New Shooter with Little Experience, 629-4 or 686-4?

[jaymoore]

Only thing not mentioned so far (apologies if I missed it!):

Which one fits your hand better? In my case the trigger reach is better with the L frame 686. But some folk like the larger N frame. Mostly applicable if you intend on using the trigger to cock and fire (DA).

 

[Bionic_Man]

It is fun to read how excited owning a S&W revolver can be. I have a classic 586 6inch and a half lugged 629 6 inch. My prediction is that in no time you'll have both. If nothing more than because you have room in the safe! I vote for the 686 as your first. Remember longer barrels get more velocity,the Dirty Harry cool factor, and long sight radius. Hence, I like long barrels. My experience with 357 recoil from my 586 is less than 45ACP Glock 21 and 38 special less than 9mm Glock17. 629 and 44 mag, way more recoil than 45ACP. I completely have to acquire the front sight after a shot, but the kick is all the fun!

 

[bananaman]

Welcome to the Forum! You will learn a lot here (if you want to)
I have never owned, or shot a 44 magnum.
I do have a 586, 4", and a 686, 6". Great guns, and .38 specials are inexpensive (if you reload) and fun to shoot. You have the 357 option whenever you want it.
N frames are nice too! I have a 28,6" & a 625 JM (45acp)
The big problem, is that there are so many beautiful Smiths out there looking for a new home. I would be glad to give them a Foster Home! Good luck on your quest! Bob

 

[halvenut]

Glad to hear that you're getting into shooting. I would suggest that if possible you borrow or rent each of the guns and see how you like shooting them before you purchase them. Many ranges rent guns for shooting or perhaps a buddy or relative will loan you one. With that said I would start with a 686 first and then possibly moving up to the larger caliber. The 686 will allow you to start with 38 caliber and work up to magnum loads. IMHO a 38 is a good load to gain experience for a new shooter.

 

[islamoradamark]

i enjoy my 686 all day long very accurate

 

[686_500fan]

Hey guys, i own a 686-6 with a 6" barrel and love it. I also reload all my ammo so 38 specials with wadcutters cost me about $11/100 rounds. Its dirty ammo, but cheap and accurate. I would also recommend getting the 686. Great gun and fun to shoot. I would personally skip the 629 and go for the 500.