4" .357: GP100 vs. SW686?

[Army GI]

I like the slim lines of the 686, but you can't deny the Ruger's reputation for durability.

[jazman]

Really cannot go wrong, both excellent guns. I am partial to the Smith, but pick what one fits best in your hand and shoot the heck out of it.

[darkwater]

For Ruger durability, take into consideration that there are "Ruger-only" loads that are too hot for guns from other makers.

[nn3453]

Ruger if it is a camping gun you will only occasionally shoot, want to shoot hot loads and are okay with the heavy lawyer trigger. People complain about the new S&W lock, while overlooking the horrible lawyer triggers on Rugers. S&W if you want a gun that you will like to shoot every time you head to the range.

[cmaher55]

Go to the store and hold each one and pull the trigger in SA and DA. Your answer will be self evident. I posted up the same question a few days ago...

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=331064

In short, get the S&W 686 Stainless in a 4" barrel hands down.... Have not got it yet but working on the wife for my 50th birthday present.... It will be a 686, 6 shot, in a 4 inch barrel. From my research this will be a gun you pass on to your sons or daughters........ Ruger is good, S&W is just that much better in fit, finish, trigger, sights, and ergo....... Regards

[scarville]

I've owned both a GP-100 in 4" and a 686 in 6". I sold the GP-100 because it was just a little bit too big for my hand. The 686 fits me like it was custom made for me. Either one will last you a lifetime so get the one that feels best in your hand.

[scidx]

If fit is a concern...
...it's a DA revolver. Get some new stocks for it.

Beauty is in utility, for me. I have not yet shot a gun into the ground; but a ruger will take longer to get there.

Plus, personally, I've been let down with (almost) every Smith & Wesson I've had. I've been lucky in that every Ruger firearm I've owned was/is excellent.

Almost any gun can shoot well with the right tuning.