GP100 VS 686

[geoint]

If the 686 is pre-lock, get it; otherwise get the Ruger

This. All these boomers thinking S&W revolvers are still made like they used to be are outa their minds.

[ARDude]

Pretty close in comparison. I would say the S&W is a touch more elegant while the Ruger is a bit more rugged. Either is a superb choice for a workhorse .357.

As for the "only get a pre-lock S&W" silliness, ignore it. The only reports of failure due to the lock always start with, "My friend this happen to him..." I've run a 686SSR in competition for several years. Thousands of rounds driven hard through the gun and not even a hiccup of any kind, let alone due to the lock.

Well it happened to me. 625PC locked up on me shooting standard fmj loads. Unlocked it, shot about 10 rounds and locked up again.

When I got home I disabled the lock and ordered a plug.

Not one problem now. And it looks better without the lock.

[Rcjackrabbit]

Buy the one without the Hillary hole.

[iMigraine]

"build specifically for hot loads..."

[plumbum]

Great purchase OP, should serve you for many a year! I do wish Ruger would make the Match Champ in a 6" version.