41 Magnum accuracy; Blackhawk/Bisley v/s S&W 657/57

41 Magnum fans, I need your help.

Considering getting 41 Magnum revolver again. I had Bisley, and liked it, but never had a chance to try S&W M657 (or M57).

I would shoot almost exclusively lead SWC 210-230 grains, at about 1000-1200 fps, target shooting and half scale silhouettes.

If you have both, which one is in your opinion more accurate; Ruger or S&W?

A friend has 8-3/8" S&W M657-3, and before making a move, I would like to hear about your experience and suggestion.

Thanks

Unfortunately, considering all factors, I have to rule out DW. Too few were made, out of production (large frame DW) long time ago, so parts will be almost impossible to get.

As for shooting, DA is not my cup of tea, just SA on targets on 25 meters. And silhouettes I mentioned, so SA again.

I am aware that Ruger might be hit or miss. Saying that, I had a good 41 Bisley, but foolishly, sold it. In that respect, from what I found on internet, looks like that S&W is somewhat more consistent in quality.

Where did you get them, from Numrich?

I am in different situation. On the east side of the big pond Ruger and S&W (not sure about Colt) are the only way to go. However, when I tried to get for S&W 686-3 target hammer, the one as on Target Champion (I never understood why S&W made for K-frame and L-frame hammers with those minuscule spurs; the look awkward, they handle awkward), no luck. I was told that 686-3 was just too old.

black mamba said:

My old 1976 built 8-3/8" model 57 is my most accurate handgun. The only thing the Ruger has over the Smith is strength, and it sounds like you intend to shoot sensible loads, so no points there. I'd go for the 57/657 every time.

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Looks like that your M57 is used quite a bit. I am not surprised at all. Several times I found comments that in sixties and seventies were tons of used, but spanking new, 44 Magnum S&W revolver on the market, with box of ammo, many times with just handful of rounds missing. Lot of folks at those times succumbed to "Dirty Harry" syndrome, paid top dollars for 44 Magnum revolvers, just to find out that such revolver kicks to much for them, and put them on the market promptly.

41 Magnum revolvers were not very common to start with. Used were scarce, and even those on the market were regularly well used.

Did you consider rebluing yours? If it's mine, I will do that.