Help me pick a 357

[thomasinaz]

Like the story with Goldilocks and the bears; If the L frame is to big and the J frame size is too small then a K frame should be just right. A 4" would probably be easier to find in a 19/66, and they carry easily. A 2 1/2" would carry easier, but they aren't everywhere. A 3" 19 or 66 is much harder to find. Back in the mid 80s I used to carry a 2 1/2" 19 in a shoulder holster, or an Uncle Mikes belt slide holster, while hiking in the Adirondacks. It was an easy gun to carry either way. One of the fixed sight K frames would be good, especially in stainless, with the amount of rain you get up there.

 

[Donn]

Having trouble using Google to find any size comparisons between the 686 and the models mentioned, are they considerably easier to conceal ?

No, they're not. All the revolvers mentioned, even with shorter barrels, are still pretty hefty guns. There are guys who'll argue the point, but S&W 686 and Ruger GP100 are not suited to CC. MHO you understand.

 

[steamloco76]

I am a S&W shooter/collector and would agree with the model 65/66 and 681/686 being great revolvers. Problem is, they are all above the $500 mark unless you get really lucky.
Humbly submitted for your consideration-The Ruger Security-Six, Speed-Six and Police-Service Six revolvers. They are lighter than the GP-100 and S&W 681/686. Durable, accurate and even the stainless steel versions are well under $500.

 

[2ndAmendmentNut]

As others have already said the S&W 19 and 66 are going to be what you are looking for as far as size and weight go but under $500 is going to be hard. Not impossible but you will have to be at the right place at the right time. It won't hurt to stalk gunbroker but again it will be really hard to find a 19 or 66 for under 500 with shipping and FFL fees.

Ruger used to make its Six-series of double action revolvers. The Security -six and the Speed-six can both usually be found for 500 or less. Although you may find the Ruger double actions just as heavy and more clunky than a 686.

If it doesn't have to be a double action Rugers new model Blackhawks are really nice and weigh less than most double actions.

 

[gkitch]

I have a SS Ruger Speed-Six with a 2 3/4" bbl that I picked up recently at a great price. It carries and shoots as well as my 3" M-13 that is my usual carry gun. I have found it surprisingly impressive.
While good K-rame S&Ws are getting harder to find, there are still plenty of older Rugers out there that folks do not want an arm and a leg for.

 

[flagman1776]

Any of the K framed S&W like 19 or 66. 13 or 65. I like the 3" barrel if you can score one. 2 1/2" snubs are more common but not necessarily cheaper. I bought a Police Trade in 4" 66 a year ago for $399 + tax... so can be had within your budget.

I bought a 3" 13 for my GF (back in the days when they were FBI issue)... she refused to sell it to me (can't be an Indian giver) when we broke up, so I had to console myself with a 3" 66 which I still have. It has served me for Off Duty & outdoor woods rambles afoot & on horse back & I have absolutely no regrets. Since I have the 3" I prefer it for low profile wear but I could & did carry the 4" in a high ride thumb break Bianchi 5BHL.

 

[Realgunner]

As others have said, a 4 inch 66 would be a great choice. I give it an edge over the 19 because of the stainless finish.

 

[Old cop]

I have a four inch Model 13-3 that is one of my favorites, but not for ccw, just too heavy. It serves as a home defense & range gun and is a real keeper.

 

[darkparadox]

Replacing the Glock 29 as NY passed the NYSAFE act which no longer (Through sheer legislative magic, for the children) allows me to load more than 7 rounds into my 10 round magazine. Plus from a personal stand point I would prefer a revolver for my in the woods survival gun anyways.

Really trying to spend about $400. And have decided on a 2.5 or 3 inch barrel, preferably 3. I believe the Ruger is going to be my best bet. I'll just have to browse gunbroker I suppose

 

[kentuckypilgrim]

s&w 65 with 3" barrel.

 

[tblt44]

Rugger Gp100 mine is 25 plus years old,i have the 6 inch barrel.
was looking at the sp101 but ended up getting into autos for carry.
Now I favor autos
GP100 top right