I'm having a hard time deciding between the two. .357 magnum is my caliber. No great bears to worry about here, just the occasional rabid skunk or racoon.
Plinking fun and IHMSA field pistol (100 yards half scale), so a mid range .357 load is plenty.
The 686 may have the better trigger out of the box and would be stainless.
The Ruger is probably a more rugged design and easier to work on to tune up. I have a Freedom Arms model 97 4.25", but it is a bit small for extended sessions, and the chambers are very tight.
Anyone shoot either of these models, or both?
100 yard accuracy?
Current production quality from Smith or Ruger?
Which is better for handling handloads?
Any and all opinions are appreciated.
Plinking fun and IHMSA field pistol (100 yards half scale), so a mid range .357 load is plenty.
The 686 may have the better trigger out of the box and would be stainless.
The Ruger is probably a more rugged design and easier to work on to tune up. I have a Freedom Arms model 97 4.25", but it is a bit small for extended sessions, and the chambers are very tight.
Anyone shoot either of these models, or both?
100 yard accuracy?
Current production quality from Smith or Ruger?
Which is better for handling handloads?
Any and all opinions are appreciated.