Dillyp
Member
Registered Magnum. Go big or go home 

Funny, I saw that tonnight, and thought to myself that it would be snatched up quick. I thought about buying it myself, but I've been buying too many handguns and need to keep it to one a paycheck. It is a -5, so of newer construction. Still, it's a good price and won't last long. Even shipping wasn't much.Thoughts on this Model 19-5? Seems like a lower buy it now price than I've been seeing ..
Funny, I saw that tonnight, and thought to myself that it would be snatched up quick. I thought about buying it myself, but I've been buying too many handguns and need to keep it to one a paycheck. It is a -5, so of newer construction. Still, it's a good price and won't last long. Even shipping wasn't much.
However, I don't think you're allowed to link to auctions, so you might want to remove the link before the mods remove it for you. Might be wrong about that.
To the OP: If you can find an n-frame 357, I would recommend that (model 27, 28, 627). Otherwise, a 4" 5/686 is an nice choice, too. If price is an issue, check out the auction site and search around for a model 13; they seem to be going for $400 or so--I just saw one end today at lunch for $301 with holster wear on the barrel.
The 19-5 that you linked, appearance-wise (unless they're just poor quality photos), is in the "shooter quality" range, something I'm looking for myself. (I've got a thing for K-frame .357s.) I would value that particular S&W in the neighborhood of $550, absolute tops. Better around $475-$500, as it is not of the earlier pinned and recessed variety. In any case, it's unfortunate that you can't handle the piece before buying. It would be great to be able to check out end shake and lockup especially. The wear on the bluing wouldn't matter so much to me as I would designate it as a working gun.
You'd never regret picking up a 19.
I hope this helps you out.
You won't regret buying it (assuming it's mechanically sound--buying online can be hit or miss, and how much is your local transfer fee); however, I prefer n-frames for shooting 357. K-framed 357s hurt my hand (call me a wuss). N-frames are big, hoonking guns, and soak up the recoil.Do you think I should go for the -5 or wait for a nice 19-4 or 686-4?