First revovler recommendations?

[Lebowski]

I don't own a revolver, but am interested in getting one as my next handgun. I'm not looking for anything concealable, and ideally would like something for some target plinking so a longer barrel (non stubnose) is preferred. I'm not very familiar with the different revolver calibers, all I know is I want something that is cheap(ish) to shoot and fun.

My budget? I'd like to keep it at $400 - $500.

 

[RLC]

I vote for Ruger single 6 in 38/357. Love that gun. Could get the double action GP100. Also great I sleep with that one at my bedside...

 

[billybob44]

Each to His Own..

For a first+only revolver, IMO, it's hard to beat a S&W Model 10, 4" barrel .38Spl.

These can be had for $300-$400 range, and make an "Ideal" first revolver for the target shooter, and with the fixed sights will usually shoot 158gr. projectiles to the point of aim.

The Ruger GP-100, 4" is also a good choice, but that usually raises the price by $100 or so, but you DO add the .357Mag. power if you go that route.

I have both of these models+and find myself with my Model 10 in my hand most of the time at the range.

You also can get a little better trigger in the Smith rather than the Ruger..

Just my 2 Cents..Bill.

 

[jfed85]

Just as an aditional fact to keep in mind, since you said you are not very familiar with revolver calibers I will throw this out there; a revolver calibered in .357 magnum can shoot .357 magnum and 38 special rounds interchangeably. Not the other way around though, you cannot shoot 357 magnum in a revolver chambered in 38 special. That is because of the build strength (materials used, etc.) for a revolver only rates in 38 special cant handle the higher pressure of the 357 magnum. It is usually recommended to go with the 357 magnum revolver even if you only plan to shoot 38 specials just so you have that option of another caliber, plus lower felt recoil in the 38 special round due to a more sturdy built revolver. I hope that makes sense.

 

[throttletony]

I'm more familiar with double action (DA) revolvers. Double action revolvers do not need to be cocked each time, but generally have the option by having an exposed hammer that can be pulled back.
Ruger gp100 4" or 6" blued will be just about $500-$550 on a deal - stainless version runs about $50 more.
Ruger sp101 4" "kit gun" (5 shot, not 6) is about same price
The new S&W models thatI'm familiar with are about $200 north of your budget (like a 686)
Taurus and Charter arms both have decent offerings in the $400-$500 range, but for a similar price I'd get a ruger (especially if it's only $50-$100 more)

Get a .357 as others have mentioned, cause you can also shoot 38 Special out of it. The other caliber to consider would just be a revolver in .22 LR

 

[gunbunnies]

Well for a general use revolver I would look at a 357 magnum/38 spcl. Probably in a 4 or 6 inch barrel with adjustable sites. The best two I have run across would be the Smith 686 L frame or a Ruger GP100, both of these revolvers are built to last a lifetime. To get in your price range though you will be looking at a used gun, or splurge and get a brand new one... Like I said it will last longer than you will... Stainless is nice but either model can be had in a blued gun, the Smith would be known as a 586. The last thing is that once you have your revolver it probably won't stop there. As you can see from the attached image, revolvers can lead to a addiction... Enjoy...

 

[Glock10MM]

Well its already been said, A S&W L or K frame is pretty hard to beat. Then again, so is the Ruger GP 100. Keep your eye out for a Ruger Security Six too.

 

[pokersamurai]

You'll be fine with any Smith or Ruger. For your price range I'd look for a good-condition used Smith and Wesson model 10,12,13,14,15,19,64,65,66,67,581,586,681,686,... etc or a Ruger Security-Six, Service-Six, Speed-Six, or GP100.

Colt are fantastic revolvers too, however, they tend to be more pricey and last I've heard Colt is no longer doing any customer service/maintenance on their revolvers.

 

[Deet]

Hard to beat a revolver for plinking and/or hunting. I like all the revolvers listed above, but my favorite and most accurate by far is a Ruger Police service six in .357 magnum.
here's a pic

 

[Bigtanker]

Don't overlook the .22 revolvers. S&W makes a good one and the Single Action Ruger's are a blast. The Taurus .22 revolvers are ok but the trigger is really heavy in DA.

 

[Dr_O]

It's hard to beat a 22LR revolver for the fun factor. Easier on the wallet also.
Great if the Mrs. or kids want to shoot.

If you or a buddy is a reloader a 357/38 becomes affordable to shoot.

 

[Birds Away]

I would second the Smith Model 10. Especially if just for range use. Very high quality gun for a very reasonable price. Excellent model for someone just dipping their toe into the revolver world. If you decide you like them you can always pick up a .357 later and if you don't you aren't out that much money and can easily move it along.

 

[Snapdragon]

I got a sweet Smith 10-5 .38 snubby in great condition at the pawn shop for $325. I'm sure you could find a 4" or 6" for under $400 if you wanted to go that route.

 

[Birds Away]

I got a sweet Smith 10-5 .38 snubby in great condition at the pawn shop for $325. I'm sure you could find a 4" or 6" for under $400 if you wanted to go that route.

I have been meaning to ask you how she did at the range for you? I was certain you would like it.

 

[Snapdragon]

I have been meaning to ask you how she did at the range for you? I was certain you would like it.

Great. Took a few shots to adjust to the sights and the short barrel. I adjusted after 5-6 shots, and then I was good. I'll be changing out those fake stag grips for some less bulky checkered wood grips that I got from an INGOer.

 

[Birds Away]

Very cool. I am glad you like it. Ya, I am not a fan of stag grips but I know a lot of people think they add something to the gun. To each his own. I took my S&W 442 to a local gunsmith and he put a red ramp on the front for me. My old eyes can't deal with those front posts otherwise.

 

[Snapdragon]

Yeah, I think I'm going to go the nail polish route, but whatever it is, I do think it will help.

I actually don't mind the look of the stag, esp. since the gun will stay in my console most of the time. But they are very thick and bulky, and I have short fingers. Hopefully thinner grips will help me reach the trigger just a bit better, although it wasn't a big problem.

 

[Birds Away]

How is the trigger. Hopefully it is well-loved and is fairly smooth?

 

[Snapdragon]

Trigger is great. DA is pretty smooth and easier than a Ruger.

 

[Birds Away]

Excellent, sounds like you made a great buy. Now if only .38spcl would come down in price a bit. I am paying $20 a box.