Select what level shooter you are! I still enjoy my Ruger GP100 after a decade of use, and shooting my newest addition, the Colt Cobra (even though it isn't a magnum). The cheers of hard-core wheel gun fans have yet to subside nearly two years later. and (Speed Six in Stainless). The very first gun I ever bought was a Taurus Model 66, 357 mag. But man what a smooooth double action trigger. I loaded it myself using 180 grain bullets and Hodgkins h110 powder. I bought one in 1982; so your "1985" bez wong. To see what we recommend feeding your revolver, check out the Best .357 Magnum Ammo. 686 is as durable (if not more). All three were great, just prefer the 44 mag for police work. Tested. But having said that, it's way more accurate than I am, and it never has any issues with anything. Next to no muzzle flip at all. The GP 100 is a work of art. I have the 3" barrel and the DASA model. I have 3 Dan Wessons in.22, .357, and .44 Magnum. S&W Model 66 I too have a GP 100 and a S&W 686 Plus. "Since more of the bullets mass is outside the cartridge, there is more room for powder in the cartridge." The best current production available, especially the 5 inch 686 performance 7 shot revolver. I love it because it handles all cartridges very well. Printing is a challenge. Thanks for the rec, Colin! Thanks for reading! Smith and Wesson lengthened the .38 Long Colt cartridge slightly and improved performance from a 152-grain bullet at 750 fps to a 158-grain bullet at 850 fps. Not wanting to blow big buck on one, I found mine at Academy for 429, so I went ahead and bought it.. It's a shame and you're not doing anyone a service. I have one, 6 inch barrel, don't shoot with my Dan Wesson that also has a 6 inch barrel. Im still partial to a S&W 13-3 I have and it has a lot of miles on it. ALWAYS will be. I have handled some Redhawks in the store: Damned heavy, but certain to survive the thumping they 'impart' to the target when you run out of ammo. With 38's it's like shooting a 22. I keep those at home. . But the companys first .357 Magnum revolvers wouldnt show up until 1934. Indeed. And if you do that, you should consider all the giants upon whose shoulders today's manufacturers stand. When we sent the gun to S&W for examination, detonation was their determination, likely due to a light handload. The Python also has a ventilated top rib and a full underlug to protect the ejection rod. Easy to conceal carry, highly accurate and heavy enough to handle full power loads. In 2003 Colts new ceo decided they weren't going to build "obsolete" handguns for the civilian market anymore, decommissioned the machining tools that forged the python, and decided to focus all their attention on AR platforms for government contracts. It's had its up's and downs but i have a 1970's Blued 5" Colt Python and its in perfect condition and still shoots dead accurate after all this time i wouldn't dream of ever getting rid of it. You can swap cylinders between .357 and 9mm, and recoil is pretty gentle thanks to the design. The Manurhin MR73. So, if youre looking for a .357 magnum, check out this revolver. Snub-nose revolvers offer simplicity and ease of use, which are big selling points; here are reviews of the Smith & Wesson Model 360, Ruger LCR and Kimber K6s. I have a ..357 Ruger Blackhawk. I own 2 S&W Mod. I still carry it as needed, I also have a 357 lever rifle to go with it. double-action pull than the Python. That's with 357 mag ammo. Also, the Python is just too iconic to not mention. The single action pull comes in at about three pounds while the 686 is 10 pounds in double action and the single action pull is about 2.5 pounds. I was once at the firing range for our semi-monthly qualification, with a Colt-equipped sergeant in the la Continue Reading 83 8 H Allen Davis I quit reading when I saw two Taurus revolvers on the list, and the 686 wasn't. You also get match-grade wood grips and adjustable sights. All are fantastic revolvers that are fun to shoot and can handle anything you put through them. Did anyone mention the ugly one"Chiappa Rhino? I put the 2 and 1/2 inch barrel on, loaded with .357 and with no hearing protection, pulled the trigger. Have a S&W Model 686 Six shot .357 magnum with a 4" barrel. The new 4-inch barrel Colt Python has . Using .38 Special ammunition, it handles