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Posted: 9/8/2023 7:21:58 PM EDT
So I want another 357 mag gun with the illusion that I'll actually carry it from time to time, I considering a GP100 2.5" or 686+ 2.5, both are 2.5" barrels, 7 round capacity and pretty much the same physical size, technically the Smith is 1.5oz lighter and ever so slightly shorter in height.
I have owned both in different barrel lengths but it has been some time ago, I seem to remember the Smith feeling a little more svelte but that could have been me just justifying the purchase. The key take away is that I'll actually carry this, is one easier than the other to carry? I know both are robust and I'll probably limit the 357 mag round count and shoot mostly 38spl +p but carry it with 357 mag. What says the hive? The Smith is a good $150 more than the Ruger.  Attached File Attached FileI don't currently reload ammo but will do so very soon as I just picked up a wheel gun in 327fed. |
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Posted: 9/8/2023 7:27:29 PM EDT
[#1]
I prefer the Smith trigger so 686+ for the win.
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Posted: 9/8/2023 9:02:45 PM EDT
[#2]
I’m a huge Ruger fan… even named my dog Ruger. But when it comes to DA revolvers, while I think Ruger makes a good revolver, I always favor the Smith. In this case, I’m a 686+ fan. I’ve had almost every length Ruger GP and one was a custom. I don’t have a complaint, I just feel the S&W has an edge.
If you got a GP, I’d say congrats! You got a good one! If you got a 686, I’d say the same. My preference just leans toward the history and refinement of the S&W. |
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Posted: 9/8/2023 9:28:05 PM EDT
[#3]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I’m a huge Ruger fan… even named my dog Ruger. But when it comes to DA revolvers, while I think Ruger makes a good revolver, I always favor the Smith. In this case, I’m a 686+ fan. I’ve had almost every length Ruger GP and one was a custom. I don’t have a complaint, I just feel the S&W has an edge. If you got a GP, I’d say congrats! You got a good one! If you got a 686, I’d say the same. My preference just leans toward the history and refinement of the S&W. I can certainly appreciate that, the one and only thing that erks me is the the Hilary hole, I would love a pre-lock 686 (if they even made one) but I know thats really a non issue on functionality. |
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Posted: 9/8/2023 9:33:34 PM EDT
[#4]
Look at the King Cobra first
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Posted: 9/8/2023 9:51:05 PM EDT
[#5]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Look at the King Cobra first This. Or the Python if you want closer to GP100 size. I use a 4” GP100 as my tractor gun. I have King Cobra 3” as night stand guns. I also have a 6” Python just because. The Colts are way better guns than the Ruger. Here are some of mine…   I only have one smith. I just don’t like the new ones. My old ones were lost in my house fire many years ago. |
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Posted: 9/8/2023 10:16:53 PM EDT
[#6]
As a lifelong Smith fan, I'd go with the GP100, but only six shot. The seven shot revolvers are just too weird.
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Posted: 9/8/2023 10:52:21 PM EDT
[#7]
Both are fine guns. I own both. Also have the King Cobra and Kimber K6s DASA.
For out of the box trigger feel, which is VERY SUBJECTIVE, the Smith has an edge. If you intend to do a trigger job then the Ruger can get to a very good place. But you need to try the trigger feel on an out of the box Kimber K6s DASA. I resisted the Kimber wheelie for too long, that trigger pull is sweeeeeeet… Both the Kimber and Colt are smaller/lighter and therefor carry much easier than the GP-100/686. Yes, I do carry my GP-100 sometimes. But the Kimber gets the nod far more often. Lighter, better trigger, smaller frame, flatter cylinder sides…lots of carrying goodness. |
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Posted: 9/8/2023 11:21:29 PM EDT
[#8]
None of the above. For a carry 357, a model 19 2&1/2 is what I would want. ( unless I could find a 3” 13)
I hate stainless so forget that for me. If you like stainless then a 66. 6 rounds got the job done for a lot of years. Heck most of the time my primary carry gun is a 5 shot J frame |
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Posted: 9/9/2023 12:12:31 AM EDT
[#9]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I’m a huge Ruger fan… even named my dog Ruger. But when it comes to DA revolvers, while I think Ruger makes a good revolver, I always favor the Smith. In this case, I’m a 686+ fan. I’ve had almost every length Ruger GP and one was a custom. I don’t have a complaint, I just feel the S&W has an edge. If you got a GP, I’d say congrats! You got a good one! If you got a 686, I’d say the same. My preference just leans toward the history and refinement of the S&W. Same here. Another point to consider, though, is what type of ;oads are you going to use? I think the Ruger will be a better choice for stout loads. Not that the 686 is a slouch. |
