Laser sights for my first handgun???

[duvalhunter]

Hello,

I'm new to this forum and for Christmas I just got ym first handgun and I'm wanting to put a laser sight on it. Its a S&W 686 revo in .357 mag, 4in. I did some searching on google but come up with much. What would ya'll recommend. Also what would be a good holster for this gun???

Thanks
duvalhunter

 

[Preacherman]

First of all, welcome to THR!

Crimson Trace makes several models of laser grip that should fit your gun. See here for details. I have about six pairs of CT grips on various guns, and recommend them very highly.

As for holsters, any of the well-known manufacturers makes several models that will fit the 686. Browse their Web sites and check out the sort of thing on offer. Manufacturers that you could start with include Milt Sparks, Kramer Leather, and Galco. There are many more out there.

 

[Fun2Shoot]

I bought a S&W 642 w/Crimson Trace laser grip as a package deal and am pleased to have the addition of this laser enhanced option. I really didn't need the CT grips, but I was going to buy the S&W 642 anyway and the additional cost of the grips was just $100 more as a package.

But to your question. Since the CT grip runs about $200, why not just put maybe 500 to 1K rds through your new gun before you make your final decision on the laser grips. More that few times in my life, I have become over-excited with a new purchase and bought accessories that later, I decided were not really needed. The shape of the CT grip in your hand may not be exactly to your liking either. The ergonomics of one's grip is sometimes one of the crucial factors in the satisfaction with the overall acceptance of a weapon.

Give your new S&W 686 plenty of range time and you may just decide that it is just fine as is. If you do get the CT, it is a helpful addition IMO.

At any rate, enjoy your new gun and much safe and fun shooting.

 

[CraigJS]

CT grips..+++

 

[Kamicosmos]

Since it's your first handgun, I'd recommend spending the 2-300 dollars that the CT Grips cost, and instead put that into ammo and range fees! Learn how to use the iron sights and work on keeping all your shots on the target, that will take a bit of time to develop.

 

[JCM298]

I have CT's on the "beast", my Smith 340SC. I've used CT's for about six years. I like them but I have 45+ years of carrying as both an LEO and a CCW holder. I wish I'd had them for night shoot qualifications.

If I were you, I'd buy a bunch of ammo and practice with it before investing in a set of CT's. After you get accurate with your gun, you could decide whether or not you want the laser. I would also find a good instructor, if you don't alraedy know how to shoot.

Holsters are a personal thing and you have to decide what suits your needs. Are you going to be carrying in plain sight, CCW, at the range, etc.?

John

 

[Gunz]

As all the other members have coached and preached the wisdom of Crimson Trace, and saving money for ammo to practice, I shall not add to the same advice.

My personal experience with lasers have been un-exciting.

I had a laser on a G21, and then on various handguns. Two laser systems total. Man, it is too Hollywood. It takes effort to tune the laser in, and the adjustments have to be repeated after hard shooting sessions.

I found a good front sight like a Big Dot is worth more and costs less to install. This is especially true on a revolver.

I carry my 686 in a cross-draw rig from DeSantis. It was $40 new. I have bought various used rigs for $10-25. Kydex is not bad, either.

You basically have to try on and figure out how you want to lug 50 oz. or so of steel.

 

[duvalhunter]

Thanks for the replies. The only things that I'll end up using the gun for is hunting, safety, and playing around at the range. Im not too sure of the knock down power the gun has up to a certain yardage. Since ill probably only use the gun around the ranch like some of yall say I may not even need the laser sight. As for the holsters I just need something that would be comfortable and sturdy preferably leather

 

[duvalhunter]

Also, this may be a dumb question but does it matter if I sight it in using 38 special or .357 mag?

Thanks
duvalhunter

 

[JCM298]

duvalhunter,

I'd check www.gunnersalley.com for a holster. They carry a good selection of different brands at reasonable prices. I like Don Hume, Galco, Bianchi, Alessi, Andrews, and a bunch more. I have a box full of holsters for different guns.

There can be a distinct difference between point-of-aim and point-of-impact when you switch from .38's to .357's. You'll have to experiment with different types of ammo to find out which brand suits your ability and needs.

Wal-Mart used to sell 110 gr WW for about $15.00 per hundred rounds. Check your manual. I don't know if you can use that light a bullet in the 686. If you can't, you have to search around for cheap practice ammo.

John