Smith and Wesson 19 classic?

[MEGSDAD]

So, I'm thinking of picking up a .357 magnum revolver. Smith and Wesson model 19 Classic is one i'm considering along with a 686 plus. Havent had a chance to fondle one yet. Wondering if anyone here has any experience with the 19 Classic. any feedback is much appreciated.
Thanks

[Barbarosa]

I would look for a pre-lock 19, preferably pinned and recessed. They are pretty easy to come by and you will probably save a couple hundred bucks over new. I picked up a nice 19-3 a year back for $600 without box. It looked and shot like new though.

[tuna quesadilla]

You’re definitely on the right track looking at a K-frame (19, 66, 67, etc) instead of an L-frame (586, 686, etc). The difference in handling is slight, but quite worthwhile. The new production ones are fine IF you can inspect it before actually doing the paperwork on it, as any QC issues should be pretty obvious.

[buffybuster]

Keep in mind;

K-frame magnums are designed to shoot mostly 38Spl and 357Mag in moderation. The bottom of the forcing cone is thinner and subject to cracking with constant magnum loads.

L-frame magnums are designed for constant magnum loads.

[Emdawg]

The new Model 19s and K frames have a redesigned barrel where they eliminated the flat forcing cone. Supposedly they can handle a steady diet of 357 mag.

Keep in mind;

K-frame magnums are designed to shoot mostly 38Spl and 357Mag in moderation. The bottom of the forcing cone is thinner and subject to cracking with constant magnum loads.

L-frame magnums are designed for constant magnum loads.

[ojisan]

I read on one of the gun magazines that the new two piece barrel has the advantage of a full thickness forcing cone, eliminating that problem.

The L frame is a bigger gun, the Classic 19 might be good for the true medium size frame buyer.

I do like the new crane latch on the Classic. Much better design and inertia locks it harder on recoil as compared to locking lighter on the older guns.

[smle-man]

the 686 soaks up recoil from .357s. If your main diet will be .38s then the 686 advantage is gone.

[buffybuster]

The new Model 19s and K frames have a redesigned barrel where they eliminated the flat forcing cone. Supposedly they can handle a steady diet of 357 mag.

Glad they addressed that potential issue, but not enough to want to buy one with a lock or two piece barrel.

[p7m8jg]

If you're into .357 magnum, whatever the load, then go L-frame.

Years ago, the stainless steel Model 66 was being rebranded and sold to South America because it couldn't handle the .357 load consistently. Or so I was told. YMMV.

I have a S&W 586 .357 revolver now. Couldn't be happier with it.

[Bobby Ricigliano]

If I were buying a new .357 wheelgun, it would be a Ruger GP100, hands down.

If I wanted a S&W revolver, it would be a used pre-lock with the earlier features,even if it cost more than a new one.

[deadcoyote]

My first duty gun was a 4” mode 19. I loved it and foolishly passed on purchasing it when we transitioned to auto pistols ($150). From my understanding the magnum k frames could handle a steady diet of 158 grain but the 125’s caused issues after extended use. I too have considered picking up a new model 19 classic. Just a heads up but for a little more you could pick up a new model 27 classic. A lot of folks say the older rigs are better, and I don’t doubt it. I live very rural and there’s not a lot of options compared to a more populated area.

[Fishslayer]

Thd M27 is gonna be a lot bigger & heavier than a 19/66 or a 586/686. Now that we have the L frames the N frames are a bit of overkill for .357 Magnum. JMO.

The pre '97s are pretty sweet.

[deadcoyote]

My point was just if you want the look of the classic blued k frame but more durability that would be the way to go.

[Red9]

Its calguns. Get them both!

Sent from my LG-TP450 using Tapatalk

[sakosf]

OP, supposedly the frame on the new Classic Model 19 & latest model of the Model 66 is slightly taller then the K frames of past models. Barrel is 4.25".
I have the latest version of the Model 66. I have not had a chance to shoot it yet because of my back issues. I rather like the ball- detent lock up on the gun.I had sent the gun back to S&W Custom Shop for a action job. I think they did a good job. The one thing I don't like is the factory grips, although comfortable feeling material, they are not hand filling enough for me. I wish the gun did not come with the round butt grip frame. I am thinking about contacting a custom grip maker in Oregon to see about getting a a pair of conversion grips