Revolver help for an auto guy

My favorite would be the 3" GP 100 or the SP 101.

if you would accept a 4 inch which would be better for hiking, a used 686 is a 350-450 dollar gun

A used Ruger is in the same price range. (not my taste but also a good gun)

As far as 2 or 3 inch, they tend to be more money. Within your price range a SP101 would be my pick

I'd look at the S&W Model 65 in stainless, or the Model 13 in blue, both with 3" barrel.

If you want adjustable sights for a better sight picture, consider a S&W Model 66/19 with 2.5" barrel or a Ruger Security Six with 2 3/4" barrel.

If you'd consider a 4", I'd get the 66/19 or Six over the heavier L-frame.

Check out www.gunbroker.com

I agree with Handgunner. You pretty much perfectly described the Ruger GP100 and SP101, at least among new guns. A used Smith & Wesson 686 would also be a nice gun in that price range, and the Plus version has a seven-round capacity.

I'll second David E on this one. The 65 would be a nice fit, as would the Model 60 in that price range. I'd prefer the Model 19 to both, but you'd be hard pressed to find a 2.5" in that price range. If all else fails, the SP101 is a tough little brick. It's hard to argue with.

I picked up a Ruger Security Six used for $300 and I am very pleased with it, I've had Colt and S&W .357s and I find the Ruger to be a real value.

As for a new gun I would go to post #2

I agree, ruger gp100 or sp101. I have a smith 586 and its a great gun
(686 is a stainless 586) you can't go wrong with either one,
you could also look into taurus, which according to who you talk to would be a great or terrible idea.
The tracker is supposed to be a pretty decent revolver,
never shot one but I thought it felt alright when I was messing with them in the store.

I would stay away from Taurus for sure, autos or revolvers. And for what is worth I vote +1 SP101 with badger custom grips.


(it's stainless underneath)

Ruger SP101

Ruger SP101, either barrel length.

Go with the SP101 3" barrel. I just got a price quote on two days ago on one for my daughter, $449.00 + tax new in box. I own two, both are great guns. The 3" has become my everyday gun. The 2 1/4" has been taken over by my wife....

Does it have to be a .357? One of the Model 10's in .38Spl is going to be a little smaller and lighter than the L framed 686's. And you can still shoot +P which is no slouch.

If you must have .357 then I'd be looking at the various K frame S&W options just because they are a little more compact and a little lighter than most of the other options mentioned. Either with fixed sights or the adjustable sights. The fixed sights make for a gun that won't get caught up in clothing as easily. But if you'll be drawing from an open carry holster during your hikes then it wouldn't really matter what sights it has so much I'd think.

I have a 3 inch GP100 that I am really happy with. I think I got it for 350 or so...I cant remember because it was a while back, but they are about that price on gunbroker.com.

Dan Wesson

Check out the Dan Wesson Model 15 (blued) or 715(Stainless). They are about the same frame size as the S&W 686 but have the interchangeable barrel system. One gun several barrel lengths. Gunbroker normally has some listed. Extra barrel assemblies are available from Dan Wesson. Very strong accurate guns.

I picked up a used S&W model 66 with a 2 1/2" barrel that is proviing to be a very nice weapon, I don't know if you can fine one for $450 though. If you look around the shops you might, sometimes you get lucky.

For hiking my preference would be for the 4" version or the 686 in 4". The Ruger is another good choice although my personal preference is towards the Smith.

For that price range I would strongly suggest a Speed Six or short barrel Security Six.

In that price range you have plenty of options.

I like the older Ruger Six-Series revolvers. They are built well and are accurate. I also like the older S&W K frame revolvers like the M19, M65 or M66. nothing wrong with the Ruger GP100 or S&W M686 other than the weight. If you are going to walk around all day with it on your side you will appreciate the slightly lighter S&W K frame of Ruger Six-Series revolvers.

It will have to be a ruger, unless you can find a real deal on a S&W 19 or 66

I agree with the 65.

You'll shoot mostly .38 spl,
but it's nice to be able to shoot .357 mag in it.
(Just avoid the hot 125's in it.)

Hi,

All of the above members have mention good options. I will throw in one more. A Ruger Speed Six in either 2 3/4 or 3 inch. Fixed sight short barrel revolver. Has one more round than the Ruger SP101, S&W M60. Actually the Speed Six is stronger than either of the above revolvers and can take 357s or 38s. The Speed Six is also stronger than any Smith K frame. You can find one around for around $400.

Good luck,
roaddog28

I have a stainless Ruger Service Six in 3" and a S&W 65-3 in 3". Either would be good choices, unless you really want adjustable sights. Either should be had for anywhere from $350-$500, depending on condition. The 4" Ruger Service and Security Sixes do seem to be more common, in my expereience at least, but that's still a good size for a woods/trail gun.

roaddog28,
I agree with your suggestion on the Speed-Six but I already mentioned the Ruger Six-Series revolvers in post #20 along with the S&W K frame revolvers. I'm guessing smart minds think alike!! LOL