very nicely. The Model 627 also brings a large trigger and hammer and adjustable rear sight with a gold bead front sight. A little game where each player hits the soda can while its still moving. You can also order a 3 or 7-inch barrel if you prefer. I've heard all the stories about Taurus problems, but this is a different kind of animal. Most of their models start at $3,000+, that just isn't reasonable for most people. I own 3 of them(One happens to be an "Ashland"). Simple. You'll notice the grips are all non-stock. According to the S&W web site, "Today's K-Frame is available in .22 LR, .357 Magnum and .38 S&W Special." If you can find a Security Six in good condition, Buy it. Price puts them out of reach for many people. Stay safe and be good with your aim.. 25 after seeing how much the value has gone up and it's not original. I've tried the .44SW Mag. Colt Python 6" vs Smith & Wesson Model 686 6" Colt Python 6" DA/SA Full-Sized Revolver Chambered in 357 Magnum Check Price vs Smith & Wesson Model 686 6" DA/SA K/L-Frame Revolver Chambered in 357 Magnum Check Price Dimensions Details Capacity Dimensions Customary Metric Side-by-Side Comparison Charts Customary Metric The 27-2 is very nice. Weve built dozens of ARs and well cover all the best AR-15 upgrades such as handguards, triggers, BCGs, gas blocks, and more. These revolvers are easy to conceal in a holster, purse, or fanny pack. Yay .357 revolvers! Smoothest DA and a super clean trigger break in SA. Tested. Carried OWB people can definitely notice you have a gun if closely observing or if your jacket opens up a little bit which is why I mention different carry gfuns for different situations. Check Sturm, Ruger & Co.'s website for GP100 serial number dates that indicate S/N 170-00001 (1st Issue) was first "shipped" in 1986. Best .357 ever!!! I have a Security Six that I like and a K6s 3" DASA that I love. Gunbroker.com. You can load enough bullseye in a 38 special case to blow just about any 357extra powder room is not needed or required. By the way, whats wrong with the Taurus? Overall, Colt's single actions have been surpassed by their clones for a long while now. Hand-Picked Daily GUN DEALS, and Exclusive Coupons Codes >>>. Also own a 4.2 SP101 polished in and out and springs. The internal of S&Ws are way stronger than Colts, Colt's rebound lever mechanism is an outdated design that cost too much pain for gunsmiths back in the day once the gun's outta timing. See how this works? BTW, I have the SS 6-shot models in 4" and 6", and find both to be superb handling, practically indestructable revolvers. Weve got a dedicated section for the AR-15 here. Another fine revolver that should have been mentioned is the Dan Wesson.357 Magnum. For target practice, I still recommend using .38 Special ammo to save money. I know a lot of people would disagree, but of all the snub noses, 357 or 38 special I have shot, the newest Taurus 605 is the one I bought and would buy again. In the past 6 months I purchased a 1972 Smith and Wesson 27-2, a 1968 Colt Trooper (Python style action), and a 1965 Colt Python. A '69 Python and an '82 586. Certainly some classic model revolvers mentioned. Their prices are still reasonable, but they are starting to climb, as the name start to get respected again. Marcus! This model comes with a 5-inch barrel and measures 10.25 inches long overall. Id like to see reviews on the colt lightening and the Taurus thunderbolt .357 mag pump action rifles. The Colt has an eight-pound double-action pull. No, the case was made longer to prevent loading in a 38 special. S&W Model 19 w/ 4" barrel, Pachmayr grips, and a sweet trigger job. Think big Magnaports and alot of fun lol. I keep mine because I know it, use it, and have speed loaders that work. Can you recommend me the best bullets to choose for precision. I regularly carry my Windicator when in situations where deep concealment isn't a necessity (OWB under winter clothing will be fine; it'll stick out a bit in light clothing; IWB appendix carry is possible and the most concealed position available. For general target practice, shoot .38 Special ammo. I think the GP 100 is a better all-around gun. And the S&W 686? Colt Python 357 Magnum 6In Stainless Revolver . Billed as the lightest 6-shot revolver, the K6s weighs in at around 23 ounces. One