Thinking about re-revolvering

I have two early-rev model 64s bought about 4 years ago. Both were surplus ($275 each) and had triggers that smoothed up nicely. One is a 4" and one a bobbed 2". Sights are well-regulated for 158 grain SWC ammo. A perfect match for the 38 special round.

Simple. Sweet. Balanced. Accurate. No worry about finish.

Several available on Gunbroker.

Meets every one of the OP's specs.

In the sub-$500 "shooter"-sized revolver world, you're most often either looking at a new Taurus or a used K-Frame, and to me it's not even a contest between the two.

I got a well-used cop Model 10 for $269 and it rocks. The sights are fixed dead on and the trigger is awesome, so 20oz bottles at 25 yards are no challenge. Getting out to 50 can be done if I hold up my end. I have two Rossi 357s, and neither one comes close to that when I feed them 38s. Smith made 'em right back in the day; there's no frills to a Model 10 but the worksmanship on them is plain outstanding.

The fixed sights are set for 158 grain ammo. If and when you have a choice about which 38 Spl ammo to buy later on, feed it 158s instead of the more common (or is it just me?) 130s and the revolver will reward you.

WilTx said:

First target didn't work out already sold). Another deal, for a very similar piece, is in progress.

On a whim, went by my local indoor range/gun shop. Found a very nice Smith model 12 (which I knew pretty much nothing about): aluminum frame, round butt, 4 inch. Looked practically new. But too rich.

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https://www.gunbroker.com/item/884492883

https://www.gunbroker.com/item/883491675


https://www.gunbroker.com/item/881748545

As nice as a model 10/64 is, I got my 686-0 for right at $500 about five years ago and is a much more capable wheel gun with it's adjustable sights and magnum chambering.

My vote is find a used 686 if you're the patient type. The 10/64 of you gotta have it now.

Yeah, sure... you will find plenty of sub-$500 model 686s right next to those sub-$500 K-Frame .22 revolvers.





This is a different buying climate than a few years ago... and that was a great deal back then.

wiscoaster said:

I have both a S&W Model 10 and a Colt Police Positive Special, so I've had a chance to compare both directly, and my vote goes decisively to the S&W Model 10 (though the Colt gets a nod for being a little prettier). You will be able to find the Colt for quite a bit less, though.

PS - a Taurus isn't even in the same league. (I also have a Taurus 82 and thinking of selling it. PM if you're interested).

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If I wasn't in the liquidation time of my life I wouldn't mind having a M82. I have had no more problems with Taurus than I have with other manufactures. To be honest Colts have given me the most issues. Everyone has had their own experiences,

I like the 10-5 series the best BTW. The build quality is there with no compromises and all the kinks were worked out an refined by then and steel was sweet ! I would run .38+P all day in a steel one .

I owned a Taurus Model 82 for a while. Great shooter, VERY inexpensive(bought new) but kinda bland. Worked well, shot well just not very 'inspiring', if you are looking for that. If you want a good, basic, SA/DA revolver in 38 Spec..hard to beat for the $. Mine was $340...$380 OTD..

Well done, sir. You have years of pleasure ahead of you!

What a great choice!

I predict that you'll enjoy shooting (and maybe carrying) that gun for many years to come!

WilTx said:

And the grip adapter.

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Is the grip adapter marked. Not a Tyler. Possibly a Pachmayr?

Looks great! And I'll bet you it shoots just as good too.

tubeshooter said:

Yeah, sure... you will find plenty of sub-$500 model 686s right next to those sub-$500 K-Frame .22 revolvers.





This is a different buying climate than a few years ago... and that was a great deal back then.

Click to expand...

As a matter of fact, I did find a sub $500 K22 Target Masterpiece just two years ago.



And the $500 686-0 for good measure:


Admittedly, they're not without their warts. Functionally, they're outstanding though.

Fair enough, and duly noted.

For the record, I did myself see a K-Frame .22 for $550 or so.
Once... about 5 years ago...


The deals exist, but I guess my larger point was that the OP might not care to wait for the deal of a lifetime.

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OP: Congratulations! Nice score.