bullzeye8 said:
what are your opinions on these guns
They're all fine guns, but if you're asking which to get, we'd need more info on your use.
The 686 is a 6- (or 7-) shot .357mag. As an L-frame, it's smaller than the N-framed 627 and 929, which can make a difference in terms of how well you shoot it. It'll be reloaded using speedloaders, and, particularly for the 6-shot version, there are lots of speedloader options.
The 627 is an 8-shot .357mag. Extra capacity, but built on the bigger N-frame, which might make a difference in how well it fits you. It can be shot with or without moonclips, but 8-shot speedloader options aren't as great as they are with the 6-shot 686, and some find moonclips a pain to deal with. Also, moonclips do best with short stubby semi-auto rounds, and less so with long skinny rounds, such as the .357mag. OTOH, the versatility of a .357mag revolver is
very tough to beat.
The 929 is an 8-shot 9mm large N-frame. 9mm is cheaper, and likely works better with moons that .357mag, but you'll have to use moonclips with this gun, and again, some find moons a pain to deal with. And a 9mm revolver doesn't have the versatility of a .357mag revolver. Still, as mentioned, because of it's capacity, reloading speed and relatively mild recoil, the 929 would be tough to beat if you're wanting to send a lot of lead downrange
fast by shooting & reloading
fast, e.g. ICORE & USPSA competition.
As far as PC revolvers, they used to get extra tuning and premium parts, but from what I've seen lately, they no longer do. When you buy a current PC revolver, I believe you're simply buying a revolver configuration not available in their standard line-up. If you have to have an 8-shot 9mm, then, you have to go PC. If you want PC simply because of the extra tuning, my advice would be get the standard version, and spend the money saved on some tuning by a good 'smith.
I don't have any experience with Dan Wessons. They have a reputation of excellent accuracy, but so-so actions.
The Ruger GP100 is certainly worth a look if you're just looking for a good solid 6-shot .357mag.
bullzeye8 said:
I thought I heard the actions aren't quite as nice as even a non pc smith
Revolver actions aren't immutable. Whether a Ruger, DW, or S&W, a good action job is certainly worth considering. IOW, I wouldn't discount a revolver only because of the reputation of it's smoothness. Even a S&W PC revolver isn't likely to be optimal from the factory.