Which model P&R for first SW 357?

wesson1911

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I am looking for my first P&R SW 357 magnum and wanted opinions for which model? I am wanting a shooter that is a collectable as well. Please let me know which model between 19,28,66, or other? I am new to Smith and Wesson revolvers and just bought my first which is a 29-2 which is one of the best shooting revolvers I have ever shot! All of my other revolvers are the black sheep of the Wesson family aka Dan Wesson. I have several Dan Wesson 357 and want a collectable shooter SW. I am looking for something that is in 95 % plus that is collectable but will be a range queen for under $800.
 
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If you like the N frame .44, the model 27 seems to be best suited for you. 6" or longer examples can be found for under $800; 5" or shorter would be more difficult.
 
The 27's are my first choice but under 800.00 is quickly becoming a thing of the past even with the less popular long barrels.
 
The 27's are my first choice but under 800.00 is quickly becoming a thing of the past even with the less popular long barrels.

Prices for almost any good - high condition have passed $800.00 in most cases.

Model 19's are the classic carry a lot shoot some .357 Magnum revolver. These can still be had for less than the O/P's top end price. And everyone needs at least one M- 19.
 
I would start with a 27, while some examples can be had for your budget number, then get a K frame as they will be more "affordable" for a while longer, unless you go for a snubbie.
 
I am looking for my first P&R SW 357 magnum and wanted opinions for which model? I am wanting a shooter that is a collectable as well. Please let me know which model between 19,28,66, or other? I am new to Smith and Wesson revolvers and just bought my first which is a 29-2 which is one of the best shooting revolvers I have ever shot! All of my other revolvers are the black sheep of the Wesson family aka Dan Wesson. I have several Dan Wesson 357 and want a collectable shooter SW. I am looking for something that is in 95 % plus that is collectable but will be a range queen for under $800.

Wesson1911,
The short answer to your question about which pinned and recessed model S&W to get is: "It depends."

If you are comfortable "shopping" on the internet at this forum or a gun auction site then you can probably be a little pickier regarding a specific model and barrel length but if you are more comfortable shopping at brick and mortar gun store or a gun show then you'll need to be flexible because a 95% P&R S&W may not show up very often.

In .357 magnum the following models fit your criterion: 13 (fixed sights), pre-model 19, 19, pre-model 27, 27, pre-model 28, 28, 65 (fixed sights-stainless steel version of model 13), 66 (stainless steel version of model 19), 520 (fixed sights N frame), and the & 27 & 28.

My personal opinion is that any of the revolvers mentioned in the previous paragraph would be just fine. IT DEPENDS on what you like, what venue your comfortable with for purchase, and what's available.

Good Luck.

John
Scoundrel and Ne'er-Do-Well in Training
 
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Thanks for all of the feedback and information. I will probably get the first one I see for a good deal in great condition. I guess i cant go wrong with any of the models listed. I will keep an eye out on Texas Gun Trader and Armslist.
 
+1 on the Model 66. It is everything you need in a .357 ,you'll come in well under budget, and it's stainless steel too!
 
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I have a 66-1. I prefer stainless, tho I'm sure the purists will tell me I'm wrong. PM me if you're interested in it, I'd be comfortably under your budget.
 
Start with a model 28-2.

You will not be disappointed.

A model 19, or a 66 is also a great choice.

If you go with a 19 or 66 watch the 125 grain (or comparable) Magnum loads with it.

The 28-2 is seriously one of the greatest guns ever made.

I have other .357s, yet when I want or need to carry one, the Highway patrolman is the one on my right hip.

Go to GunBroker.

Grab a 4" model with target stocks, and you'll never look back.

My 28-2, and my P226 Sig Sauer will be buried with me. Everything else goes to my boys.
 
My first recommendation would be a 27-2, but with your budget restraints I would suggest a 28-2. A six incher would be easier on your wallet than a four.
 
How much more is a 28-2 worth compared to a PR model 19 or 66 based on the guns being 95% plus condition? I only do FTF deals on armslist and avoid the scammers. The scammers are plentiful and usually easy to spot.
 
While 28-2's have been climbing in price recently, they are not significantly more expensive than comparable 19's & 66's (maybe $50-100 at most). But solid 28-2's in 90-95% condition are generally available in the $550-650 range in these parts (and on Gunbroker).
 
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The m28 no dash, m28-2 in 99%+ are hitting $700+ give or take a few $$.
While the m27-2 are about $100 more. You will be happy with either one.
 
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