Which S&W revos are the best value as shooters?

[MatthewVanitas]

This question has come up a few times on another board, where various newbies were considering spending $400 or more on a new Taurus.

I (and others) argued that a used S&W provides a much better value. Some models command a higher price due to collector value, but which models combine high quality/utility with a low collector interest?

Off the top of my head, based on what I've seen over the last year (when I personally purchased all of the following):

S&W 64: K-frame stainless .38Spl, $200-300

S&W 65: K-frame stainless .357, $250-350

S&W 10: K-frame blue .38Spl, $175-250

S&W 28: N-frame blue .357, $325-425


Are these the highlights of the "great bang for the buck" S&W revolvers, or did I miss any models that folks who "just want a good shooter" should keep an eye out for?

 

[RON in PA]

I'd add the model 13, the blued version of the 65.

What about the 15/67 models, they might be a bit more than a model 10/64, but close.

 

[MatthewVanitas]

Looking at GunBroker, the cheapest 13s went for $350-375 in the last few days, so markedly more than a 64 or 65. Similarly, the 15s seem to go for $400 and up. Good call on the 67 though, will add that one to the list:


S&W 67 - K-frame stainless adj-sight .38Spl, $275-300

 

[Pistol Toter]

10, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 21, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29, 36, 57, 58, 60, 64, 65, 66, 67 They're all like fine wine or Brandy or a woman, good cup of coffee - ALL GOOD

 

[Anonymous Coward]

Considering the quality and shootability of K and N Frames, I'd say S&W revolvers are wonderfully affordable and undervalued.

If your collecting interests are serious, this man's blog has all the advice you need: xavier thoughts

 

[earplug]

If you just want to shoot or even compete at local matches. Its hard to beat a M-14 with surface rust or a well cared for, but holster worn M-15.
I have bee lucky enough to buy one of each in the past two years. The most I paid was $236.00 for the M-15.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

IMO a used S&W revolver is better than any Taurus revolver ever made. I'm not bashing Taurus because they make a fairly good product but they aren't a S&W. Also, their Customer Service stinks whereas S&W's Customer Service is unrivaled.

 

[Bill B.]

How about Smith & Wesson pre 14 K Masterpiece. There isn't much that will shoot any better in 38 Special. $400 is average in nice shape.

 

[Just Jim]

With a Smith you will get your money back should you choose to sell it. With a Taurus you won't.

jj

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

If I understand the premise correctly

A used Model 10 or Model 15. I see them frequently for $200-$350 depending on the finish wear. These don't have the collector cachet of the magnums and therefore don't sell for a small fortune.

 

[Starter52]

+1 on the Model 15. They seem undervalued around here. I've bought two in the last two years for under $175 each. Everyone wants either stainless or a Magnum . . . .

Also, the Model 28 is a great gun, but recently prices are going up. $350 - $400 is now the going price around here. Well worth the money, IMO.