686+ vs 627(update: Bought one!)

[savasyn]

(Check post #19 for update)

I have a number of revolvers but most of them are snubbies or seemingly too pretty or fragile for regular use and abuse(like my Python or S&W 19) to be my go-to, use anytime, anywhere with whatever .38 or .357 I can find-type gun.

As such, I've more or less narrowed down my next purchase to either a 4" 686+(preferable a prelock -4) or a 4" 627(non-PC version).
I already have a 2.5" 686-4+ so I know I like it but would prefer a 4" version for the intention mentioned above. I do not have any experience with the 627, but an N frame with 8 rounds sounds pretty darn nice.

I know I'd be perfectly happy with either, but I wanted to hear some opinions as to why you(or I) would pick one over the other.

Please keep the discussion to these two guns as I know there are a number of other viable choices out there, but these are the two I'm most interested in.

Thanks!

[trickyvic]

I'm in the market for a revolver and in the last couple of weeks I've handled both size S&W frames. I found the small 686 frame way more comfortable because I have small hands. I'm almost sure I'll pick up a 686 SSR.

[Rukus]

I had a 627 (PC version) snubbie and absolutely loved it. It is still the one sale that I regret. You really can't beat 8 shots. Only downside of course would be the size. I'd say go with the 627 no doubt.

[tiko]

Both are excellent. The lock is OK, don't use it, don't look at it. All my revolvers unfortunately got locks but they are OK

[nn3453]

L or N frame you can't go wrong. If you ever want to shoot IDPA, go with the 4" 6 shot 686 (not the plus). See which one fits you better. Good luck.

[SNEAKS]

I have the 627PC model and love it. The extra weight of the N frame is a nice bonus and you just cant beat a 8 shot revolver than can shoot magnum loads.

[bwiese]

I have to get a 627 now that I can get a regular-lugged barel (instead of the space-age diagonal-ramped barrel).

I wish it had an unfluted cylinder though.

I'll be getting one as soon as my queue of new handguns at my FFL goes to zero (30 day limit etc.)

[Spearo]

I really like my 627PC too. A tad front heavy plus the 5in barrel make for great accuracy. I hit the steel plates at Angeles 100yds 6 or 7 out of 8 most days. The N-frame soaks up the recoil nice too.

If you shoot .38special out of it, the recoil is minimal. With the .357mag loads it is still more than manageable. Best money I ever spent on a handgun.

[sirgiles]

if its a snubnose, i prefer a 627 just because its a 8 shot.

[savasyn]

Sounds like the 627 is clearly the favorite here. I'll have to see if I can find one at a local store so I can check it out as I've never seen one in person.

I have a 629 .44 Mag, is the frame identical between the 627 and 629? How about cylinder diameter? If they are dimensionally identical, I'd at least have that aspect at home to play with.

[trashman]

I have a 629 .44 Mag, is the frame identical between the 627 and 629? How about cylinder diameter? If they are dimensionally identical, I'd at least have that aspect at home to play with.

They are indeed dimensionally identical to the *29s. - 8-rounds of .357 magnum.

I've got one of the new 627 and it is my (and my wife's) favorite modern revolver. Toss the rubber/goodyear grips and get some nice wood!

--Neill

Nill grips:



Eagle Heritage "coke" grips:



(These are Ahrends retro-combats on a 629 - same frame size as the 627):

[savasyn]

Awesome, thanks! Great pix btw.
I do like a nice set of wood grips, but I'm probably in the minority around here and actually like the rubber grip that comes on Smiths these days.
The Nils are beautiful looking, alas I've never had a chance to hold them.

[jmax]

I have 2 627 PC's and have had a variety of 686's, key operative word HAD. I shoot ICORE & the Steel Challenge and have 40k+ 38 spl rounds through both w/o trouble. The lock is of no bother to me. Get the 627 and don't look back.

[savasyn]

I am heavily leaning that direction at this point. I had been wanting a 686 4" for a long time but just realized that the 627 fits the bill for what I want just this week. Sounds like it was the right thing to realize before I went and put some cash down

[MT1]

Have a 627PC - awesome revolver, don't feel the need to buy any other except maybe a second 627PC