.357 first timer help

Status
Not open for further replies.
G

gmflash88

Member
Joined
Jan 10, 2008
Messages
34
Location
Minnesota
After reading many posts, I decided to just create my own post to get some opinions on what I'm looking at. Here's some background for you all so you can make your best recommendation:

I want a .357 for the versatility of the high powered round and .38 for 'plinking' (cheaper to shoot).

This will be a home gun, occasional CCW, use at my cabin as a sidearm when hunting/ATV/hiking as bears, wolves, and mtn lion are a very real threat (especially considering I am often out with my small kids just enjoying the wilderness).

I own several long guns and one .22 handgun for plinking so this is my first 'big boy' handgun. (But I know it won't be my last!)

I am leaning towards the GP100 and Taurus Tracker as they are in my price range (no more then $500) and have the size I want (4") and adjustable sights. I have held both guns a few times and they feel good in my hand but do not have the opportunity to shoot before I buy.

Any feedback is appreciated! Thanks all!
 
I would go with the GP 100 in 4 or even 3 inch if you are going to CCW or take it while hiking and such. (I have always liked the balanced look of the 3 inch GP. :) )

Rugers are built like tanks, a good choice for wilderness use.
 
another +1 for the GP ... but 4" for me. Solid, STRONG and has a great reputation for service.
 
You don't need any help, the GP100 is a good choice for your intended purpose. I would take it over a Tracker anyday.
You might also be able to find a used S&W 686 in that price range. Another good choice...
 
I own a GP100 and plan on getting another but another option is to look at a used S&W Model 19 or 66 and see if you like the feel. The GP100 should handle more full power .357's but in reality how many of those will you shoot.
 
I would go with the Ruger Gp100

I would prefer the 4" bbl because you said that it will see most of its time as a house/ cabin/ woods/ ATV gun, and only occasional carry. The GP is a good solid 357 and will suit you well. I did have a tracker 4" 357, and while it was a good gun for the money, they have been quite spotty in the QC department. Mine was good. My friend bought the same gun from the same shop and his was atrocious. I sold mine and even though my experience was good, I would not buy another one.

Also, If you look around and don't mind used guns, I have seen a few 4" S&W 686's in your price range. Some were very well used, some look as though someone bought it, took it home, fired a box of ammo, then stuck it in their sock drawer and forgot about it. Most were somewhere in the middle.
 
Thanks all. My wife and I went back to Sportsman's Warehouse this morning to take another look at them. I'll be getting the GP100 after the second visit to the store and the reviews on here. (Will be buying from a local gun shop though and not the 'corporate' store... I get free range passes from them too :) )

Now after 2 trips to the store though, looks like we're getting 2 .357's. The lady needs one too of course! She's getting the 2" barrel.

Thanks again for all your assistance!
 
You

gmflash88: Sir; you and the Miss'ss will enjoy the GP 100 for years to come:)
Do us up some pictures and your experiences.:)

Thanks
 
I'll put pics up here as soon as we can purchase them. Waiting on my permit to purchase to go through. Should be sometime next week. After all, we need that 'cooling down' period right?
 
gmflash88,
If you are buying your wife a 2" .357 Magnum make sure it's a Stainless revolver and not one of those ultra-light models. The 12 oz. Airlite revolvers are just too much to shoot IMO because the recoil is violent. A M640, M649 or M60 would be good choices in a S&W revolver or a SP-101 in a Ruger.
 
GP100 or a tracker? Is there even a question?

Let's see...an AMERICAN company with a super tough product and VERY reliable customer service, and respectable resale value.
OR... a foreign made product that is probably good quality but might not be, and you might have good customer service but then again you might not, and you will have spit in resale value...

It's your call, but i think you can tell the way I'd vote.
 
The GP100 is a great choice, though there is nothing wrong with a properly selected S&W L-frame. Welcome to THR!
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Back
Top