issue the Python was known for was relatively delicate lockwork. It was first introduced in 1934 and serves as the foundation of the Magnum Era.. It has a 2.125-inch underlug barrel and exposed hammer with black synthetic grips that wear well. It is a bit heavy in weight but, with an excellent OWB holster, it can be carried concealed. A full power 158gr. and have never had a problem with any of them. Sure, the GP is beefyit has to be, as it has a cast frame vs the 686's forged frame. Clean and mean. Both are chambered in .357 Magnum with four-inch barrels. I've owned more than one; one that I got 2nd hand I had to replace the ejector rod, but this was cheap, and would not have given me any trouble in a defensive situation where I needed more than six shots and there are very few situations that I hope I might ever run into that require more than one (well, hopefully zero!) They are getting harder and harder to find as most people who have one will not part with it. What about the Rhino? The 686 is a heavy duty gun and will take more heavy .357 rounds than the Python before it goes out of timing. This gun opts for a front blade sight and fixed rear sight. both good weapons.I have a 686 with a 4 barrels.I have had it close to 30 years,and still love it.Even today when I unlimber it at the range with full power a,MMO the range ,someone is bound to come up,and say But to be honest if I'm packing a cowboy shooter, its gunna be in .45 long Colt. He is focused on helping others protect themselves and their loved ones, and getting the most out of their time at the range. Looking closely I believe the problem was the previous owner had flipped the wheel into the gun with a flick of the hand quite a few times causing the damage (NEVER do this with your revolver despite it being a rather satisfying feeling and it being ubiquitous in the movies.) Check out the new online S&W catalog. To me that comparison is apples and oranges. I won! I'd like to know where the S&W 586-L comp fits into this discussion. They are incredibly accurate with 38 loads as wellalmost target level. Lots of great guns and points here but as with any beat of list, you like what you like. All 3 were extremely accurate and reliable. But I will put them up against any of your listed for accuracy, reliability, looks, and just plain Ol' fashioned "Cool Factor". Case in point, the Ruger GP-100, an outstanding range gun. Lets talk a little about the various frame sizes you can expect to see when shopping. The gun features a fully adjustable rear sight, match trigger, and is completely hand-fitted to exacting tolerances. You can also shoot for extended time periods without feeling recoil discomfort. The Kimber feels beefier, it is finished better than any gun for the money. These 6-shot, hexagonal-cylinder Rhino revolvers are available in 2-inch, 3-inch, 4-inch, 5-inch and 6-inch barrel lengths and in black anodized, nickel-plated, and "gold" finish, with prices . And the Ruger GP100 7-shot with 4 barrel. I believe dan wesson should be on the list as well they had an innovative design of being able to swap barrels. You should check it out. lead RN bullet using the most advanced technology then available, about 1900, to determine the best possible rate of twist for . This further I thoroughly enjoy your articles. You can carry them concealed easily with a 4-inch barrel if you wear loose clothes, and they also conceal well in a fanny pack. Strong and very accurate. I have a couple blackhawks and they are fine guns that will last a lifetime super strong. I can smack pop cans at 100 yards all day long. The Colt has an eight-pound double-action pull. Chiappa Rhino should be on this list. My carry gun is SP101. weight of the Python ideal for stabilizing the recoil of the .357 Magnum. The great stopping power myth is that there is a "best." I was at my range one day with my teen sons, and another shooter pulled out his stainless steel revolver and both my sons wanted to shoot it, The nice guy let them try it, and they said I had to buy one. sticking with the old .38/.357 combo. Fitted with the original factory checkered walnut grips with gold Rampant Colt medallions. What is your opinion of this pistol and what do you estimate its value to be in excellent to new con dition.. Less than a box of shells has been