Would you trade a 6 inch 686 for 8 3/8 inch 657?
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38 Specialist
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For utility and pride of ownership, I would not. For value, I don't know. The question of how the new gun fits into your collection is for you to answer.
I would think the 657 would have the value edge, at least where I shop. I'd make the trade. The 657 is much harder to find at least in this area.
Jeff
SWCA #1457
Jeff
SWCA #1457
Invictus357
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No way. Keep the 686.
Grayfox
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I'm not a fan of the 8 3/8th barrel length. I'd probably pass.
OTOH, the 686 would be easy to replace. When was the last time you saw a 657 for sale?
OTOH, the 686 would be easy to replace. When was the last time you saw a 657 for sale?
BigMuddy
Member
I generally don't look at trades based on $$$. If I want one more than the gun I own I trade. Being a handgun hunter, a lover of 41 Mags, and not a big 357 fan, I would make that trade immediately before the other party has a chance to reconsider. I had an 8 3/8" M57 years ago and wouldn't mind having it back. Amazing shooter and balanced surprisingly well. Also had a 6" M686 that I used in competition. It too was a terrific gun… but it wasn't a 41 
Dan
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You didn't mention which one you would be getting in the trade, but here goes anyway 
:
Subjectively: which one appeals to you more? Which one fits your collection better? Do you care if the one you're getting is worth less than the one you're giving up?
Objectively: do you have more ammo for one or the other, or are you hunting with it? Does the one you have shoot incredibly well?
Good luck in your decision.
:Subjectively: which one appeals to you more? Which one fits your collection better? Do you care if the one you're getting is worth less than the one you're giving up?
Objectively: do you have more ammo for one or the other, or are you hunting with it? Does the one you have shoot incredibly well?
Good luck in your decision.
ACE10000D
Member
All day long, trade it for value. 686's are a dime a dozen, meaning you can find one at every LGS.
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!
44wheelman
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I haven't seen a long bbl .41 in a long time, and will be harder to sell (unless it's on gunbroker). The 686 is relatively common in comparison. Replacing a 686 at a later time will be much easier. Value wise, I say you will be ahead.
Yendor357
Member
Both, duh.
They're appreciating assets. Buy all you want. Good investments. You won't get rich, but you won't lose money.
They're appreciating assets. Buy all you want. Good investments. You won't get rich, but you won't lose money.
As others pointed out, you don't indicate which one you'll be getting, but from your wording, I surmise you are trading your 6" 686 for the Long Tom 657. I'd make the trade, but just because I have 2 686's, plus I'd love to add a long tube .41 Mag to my collection. Value wise, the 657 would be worth more, but it is a niche market, and the 686 would sell much quicker.
Hope this helps
Hope this helps
I believe you have answered your own question! When was the last time you seen a 657(any barrel length) for sale? When was the last time you seen a 686 6" for sale? A new 686 6" can be purchased in almost any good gun shop! Can you buy a 657, in a gun shop, today? Also, you reload for the 41, so ammo is no problem!
jcelect
OutAtTheEdge
Member
All due respect, I'm not sure why you're asking us. It really does all come down to which gun meets your needs better, and that is a personal matter. As a theoretical exercise? Well, I own several 6" .357s, models 19, 27 and 28, and while they are all pleasant to shoot, and can be pressed into service for a lot of duties, none would be my go-to if I was selecting one handgun for any specific purpose. On the other hand, I also own a M57 with an 8-3/8" barrel. Versatile? Hardly. In fact, I'd call it the opposite of versatile. However, for hunting whitetails it is exquisite, and I don't think I need to defend that statement here. For me, then, the big .41 magnum is the more useful choice. I can't say it would work out that way for everyone.
Lou_NC
Member
If it were my last 357, I wouldn't trade it for a 41, but it sounds like you have more than one revolver in your collection.
As others have pointed out, obtaining a 6-in 686 in the future will not be an issue.As a reloader, you are all set to enjoy the 41, plus you have hunting in mind for which there's no question the 41 is better suited. Go for it!
Lou
lppd4
Member
I would not make the trade. 686 much handier
lrb1200
Member
Given no details on the OP's situation.
All to offer is if it was specifically me.
Do have a collection of N Frames,
there is no long tube or 41mag in it.
Do have multiple 357's to use.
Not looking for a long 41 mag.
But there is a uniqueness to it.
If put in front of me, yeah, I'd make the trade.
All to offer is if it was specifically me.
Do have a collection of N Frames,
there is no long tube or 41mag in it.
Do have multiple 357's to use.
Not looking for a long 41 mag.
But there is a uniqueness to it.
If put in front of me, yeah, I'd make the trade.
Sammy Wesson
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Well I own both and prefer the 686 much more. More enjoyable to shoot and carry.
I used the 657 to hunt with but too heavy to carry all day so haven't fired it it in years.
Used to target shoot with buddies and we reloaded both cal's so ammo wasn't an issue then but 41 ammo is hard to find now for me since I'm not reloading any more.
I get your dilemma because I have a 629-6 NIB to sell or trade for a 57 or 25 because I don't have one.
My vote is keep the 686 unless as others said you want a 657.
Best of luck in deciding.
I used the 657 to hunt with but too heavy to carry all day so haven't fired it it in years.
Used to target shoot with buddies and we reloaded both cal's so ammo wasn't an issue then but 41 ammo is hard to find now for me since I'm not reloading any more.
I get your dilemma because I have a 629-6 NIB to sell or trade for a 57 or 25 because I don't have one.
My vote is keep the 686 unless as others said you want a 657.
Best of luck in deciding.
