model 19/586 question

[morgaineotm]

Recently my much loved Model 19 went to S&W heaven. Its a long sad story - but the bottom line is I'm looking to replace it. Model 19 or 586? Am looking at a 586 7 shot, nice looking gun, in good condition. Any problem getting parts to repair if necessary? is this being a one off model going to be a problem? or should I stick with a regular ordinary 586 6 shot? Model 19's have gotten VERY expensive, and as much as I loved that gun, am thinking this would be a good time to upgrade. Thanks for your thoughts

 

[SJshooter]

I have a 7-shot, 4-inch 586. Love it! It's no different internally than the 686-plus, which is still in production, so parts won't be a problem. Great gun and will take heavy magnum loads that the 19 can't.

 

[Jebus35745]

The 586 with the full lug is a very good shooter. I'd go with the 586 with a 4" bbl, Larry

 

[brucev]

For general use, I'd buy a 686. If for primarily range use I'd buy a six inch barrel. If you anticipate carrying the revolver, then you'll need to look for a four inch... two and one-half would be better with round butt grip. If you want to shoot a lot of magnums, the 686 will be more comfortable to shoot during long range sessions. The 19 will most certainly be a better choice if you want a revolver that you will be carrying a lot. JMHO. Sincerely. brucev.

 

[bananaman]

I have K Frames (no Model 19) I also have a 586, & 686. They just feel more solid to me. Of course they are heavier. Then again, I also like N's that I have. Hold & compare, or shoot and compare. Find out what is right for YOU! Bob

 

[mg357]

I suggest the 586 its an L Frame and it can take more punishment from magnum loads versus a k frame model 19.

 

[NYlakesider]

Bottom line, if you're mainly going to shoot heavy/magnum loads get the bigger frame gun.

IMHO I would get the 686 vs. the 586, but you're the one spending the money get what YOU want!

 

[Engine49guy]

I love my Model 19 and 66 and they are slightly smaller but the Model 586 / 686 does have the reputation for higher durability with 357 ammo and since its still in production better parts availability,
If forced to choose just one to shoot .357 regularly I would lean towards buying a 7 shot Model 686.
On a side note my 686+ Mountain gun weighs less than my Model 66.

 

[2rott]

I own 586's 686's 10's & a 64 & have had a model 19. Three to 6" barrels. Love them all. Some are better than others for a particular use. You can't go wrong with any of them. If you know what type of shooting you will do mostly, it will help in making the best choice. If it's general range use, any will do. Good luck.

 

[morgaineotm]

just wondering why the 686 instead of the 586? just the durability of stainless over the blued steel?

 

[2rott]

I own a 586 & a couple 686's & other S&W blue & SS revolvers. Right now I believe bliue prices are running almost as high or higher than SS prices. There seem to be a lot more 686's for sale.
My blue guns function just as good as the SS ones, but I don't fell as guilty when I don't clean the SS every time I shoot them. So to answer 'moragaineotm', yes, the SS finish is more durable, especially for resisting rust & showing wear.

 

[ikor]

For all 'round use, including CCW and moderate magnum bustin' I will always prefer my M19 / 66 guns...IMO they just look and handle better...but I do own some L frames too if I want to start doing more magnums and less .38Spl.