Which .357 for hard use?

[Briggs]

I am interested in a S&W .357 for alot of hard outdoor use. It will only see loads of 13.0 gr. 2400 and up. It should have a barrel length of 4 inches. Stainless steel.

I have a 6 inch GP100 with some modifications that is filling the role at the moment, but I am looking for something a little more refined and handier.

Mostly, it should be able to take a pounding.

It can be new or used, especially used if the new ones are lacking.

I don't know alot about the various S&W models that would fit this bill, but this may be the only 4 inch .357 I buy.

What do you guys think?

TJ

 

[Briggs]

I am interested in a S&W .357 for alot of hard outdoor use. It will only see loads of 13.0 gr. 2400 and up. It should have a barrel length of 4 inches. Stainless steel.

I have a 6 inch GP100 with some modifications that is filling the role at the moment, but I am looking for something a little more refined and handier.

Mostly, it should be able to take a pounding.

It can be new or used, especially used if the new ones are lacking.

I don't know alot about the various S&W models that would fit this bill, but this may be the only 4 inch .357 I buy.

What do you guys think?

TJ

 

[boatbum101]

Only model that fits your requirements would be a 686.Living out West wouldn't you rather have a 6" barrel,especially if you hunt?
Andy

 

[Gunhacker]

Hands down it has to be a 4" M686. Since you're not too familiar with the models, the 686 is built on the L-Frame, which is slightly larger and more robust than the K-Frame that the Model 19's and 66's built are on, but smaller that the N-frame that the Model 27's are based on.

The 686 is basically the S&W equivalent of the Ruger GP100 but more refined like what you are looking for. It will easily handle the loads you mention and then some.

I bought one when they first came out and it has been my primary camping/backpacking gun for over 20 years now.

 

[Poohgyrr]

Originally posted by Briggs:
but I am looking for something a little more refined and handier. TJ

I'm thinking the 4" 686, either the six shot, or seven shot version.

But, I'd also suggest looking at the 4" 627Pro eight shooter. I personnally believe the benefits of this model are more important than the few extra ounces of weight, but some folks have a different opinion...

 

[sparky9]

There's a lot of love here for the 686. Just make sure you get the right - number. Mine's a -4. Some of the guys here know volumes about the dash numbers and will lead you in the right direction.
And, find a good used model without the lock.

 

[Sporting12]

Yup.
+1 for the 686 or 686Plus (7-shot)
The 627 Pros are real nice too, if you want to go N-frame.
Regards, Pete

 

[flop-shank]

Be sure to read up on the 681. It is basically a 686 with fixed sights. I love L frames. The 686-4 plus is the high point of DA service revolver evolution IMO.

 

[handgunner356]

I would also say the 686, prefer the -4 an up models. There is also the new 627 standard configuration 8-shot, heavy barrel, not cut for moonclips.

 

[qballwill]

another vote for the 686. I have 3 of them. The L frame is a great platform. I have three other L frames in other calibers also.

 

[gwalchmai]

Also look at the 28. There seem to be a lot of them out there right now. I saw a 6" 28-2 last week for $350 and am still regretting not buying it.

 

[moxie]

Yet another nod for the 686. Also see if you can find a nice 4" Ruger Security/Speed/Service Six. They are somewhat handier than the GP-100 you are used to. Very strong.

 

[Briggs]

Guys,

Thanks for all the replies. I can see I will have to spend some time looking over these suggestions. I gotta get out the mountains and down to the valley to check some of these out.

The 686 is clearly the majority favorite, but that 627 pro is kind of grabbing me, too. I also like the simplicity of the 681.

What is the objection to the lock? I see that all the time. Is it the same turn-off that the Kimber series II 1911's have, with the extra safety junk mucking up the works?

edited to add: whats the lock look like and how do you avoid it? I doubt I will be buying a new gun, but if it's a used 627 I would think it will have the lock, yes?

 

[Idahoser]

Why not the original .357 Magnum?

 

[bountyhunter]

Originally posted by Briggs:
I am interested in a S&W .357 for alot of hard outdoor use. It will only see loads of 13.0 gr. 2400 and up. It should have a barrel length of 4 inches. Stainless steel.
TJ

My opinion: I would go for a blue gun like a 27 or 28. I have found the stainless steel to be softer and weaker than carbon steel as far as wear, and I am quite sure it applies to tensile strength as well. I think the blue guns would handle abuse better.

 

[Centenniel]

686.

 

[Dale53]

I like the 686, myself. I do not harbor safe queens, in general (do have a couple) but have dozens of "working guns".

The "L" frame is a LuLu! Just big enough and not too big. Has a long cylinder so bullet length does not become an issue (the wonderful Keith 358429 for example) and long bullets can be seated using the crimp groove as designed. I personally like the double underlug as the balance works for me. The weight out front helps during recoil recovery so that follow up shots are a mite quicker, for me.

I have the 4" Treasury model as well as a 6". They have been termed by me to be "user friendly" - I seem to get more/better hits than might be expected. I have shot some really nice scores with these revolvers. They come with a
"more than decent" action that can easily be improved to the "wonderful" class.

These are truly fine revolvers.

Dale53

 

[stevieboy]

If you ask on this forum what the objection is to the lock you'll likely prolong the thread by about 100 posts, divided (not necessarily evenly between those who hate 'em and those who couldn't care less). I'm a member of the couldn't care less camp and MY 686 has a lock. It also is a fabulous shooter, perhaps the most accurate gun I own. I'll join the throng urging you to consider one and I'll second those who suggest a 6" gun. It's the perfect gun for heavy use outdoors.

 

[Marshal Tom]

You might also consider a 686-5 Mountain Gun if you can find one. It is also an L frame but with the pencil barrel. It is a little lighter then the standard 686 and it is a 7 shot as well. They are very handy and will take the heavy use.

 

[Lt JL]

Allow me to toss out another vote for a 4" M-28.