Need some good advice

[DWalt]

If you like heavy, large, and durable revolvers, the 28 is your gun. But for your purposes, I'd go with a lighter .38 Special. Like something in the Model 10 line. You should have no problem in finding some variation of the M&P revolver in superb condition for $500 or somewhat less.

 

[H Richard]

I will fall in with those who love the 28, but due to the more scarcity of them wouldn't hesitate to buy a 586/686. I have both, and will pick up the 686 more often than any of the others. If you have the opportunity to visit a range that rents guns see if they have a 586-686 in the rental rack and use it a couple times. Also, the stainless 686 is slightly easier to clean and maintain than a blued gun, but not too much. They do not show the wear as much as a blued gun.

 

[lhump1961]

The N frames are great guns and you won't find a better .357, but for me and my smaller hands the grip and trigger reach is just outside my comfort zone. Sure, I can shoot them fine but the K/L frames suit my grip better. If your set on a 28 then by all means go for it, I'm only suggesting that you and your lady handle the 586/686 as well as some of the other suggestions in this thread. I've had the same issue with Colts...I had a 6" blue Python that was a beautiful gun but, again, the grip wasn't nearly as comfortable as my K's and L's so I let it go. Plus finding someone to work on a Colt isn't easy.

Let us know what you come up with! Here's some pics just because threads are always better with pics. I had to post the third pic of the 19 and the 66 just 'cause this is the pre-1980 section of the forum.

 

[Rebel Soul]

Thanks again guys. This has been great information - very helpful.

I'm definitely open to a 586 or 686 - you can't find a bad word written about either. I am going to make the rounds of the reputable shops here in town and flat out tell them what I want...L or N frame shooter but it has to be drum tight...And at least kinda Purdy

If all else fails - gun show in march. Either way I'll post an update when I buy whether it takes a week or 3 months. I'm pretty stubborn and armed with this good advice - I feel like I can find a good one.

Thanks again!

 

[THE PILGRIM]

Have you checked Jason's Guns? Right now there is a 6 inch 28 for sale here in Albuquerque for $475. He says holster wear and his pic isn't that good. I have bought several guns lately from Jason's including a Colt 1911 and a 624. You just got to be cautious about where you meet.

 

[Rebel Soul]

Again - thanks for all the good advice guys.

I pulled the trigger today - literally. A local shop had a brand new 586 4 inch...I didn't walk away. It was listed for a very fair price so I went ahead and got it. I figure I can shoot the daylights out of this gun and not worry about messing up the value of a classic.

I will still keep looking for the older models - but I can wait for the deals to come to me since I have popped my S&W .357 cherry.

My girl and I shot it today as well. I think she may be more in love with it than I am. Her very first shot was dead red forehead. Freakin Annie Oakley! I was shooting palm sized groups at @ 20 yards right out of the box.

Thank yall again for all the help. We are both going to get our CWPs very soon. We are also both clearly addicted.