Point me to a recommended Model .357 mag

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KeithNyst

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I bow hunt. The last two years I've had encounters coming out of my stand with gray wolves coming within 100 yards. This fall I'd like to carry in a 6" .357 mag with me for self-protection, should the need arise. I'm not knowledgeable on revolvers and am confused by the number of S&W models and version numbers. I am considering a 6" Ruger GP100. What S&W model/version (new or good used) would you recommend I take into consideration? Budget $500-700.
Thanks in advance. Keith
 
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A good used model 66 or 19 would fit the bill, but the heavier L Frame 686 in a 6 inch would rock that need for less cost. You should be able to pick one up well within your budget.
 
KeithNyst said:
...I'd like to carry in a 6" .357 mag ... Budget $500-700....
Click to expand...

Stainless for utility. In that price range you could easily find a used M686 or M66. The M66 would be a hair lighter due to the traditional barrel profile. The M686 was designed specifically to address shortcomings with the M66, but those improvements are only a factor when shooting thousands of rounds.

If I was in your shoes I'd be looking for a M60-14, but it has a 3-inch barrel. It's a small, all stainless, .357 with target sights. An ideal light packing field gun.

IMG_0060-1024x764.jpg
 
FYI, not knowing your location.....I would check if it is legal to carry a firearm during bow season too......
 
I like the old Model 28 Highway Patrolman. I have them all, but I like the size and weight of this one. Got it for $370 exactly a year ago. It was made in 1978. When I'm in the woods I carry this one over the 19's and 586's. It's just so big. . .you could probably throw it a wolf and kill it.
 

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You don't need a big caliber like 357 mag for wolves. Next time you bow hunt just take a pocket pistol and somebody you don't particularly care for...:D

I would have my 686+ with 4" barrel with me.
 
ozo said:
FYI, not knowing your location.....I would check if it is legal to carry a firearm during bow season too......
Click to expand...

I have a concealed/carry and checked with state DNR. Normally, no, but with cc ok.
 
Are wolves aggressive towards hunters in general, and if so at what range would you engage them? A 6" 686 or GP-100 (also a fine choice, by the way) will be pushing 5 pounds loaded in a holster, and for shorter distances a more compact 3-4" revolver may suit your needs well.
 
You are getting some good advise. If you want a 6"bbl, get a 686, that is a stainless steel .357 and practice with it with .357 ammo as well as .38spl ammo. For my personal use I like the 158gn jacketed soft points. I don't care for the light, hyper fast 125gn. hollow points. YMMV. When I hit dangerous game I want them to feel the pain.
 
Tom Kent said:
You are getting some good advise. If you want a 6"bbl, get a 686, that is a stainless steel .357 and practice with it with .357 ammo as well as .38spl ammo. For my personal use I like the 158gn jacketed soft points. I don't care for the light, hyper fast 125gn. hollow points. YMMV. When I hit dangerous game I want them to feel the pain.
Click to expand...


This and what Sailfish said is all you need to know, good luck, plenty out there in your range.
 
The Ruger GP100 in a 6" is a 45 oz. gun. The only easy to find 6" .357 S&W makes close to your range is the stainless 686, also almost 45 oz.. If the size and weight of these guns is ok with you, a 686 would be my suggestion. Before you decide, have a look at the almost 8 oz lighter and handier stainless S&W model 66. New ones, and most used ones have a 4" barrel. You loose a little velocity but maintain accuracy and you're still very well armed. Other S&W .357's in a 6" will tend to be less common, more expensive or even heavier.
 
I would suggest you stake a strong look at a Ruger SP 101. My son has one and it is super accurate. S & W does not make anything in this category. Stainless steel. 4 1/4 inch barrel for Canadian legal. 30 oz. yes I said 30 oz. balances well, great fit and finish. 5 shot and we are shooting some great groups with 38 special. I am like my son, I think this is the perfect 38/357 trail gun. Correct barrel length, not very heavy, accurate as anything on the market, stainless steel. The reviews you find on the net, those that have one rave about the gun, those that have never shot one claim there is no "nitch" for its existence. Go find one in a gun shop and check it out, should be in the $ 500-550 range. Its like a S&W 60 with a 4 1/4 inch barrel, only better. :):D
 
My first thought was a 686, but that gun, especially with the 6 inch barrel, is way too heavy.

As usual, I like what the Kernel has to say.

There is no reason to weigh yourself down. The animal in question only becomes a problem at a close enough distance to get by with a shorter barrel, and a "Kit Gun" type of approach would serve nicely. The model the Kernel pictured is a great gun.

If you feel you need something "bigger," check out the new Model 66 just introduced in 2014.
 
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686

The 686 is a hands down choice. Not as heavy as an N frame. Plenty heavy enough to take hunting loads. I'd recommend a 158 gr. Hard Cast SWC for serious work. Personally, I don't like anything below 140 gr. jacketed. The .357 just works well with heavier bullets.

The Ruger would be an excellent choice, after the 686.
 
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