Revolver dilemma that needs your input!

[Minute_Of_Torso]

I just purchased a NIB 4" stainless GP100 for $325.00. As for whether or not it's better than the Smith is purely a personal decision, IMHO. For me the Ruger is more comfortable and points more naturally.

I say, "Buy both!" That will solve every problem except for the budget.

 

[tlhelmer]

I found a used S&W 686 at the gunsgow today for 375.00 total

 

[Quantrill]

Ala Dan has it right and says it well. Quantrill

 

[RCL]

I've owned several .357 revolvers, including both models mentioned here. I still have the Ruger, which I picked up used for just a tad under $300. It has as good a trigger as I've felt on any S&W (probably was worked on), and it's the most accurate .357 revolver that I've ever personally witnessed. The Ruger guns are a great value in my book.

 

[MR.G]

Have owned both of them. Both are well built. In my opinion, the S&W has a better trigger pull. Even after the Ruger was tuned, the 686s were better. The 686 also comes in 7 shot, which you can't get in the Ruger GP100.

 

[charleym3]

For what S&W wants for that 7th round, it just isn't worth it.
It's refreshing that we can have different opinions and just share our experiences with out getting all upset and irate. This is a great board.
Oh and by the way, I'm trying the 686 with some full power loads side by side with the GP141 to see if I like it any better at full throttle.

 

[Mark IV Series 80]

For a new gun, I would choose the Ruger GP100.

The Ruger is high quality and it's very durable.

The new S&W revolvers have gone from steel forgings to Metal Injection Molding for the hammer, trigger and other parts, to save money.

S&W has a new mechanism that is not hand-fitted. This new mechanism has a frame-mounted firing-pin that is more prone to fail, and it requires a 30% heavier trigger pull than the older S&W revolvers (those that have the firing-pin on the hammer).

The new S&W's also have a key-lock near the cylinder release, and a tab that pops-up when it's locked!

If you can find an older S&W 686 in new condition, I would buy it, for the craftsmanship and the trigger-action.

If you buy new, I recommend the Ruger GP100.

 

[Frenchy]

It is a personal choice, but I carry my 686-5 snubby both on duty and off. It's a fit for me.

 

[Gila Jorge]

The Border Patrol used to carry the Rugers you are talking about before they switched to Glocks. I used to shoot with several of the guys....and my 686 was far more accurate than their Rugers. They would take and shoot their gun then turn around and shoot my Smith 686 and the group would be half the size. Also the trigger and finish is far superior. I like Ruger Single Actions immencely and have many....but for double actions...Only a Smith is a Smith.