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Posted: 9/9/2023 8:02:05 AM EDT
[#10]
Quote HistoryQuoted: This. Or the Python if you want closer to GP100 size. The reason for the GP100 or 686 size is shootability with 357mag, the small frames are great for 38 but a bit much for 357mag. |
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Posted: 9/9/2023 8:02:51 AM EDT
[#11]
Quote HistoryQuoted: As a lifelong Smith fan, I'd go with the GP100, but only six shot. The seven shot revolvers are just too weird. Ruger does make a nice 6 shot GP100 in a 2.5", has a gutter rear sight but looks like a nice carry option. |
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Posted: 9/9/2023 8:04:36 AM EDT
[#12]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Both are fine guns. I own both. Also have the King Cobra and Kimber K6s DASA. For out of the box trigger feel, which is VERY SUBJECTIVE, the Smith has an edge. If you intend to do a trigger job then the Ruger can get to a very good place. But you need to try the trigger feel on an out of the box Kimber K6s DASA. I resisted the Kimber wheelie for too long, that trigger pull is sweeeeeeet… Both the Kimber and Colt are smaller/lighter and therefor carry much easier than the GP-100/686. Yes, I do carry my GP-100 sometimes. But the Kimber gets the nod far more often. Lighter, better trigger, smaller frame, flatter cylinder sides…lots of carrying goodness. I had the Kimber K6S DA a few years ago, it was great, I loved it but pretty snappy with the 357mag loads, total sweetheart with 38s though. |
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Posted: 9/9/2023 5:46:56 PM EDT
[#13]
327 fed Ruger SP101 3” is much lighter, 6 rounds, approaching 357 levels
 Attached File |
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Posted: 9/9/2023 6:20:09 PM EDT
[#14]
Ruger or S&W ? Whichever one you chose look before you buy . Don’t order sight unseen. These days both companies have crappy QC .
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Posted: 9/9/2023 6:33:47 PM EDT
[#15]
What you want is a 386 Nightguard...shame they don't make them or a similar gun anymore(afaik)
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Posted: 9/9/2023 6:34:48 PM EDT
[#16]
GP100, the one that doesn't have the integrated lock
686+ owner here. |
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Posted: 9/9/2023 7:56:34 PM EDT
[#17]
Own a ton of Smtihs and a lot of Rugers. The last revolver I will part with is my Wiley Clapp GP100. They can still be found.
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Posted: 9/9/2023 8:51:36 PM EDT
[#18]
Quote HistoryQuoted: What you want is a 386 Nightguard...shame they don't make them or a similar gun anymore(afaik) Came here to recommend a 386PD if you can find one. I carry it hiking and the light weight is really nice. Recoil is actually pretty manageable and not as bad as you’d expect for weighing only 17.5 ounces. 
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Posted: 9/9/2023 11:40:37 PM EDT
[#19]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Own a ton of Smtihs and a lot of Rugers. The last revolver I will part with is my Wiley Clapp GP100. They can still be found. Yep. 3" GP100 with Novak sights. Not too heavy to carry comfortably, but the weight sure soaks up recoil and the factory rubber grip takes away much of the bite. Very comfortable to shoot with heavy loads. More than adequate velocity, plenty accurate. I know some folks don't like the 7-shot GP100, but my WC has had zero issues. I tried the trigger on a 3" Colt King Cobra and it was WAY better than the Ruger, but I didn't care for the tiny fixed sights or the cylinder release. |
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Posted: 9/10/2023 12:05:23 PM EDT
[#20]
Quote HistoryQuoted: 327 fed Ruger SP101 3” is much lighter, 6 rounds, approaching 357 levelshttps://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/84774/IMG_1781_jpeg-2948165.JPG I'm actually bidding on one of these, wanted one forever and should have bought one when they were reasonable. |
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Posted: 9/10/2023 12:06:03 PM EDT
[#21]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Own a ton of Smtihs and a lot of Rugers. The last revolver I will part with is my Wiley Clapp GP100. They can still be found. Yeah, I really like the WC GP100. |
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Posted: 9/10/2023 12:06:50 PM EDT
[#22]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Came here to recommend a 386PD if you can find one. I carry it hiking and the light weight is really nice. Recoil is actually pretty manageable and not as bad as you’d expect for weighing only 17.5 ounces. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/268703/50A58506-087C-4CBB-9983-39EA10E48B12-2758700.jpg I had forgotten about these, great, now another wheel gun that I'll have to hunt down LOL |
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Posted: 9/10/2023 12:49:43 PM EDT
[#23]
I think the NG weights a little more than the PD...want to say 22oz, but it shoots fantastic.
