[TrapperReady]

I've got a 6.5" barrel 686 that is bone-stock right now. It's fun to shoot, and I can do pretty well with the open sights.

However, lately I've been thinking about putting some kind of scope or red-dot on it just for kicks. I tried a Ruger with a 2x scope today, just aiming it at some stuff on the wall at the store. It was pretty horrid to see how much my POA moves around.

So, what have you tried? What do you like? What don't you like? What would you recommend?

The purpose would be 99% paper-punching, with the slight possibility of some hunting.

[caz223]

If you shoot offhand fairly well, and don't expect 100 yard 2 inch groups, get a red dot.
You can expect paper plate groups at 70 yards with a little practice.
I figure, the .357 isn't much good past 70 yards anyway. (I just KNOW somebody will argue with me on this.) I'm talking general purpose hunting/shooting, not IHMSA or benchrest.
If you practice, and get ammo the gun likes, a red dot is fine for 98% of what you're gonna use it for.

[Jim Watson]

I have a Burris 1X scope on a High Standard .22 that is a lot of fun. No battery to run down. Mine is the dot reticle version sold by Gil Hebard.

[Sprout]

You might want to think about a Crimson Trace Lasergrip. I bought my father one for his 1911 and it is a LOT of fun. Three of us tried it out, none of us had used a laser before, but we all had tighter groups.

Plus you could add a scope. Just a thought.