New-B Accuracy Question-- 9mm vs. .357

[Nathan67]

Hey THR, I own a Ruger P-89 9mm and a S&W Model 686 .357 revolver. I have been shooting the S&W since June of last year and the Ruger since December of last year (2005). I seem to be much more accurate with the 686 than the P89. I can get close groups with the p89 but I'm dead on with the S&W.

Is this a difference between my shooting ability, the type and grade of ammo (Winchester target loads for 9mm, and Winchester hollow pt. for .357) or the specific gun?

Thanks, Nathan

 

[Autolycus]

Well usually a revolver will be more accurate in my opinion. I would use WWB for both guns and test again. I do believe that the revolver will still be more accurate. Others may know better.

 

[grimjaw]

Free bump from a former Jonesboro resident.

Also, how do you usually shoot? Double action or single action? I'm guessing here, but I'd say that the S&W is going to have a better stock single action trigger than the Ruger, and that might lend something to it.

jmm

 

[ugaarguy]

Nathan, Ruger Semis are generally grouped into the "service" accuracy category. They won't win a bullseye match, but they'll group just fine for defensive use. If you want an auto pistol that'll shoot as tight as your 686 try a high-end 1911 or Sig P210, amongst others fellow High Roaders can tell ya about.

 

[bpisler]

All of my S&W 357's are more accurate
than my S&W9VE.The difference isn't
great but it's there.

 

[Ranger61]

I think that the average revolver will group better than the average auto because the frame is fixed to the barrel with less chance for things to move. That being said in my experience the sights can have a greater effect on how I shoot the gun than the gun's accuracy. I have found that some work on improving sights results in a gun that I shoot much better than I did before. Just my two cents

 

[1832]

The only personal comparison I can make is between my SW Mod. 19 (4") and my old SW Mod. 52. With both firing the 148 gr. wadcutter, the 52 is way out in front in accuracy.

On the other hand my friend's Sig 210 outperformed the 52 across the board.

I know there are inherent differences between revolvers and autos, but I think most are subjective in terms of how they work for the individual shooter. At one time, you would see many SW K38s(SA) and Colt Officers Match revolvers at Camp Perry during the Center Fire matches, but not any more.