Smith and Wesson 586: Best Version?

[CCK]

Hi Folks,
this is my first post other than my introduction when I first joined the forum. I am getting back into shooting after being away from it since the 1990's. Back then I was shooting a S&W 6" 686 and a basic model Springfield Armory 1911 .45. I was range shooting and plinking, and my 686 was a lot of fun with both .38's and .357's. I would really like to get another .357 revolver. I am interested in the S&W 586 4". I like blued steel guns, and the 4" barrel is a good fit for me. I want this gun for a go-to multipurpose handgun. What I would like to know is which version or incarnation of the 586 is the best quality gun? One thing for sure, I want a pre-lock gun as I don't like the lock hole on the side of the gun. I heard something about a recall on the early ones, and as I understand it the lock and MIM parts come in around the dash 4 or dash 5 guns. So, for a life-time keeper for all around shooting, also pre-lock and pre-MIM parts, which version is the best? I know that the steel may have changed, and QC goes through phases, bugs get worked-out, etc. Also, what are the best sources to find these older guns in excellent condition? Do they even exist in NIB, old stock, or like new condition?
Any advice you can offer is really appreciated.

Thanks!
Cliff

 

[RON in PA]

The 586s and 586-1s had some problems that were fixed by Smith for free if you sent them in. Fixed guns will have an M stamped inside the crane near the model number stamp. Don't hesitate to purchase a 586 or 586-1 with the M. I know for sure that the 586-4s don't have MIM or locks.

 

[Waveski]

Find yourself a blued 585 no dash and are your wishes are granted.

 

[stu1ritter]

I decided I wanted the first model, the 586 no dash. Found one locally. The M modification is the firing pin bushing, there was a problem with certain primers flowing into it and locking up the gun. This one dates very early production with a serial number starting AAAxxx.
It showed some good honest use but still locks up well and it is one of my favorite Smith's.
Stu

 

[Waveski]

Way to go Stu.

 

[Fishslayer]

According to the SCSW the MIM hammer & trigger appeared on the 586-6 in '97.

On the 686 these showed up with the -5 change.

 

[biohazurd]

I have a 586-4 that is fantastic. It is heavy but that helps if you are putting .357s through it. Unfortunately due two the cost of ammo, Both .357 and .38 i am gonna be selling it to buy a high cap 9mm of some kind. I am a poor college student and i carry a shield 9mm for a ccw and i would like to consolidate a bit more into that caliber.

 

[sequins]

As much as I hate a MIM part, I hate it less than an irreplaceable part. If you intend to shoot your gun parts will break and if you pay a premium for a pre-mim only to break a part you might find you wished you had the model that wasn't now junk.

I've heard the older parts are starting to dry up.