? I'm not too picky. There are so many models and variations I've never owned or tried. So I'm so open to any interesting Smith revolver.
FAVORITES?
The big framed .45ACP revolvers
I love 'em! My favorite is pictured at the top of the following photo . . . a chopped to 3 1/4" barrel Model 25-2 from 1980 (with a couple of the little J-frames beneath it)
Here's my latest . . . picked up a week ago, a 1982 Model 19-5 (K-frame) .357 Magnum with the classic 2 1/2" barrel. I finally get to go out and shoot it tomorrow!
PS: My newest lust is for the gorgeous Elk Stag grips custom made by fellow forum member/cowboy action sports shooter/and craftsman Patrick Grashorn of Grashorn Gunworks in Colorado. I'm steadily putting 'em on my favorite toting Smiths.
IMHO, they make a great revolver look even better . . . and I can thus save some original grips too!
fiasconva
US Veteran
I don't have any Smith revolvers, yet. But, in order, my preferences would have to be...k22, model 10 or 14, then a j-frame. Then just about any of the rest of them.
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