First Revolver

[armorer951]

My "first time revolver" recommendation wasn't listed.....the model 66.

 

[montezumaz]

A S&W 34-1, 4" SB, 95%+$200

 

[BC38]

The 64-5 would be a great choice, but a S&W Model 65 would be even better.

 

[Blade37db]

The 64-5 would be a great choice, but a 65 would be even better.

+1. If the only choices are the ones listed, then the 64-5. If you want to be patient and do more shopping, look for a 65. The option to shoot .357s is worth it.

 

[JH1951]

My first time revolver suggestion would be a nice old K22.
That was the first S&W I ever owned. Now have several.

 

[Kevin J.]

First was a 4" Colt Python, followed by a Ruger Single Six, third was a 2 1/2" model 19-5. I have always has good taste if I say so myself

 

[dwever]

627 in 5" or 2.625" depending on intended use. 2nd revolver a TRR8. Done.

 

[LewiRose]

As a kid my first revolver was a Ruger convertible six 22/22mag. Went to the gun store to buy a Colt Scout but when the guy behind the counter put that Ruger down next to that Colt there was no comparison for the difference in money. Then I turned 15 and bought a WWll 45 Remington 1911 new in the box, for $45....Those were the days my friend...

 

[rwsmith]

You know what????

It wouldn't hurt to have a few more choices of Smiths in good enough shape that you don't have to do work on them. I'd say "YEAH" to a model 10, but there are later models in much better shape.

I did say "Yeah" to the S&W 65, that would be a good 'first gun'.

I was about to settle for a Ruger SP 101 but I saw a very nice 686 and I stretched my budget. I'm so glad that I did because I would have thought afterward, "I sure wish I had a 686." I don't know your budget, but be sure to get something that you WANT instead of 'settling' for something.

What are you going to use the gun for? Which one fits that best? If the bug gets you, you are going to be shooting more than you thought you would!!!

 

[mike from st pete]

S&W model 17 on dash. The serial number has it from 1959.

 

[bananaman]

I had to go with the 64-5. I mean come on, "5 for $453.26"? That's only $90.65 each!

I think he was stating 5 examples to choose from at $453.26 ea. Bob

 

[HOUSTON RICK]

My first revolver was a Highway Patrolman, pictured below in blue next to my second revolver a 586. Both inexpensive gun show finds.

 

[sw282]

"Mattel Fanner 50" when l was nine.. Kinda basket case too.

Still have it too.I doubt Mattel's willing to rebuild it..

 

[hkcavalier]

Around here I trip on 586 4" guns in pawn shops and stores with used guns, most often for around $500. I'd take one of those over the choices given. But out of those, take the 64.

 

[Brianbasic]

Well I have to admit this is kind of awesome. I didn't expect so many replies. In my area you can find snubbies pretty cheap, but full size revolvers run high in price(even used ones). With the 64's I have five to chose from at the moment(or more I forgot my count), sorry about any confusion. btw there is also a 64-3 but I think the 64-5 has a better trigger. My current main handgun is a SD9VE(stock), just so you now where I'm coming from/used to.

 

[rwsmith]

I know people that are very happy with their Tauruses....

I've owned a few Taurus revolvers and while they were generally accurate and reliable (except for a model 85 UltraLite!!!) they just do not have the refined trigger actions, fit and pride of ownership you get with a Smith and Wesson.

I voted for the model 64-5 as the stainless .38 Special revolver is a fine all around choice. I owned a model 64-2 which was a corrections department trade in and it was a fine shooter.

If you budget allows a stretch into the $600 range, I would look for a 4 inch model 686 .357 Magnum. The 686 can shoot any .38 Special or .357 Magnum ammunition you will find and has the advantage of good adjustable sights. The Ruger GP-100 also fills this role very well and can be had for $450 to $500 used.

....but it's kind of hit or miss when it comes to getting a good one because they have had up and down quality issues.

 

[rwsmith]

Did you ever.....

Well I have to admit this is kind of awesome. I didn't expect so many replies. In my area you can find snubbies pretty cheap, but full size revolvers run high in price(even used ones). With the 64's I have five to chose from at the moment(or more I forgot my count), sorry about any confusion. btw there is also a 64-3 but I think the 64-5 has a better trigger. My current main handgun is a SD9VE(stock), just so you now where I'm coming from/used to.

Did you ever sit down and decide what you want it for and what kind of shooting you intend to do.

My first gun was a model 10 snub because I wanted something for HD. After I got it I realized how much I liked guns and shooting. In order to get a 686 I had to TRADE IN the model 10. Boo hoo hoo. Goodbye old paint. I hope to get another some day with a longer barrel. I'm more disciplined now but back in the day I wasn't very good at shooting the snub.

 

[chief38]

A FIRST S&W Revolver recommendation from me would be a Vintage Model 15 if a .38 Spl. is desired or a Vintage Model 18 of a .22 is desired. IMHO they are two of the very best Smith every made.

 

[Boudiepitbull]

My first revolver (and first handgun purchase ever) was a brand new 6 inch S&W Model 617, that was quickly followed by a new 6 inch Model 686, then a used Model 640, and lastly a new 6 inch Model 629.

That's one J, one K, one L, and one N frame. No desire for an X frame at all. The next handguns I have set my sights on <pun intended> will not be revolvers, I'm thinking its time to experience semi autos and am looking at the Beretta 92FS and/or a CZ 75 B.

 

[stu1ritter]

If we are talking about first gun, mine was a Colt Python, serial #6306 bought in 1959 when I was in school at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland as a young GI. $125 at the time and my pay was $78/month.

Stu