[TaurusGL]

I am pretty new to handguns, but I am in the market for a .357 w/ 4"-6" barrel for approx. $350. I will mainly be shooting .38 but I like the option of bieng able to step up to .357. The local shop has a Colt Trooper for $350 and that thing has a sweet action. Try and not make too mcuh fun of me for not searching.

[George S.]

I just bought a Ruger GP100 in stainless with a 6" barrel. I paid $379 for it (don't know if your dollar amount is a limit) so that would be a suggestion for something to look at. Ilike the rubber grips with the rosewood inserts. The rubber grips make it easy to handle with .357 loads. The GP100 is available in 3, 4 and 6 inch barrel versions and there is a special Davidson's model in 5".

I only needed a couple click of windage on the factory adjustable rear sight to get it to shoot sub-2" groups off a rest at 25 yards.

Ruger GP100's are tremendously strong (some people say they are built like tanks!) and will withstand any factory load. They are even used by some ammo makers to test new loads and for load data testing for reloading.

[ReadyontheRight]

Agree with the GP100 as a great, inexpensive .357.

One of the THR members has two S&W 65s for sale right now in the Handguns for sale forum. He's asking $325 for either -- seems like a good deal that would fit your needs.

[ReadyontheRight]

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=66059

Here is the link to the THR member's S&W 65s.

[PigPen]

You can buy a s$$t load of S&W revolvers, chambered for .357 for "around" $350.00 (an less) with any barrel length that you want. Ruggers as well.

Colts are at a premium because Colt has slowed or stopped (never sure from one day to the next day which it is........slowed or stopped).

Don't become confused............you want a shooter......not a collector that you really can't fully enjoy due to protecting.

That's later.... ;)

PigPen

[Cosmoline]

You can get a Ruger Security Six in that length for under $200. I got mine for $100 and after $80 and some quality time back at Ruger it's fully restored and shooting great. Absolute best buy for .357's IMHO. It's beefier than a S&W but not as bulky as a GP 100. Also the price can't be beat.

[Ala Dan]

Greeting's All-

Lot's of good suggestions thus far. Let me add two others
please? Buy used, and look for a LNIB Smith & Wesson
model 27 or 28; its the N-frame .357 magnum. Great guns,
don't get any better than these.

Also ran, a blue steel Smith & Wesson model 19 or 586.
The K and L frame versions of Smith .357's respectively!
All of these will serve you well~

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member

[Russ]

New I would get the Ruger GP 100. I have seen some Taurus revolvers out there that might work for you too. I'm not convinced on Taurus quality though. If you can get a good used S&W that is in good shape, they are nice.

[7.62FullMetalJacket]

I purchased a Taurus Tracker .357 4 inch about 6 months ago. I love it. Handles the stout loads. Probably have over 1,200 rounds, 1/2 .38 spl and 1/2 .357 mag. Nor problems. Very accurate.

I was leary at first as well, but now I CCW this one in the winter.



:)

[Josey]

Go buy the Trooper! You will be happy. I have a Colt Trooper MKIII in nickel myself. Mine has the target options in sights, TT, TH and nice walnut grips. If the action is sweet, what else matters?

[TaurusGL]

Thank you so much for your suggestions. They have a gun show this weekend so I might have one more mouth to feed.

[steelhead]

It should be obvious - go with your namesake!:)

[Grayrock]

I second Cosmoline's reply.http://www.thehighroad.org/attachment.php?s=&postid=811109

[cordex]

I picked up a used S&W 681 (4 inch barrel, stainless L frame) for $275 at a gunshow not too long ago. Not a superb price, but definitely within your range.

[Roger Williams]

If I had it to do all over again, I'd just start with the GP100. I've owned lots of different .357's and the GP100 is my absolute favorite.

You might consider looking for a used one and with the leftover $, get a nice holster or some ammo. They have them used at gun shows all the time for $300 or so around here. I've owned 3 GP100's. One was used. The only difference between it and a new one was a couple of powder marks and a very smooth trigger. I don't think you could really hurt 'em!

Anyway, best of luck. Remember - the search is the best part! :cool: