Model 581

[gkitch]

I decided to add a 581 to the collection next time a decent one came up. I like the L-frame and like the fixed-sighted guns, of which S&W made fewer of in 357 Magnum.

By the time S&W introduced the L-frame, autos were getting popular and stainless was all the rage -as was the adjustable sight. One does not come across too many 581s. Would love to find a nickel version one day too.

Thanks to my fellow forum guy, Edwin, for selling me this fine example.

 

[swagmeister]

Excellent choice. Those are getting harder to find.

 

[quaduser]

Here's my M581. Like you, I'm partial to the fixed sights ever since I bought a 940 new. Quicker on the target than adjustable sights IMHO...

 

[nate-dogg]

Nice grab. I'd like to pick up a 581 and 681 at some point even tho I prefer adjustable sights.

 

[gkitch]

Here's my M581. Like you, I'm partial to the fixed sights ever since I bought a 940 new. Quicker on the target than adjustable sights IMHO...

I carry a 3" Model 13 for that very reason. Some friends and I found that the round heavy barrel points and finds the target better at the closer ranges. I was shocked at how much better the Mod 13 shoots than the 2.5" Mod 19 (a fine classic in its own right). We then compared the 4" 19 to the 4" Mod 65 and found the same thing.

As a duty gun, a friend carried a Mod 681 just before they went to autos. He changed out the grips, of course, and soon pronounced it the finest cop revolver ever. Rugged, reliable, powerful, accurate and even made a useful impact weapon occasionally.

 

[quikdraw67]

I'm going to shoot my 681 after work today.

 

[Dieseltech56]

I would really like to get a 581 but I've only seen one in the wild. It would have made a nice shooter, it was mint on one side and had rust and pitting on the other. I passed but I still think about it

 

[raisedin99]

As I remember there was a recall on the 581, don't know what it amounted to.

terry

 

[oldman10mm]

Recall on 581 no dash, 581-1, 586 no dash, 586-1, 681 no dash, 681-1, 686 no dash, & 686-1. To replace firing pin bushing in frame.

 

[krsmith58]

i have a 581 and a 681. the 681 was police trade in. the 581 found locally. both are shooter grade guns but that is what i like. never shot the new off of a Smith. passed on a few for that reason. both are nice shooters and not to heavy to carry though i have taken to a 66 no dash for that or a J frame. krs/kenny