Revolver advise

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firemanstrickland

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Hello everyone,

Its been a while since ive posted on here, (I've been feeding my medieval side :evil: ) I have decided to get a new revolver and have chosen to go with a .357/6in barrel/stainless. What i really really want is a colt python, but frankly I just dont have 2000 sittin around. I love that vent rib look. But anyway, I need suggestions, I was leaning towards the s&w 686 but i just dont know. Suggestions????


PS ok, this is an edit, can someone give me more info on the rhino? everything you know about it, pros, cons, accuracy, reliability, warranty, customer service issues, ANYTHING you can tell me about it.
 
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Search these forums (and any other firearm forum) and it will generally come down to either a S&W or a Ruger. Both brands have their champions, and you will see good points on both sides of the ledger. This topic is very popular.
 
My 686 is a great shooter,,,

Brighid, my 686 is a great shooter,,,
It's everything one could want in a functional gun.

37-brighid.jpg

I just wish it didn't have that dangnable full underlug,,,
Some like that but I think it ruins the lines of the otherwise beautiful gun.

Great shooter though,,,
My nephew took a deer with it.

Aarond

.
 
I also like my S & W 686, a great revolver for sure ( I'm sure I would say the same for a Ruger if I owned one). Just buy what feels good to you, all have pros & Cons.
 
I think you would do all right with either a S&W Model 686 or a Ruger GP100. I had both years ago and kept the Model 686 when I had to sell some of my guns to pay for school. I just liked the overall feel and balance of the gun and it had one of the nicest DA/SA triggers on it.
 
Although new guns have cast triggers and hammers, yet with a case hardened, blotchy look, the S&W will likely have the better trigger, make you look better in your scoring, right from the box.

The Ruger is more likely to require both trigger work and cylinder boring. I would take a bullet with you and use it as a plug gauge on the cylinder throats. Also take a dummy round or even live if you let the salesman do it, and see how the cylinder closes (or not).
 
robhof

You might also want to look at the Dan Wessons, they're very accurate and are priced currently below the S&W's and definitely the Colt's.
 
I have both and consider them both equal in functionality and triggers are both smooth. My 686 is over 30 years old and still kicking.
P1000474.jpg
 
The 686 is a mighty fine revolver, but keep an eye open for some older used S&Ws, too. Used 6" Models 19 and 28 would make fine range guns as well. You can still find DWs on the used market. CZ was supposed to start making DW revolvers again, but it seems that's been an on & off proposition for some time now.

If this is for purely target work, and you're not planning on shooting .357mags through it, check out some nice used PPC or Bianchi Cup revolvers, too. Many feel they look very cool, but more importantly, they're usually custom-built tack drivers that, on the used market, are often a bargain for what they are.

The "Competitor" version of the 686 is a factory 6" PPC/Bianchi revolver. It looks very cool, too, is chambered in .357mag, and has some neat additional features, but may be out of your price range.
 
firemanstrickland said:
well, as it turns out dan wesson quit making revolvers, any others?????
Click to expand...

You originally wanted a Python and Colt doesn't make them anymore. Don't be afraid of a used Dan Wesson. Strong, well made guns and Dan Wesson made some with a rib vent. Looks a lot like a python, but cost a lot less and is a dang good gun

1103620_01_one_day_sale_357_maximum_640.jpg
 
Love my 686. Had it since 1987, and it still shoots flawlessly after I know not how many thousands of rounds.

... and I really like that full underlug, Aarond. That look (and added heft) was a big part of what sold me on it.
 
I also think the 686 is a great 357 and you would be very happy with one.
 
Since you are looking and asked, have you though about a GP100 and $200 worth of ammo? The Smith's will have a better action, especially double, but the Rugers have a rep for durability. Personally, I think they look great, but of course, no vent rib. ;)
 
Get the 686 if you want an accurate revolver. Nothing against the Python but in 20 years of revolver competition I doubt I have seen more than a handful on the line. The Dan Wesson revolver is also a good one, it made it's repoutation on the Metallic Silouhette line. But of the two, the 686 will be easier to find in a gun store.
 
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lol havok! yes! hahaha, dont get me wrong, i like it, but its a bit pricey. Thanks to everyone, it seems that the 686 is the way im leaning, I cant really find a DW the way I want it. Personally I wish colt would put python back in to production. none the less. I do really appreciate all the replies, if you have anymore keep em coming.
 
My GP100 (bought new 8-9 years ago) had a terrific trigger - both SA & DA - straight out of the box. It is the most accurate handgun I own. It seems to shoot better groups with full house 357 loads, but does well with .38s as well. Dry firing doesn't hurt them. If you can, try dry firing before you purchase & compare the feel, triggers, looks, etc. Get the one that feels best to you, but I would certainly recommend looking at a Ruger.
 
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