What do you think.

[Helderberg]

If you could only have one which one would you choose and why?
Model 627 V-Comp or a new model 686 4"
Thanks for your time, Frank.

 

[ridgewalker]

One of my range buddies has a 627 V-comp. He likes to have me shoot it so he can shoot my 386 Hunter XL. We shoot 357 mags and 38 specials from both. We both like my 386 but are disappointed with the V-comp. He has sent it back to S&W and has shown me the letter he received that detailed the work S&W did on his revolver. He still isn't too happy with it. When ever I have shot it, I have not have had very good results as far as accuracy.

One of my favorite guns is my 686 SSR. It has a 4 inch barrel so I guess that is pretty close to what you are asking about. It shoots and feels real good to me.

The V-comp is going to be quite a bit heavier and cost about twice as much as a 686. So IMHO I would choose the 686.

 

[colt_saa]

If you could only have one which one would you choose and why?
Model 627 V-Comp or a new model 686 4"
Thanks for your time, Frank.

There were many variations of 4" 686 as well as at least 3 different 627 V-comps.

Without knowing more I would go with the 627.

First I would prefer the Performance Center revolver over a production gun.

Second I would prefer the 8 shot capacity of the 627 in place of the 6 or 7 shot capacity of the 686

Third, I find my 625 V-comp to be quite effective at reducing muzzle flip when shooting 45 Super so I have to believe it will be as effective or more with 357 Magnum ammunition

 

[Helderberg]

My 686 is the current production model and the V-comp is very lightly used. I would use either gun as a range/home gun and not look to carry. I would be interested in knowing what the problems you friend has had that needed to be repaired by S&W.
Thanks again for your time, Frank.

 

[ridgewalker]

I would be interested in knowing what the problems you friend has had that needed to be repaired by S&W.
Thanks again for your time, Frank.

It was over a year ago that he showed me the letter so I don't remember everything about his gun. I do remember it was quite a little list. He told me it was spitting lead very badly and I believe one of the things S&W repaired was the forcing cone angle. I will check with him next time I see him at the range. I'm sure it is unfair to judge all V-comps by this gun, but I expected it to be special and actually it was inferior.

For home defense, I think your 4 inch 686 should be fine. My most accurate revolver is a TRR8. I have a Streamlight mounted under the barrel. It is very smooth. I could recommend that for home defense.

 

[kaaskop49]

I'd go with the 686. I have a lovely 3.5" 27 from the late 70s that I have never been able to wring good practical accuracy from. The fault, I'm sure, resides with me. I'm therefore reluctant to buy another N-frame .357, regardless of improvements over the past 30 years.

My 686's are top drawer and I shoot them well. Good luck with your choice.