Been looking to purchase a .357 and have narrowed down to two, S&W 686 or Ruger GP100 any suggestions out there as to which stands out as a better choice, know that it depends on individual but would like to hear pro's and con's before making purchase.

Smith! Better trigger, better customer service, better reputation. Except for the trigger they will perform the same. The GP100 is a good gun, too!

I love my 686 6".

 

I've had it for almost 20 years and it still shoots great.

686 Pro great gun and great trigger. Front sight is held in by a spring so swapping front sight requires no gunsmithing.

You look at Taurus stuff?

Actually haven't, will take a look at the site.

depends on what your willing to spend also

If you are buying new, go with the Ruger GP100. It's built like a tank and Ruger's customer service every bit as good as S&W. If you want a pricey/fancy 357, then the S&W Performance Center guns are really nice.

If you are buying something older (i.e. from the 80's or earlier), which would be my recommendation since I feel they are MUCH better made, get the Smith&Wesson. I am not a fan of new S&W revolvers. Too many MIM parts for me and I have problems with the internal lock. If you have questions about these things, please use the search function here or Google. There are a lot of threads on this forum and others about MIM and internal locks on Smith wheel guns.

Keats can you make it to BA on a Tue night?

Can probably arrange that.

Keats can you make it to BA on a Tue night?

 

Good idea Joe.

Keats, I have a S&W Model 28 from 1970. It is an N frame and is built to withstand anything you put through it. If you can make it to BA on Tuesday, I'll bring it.

I will bring the 686 Pro. Someone has to have a GP100 for comparison.

I will bring the 686 Pro. Someone has to have a GP100 for comparison.

 

Wolfy, a 686 PRO vs GP100 isn't really a fair comparison either. There is a world of difference between your gun and a plain jane 686. Maybe BA has a regular 686n on their rental board.

Chris I meant as a comparison to a different brand.

I certainly appreciate all the responses and assistance, will confirm if Tues. is a go, later this weekend.

Keats we are there almost every Tue so no pressure.

Ruger GP100

This is kinda like the 500 vs 870 debate. There are many different Smiths out there to choose from, and only a few models of the GP100 to look at. Gotsta shoot boff of dem to decide fo yoself.

My vote is for the Ruger GP100.:drool:

I picked up a 686 + about 2 months ago, fwiw I love it.......

How about 8 rounds of 357 goodness. I would buy this Perfrmance Center gun if I had the $$$.

 

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/prod ... s_id/52370

S&W 686 is the way to go.

I've had friends who have owned 686s and GP100s. I much preferred the balance, look and trigger of the 686.

I will bring the 686 Pro. Someone has to have a GP100 for comparison.

 

I do, and it's available for sale or trade. It's posted here. I am selling it because on lunker's advice I bought a old S&W!

 

I like the GP100, built like a tank, but don't need 2 revolvers.

I but don't need 2 revolvers.

 

What? Yes you do!

Radek is right who needs two? I have more than that two is not enough.

Whatever feels best in YOUR hand. Let that be the decision maker. Both are good. My preference is the S&W for its refinement.

Well PP is in and now time to decide, after doing more research leaning towards a 686 4" Stainless DCM. Now to do a side by side comparison down range. Thanks for all the feedback!

I will bring the 686 Pro. Someone has to have a GP100 for comparison.

 

I have a GP100 in 6", I might be heading to BA on Tuesday (9/21) but not sure yet.

I picked up a 686 + about 2 months ago, fwiw I love it.......