fired through it.. You forgot the Dan Wesson. Probably have over a 1000 rounds through this pistol and still shoots straight and true. This revolver tames the recoil with even the heaviest loads. In similar enough meaning it definitely is a WIN though. I was in my twenties and knew nothing. These are two very fine guns and either one will make a fine choice. Nothing else came close. On the plus side, these guns can handle large amounts of heavily loaded .357 Magnum ammunition. If money isn't an object, this is the best. Absolutely no complaints or problems. Jack. I dont shoot it much, but for me its still a keeper. I have a python also bought 30 years ago at about 650.00 ( also bought a security six for about 1/3 of that if I remember right). The K6s is soooooo much nicer! You get most of the oomph of 357, but can still conceal easily. The Blackhawk never missed. Reliable. Given mine I will have to very respectfully stand by my post Sir. I regret selling my S&W 586. It has been for going one 30 or 40 years. vs. Sig Sauer . I enjoyed reading y'all's comment. We hate SPAM and promise to keep your email address safe. The Ruger is HD, the Kimber camping and trail. You Pew-Pew guys(and gals) are doing a great job. We'll send you the latest guides and training tips geared - too big to carry; and too much for me to handle. Colt Python. I know you can't possibly include every 357 magnum you like, but for this aerticle I was surprised to see the Kimber K6s left out. While I own a number of different pistols, I love my revolvers for their simplicity, reliability, and accuracy. i wondered why he did put the 327 performance center on here 627 comes in performance center also. I certainly didnt go wrong with this group of firearms. G26 Gen4 . Colt Lawman Mark III Might need to get rid of it because of hand issues. I own one and compared it to the Ruger sp101 before buying the Kimber K6s. Peter, How do I get a catalog with the 357 handguns. Definitely a 357 fan. View Deal . From a bench at 7 yards, the Smith turned in a .75-inch group with Hornady's 125-grain FTX Critical Defense round and the Kimber shot a .68-inch group with Hornady's 135-grain Critical Duty load. Although extremely expensive, the MR73 is regarded by many as the finest .357 magnum revolver ever made. One great thing about .357 Magnum revolvers is you can load it with the cheapest.38 Special rounds you can find for plinking and target practice, and you can load it with full-power .357 Magnum rounds when you're carrying it. People may well see I have a gun. Revolvers. But it can be argued that the gun the GP-100 was derived from, the Security-Six, was a vastly superior gun. And a Ruger BH ss 6 1/2 brl. This hybrid revolver combined a Smith & Wesson Model 19 frame with a Colt Python barrel. Description: Smith & Wesson 686 Revolver. gear. Both are. Check out our review of the King Cobra or view what others think about the Cobra over on our Pew Pew Meter Page! S&W Model 27 Very accurate with little recoil. The latter is an ideal range gun, but it can't compete accuracy-wise with the S&W 686 (which is far more accurate and which isn't even on the list), and when it left the range, it wasn't very useful except as a drawer gun and a paperweight. Not the one manufactured in 2020. Depending on configuration, values have settled between $1,800 and $5,000 for clean examples as most of us hope that Colt will eventually reintroduce the ultimate snake gun. Bought a security 6 (4" barrell) about a year ago. 1. 6.5 inch barrel stainless - fires .357 Magnum and .38 Special Comes with original grips (on gun) and rubber grips - easily changed. I kinda like my Colt Lawman MK III with 2 in bbl and MK V with 4 in bbl. We all have our favorites and that's ok. I own a Taurus model 608 stainless 8 Shot .357 magnum 4 inch barrel. The King Cobra is a medium-frame 6-shot revolver with a 3-inch barrel, sporting a brushed stainless steel finish. Shop hundreds of custom grip options to fit your style. I have the Ruger New model Blackhawk convertible in a 357 magnum, 6.50 in barrel. I will no longer be reading any of your articles. It features a fixed rear sight, brass bead front sight, and Hogue Overmolded rubber grips, While heavier than the standard Colt Cobra, the extra weight. 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