Would you trade a 6 inch 686 for 8 3/8 inch 657?

[pantannojack]

I've had three L-Frame 357's. Only one was a good shooter and I traded it for a 66 snub for concealed carry. I had a 8 3/8 629 to discover it was no longer in length than a Ruger Super Blackhawk with 7 1/2 bbl, and it did not spit out the base pin nor eject the ejector rod and housing. I traded it for a 6" 629. than traded it for a 29 4". Concluding this short wind history, Yes I would take the 657. I don't think I will ever have another L Frame until they lose the useless massive under lug.

 

[spad124]

I have the 686.. and I have lots of brass, powder, primers, .41 slugs, etc... to make .41s... I intend to hunt with it... sort of like a .41 carbine with no stock!

I have a 4" 657 (no lock) and I'd just keep it like it is collector wise.

But I could make a shoulder holster (bandolero style) fit that 41.

And no.. I'm not worried about bears... nor about CCW with it! Just realizing the .41 with such a barrel puts the .357 magnum to shame as for power. And, like I said, I have plenty of .41 components!

It all depends on needs and wants but it sounds like you answered your question. You want the 657 for hunting and have reloading components to make an accurate hunting load. You don't seem to think the 686 works as effectively as a hunting tool. For your personal needs and wants the trade sounds like a good trade. Value wise I'd say you'd be ahead- assuming an even trade. Plus 6" 357s, from any number of makers, are pretty common if you later decide to get another 6" 686 or a different 357.

For me personally, I really don't have a use for a .41 mag, I've owned my 686-1 6" since the late 80s, I reload 357 but not .41, and I really like my 686. So, if it were me I'd pass.

 

[stansdds]

I have the 686.. and I have lots of brass, powder, primers, .41 slugs, etc... to make .41s... I intend to hunt with it... sort of like a .41 carbine with no stock!

I have a 4" 657 (no lock) and I'd just keep it like it is collector wise.

But I could make a shoulder holster (bandolero style) fit that 41.

And no.. I'm not worried about bears... nor about CCW with it! Just realizing the .41 with such a barrel puts the .357 magnum to shame as for power. And, like I said, I have plenty of .41 components!

For hunting, and especially since you reload ammo, a Model 657 with the 8 3/8" barrel makes a lot of sense. In your case, I'd trade a 686 for the long tube 657.

 

[glenwolde]

In...a...heartbeat...