.357/.38 First revolver

[pklin1297]

1. Smith & Wesson
2. Ruger
3. Taurus

Hello all,

Am looking to purchase my first .357/.38 revolver, new or used, small to medium frame, and I am wondering which brand people would recommend. Am leaning towards a Smith&Wesson model, but would like to know from people who have had experience with Ruger and/or Taurus, if these other brands warrant consideration. Thought about Colt also, specifically a Python through PPT, but the price is above what I would like to pay right now, which is roughly $600 or less. Tell me what you think...

[PsychoTrucker]

Ruger GP100 or S&W 686

[JawBone]

+1 S&w

[saki302]

+2 S&W.

Get an S&W 686+ 7 shot L frame- pretty, indestructible, and very reasonable on the used market (~$400-450).

If you ever become a revolver 'enthusiast' you'll be glad you picked up the S&W. Rugers are functional and stout, but IMO have less 'art' value, if that makes any sense. If I were planning to holster and abuse it, the Ruger would do also.

-Dave

[kurac]

Go S&W for function, good looks, accuracy and re-sale value.

[t001]

An older S&W Model 19?

[gunrun45]

Ruger Security six or GP100. VERY durable guns that shoot accurately.
Smith's have a nicer trigger but they are less durable and are more costly.
A Ruger trigger will smoth out after time.

Think of a Ruger as a Chevy pickup and the Smith as a BMW sedan.

For a first time driver I would recomend the Chevy pickup over the BMW sedan After you have beaten it for a while and decided that you like driving, maybe upgrade if you decide that's your thing.

[FCinCA]

1. Smith & Wesson
2. Ruger
3. Taurus

Hello all,

Am looking to purchase my first .357/.38 revolver, new or used, small to medium frame, and I am wondering which brand people would recommend. Am leaning towards a Smith&Wesson model, but would like to know from people who have had experience with Ruger and/or Taurus, if these other brands warrant consideration. Thought about Colt also, specifically a Python through PPT, but the price is above what I would like to pay right now, which is roughly $600 or less. Tell me what you think...

What do you intend to use the pistol for CCW or target? The Smith's are great dependable weapons that are fairly inexpensive. I do not have experiences with either Ruger or Taurus. I love my Colt's but like you stated in your post, the price you want to pay is a bit shy of current market values. If you are able to find one though in your price range, GET IT and don't look back. Good luck.

[Cpl_Peters]

gp100, i love mine, built like a tank

[battlehatch]

I just picked up a Taurus 617 Titanium. Got a really good deal on it. Don't even know if it shoots. I held a similar size revolver from S&W, makes the Taurus look like a P.O.S.

[timmyb21]

I'll be the first to recommend the Taurus. I have a 608 that I've had for 10 years, countless rounds, and not one single mechanical malfunction. Fairly heavy with the 6.5 in. barrel, but good hog huntin' gun.

[mike452]

You should save another $150 and get a lightly used S&W Performance Center model. I see the 627 used for $700 -$750 all the time. You will not regret it.

I know you are looking for your first revolver. Just get the best since it’s just a bit more.
Be happy you are not on the 1911 train.

[3GunFunShooter]

+1 on the S&W, 686, 19 or 66.
I do have a Ruger SP101, 357, excellent gun also.
I just have always liked the S&W better.
I like the 4" Models.
Yes, be very happy you are not on the 1911 train ride.

[desertram800]

+1000 for the S&W! Time proven performance, a hefty reliable solid gun! I recommend a 686 with a 4" barrel. I've been looking for one myself for the right price! I've seen used 4" 686's go for $400-500 before. I'm trying to con my buddy into selling me his, but he's a stubborn one!

[Black Majik]

S&W Prelock.

686
Model 27