Quote HistoryQuoted: Came here to recommend a 386PD if you can find one. I carry it hiking and the light weight is really nice. Recoil is actually pretty manageable and not as bad as you’d expect for weighing only 17.5 ounces. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/268703/50A58506-087C-4CBB-9983-39EA10E48B12-2758700.jpg |
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Posted: 9/10/2023 2:21:05 PM EDT
[#24]
It's like buying a car, if you like to tinker with your choice, learn to do your own repairs, and talk about it's "elegance", buy a 686. If you need something you can rely on all day, every day that's comfortable and only requires minimal maintenance, buy the GP and have the trigger done.
I failed to heed my own advice and just received the parts to replace the hand and bolt stop in my 686 again. In either instance, both companies are currently having what appears to be QC issues. I'd buy an older gun myself. |
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Posted: 9/10/2023 7:09:38 PM EDT
[#25]
I love my 686 no dash. The trigger is amazing.
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Posted: 9/10/2023 11:45:59 PM EDT
[#26]
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Posted: 9/10/2023 11:48:02 PM EDT
[#27]
S&W
Rugers are third rate in comparison |
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Posted: 9/11/2023 11:16:42 AM EDT
[#28]
I own or have owned various Ruger GP100s, SP101s, and J, K, and L frame Smiths. Based on your intentions of shooting mostly .38+P and carrying it, I'd say the most logical choice is a S&W 66-8 with a 2 3/4" barrel. To me they don't look as good as the older ones, but have the ideal features of a .357Mag that's meant to be carried, and on top of that are built more robust than the older models. Another good option, if you don't mind the capacity, is a 3" Ruger SP101 in .357.
Happy shopping! |
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Posted: 9/11/2023 11:19:43 AM EDT
[#29]
GP100 if you dont want to send it back to the factory three times to fix what should not have left the factory floor in the first place.
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Posted: 9/11/2023 1:19:02 PM EDT
[#30]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I own or have owned various Ruger GP100s, SP101s, and J, K, and L frame Smiths. Based on your intentions of shooting mostly .38+P and carrying it, I'd say the most logical choice is a S&W 66-8 with a 2 3/4" barrel. To me they don't look as good as the older ones, but have the ideal features of a .357Mag that's meant to be carried, and on top of that are built more robust than the older models. Another good option, if you don't mind the capacity, is a 3" Ruger SP101 in .357. Happy shopping! I'm actually bidding on a SP101 3" in 327 now, and thought about adding a 2.25" SP101 in 357 to replace my Taurus 856. The main reason for the 686 or GP is the 7th round and additional weight to handle the hot loads, that and I just like the size of the 686 and GP. 
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Posted: 9/11/2023 1:42:04 PM EDT
[#31]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I'm actually bidding on a SP101 3" in 327 now, and thought about adding a 2.25" SP101 in 357 to replace my Taurus 856. The main reason for the 686 or GP is the 7th round and additional weight to handle the hot loads, that and I just like the size of the 686 and GP. I understand and won't argue about tastes or wants, but keep in mind the weight, girth, and belt, holster, clothing etc., to comfortably and discreetly carry a 7-shot GP or 686. Though not "comfortable" to shoot, I find my S&W 640 in .357 and my SP101 in 9X19 very tolerable with factory "hot" loads. The proper grip fit and feel makes a huge difference. For the record, I've had to send more Ruger revolvers to the factory for proper fitting of internal parts, even when new, than I've had Smiths. I prefer the action of the S&Ws but happily own both brands. I have owned Taurus revolvers in the past and for the right price would still buy a few of their older models. Good luck with the auction and the search! |
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Posted: 9/13/2023 5:02:17 PM EDT
[#32]
Spend the $150 more.
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Posted: 9/13/2023 8:10:41 PM EDT
[#33]
I recently had to make a similar decision, but the 686+ was a 3 inch. I chose the 2 1/2" Ruger. And then found out the 7 shot has issues with rim case stacking. You have to make sure whatever ammo you're using all lay flush in the cylinder. Mine is from 2018, and this was a known problem with them. I don't know if it's been fixed on the new ones.
If I was just going into it, I'd probably go with the Smith. But I already had a 4 inch 686, and the 3" was too similar. I do prefer the hi-viz front sight Ruger offers. 
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Posted: 9/14/2023 2:19:51 AM EDT
[#34]
Model 66/19. The recent ones fixed the forcing cone issue so you can feed full house 357.
Or the 686ssr which is the same weight because of the weird looking lug. I don't like the look though I feel like a revolver should stay classic. |
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Posted: 9/15/2023 6:33:17 PM EDT
[#35]
I would probably give the Ruger a slight edge.
