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need used .357...any suggestions?

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bcuzimisu

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Apr 17, 2006
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i'm buying my first .357 and have decided to either go S+W or Ruger. I'm looking for something bigger than a snub nose and wonder if anyone has a good place to shop for one. I've found a couple places online but all around $450, which is reasonable i think but i'm looking to go around $300. Thanks for any suggestions.
 
I have found the FN Barracuda on-line for $300. It is a K-framed sized (uses same speed-loaders) .357 Magnum with a 3" barrel. That should be larger than a snubbie.
Other than that, I have seen the GP100 for $350. Since I live in an area where guns cost more, I think you can find them for less if you are patient and look around.
I'd recommend an actual S&W K-frame in .357 Magnum, if you can find them for around your price.
 
I've seen some PD turn-in S&W 65s running right around the price you specify. Was at a local gunshow, so I don't have the dealer's info. He's probably sold out by now. Ruger, on the other hand, used to make Security Six and one other in .357 (might have been Speed Six, I don't remember). These appear off and on for very good prices. Have seen them for $250.

SOG has some Ruger GP100s that were imported, from Canada I think. Price was $250. Get a friendly FFL and you might come in under $300. I've seen a few of these and they have holster wear but are as tight as my new GP100. Here's the link:
www.southernohiogun.com/surplushandguns.html
(Edited to add: Oops somebody beat me to the punch, I see)

Look through a Shotgun News also.
 
The SOG Rugers are double action only, no external hammer, so keep that in mind. I saw a S&W 686 for 335 the other day, and almost bought it but decided on a Ruger GP 100 instead. Bought it brand new for $400, so I'm happy. Going to shoot it tomoorow
 
run a search at gunbroker.com or auctionarms.com

You'll find plenty of good deals on S&W's and Rugers. Be patient, you will find something.
-David
 
There are a ton of options, all good. You can still get great deals on old police Model 13's, Model 19's and Model 28's. Much depends on your hand size and personal tastes. For smaller hands the K frames or old Ruger Security Sixes tend to be better.
 
WOW!

Three-hundred dollars can get you a pretty damn fine used S&W or Ruger .357 Magnum.

Please don't believe that it will take $450 to get one.
 
If you want to order from SOG or from any online auction site, go to www.gunsamerica.com and check out their listing of FFL holders; they have a search-engine by areacode.

If you didn't already know, to order a gun to be shipped to you, it has to go to an FFL dealer. If you shop around on your own, you'll find a lot of folks charging big bucks for a transfer. If you use a search-engine, odds are some small shop in your area will do it for $20.

Add $20 for shipping, bear in mind that you're not paying sales tax, and even the SOG GP-100s will only run you $269, out-the-door.

You should have no trouble coming in under $300. Depending on what part of the country you live in, local pawnshops or gunshops may have good deals. I've seen S&W 586 for $250 and Ruger Security Six $180 here in Austin.

-MV
 
Can't disagree with Ala Dan. But, I just got a choice S&W 586 in MINT for $350 that I would easily pay the $50 premium for over a M19. Patience and looking around is the key!
 
357 Mag

I always liked my model 19 Smith...not an N-frame, but still a geat pistol. I would cosider it a defense weapon more than a hunt'n gun:evil:
 
Used Smith & Wesson .357's can be had between $200 and 300 if you keep looking. Study up on Jim March's Revolver Checkout so you know what to look for.
Sub $300 S&Ws don't last on the shelves very long unless they are beat to hell. Be ready to check it out and buy when you find it.
 
My first 357 was a Colt Python. Guess, I'm different. If you are new to wheel guns, I would suggest new N-frame Smith (4" 686) or a Ruger GP100 model of your choosing. The point being that the buyer should not be worrying about whether the gun will shoot and is safe. But if you have a friend who knows their way around so to speak and you enjoy gun shows, by all means hit the shows and pick up a used one in good condition. I would't get too hung up on the price. Buy a quality steel framed revolver and go from there.
 
You can generally pick up a Dan Wesson Model 14 or 15 for less than 300. The benefit of such a urchase is that you can pick up extra barrels as your budget allows, giving you a revoler with anywhere from a 2" arrel to an 8".
 
I'd suggest you look for a 4" Ruger Security Six. That's the cream of this particular crop, IMO. :)
 
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