I don't own a .357 at this time and I understand that every American man should. So help me out here.

I have a Ruger Service Six on layaway at this time. Decent, not amazing, price. 95% condition, super smooth action. Probably been worked on at one time. What I like about it is the size, firstly, 4" barrel and way smaller than a S&W 686 or other comparable .357s out there. I like the blued finish over stainless steel; I like the fixed sights (all my non rimfire guns are fighting guns), and I like the bulletproof "built too tough" nature of the Rugers.

But today a guy I know tells me he's thinking of selling an old local PD auctioned Colt Lawman, .357, 4" barrel, blued. He says it has considerable holster wear, but if it's in sound mechanical shape I don't really care much about the finish. I could probably get it for less than I would be paying for the Ruger.

However, I've never handled a Lawman and only a handful of Colt wheelguns ever. So, fill me in on the gritty details. I know this is the Colt forum, but is it a better gun than the Service Six? Are they comparable in size and feel? Strength? Does the rampant pony on the side actually make me shoot better?

Also seems there are few pics out on the Web of these revolvers. Any proud owners here want to share some Lawman photograph love with me?

Thanks in advance, gents!

Hmmm... I am, by no means, an expert in wheel guns. In fact, the only revolver I own is a Colt Lawman. They aren't a real pretty gun, but I've put several hundred .38 spcl and very few .357 rounds through the weapon. It shoots VERY straight and is built TOUGH. I've looked for different grips, something a little softer, such a black rubber, and there aren't ANY out there (only pachmyer presentation grips). I'd probably stick with the Ruger. just my .02

P.S.... I will work on getting a pic to upload.

I replaced the bulky target grips on mine with the pachmayr rubber ones, they are much more comfortable.

I have a 2" lawman. Somebody bobbed the trigger but did a first rate job. I paid $225 for it. Grips are small but it fits in my pocket perfect. I used to carry my glock all the time but with this i can carry in my pocket and no one is none the wiser. Fit and finish are nice. I will take some pictures later on today.

I just looked at a lawman with a 2" barrel.  It was very nice and had an excellent trigger.  They wanted $375 for it with some slight and tiny rust spots.  Not a collector, but certainly a shooter.  Substantial, but not heavy, with a very good trigger and a good pointing to it.  Had a good upright feeling grip.  I passed, as I wanted something with target sights and not a trench.

I think they are a trooper with trench sights essentially.

here it be

Here is a photo of My 2" lawman I just aquired about 6 weeks ago . I really am confident in this weapon and have added some Pachmyr grips .
.....WVleo