Help me pick a .357

[Troystat]

I love my 27-2 with a 5 inch barrel, at the range the extra size makes shooting full house loads easier. If I was going to buy something else then I would get an L frame with a 6 inch barrel.

 

[SWFan27]

There is a new Model 19 with No Lock that just got released at Shot Show. It is a standard production model. Full-size forcing cone so you can shoot all the magnum loads you want without worry. They had a couple on Gunbroker last time I checked.

[ame="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5_UMe8cNmQ&t=21s"]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5_UMe8cNmQ&t=21s[/ame]

 

[YeshuaIsa53]

Zimm,
"
I have a family heirloom 1977 19-4 which I love. But I let my mother shoot it and it's now her self protection firearm. Yes she "borrowed" it from her nearly 50 year old son." you typed.

I personally would take my Mother to see the L frames, see if one of them suits her likings better, and let her have a chance at a lighter new gun. If she wants one, ask her if she wants it bad enough to trade the 19-4 for. Guessing it is blued, it may need attention sitting somewhere.
If she's not interested(my wife wasn't), then buy her what she wants and keep the 19-4.

Also, if you are not carrying it but to the range, this is another vote for the HP. N frames don't wear out at a range, and the weight of a Model 28-2 or so will not be so bad on your wallet.

In any event, think about Mom first.

 

[stansdds]

I plan on buying a new no lock model 19 classic and then putting some Culina grips on it. The new K frames are supposed to have a reinforced forcing cone so they can handle full power loads. Maybe buy another 19-4 if you like them.

The redesigned Models 19-9 and 66-8 are stronger and more durable than the original design. The lock on the ejector rod tip is gone, replaced by a lock between the cylinder crane and frame. The one piece barrel with the flat spot along the bottom of the barrel shank has been replaced with a two piece barrel that does not have a flat spot, so far less chance of a cracked forcing cone. I do recommend a thorough inspection of any new S&W before buying. Look for defects in workmanship and function.

 

[BluedRevolver]

As the owner of a new 19 Classic No-Lock that has so far performed very well, that would be my recommendation. But I’m still running mine through its paces. I should have more data by the end of the weekend hopefully. I’m sick but I have a strong urge to go shoot it. Maybe the concussion of the blast of a couple cylinders of .357 will clear my sinuses out!

 

[robvious]

Perhaps something from the "Not made anymore" section of the menu... 3 inch CS-1 2M or a 5 inch stocking dealer special... perhaps a Pro Series, all are wonderful.

 

[Vtgw938]

I think you need a vintage 19-3 four inch to replace the 19-4. With other than full-house magnums they are about perfect.

 

[The Gila Bender]

Model 586/686 4", Model 27 5" or Model 28 4" or 6". I am biased as all are in my collection. I don't have a Model 19/66, so that would be an option I'd like to explore.

 

[Hawg Rider]

Zimm: As you're finding out, asking Forum members for their suggestions on which S&W revolver to own opens a huge can of worms. There are a few common threads, but probably still a hundred different options being tossed out! But since you asked, I'll play along...

Although I am primarily a vintage N-frame guy, I do have a few K- and L-frames in my modest collection. I think that your Mom has great taste because she "borrowed" one of the "best of the best" revolvers from you- that Model 19-4. I think that the 19-3s and 19-4s are some of the nicest mid-weight .357s, and smoothest shooters, that S&W ever produced. I can't speak for the Model 66s. I also like the Model 686s, especially the 7-shot Plus models. For the time being, if I were you, I would be looking at vintage P&R revolvers instead of the brand spankin' new unproven offerings from S&W. The vintage revolvers are proven shooters, and often the price is the same or better than the current production models. Blued, nickel, or stainless is up to you depending upon your range use and personal preference. Unless you're having an epiphany like jakerudy, or you just won the lottery, I wouldn't consider buying a Korth, Manurhin, or SPOHR revolver. Beautiful and wonderfully made, yes...but I have better uses for my money. Good luck with your decision, and please let us know what happens.

 

[Yendor357]

There’s an old lady, not far from you that has a nice M 19……

If you have Korth lust, may I suggest a New Python. They’re better than the Korth (my opinion) at about 40% the cost. If you pull the trigger on the Colt, and are dissatisfied with the SA trigger pull, send a PM to me. I’ll point you in the right direction.

 

[Baxter6551]

Zimm - you didn’t say in your post if you intend to carry concealed or replacement is for range / woods. And if you are looking to carry .38 loads or .357 ?

Concealed I’d recommend a 3 inch model 13/19, 65/66. Maybe a 2.5 or 3 inch 686 but it’s heavier. Don’t overlook the shorter barreled Ruger series of Security Sixes, Speed sixes, Police / Service sixes.

I carried both my personal 65 and then an issued 65 as a duty gun. They let us buy the 65 for $100 when we switched to SIG.

Range / woods I’d say a 586 or 686, Ruger GP100…

Good luck in search (which is half the fun but can be frustrating).
I too want to see the new series of no internal locks.
If you are going to carry strictly .38 then the model 10/64 series of 2, 3 or 4 inch revolvers can’t be beat.

Just my .02 …. Sorry couldn’t resist adding some pics …

 

[Narragansett]

Without a doubt, one of the best, if not the best shooting K frame I ever owned was a M65-1, and why I never replaced it is a wonderment.

 

[hdfinder47]

If you have the money just get the Korth. Your grandkids will thank you.

 

[Yendor357]

If you buy Pythons, more grandkids get guns.

 

[jimmyj]

S&W Model 19 or 66 with six inch barrel.

 

[petepeterson]

The 686 seems like a solid choice, but don't overlook a 3" J-frame, like a 60-10 or 60-15.
5 Rounds, but more concealable, and very shooter-friendly if you change the grips out.

 

[Tanners Owner]

I also agree with the 686 recommendation as you don’t want a N frame. I have a 686-4 4” that I often use to introduce new shooters to handguns.

Good luck with your quest & let us know what you decide

 

[toddimusnimski]

don't overlook a 3" J-frame, like a 60-10 or 60-15.
5 Rounds, but more concealable, and very shooter-friendly if you change the grips out.

Heres the .38 special version 60-4; appearance-wise the .357 versions listed above will just have a slightly longer cylinder, and the internal lock on the -15. Gotta love the baby 686 look with the target stocks.

Todd

 

[JD3006]

One more vote for the 686. I have 4 and 6 inch versions both no dash, I've owned them close to 30 years. They have the best double action I have ever tried.

 

[glenwolde]

Stainless is a lot more convenient for shooters. My choice is a 6" 66-2. Older ones are OK if they check-out. There's still plenty of parts.