I would like a revolver

[ns3v3n]

Hey OP, since you're in the bay area, make a trip to Targetmaster, they have both the 686 (I shot this one last week, Awesome), and the Ruger GP-100 (shot that one too, also awesome), and see which one you like better. Like others have said, Ruger will take any kinds of loads because it is built like a tank and it's cheaper than the S&W, but the S&W is a bit smoother (more expensive). Go rent them and give them a try, I believe right now they only charge $2 to rent revolvers, but you would have to buy ammo from them. Just get a box of 38 and a box of 357 and test them out. Remember to bring a friend because you will not be able to rent guns if you go alone, unless you have your own weapons already.

[Roach_Infinity]

If you are patient try to get ahold of a S&W 19 or a nice old colt if the price is right. (My favorite being the "Model 357.")

If you don't wanna wait I agree with the above posts, 6" is nicer shooting, 4" is nicer carrying. GP100 is an excellent value, 686+ is maybe less value if you're hard assed about these things (which I am) but has nicer fit and finish, not to mention an extra shot in the cylinder! If you could find a pre lock 686, or a 586 and the price was right those are also no brainers(if you're patient.)

-Eric

[rgs1975]

Bazinga!

S&W 586 L-Comp w/3" barrel, holds 7 rounds FTW...

[jonzer77]

There is a pretty sweet looking one for sale up in the east bay by you.

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=541464

Not sure the going price on these but I like it.

[ckprax]

I have a pre-lock 686 4", and just bought a SP101 .357 2.25". I've shot a bunch of other revolvers in varying calibers.

The trigger doesn't feel great on the SP101, but I find it to be very accurate and fun to shoot, especially considering it's size. I'm as accurate with it at the range as anything else I shoot.

SP101 would make a fantastic all around gun.


-Freq

A 2 inch snub nose revolver is not easy to shoot well and magnum loads can be harsh. I have an SP101 and a 686, the 686 is much more versatile.

For a shooter new to revolvers a longer sight radius is beneficial as is the weight of a large framed revolver. I can shoot my SP101 pretty well with .38spl and +P rounds but magnum rounds are a handful and POI is significantly different that POI. Since it has fixed sights there is nothing you can do about it other than find another load or adjust your aim.

[1144-Rob]

627. thats all that needs to be said.

[Dark Mod]

I prefer the smith myself, but the GP100 is great too. The smith feels smooth like a fine swiss watch, the GP100 is built heavier. 4" barrell is perfect, any more than that and the gun ends up becoming a safe queen and never gets shot or taken with you anywhere

[Super Spy]

627. thats all that needs to be said.

Not quite all that needs to be said. Get a 627, it holds 8 rounds....

[Sunday]

A 2 or 3 inch for self defense only, a 4 inch is a great compromise length and a 6 inch+ for target and longer distance shooting because of the longer sight radius and the more feet per second with the magnum loads.

[Volksgrenadier]

.357 magnum is the logical choice. It gives a dual ammunition capability. As for brand, the aforementioned choices from Ruger are good ones. Personally, if going the Smith and Wesson route, I would hunt gun shops or the Marketplace here and find yourself an older model, without that hideous failure of a safety lock and hammers and triggers NOT made out of MIM moulds.

Barrel length? A 4" model is pretty service standard for a first revolver. That said, the revolver I shoot most often is an older S&W that has a 5" barrel.

[santacruzstefan]

Now, what would be a good price if I could find a new or used GP100 with a 4" barrel? Called a local gun shop, they said they had in stock but wouldn't quote me over the phone (some research suggests $670 as their price). What is reasonable?

[Budd]

Now, what would be a good price if I could find a new or used GP100 with a 4" barrel? Called a local gun shop, they said they had in stock but wouldn't quote me over the phone (some research suggests $670 as their price). What is reasonable?

Not sure on new - maybe $550 range - maybe a bit more. Used depends on condition - if LNIB - maybe $450+ - a few nicks - maybe down to $400.

Not really too sure as I have not priced them out since I bought mine many years ago - but seeing a brand new SP101 for $519 at Ammo Bros in Cerritos says I should be close.

[ckprax]

The price will depend on the condition and finish. I routinely see lightly used SS GP100's for $450-$500. There was a 6" in one of my local shops for $350 (I should have bought it).

The nice thing about the GP100 is there is very little chance that it has been shot loose, they are tanks.

[ns3v3n]

You can always get the odd ball one like the S&W 625 that shoots 45acp with moon clips. It is on my to get list.