Ruger SP101 4" 5771?

I think most would agree that the Smith and Wesson will have a much better trigger.

I would rather have a 4" GP-100 than the 28. I love my snubby Sp-101. And you're gonna really like that 357 lever action. If you like the Ruger Target then get it. A Ruger is never a mistake.

My vote is a 686 7 shooter.

MP-44

For me neither gun would be my first choice in a DA/SA .357 revolver. The SP101 just doesn't handle or balance well in my smaller size hand; pretty much the same situation with the much larger Model 28. My favorite .357 is the Model 686 with a 4" barrel. Just the right size and heft for a slightly larger, medium frame .357.

Congrats on the .357 Marlin. One of those is definitely on my short list.

The SP vs the S&W 28 is a bit of apples to oranges. The SP falls between the J and K frame size wise. I haven't fired a 28, but it is an N frame, so is even larger than a 686, which is very close in size to a GP100.

I have a 4" SP101 and love it. I have had a GP100 and S&W K frame, and have fired a J frame a few times. This is all very personal preference of course, these are all fantastic handguns. GP100 and 686 are a little too big for my hand. The J frame is a little on the small side for extended shooting, but a 3" model 60 is also on my short list.

The SP101 fits a Goldilocks role for me. It soaks up 357 recoil pretty well, and is quite nice for extended range time, but is a little lighter for carrying in the field (it's primary role for me), and can even be concealed IWB reasonable easily.

The SP101 comes with a great set of sights. The trigger isn't great, but can be made good fairly easily with a spring kit, shins, and some time polishing internals. It may still be a bit heavier and will have longer travel then a K frame, but I am picky when it comes to triggers, and I am pretty happy with mine after some work.

Bottom line, SP101 4" is my favorite revolver to date, personally. I would look at that, but make sure you also consider a GP100 or 686. Those are the ubiquitous, go-to 357s.

Weight
Profile
DA Trigger
SA Trigger
Value held/appreciated

All favor any SS 3" or 4" K frame S&W chambered in .357 mag.

Sure, 686 too!!

First, there's nothing wrong with lock guns. I have one I have shot about 4k magnums through with no issues. Second, the chances of buying a 686 that is "loose" are pretty slim.

MP-44 said:

I want a .357 DA/SA revolver to go with it. Top of my list are the Ruger SP101 Target and an S&W 28 4"

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These are very orthogonal choices; the Ruger is designed for small size/weight and the S&W is designed for heavy duty service abuse. They fill very different niches.

For carry use, I favor the SP101; I can get the trigger better (for me) than a S&W J-frame equivalent (Model 60). I have sold all my 27s and 28's (and 686's) because I just don't find it necessary to carry all of that weight / size around just to get one more round.

It is absolutely true that neither the SP101 nor the equivalent J Frame S&Ws will provide as smooth a DA pull as a good S&W N Frame can; the hammer mass of the larger revolver allows for a lighter hammer spring. For range / gaming use, the N frame is the better choice if DA trigger quality is paramount.

Ruger Security Six.

The rugers handle is just too small for my large hands. The trigger ring bashed the hell out of my middle finger until I bought a set of Houges. While a fine revolver the 28 always seemed overly large and heavy for the caliber. Actually I'd opt for the new Colt King Cobras.

I vote for the SP101. Mine has a fantastic trigger, not a grain in it and smooth all the way to a crisp break!

Will you be reloading the pair? If hunting with rifle, you will probably be working with rifle designed upper end loads. If so, what you find optimal for your rifle may be hard on your hand in a 30 oz revolver. May be a heavier revolver like the GP100 would be a better choice.

I think you need to consider how the revolver will be used first, then decide on which one.

Either way I’d pick RUGER.

Jmho

SteadyD said:

I think most would agree that the Smith and Wesson will have a much better trigger.

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Yep

ColtPythonElite said:

My vote is a 686 7 shooter.

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^^^^^^^^^^ This is the correct answer.