First Revolver

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Can't say I haven't thought about just getting a 38 because of pricing on used ones.... I think Bud's has a deal going for a fairly well used S&W M10 for $300? Might not be a bad thing just to have as a fun shooting gun.
 
sw-15 or sw 67. The adjustable sights are great for range. It's nice to see your hits all in the black with your load of choice.
 
I would go with a Ruger or S&W in .357 mag. , in that order. If your bank account can't handle that, look at the Taurus line. Particularly the 66 series. I had a Ruger 2" bbl. .357 mag. years ago, before it was stolen from me, and I still consider that the best firearm I have ever owned. With the S&W mod. 66 k frame rnd. butt .357 mag I currently own, a very close second. And the Taurus 66B4 a distant third. It's a fine weapon, just not quite on par with the others.
 
I just shot my Buds Gunshop used S&W Model 10, The finish on them is less than advertised but the Mechanics exceeded my expectations. I am also a convert to .38 spc this gun is amazing I mean WOWIE ZOWIE an a amazing difference from my other experiences with revolvers.
Buds might still have them for $269.00 + transfer fee at your local FFL.
 
I'll throw my 0.02 in

You said expert advice or otherwise--so here is the otherwise.

I would suggest you at least put in your state on your profile so if there are other like-minded mentors on THR in your area, it makes it easier to link up and possibly go shooting together or buy/swap/trade. It has worked for me in the past.

If you can't find a gun rental range, try finding a local shooting club (ask at your local gun store) that may have a range day where you can try out different makes, models. This also worked for me. Local gun group had a "Family Range Day" and took my wife and 3 sons. A good time was had by all.

And lastly, have fun with it. Do your research and try to find the right revolver (just like you are doing here), but dont get discouraged if it isnt the holy grail of revolvers and you find out after you purchased it that it wasnt what you thought. Hit up the next gun show and get to trading/swapping. Good times if you let it be.
 
I just bought ANOTHER model 64 in .38 special today. It was a used gun in EXCELLENT condition for $318. It's a newer model with the slanted cylinder latch and lock.

It's the first "lock" S&W I've purchased, and I'm not disappointed at all. I took the pachmyrs off of my first 64 because they felt weird, but I really like the rubber grips on this one. Don't know they're factory originals, but I've seen many other surplus 64's with the same grips, so it's quite possible.

If you haven't made a purchase decision yet, you should definitely consider a used model 64 or model 10 (blued version) or any affordable K frame. $200-$400 for a truly great gun is a bargain. If you're willing to consider single action (and I think you should) then one of the best places to start is with a used Ruger Blackhawk with .357 or 9mm or .32 mag (H&R or .327 if you can find an affordable one.)

Or you could start with the cheap stuff like I did and learn the hard way. :) That said, I have a Rossi in .38 that's a favorite of mine, so don't presume a lesser name is a lesser gun. Just more of search. Good luck.
 
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Here's my 2 cents. I just got my first revolver (and handgun) in October. Since then I've shot or owned handguns by S&W (Model 29), Beretta, Sig, Ruger, Taurus, and Dan Wesson. I've settled on three guns which are what I now own, all Ruger SA's: a .357, a .44 Special, and a .45 Colt Convertible. I recommend going with a .44 Special. Once you get a .357, you'll probably soon want to try the bigger calibers. And they're a hoot to shoot. The .44 Special (mine is a Ruger blued 5 1/2 inch barrel) is extremely accurate (even more so than my .357). The report isn't so sharp and loud as the .357. It sends a nice chunk of lead toward the target....yeah, it's big but not too big. It's a fun and practical gun to own. Check one out if you can.

p.s. I just thought of something. I also got into reloading when I got these guns. I reload for the .44 Special. If you don't reload or want to, then ignore my recommendation. It's not worth going for the .44 Special if you don't reload. For a non-reloader the .357 is the way to go.

By the way, reloading is not that expensive or hard, and adds a big element of fun and pleasure to your shooting.
 
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