First revolver?

[skud_dusty]

This question has probably already been asked, but I haven't quite found what I'm looking for, so I'll ask it =)

I'm looking to buy my first revolver. I'm looking for something in .357mag. Something in the k-n frame size, like a 686. I'm looking to spend ~$300. Any suggestions?

 

[glockman19]

You already said it...Get a 686 you can't go wrong.

 

[skud_dusty]

How much do they usually run new/used?

 

[19-3Ben]

At that price, to get a good quality you are going to be better off buying used.
Basically, exactly what you said.

My first handgun was a K-frame S&W. a 19-3 (hence the name) with a 4" bbl. They are great revolvers.

It really depends on what you want to do with the gun. If you are going to be carrying, I can't personally recommend the Ruger Sp101 highly enough. it is a fantastic gun, and so stong that you should have ABSOLUTELY no problem buying it used.

If it is more for just range use, or home defense, a K or L-frame smith, or a Ruger GP100 are reliably good, solid guns, and a great value. Taurus/rossi can be good, but since their QC is more spotty i don't feel as comfortable recommending them to a new revolver shooter.

 

[19-3Ben]

used prices really vary to extremes based on model designation (ie. which number comes after the dash), whether it has a lock or not, condition, and even where you live.

Here in CT prices tend to be higher than in a lot of other places.

Don't just stick to the 686 though. any K or L frame will be perfect. Same for the GP100

 

[jad0110]

Don't just stick to the 686 though. any K or L frame will be perfect. Same for the GP100.

I agree, and I'll throw in used Ruger Security Sixes too. And you can't leave out those sweet S&W N Frames either. I recently saw a Model 28-1 Highway Patrolman 4" for $399.

Rossi and more so Taurus are options as well. I used to own a Taurus Model 66 357 Mag that was an excellent gun. I hear many good things about the Taurus 66 from other THR members, and you can pick up good condition used ones for $199 to $275.

No matter what you choose, become very familiar with the Revolver Checkout sticky at the top of the forum.

 

[10-Ring]

I would look at something like a 4" S&W mod 19 or 66 -- good stuff!

 

[skud_dusty]

I saw a rossi snubnose today for $219 IIRC, it was .357mag and looked pretty decent. Might have to head back and check it out more

 

[ronto]

First 357 Revolver

Ruger SP101 for carry, Ruger GP100 or Six-Series for home defense...All built like a tank and very reliable.

 

[beaucoup ammo]

If you're not in a hurry, shop around for a S&W .357 Model 65-3 "K" frame. I've had one for 20 years and she's as crisp and reliable as the day I got her.

Something about a "K" frame that just hasn't been duplicated.

However, ALL the models mentioned below are good. You couldn't go wrong with any of them. The 65-3 is one I've used for 2 decades and can personally vouch for.

 

[glassman]

686 PRICING

Got the 2006 brochure in front of me. For a 686 in 4" they quote $728. I'm sure you can do better if you shop around. Hopefully find a 'like new' older 686 without the dreaded internal lock. Happy hunting

 

[Iacabo]

I got my first revover yesterday at a gunshow, A 686-5 4" for $445.

 

[DWARREN123]

Used S&W or Ruger, may take a little more money.

 

[Walkalong]

I got a nice used 6" 586 at the last gun show for $350 walking away money. Bought it from a fellow who walked in with it. Forcing cone looked NEW and it shoots GOOD.(shot .38's) Shot it yesterday for the first time...

 

[Ichiro]

I wouldn't bother with a Taurus or Rossi, personally. The Ruger GP-100 is an excellent value new, and the 686 is very favorably priced when used.

The Ruger GP-100 was my first revolver and is my favorite gun.
The Ruger SP-101 was my second revolver, and I still prefer it over K-frames.
I bought two K-frame, model 10s in the last couple years. I gave one of them to a friend of mine and am trying to sell the second one to a different friend. They just don't feel as good to me as the GP or the SP.

 

[sansone]

buy ruger, smith ,colt... used or new / you will never be sorry or lose money