I agree with the general comments about .357 however I also understand the desire to own at least one. My desire to own one netted me a 6in GP100 and a 3 in SP101. I love both and enjoy shooting .357s or .38s from either but I have been shooting revolvers for 30 years now. With that said my favorite revolver is my S&W Mdl 10 in .38. Smooth, accurate and plain sweet. My home defense choice.......1911.
Need Advice on .357 mag revolver
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mrghostwalker
Member
Revolver question-
I agree that you should look at the Ruger GP100 with a 4inch barrel. That way you can fire 38 or 357. Start with the 38's for home defense. You can always change your mind and go with the 357 later.
I agree that you should look at the Ruger GP100 with a 4inch barrel. That way you can fire 38 or 357. Start with the 38's for home defense. You can always change your mind and go with the 357 later.
politicaldookie
Member
I'd go with the GP or an SP if you ever think it will be a carry gun.
I was mulling over a decison between the GP100 and SP101. I decided the GP was over my budget (over $600 here in MD, the SP $100 less) so I bought the SP with a 3" barrel. Just shot the gun for the first time last weekend. Wife and elderly Aunt shot it with .357's and didn't have a problem. The recoil was far less than I anticipated. Wife's hand was a little sore that evening. I ordered a set of Hogue monogrips for it yesterday.
This was my first choice, I recommend it as yours.
Ruger New Model Blackhawk Convertible .357mag / 9mm
4 5/8" barrel
While I would not feel unarmed with a single action they are not the best for a SD weapon as a DA, even moreso for a new shooter.
Ruger New Model Blackhawk Convertible .357mag / 9mm
4 5/8" barrel
While I would not feel unarmed with a single action they are not the best for a SD weapon as a DA, even moreso for a new shooter.
The Ruger GP100 and the Smith are both great guns. I agree with the 4 inch and 38 +p for home use. When I was deciding between the Ruger and the Smith, I went to the gun shop and handled them side by side. The Ruger felt nicer in my grip so I went with that.
If it is to be a home defense gun, make sure that you can buy lasergrips for it. In a dark room, you just can't line up the iron sights quick enough to do you any good.... you don't want to miss and shoot through the wall and hit one of the kids.
Laser grips...the best investment for the home defense revolver... what ever the brand.
Laser grips...the best investment for the home defense revolver... what ever the brand.
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Glockman17366
Member
One of the nicest .357 Magnum revolvers around is the Model 627 Tracker.
This one holds 7 rounds and the "ribber" grips conform quite well to your hand.
Downside is this gun is ported which is great for follow up shots, but are quite loud. That's something to consider, especially if used for home defense.
As far as those folks posting negative comments about Taurus revolvers...well, they have no idea what they're talking about and have likely never owned or shot a Taurus. We Taurus owners judge the firearms by it's value...and Taurus is a winner in this case.
I'm also quite a fan of the SP101 .357 revolver. Mine has the 3.06" barrel. There's another recommendation for you.
This one holds 7 rounds and the "ribber" grips conform quite well to your hand.
Downside is this gun is ported which is great for follow up shots, but are quite loud. That's something to consider, especially if used for home defense.
As far as those folks posting negative comments about Taurus revolvers...well, they have no idea what they're talking about and have likely never owned or shot a Taurus. We Taurus owners judge the firearms by it's value...and Taurus is a winner in this case.
I'm also quite a fan of the SP101 .357 revolver. Mine has the 3.06" barrel. There's another recommendation for you.
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22-rimfire
Member
I use a 3" GP100 loaded with 38spl+P's. 357 is a bit overkill indoors and the concussion is ear drum splitting. Dry fire it and the trigger will smooth out a bit.
One of the things that always appealed to me about the 3" GP is it looks like a 4" Colt Diamondback and handles about the same. The Colt Diamondback would be an excellent choice in 38spl by the way.
One of the things that always appealed to me about the 3" GP is it looks like a 4" Colt Diamondback and handles about the same. The Colt Diamondback would be an excellent choice in 38spl by the way.
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