If you could only have one revolver in .357, what model would it be?

586 4" Balance of the legendary Python, Strong cylinder, forcing cone and frame, great accuracy and K frame action and grip----What's not to like?
 
Originally posted by jja327:
I am looking for suggestions on what model S&W I should get.

So far I have decided on a .357 with 4" barrel and target sights although I'll mostly shoot .38 special.

The 686-4 or earlier is high on the list.
I have also seen some nice model 19's.

Any others?

How much should I expect to spend on a nice used model?

My vote goes to the 7 shot 686 Mountain Gun or the similar Model 620.
 
I would opt for a L Frame 686..
I realy love my 3" CS-1/686..
If I could only have one revolver & I had to carry it concealed in 357 mag it would be a 640-1 or an Airlite J frame..
 
I am surprised no one has chosen a Registered Magnum, so I will.
 
Sir, as has been noted, the gun's intended purpose is really the determining factor.

That said, I've had K-, L-, and N-frame .357s and much prefer the N-frames, particularly the 4-inch Model 28.

In terms of price for 4-inch guns, Model 66s seem the cheapest, sometimes going for as little as $350 for well-used examples, but more often around $400. Next would be 28s, usually between $400 and $450, though this is rising and also regional. 19s and 686s seem to run around $450, give or take a bit. 586s typically run a bit more, often into the $500+ range. 27s have been through the roof lately in the shorter barrel lengths; seems like they start around $700 and go up into the stratosphere from there.

Hope this helps, and Semper Fi.

Ron H.
 
If you plan on shooting mostly 38 spec. and occassional 357, 158 gr.; then the Model 19 would be my first choice. Good used one can be $400 and up , depending on where you live.

Model 19's have a nice trigger pull and good balance. If I had to choose only one of my 357's, depending on which day it was, the Model . . .
icon_smile.gif
would be it.

Rod
 
The cylinder on the 27 & 28 is a little short, so heavy boolits need to be set back in order to fit.

I have a 627-0 that's sweet as sugar, but I am not thrilled to set the rounds back so much. I do it, but I don't like it.

To my way of thinking, the 586, at least the one I have, is a fantastic pistol. I had others, but none shot like this one. Right down the pipe, tight groups, easy recoiling with the heaviest loads.
Longer cylinder means any weight boolit works.

So I vote 586.
 
Performance Center 586 L-Comp. Or maybe a Model 27. I think I heard there are a few of the new 27's in beautiful blue, with 8-shot cylinders. Now that might trump the L-comp!
 
686 without hesitation.

I have had Colt Pythons and Troopers. Ruger Security Six, Service Six, and Speed Six. Smith M27 8/38s" (real close to tops) a M28, and M19.

The only one I kept was the 686. I would get another Service Six if I could, mine was stolem by a UPS employee. The M27 was like a rifle, in accuracyandsize!
 
Wow, only 3 pick the Model 19. 50 years ago would have been a different outcome.

I actually carry a revolver and the 4" is a fast handling holster gun, or you can easily stash it in your belt, under your coat or shirt.
 
While "The Bride" will never let me Sell 'Baby' which is a 2-1/2" Model 19-3 but Since I know how much she is willing to share then I'd select my 5 inch Model 27-2.
 

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