Help me pick my first revolver!

[Hoyle]

I have just about every type of firearm except a revolver. My brother has a GP100 that I like the feel of, like the way it shoots, all around nice gun.

I've decided that I do want a S&W, around 4-5" barrel, new or used. 686's, old 19's and 66's, and 8 shot 627's all look like nice choices, but I'm open to your opinions.

Suggestions? Post links to new or used suggestions! I'm open to anything at this point!

Budget of $1k max

 

[loeman]

Given your experience with the GP and your desire to go S&W I would highly recommend you consider the Model 686 with a 4 inch barrel. If possible I would look for one that is -4 or earlier. These have all the positive engineering changes without the perceived negative ones. If you are a fan of fixed sights, then check out the Model 681 (if you can find one). The 586 and 581 are great too, but I prefer the stainless versions. Good luck!

 

[johngalt]

I don't have a 627, but do have a 625, 686, and 66. I like the N frame grip the best, so I would like to get a 627 someday.

Between the 686 and 66, it's a tossup. The 66/19 will be a little lighter for the same barrel length, the 686 more robust.

S&W will still service the 686, some parts are no longer available for the 19/66.

One factor, the 686/66/19 cylinder is a little longer than the 627.

 

[paragain]

I would suggest to you the 586/686 with a 4" barrel. Love mine and I am confident it will be a good selection for you.

 

[ExcitableBoy]

Target shooting? Self/home defense? Concealed carry? Large/small hands? Recoil sensitive? Low/high maintenance? If CC, how do you plan to carry?

Need more info for an informed opinion.

 

[Hoyle]

Target shooting? Self/home defense? Concealed carry? Large/small hands? Recoil sensitive? Low/high maintenance? If CC, how do you plan to carry?

Need more info for an informed opinion.

Target shooting, large hands (I'm 6'2"), not CC, got a glock 43 for that.

More of a fun gun than anything. No competitions, unless it's between brothers

 

[revolver686]

I think the 686+ with a 4-inch barrel is the best all-around revolver. If I could only have one (God forbid!), it would be that one.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

 

[bigwheelzip]

...I would highly recommend you consider the Model 686 with a 4 inch barrel.

... the 686 more robust.

I would suggest to you the 586/686 with a 4" barrel.

I think the 686+ with a 4-inch barrel is the best all-around revolver.

For the use you describe, gotta agree with a 4" 686+, or the 5" 686 Pro Series that's setup for target shooting with an inch more sight radius, but slightly less weight from the slab-side barrel. Offers a bit more, and still within the price range.

Performance Center(R) Pro Series(R) Model 686 Plus | Smith & Wesson

 

[rwsmith]

19, 66, 686/586

You can't go wrong with any of those choices. It's probably best to ask how much time you spend doing what kind of shooting?

If you like the full lug, the 586/686 is your best bet.

The model 19 if you don't want to shoot a lot of heavy loads.

The 66 is a nice in between.

I'm partial to the 686. I've got one and it's a jewel. But then I wouldn't mind having any of them, preferably I"d have all of them.

I do like Stainless as cleaning that burned on crud from some heavy loads can be a pain and I can't do anything to the finish.

 

[Hoyle]

Sounds like a 4" 686 will best fit my needs.

So now, do I got with a brand new $640 686 or do I shop around to find a nice used one?

What 686 dash is best? I've heard 686-4 but I'm not confident.

 

[okiegtrider]

686's, old 19's and 66's, and 8 shot 627's

Yes. Get those.

 

[dmillar74]

I have a 686 5". What a great gun. It's one of my favorite guns to shoot. I'm currently thinking of getting a 3" 686 now to carry.


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[sodacan]

A used Model 28-2 with a 4" barrel. Available. Extremely well made. A true classic. You wouldn't make a mistake with an older 686. Good luck.

 

[hkcavalier]

A 686+ or a 627. If you're going to buy a new gun, get the new gun advantages.

For that money, sure you can find a used 28 or 27. It's like arguing a brand new Corvette vs. a classic Sting Ray.

 

[Hoyle]

A 686+ or a 627. If you're going to buy a new gun, get the new gun advantages.

For that money, sure you can find a used 28 or 27. It's like arguing a brand new Corvette vs. a classic Sting Ray.

My only concern is that I've heard S&W has had quality control issues with their new models.

Anything to be worried about?

 

[rwt1405]

Hard to beat a 4" 686 or GP-100 (or better yet a Security Six), as a "one revolver" solution!

I personally prefer a pre-lock 686, my latest is one is a no dash 6", to go with my 2.5", 3", and 4" 686's.

I also like Rugers, owning a 3" TALO WC GP-100, 2 - 4" Security Six's, and a 2.75" Police Service Six.

 

[Matt40]

Give It a Shot

A first revolver should be a classic--a proven firearm tested through and through. So do yourself a favor, and purchase a Model 10 Classic.

 

[Joe Hohmann]

If I could keep only one of my 4 handguns, it would be my 20 year-old 686. Mine is a 6", from which I shoot .38 wadcutter ammo at my gun club.

 

[Hoyle]

Edited to remove auction

 

[loeman]

Sounds like a 4" 686 will best fit my needs.

So now, do I got with a brand new $640 686 or do I shop around to find a nice used one?

What 686 dash is best? I've heard 686-4 but I'm not confident.

If a six shooter is ok, and it sounds like it is, I'd look for a pre-lock 686. They ain't cheap but I'd pay $640 for a really, really nice -4 or earlier over a brand new one. Especially if you get the box etc. It will be an investment as well as something fun and enjoyable for you and perhaps your kids and grand kids And you probably wo't be able to wear it out.