I'm torn on the Rugers. I like the pricing, but they feel less polished. They don't feel cheap or bad, just chunkier than ideal maybe? I don't think that's the best way to describe it, but I'm failing to find the right way to say it.
I think some reloading manuals include "Ruger only" loads, which is a testament to their sturdiness. I miss my GP100 Wiley Clapp. I'm down to 3 revolvers - a 4" 66, a 2" 66 and a Manurhin MR 73 (the gun in my avatar pic). The Manurhin is my favorite and will hold its own with Rugers in strength, while being the same size as a K-frame. Prices on them have gone crazy since I got mine though.I agree, beauty and the beast. IMHO, the Ruger is much more "sturdy" maybe. The S&W may be better detailed, but the Ruger will last forever. I believe Ruger makes a better workhorse, S&W a better show horse. Depends what your needs and wants are. Both are fine, I prefer the workhorse.
If you're not totally set on .357, you might consider the Ruger SP101 or GP100 in .327. It's a little softer shooting, yet powerful enough that you know you're shooting a magnum. They can shoot the 32 S&W, the 32 H&R magnum and the 327 magnum, so a lot of flexibility just like the 38/357. It's probably not the most practical in terms of ammo availability, but I just flat-out like it. I have the SP101 in 3" and GP100 in 4", and they're both quality pieces. I plan to eventually have S&W's also, but the Rugers were an affordable way to edge into the quality revolver world. Just recently picked up the new Henry carbine in .327. Life is good! Best of luck with your choices.
I agree, beauty and the beast. IMHO, the Ruger is much more "sturdy" maybe. The S&W may be better detailed, but the Ruger will last forever. I believe Ruger makes a better workhorse, S&W a better show horse. Depends what your needs and wants are. Both are fine, I prefer the workhorse.
That is a much better way of stating it.
For the moment at least, I think (with everyone’s guidance) I’ve whittled things down to start with a larger frame. Just seems like a smarter idea. Thinking a GP100, 66 or 686. Most likely in the 3-4” +/- barrel range.
You'll find what works best for you.
We all have our biases but those are all fine choices. Personally, I find 4" + to be ideal for range work. You'll find what works best for you. Pretty cool SW TRR8 in the classies...
We all have our biases but those are all fine choices. Personally, I find 4" + to be ideal for range work. You'll find what works best for you. Pretty cool SW TRR8 in the classies...
Or just own it, get a nice SA revolver cowboy rig and dress the part. That is how I picture Indiucky in my mind.4" is arguably the most versatile length. For a first revolver, I'd stay in the 3-6" range. I *can* carry a 6" N-frame concealed but it's with a custom holster and it's certainly harder to dress around.
That’s when Indy is not in a loin cloth with a flintlock!
I think some reloading manuals include "Ruger only" loads, which is a testament to their sturdiness. I miss my GP100 Wiley Clapp. I'm down to 3 revolvers - a 4" 66, a 2" 66 and a Manurhin MR 73 (the gun in my avatar pic). The Manurhin is my favorite and will hold its own with Rugers in strength, while being the same size as a K-frame. Prices on them have gone crazy since I got mine though.
I know I’m bit all over the place at the moment. Hoping the input from INGO can help narrow things down and give a direction. So far I’ve looked at mostly 2-3” barrel versions and a couple of 4” versions. What I have overlooked or not looked at fairly? I’m open to new or used. I’m not in any rush to purchase this, I want to be sure before I buy this time. Will probably be the end of summer at the earliest.
Thanks for any input guys!
That’s when Indy is not in a loin cloth with a flintlock!
BREECH CLOTH!!!!!!!! It's a breech cloth and it's airy and comforting......
If you are revolver noob, is best to seek wisdom from on high. We in Indiana have a Master Armorer in Rochester. He is a cranky retired cop, but ex catherda on revolvers and most guns.
Sand Burr Gun Ranch
Take advantage of the wisdom here as software is to hardware as 3 is to 1.
*ahem* Remember the dollar, yes?