Which is the better .357?

[SnWnMe]

Python con: Does not acclimate well to lots of rapid double action fire.

The GP100 is easily matched by the 686 while the latter looks and shoots better. For 357 applications, the portly Ruger line is overdesigned and overbuilt. You won't ever shoot a 686 to ruin.

 

[mtnbkr]

It all depends on what your dad's going to use it for. For high volume shooting, outdoors use, hard use in general, I'd go with the GP100 or 686. For range shooting or a "dress" magnum, the Python would be nicer (if you have the funds). The Python's just too pretty and expensive to drag around the woods or to run thousands of magnum loads through.

I have the GP100. It handles hot and heavy loads well, is accurate, and has be 100% reliable in the 5 years I've had it. It goes camping with me several times a year. All I have to do is clean it periodically. A friend has the 686. It's a nice gun, but didn't "fit" me very well. With a little work (springs and polishing) and some shooting, the DA trigger on the GP100 will be close enough to the 686 for it to not be a decision making issue. The SA trigger on mine was as good as the 686. Not that it matters though, I shoot almost exclusively DA.

Chris

 

[CB900F]

Roc_Kor;

The Python action is considered to be delicate compared to either the Smith or the Ruger. When they're on, there is nothing better. But when they're bad, they're very bad. Now where did I hear that before?

A cleaned-up Smith, done by a first-rate shop, can come extremely close to the Colt. If durability is a major consideration, the Colt drops pretty fast on my personal list.

Next, it's simply a balancing act between the Ruger & the Smith, flip your nickle & make your choice as far as I'm concerned.

Taurus, to be fair, has raised their bar several notches in the somewhat recent past. They say that they are constantly raising their standards & from what I see & hear, that's the case. I do not currently own a Taurus though, but that could change.

900F

 

[denfoote]

Korth

If money is no object, then go with the Colt - it is "the best".

I hate to burst your bubble, but if money is absolutely no object, then this is the best!!

 

[Baba Louie]

I love the Python. I know that money is no object to you Roc_Kor (does your Dad feel the same way? ) but for the money he'd spend on a Colt Python, he could also buy an excellant older S&W M27 and have the King of the .357 crowd.
http://gunsamerica.com/search.cgi?l...9&age=0&uid=&words=27&category=2440&state=All
From 3.5" up to 8 3/8" (as long as that link holds up), blue, nickel or stainless, a shooter first, last and always, the older N-framed Smiths... well, they're coveted for good reason.

The Taurus isn't in the same field as the Smith and Colt IMO, only if you want to save a dollar or 300 and I know... money is no object to you...

I'd prefer the 686 in the 4 listed, just because I really like my 586-6" based on it's, oh, everything. Size, shape, temperment, trigger action, sights.

But then again, if Dan Wesson ever gets it's website back up and totally running, I'd suggest looking at a Model 15 Pistol (or Hunter) Pac which gives you an excellant frame and 4 barrel lengths to put on as need be, in the same price range as a new Python.

I've got nothing bad to say about the Ruger GP100 series. Fine guns. Stout. Would not be afraid to get it scratched up whereas I might the others.

Let us know what you two decide.

 

[Roc_Kor]

After seeing one in the shop, I think the GP-100 is a little too stocky for me or my Dad. I think that the 686 is the best choice right now. But that's just from what I've heard. We have yet to shoot one, but I imagine we will soon. Geez, now my Dad wants a CZ-75, too (MAKE UP YOUR MIND DAD!!!! ) But that is for another forum at another time. Thank you for all your time!!! Keep debating those .357s!!!

I do have to admit, the Colt is a nice looker, but the 686 is almost half the price and doesn't look bad, either.

 

[Black Majik]

best would be the python. smooth everything. But only if its one of the older pythons.

You're on the right track. The 686 is a great gun. Jus' get everything smoothed out a little more and you should be close in the smoothness of a python.



Rugers are great guns, but not as refined at either the 686 or python. The $100 difference between the 686 and GP-100 is worth it. The $500 difference between a python and 686 is not.

Jus' my opinion, good luck

 

[Marshall]

Colt Python

S&W 686 & Ruger GP-100 are a toss up in my opinion. The 686 has the better trigger while the GP-100 has the guts.

Although a lot of people like full lug barrels, as do I on some guns, I wish Ruger offered their GP-100 6" in a half lug barrel with adjustable sights, I would be a buyer today.

 

[mtnbkr]

I wish Ruger offered their GP-100 6" in a half lug barrel with adjustable sights,

I don't know if they still sell it, but they used to offer that configuration. I'm sure they can still be found.

Chris

 

[SS-686]

686 is the way to go. For home defense - 4", target - 6." I have the 7-rounder myself, best .357 I've ever owned. (The Python's nice - but I just don't think the cosmetics and all the handwork justify the price differential. 686's just as accurate and it's pretty to look at!)

 

[Checkman]

When it came time to go with either the 686 or the GP-100 I copped out and got both of them (I traded a Colt sp 101 mfd in 1969). I haven't regretted that choice and I still own both of them. Sometimes one just can't choose.

 

[PigPen]

Here's the deal!!

If money is no object, buy the Python. It is a masterpiece..........a statement of beauty, elegance and balance unequaled by any other pistol that I know. It will be a family air loom. I am sure you get the drift of this thread...........The Colt Python is the berries! I don't think any one has said otherwise.

If money is in any way an obstacle, buy the S&W. It is more than adequate to meet your needs.....it is a great pistol......and costs a whole lot less! You will never regret it and if your dad likes the caliber, he can buy the Python later (although it may cost more later). The Smith is a great pistol.

Forget the Taurus. It may work well for years but for many reasons is not a Smith or a Colt (especially a Python).

In short, the Smith will feed your body.........the Colt will as too but is also food for your soull. For man does not live by bread alone. .....And it will be more so every year that you keep it.


PigPen

 

[Roc_Kor]

Actually, I want(ed) the Python. My Dad wanted the 686. But my Dad ain't gonna crank out that much dough just cause I want the Python. I am more than happy with the 686.