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Posted: 9/15/2023 6:43:17 PM EDT
[#36]
My 642 locked up after the sale at the range. I carry a 4 " Security Six out in town or the woods. Sometimes the 6" GP100.
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Posted: 9/16/2023 1:49:14 PM EDT
[#37]
I went with the GP100 since I like the Ruger trigger and it felt better in my hand than the 686.
I really wanted to like the K6, and loved the trigger and balance, but their grips were all so badly fitted at all 3 shops I checked that I doubted the quality of the rest of the gun. Every K6 I handled had grips proud of the frame in the back, or warped out away from the grip frame, or simply not following the grip frame along the entire edge. I was shocked at how bad it was and how it was seemingly universal the issue was on the dozen or so K6 revolvers I looked at at 3 different shops. I don't want to buy a gun at that price and have to re-fit the grips or buy new ones (especially since the aftermarket grip selection isn't great for the DA/SA K6 models). |
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Posted: 9/16/2023 3:20:25 PM EDT
[#38]
My LGS has a 686+ 2.5" for only $799 which seems like a good deal these days, I'm gonna go check out another shop tomorrow in hopes they have a GP100 that I can play with, strange seeing as I've had both but it's been very long and they were both 3" and 4" barrels.
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Posted: 9/16/2023 10:16:51 PM EDT
[#39]
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Posted: 9/17/2023 6:08:33 AM EDT
[#40]
Quote HistoryNow that is beautiful. |
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Posted: 9/20/2023 5:57:39 AM EDT
[#41]
For a carry gun I carried Smith K frame HB, RB 3" for years (80-90s, 13, 64 & 65) Balanced and relatively snag free. The Model 64 NY-1 was snag free as it was DAO. My last two .357 purchases were a M19 6" and Colt Lawman Mk III 4".
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Posted: 9/20/2023 6:22:13 AM EDT
[#42]
The cast frames of Rugers strike me as heavy and bulky.
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Posted: 9/20/2023 6:52:22 AM EDT
[#43]
The choice of what to buy OP has always been a dilemma for me. The PC .357 below was what I ended up with and have been very happy. The wood grips from the factory are attractive but for my use I changed out and went with Hogue's.
Good luck on your quest. I carry this occasionally using a cheap Azula IWB holster. The second picture is the same revolver with Hogue grips and a lanyard swivel eye. This rig is carried in a Lobo leather holster.  
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Posted: 9/20/2023 6:59:32 AM EDT
[#44]
Quote HistoryQuoted: What you want is a 386 Nightguard...shame they don't make them or a similar gun anymore(afaik) My dream revolver is something like a 315 with a 3" barrel, a bobbed hammer, and no Hilary hole. |
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Posted: 9/20/2023 3:40:17 PM EDT
[#45]
Quote HistoryQuoted: The choice of what to buy OP has always been a dilemma for me. The PC .357 below was what I ended up with and have been very happy. The wood grips from the factory are attractive but for my use I changed out and went with Hogue's. Good luck on your quest. I carry this occasionally using a cheap Azula IWB holster. The second picture is the same revolver with Hogue grips and a lanyard swivel eye. This rig is carried in a Lobo leather holster. https://i.imgur.com/of2XLlG.jpg https://i.imgur.com/9E9jMQy.jpg Beautiful, love the PC 357. |
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Posted: 9/28/2023 3:15:30 AM EDT
[#46]
I love my 4" Python. It is surprisingly easy to carry, even if just slipped into your pocket.
I have nothing but respect for the Ruger revolvers. They are not refined but they are SOLID. I also like the 686. Really, you cannot go wrong with ANY of the above. I really mean that. |
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Posted: 10/1/2023 6:39:11 PM EDT
[#47]
I am making a similar decision. I really hate the Hillary hole. 686 looks like a great choice if it didn't have one so I'm looking at older 686.
In a new gun I would go gp100 for no reason out than to avoid the damn lock. Just on principle. I don't want anything to do with any Clinton on any gun. |
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Posted: 10/1/2023 6:41:51 PM EDT
[#48]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I love my 4" Python. It is surprisingly easy to carry, even if just slipped into your pocket. I have nothing but respect for the Ruger revolvers. They are not refined but they are SOLID. I also like the 686. Really, you cannot go wrong with ANY of the above. I really mean that. Do you have a new python or an original? |
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Posted: 10/1/2023 7:35:02 PM EDT
[#49]
Super loud.
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Posted: 10/2/2023 9:11:57 AM EDT
[#50]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Super loud. Very. 357 is loud enough but in a snub, it's really loud, I still want one. |
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