Colt Trooper MKIII or 686-3?

[C5rider]

My LGS has a fair amount of used guns. They have two 686s and a Colt Trooper MkIII 357 Magnum for sale. I've looked at the 686s before and they're nice. This is the first time that I've seen a Colt in their used case (except for the semi-autos or, the Pythons in their "Collector case"). I know that the MkIII isn't a Python or anything but I've heard they're strong shooters. What say you all? Leaning toward the Trooper.

 

[AntiSpin]

I Carried a MkIII

4" bbl, for a considerable time, and shot it a considerable amount as well.

I liked it a lot, except that it was a bit awkward for CCW.

It handled and shot really well, and I thought it was an exceptional nightstand weapon.

I regret having sold it, even years later.

 

[C5rider]

Thanks Antispin.

I know that I've not included a lot of information, like nickle plated or stainless on the S&W, or, even the price(s). I looked at both guns and, figured that the price was right between both of them. Not a steal, but not bad. I don't own either examples yet but, would like to. If condition and price were not a consideration, what would be the good folks here on THR think of the decision? Both guns are 6" versions.

 

[Walkalong]

Tough call. I have a 4" version of each, and both are great. It would be hard to choose a favorite. Personal preference here. Which do you like better? I like the 6" Trooper Mk III over the 6" 586, because the 6" 586 is a tad barrel heavy to suit me. Still a great gun though. I like the grips on the Troopers better than the 586's. They fit me great. I liked my 6" blue Trooper Mk III so much I bought a 4". Then I ran into a great deal on a 6" nickle Mk III, and bought it. My son handled every 4" revolver I had, and picked the Trooper Mk III as his favorite. Just handling mind you, not shooting. They are very strong guns.

 

[Messenger Guard]

My favorite revolver is the 686. I have owned both guns you describe and the 686 is my choice hands down. I prefer the 4" tube though. The "3" would be perfect since it doesn't have the recall the earlier guns had and it has no mim parts or Hillary hole.

 

[TonyT]

If you intend to shoot any of the pistol games go with the S&W since you can easilly get a lighter DA trigger. The Colt action requires a knowledgeable gunsmith to provide a similar trigger pull. The Colt ation is a bit more complicated. However if you will use it usually in the SA mode and for plinking purposes then the Colt Trooper is an excellent gun with approximately the same dimensions as the S&W686.

 

[Walkalong]

The Trooper Mk III action is pretty plain compared to the Python and Trooper .357. Any competent gunsmith should be able to work on it. Brute strong and not delicate at all.

 

[postalnut25]

^^^^^
Walkalong is correct. I have a Trooper, a Trooper MK III, and a Lawman MK III. The original Trooper has a different trigger feel to it. Also, I'm a retard when it comes to gunsmithing, and even I've been able to change some springs on my Trooper MK III.

However, the Trooper MK III is very heavy. The 686 with the 3" barrel should be a little easier to lug around, either concealed or open carry.

Really, you won't go wrong with any of the choices you've mentioned.

 

[bannockburn]

I had a Colt Trooper MK.III years ago; it was actually the first .357 Magnum revolver I ever owned. Built like a tank, I thought the Trooper was a much more substantial wheelgun when compared to a S&W Model 19. The only downside to the Trooper was its trigger pull; nowhere near as smooth and light as found on a S&W. Eventually I sold it to fund another gun purchase.

If I had to choose between another Trooper MK.III and the Model 686 I currently own, I would have to go with the Model 686.

 

[bikemutt]

I own both of the guns you are considering. I'd have to say I prefer shooting the Trooper Mk III right now but that may be because the 686 is newer to me and I've not had the time to master it. That said, the Trooper felt natural from day one; it really is a great shooting gun for me. I gunlove them both and have no plans to part with either.

OK, if I had to keep only one, it'd be the Trooper.

 

[gloucestergarand]

My first Revolver was/is a 6 inch bright stainless Trooper Mk III. Added a 8 3/8 686 (had S&W factory switch it out to a 6 inch)...and have a 6 inch KingCobra. My 6 inch 629 makes it even with 2 Colt and 2 Smiths....wifey has a stainless Ladysmith.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

 

[pendennis]

I own a Trooper MKIII, 4" nickel, and I love it. I also own a couple of 686's, and they're also great. However, if forced, I would select the Trooper. It's slightly heavier than the 686, and "they don't make 'em anymore".

If you opt for the MKIII, don't dry fire it without snap caps. The firing pin is mounted to the frame, and only Colt has the tooling to replace it. Other than that, they're strong as the proverbial ox, and 100 times better looking than said ox.