Which Would You Rather Have?

saf11 · March 1, 2015, 12:04 PM

Had you rather have an S&W 686 (7 shot) revolver with 5" bbl., or an S&W 627 (8 shot) with a 4" bbl., and why? The 686 is L frame and the 627 is N frame (not cut for moon clips).

TfflHndn · March 1, 2015, 12:59 PM

What are you using it for? If bullseye and defense, I'd go for the longer barrel. Can't really go wrong with either one. I have a 627 v-comp and it's a great gun.

buck460XVR · March 1, 2015, 02:31 PM

I had the same quandary three years ago. After handling both several times side by side, I went with the 5'' 686+. Felt better in my hand for $150 less. I have 2 other 686s, one a -4, 4'' and a -5 6''. I have two other N-Frames a 5'' 629 and a PC 629 Magnum Hunter. For .357, one cannot really beat the L-Frame. Like I did, I suggest you handle both side by side if possible before making your choice. In the long run tho, either is a good choice.

saf11 · March 1, 2015, 02:36 PM

Thanks, guys. It is a hard choice.

I can get a speedloader for the 7 shot 686, and I'm not certain they make one for the 8 shot 627.

Master Blaster · March 1, 2015, 09:58 PM

I own the 627 pc and a couple of 686, a 4 + and a 6" 6 shot. The 627 I own uses moon clips so a speed loader is not needed. All are great revolvers. Given a choice of one or the other I would take the 627 over the 686.

Sevens · March 1, 2015, 10:11 PM

I have pondered this specific question many times and my answer goes outside of the choices. I would buy the pre-lock 686, probably a no-dash through a daash-3 or dash-4.

I don't hate the idea of more capacity than six, but I truly do not like the idea of less cylinder meat to make that happen. If .38 Special was all I ever wanted to run from either then my answer is likely different.

I love my six-inch, 6-shot 686, but I can admit that I tire of it a bit after 100 rounds because there's a heap of weight hanging way out front. A four-inch would be better, but to my tastes -- it doesn't look nearly as attractive when it's a four-inch with the full-lug. It looks stubby to me.

Give me a K-frame heavy barreled .38 like my 10 or 64 and I can happily send 300+ down range with no fatigue.

And when I am in the mood to drop bombs, the 686 can handle it without too much punishment on my hands, but my six-inch N-frame Model 28 handles it even better. Full-bore .357 Magnum from either my four-inch or even six-inch K-frame just imparts too much shock to my shooting hands. Not after 6 rounds, but before I get to 50rds it sure does.

I had just a short little dance with a revolver running moon clips and it was not the joy I had envisioned, so I feel like it was a "thing" I had to chase and experience and now I am over it. Never say never... but I have no desire for a moon-clipped revolver ever again. But if I did... (

) it would surely be .45 Auto and not a .357. It seems to me that a big part of the advantage of the whole moon-clip idea is the fat, short and stubby .45 round. It's quicker in and quicker out and needs precious little help in alignment. That part is blurred when using a long and skinny cartridge.

Model12Win · March 2, 2015, 11:52 AM

Oh man that's a hard one...

I think I'd get a 686+, as there are speedloaders for it. I know 5-star makes an 8-shot .357 speedloader, but I don't know how well it does. The HKS loaders always seem to work, and are offered in 7-shot .357/.38. I'm not a fan of moon clips for a defensive revolver. Plus its more compact and I believe lighter, and I doubt the extra shot would really be a huge benefit.

saf11 · March 2, 2015, 12:14 PM

That's my line of thinking as well. Thanks!!!

Master Blaster · March 2, 2015, 12:32 PM

Moon clips work great in my 627 no problem loading the longer rounds more rounds makes it easier to index and line up. 8 rounds beats 6 too. Best of all You can also use it without moon clips and shoot .38 spl. if you want shorter rounds.

WIL TERRY · March 2, 2015, 12:35 PM

DARNED if I see how it really matters one way or the tuther in any way, shape , or form.
WHY not buy both and then tell us ?
Hmmmmm...

saf11 · March 2, 2015, 01:09 PM

LOL...thanks, guys

walks with gun · March 2, 2015, 01:32 PM

For a carry gun or woods gun, I've always thought any D/A revolver with a barrel longer than 4" should have a hacksaw included in the box, With some exclusions for some classics I suppose.

Bob Wright · March 2, 2015, 04:25 PM

Disregarding barrel length, I think the S&W Model 586s I have are the best DA .357 Magnum revolvers to come down the pike.

The longer cylinder of the L-Frame gun will take heavy bullet handloads that will tie up the N-Framed gun.

Bob Wright

horselips · March 3, 2015, 04:15 PM

Hmmm, between the 686 and the 627, I would find .... a nice, excellent condition Model 27 or 28 Highway Patrolman. Tough act to follow.

lamarw · March 3, 2015, 06:08 PM

I have a 686-1. I have no plans to replace it with either of the other choices; although they are both nice choices.

gunnails · March 3, 2015, 06:48 PM

Rumor has it that the 7 shot cylinders on the 686 are stronger then the 6 shot due to the alignment of the cylinder stop detentes on the cylinder.

Sevens · March 5, 2015, 04:30 PM

Well, that is an interesting rumor... but in the most simple terms possible -- both of those cylinders start out life as the same exact hunk of metal and where the rubber meets the road, the 7-shot cylinder has a HOLE lot less metal left over.

(get it? "Hole" ?!

)
But really...
If Smith & Wesson is willing to build and ship them, they have been proof-tested for normal loads.

Gunkooker55 · March 10, 2015, 05:13 PM

I have 686 6" & 586 4" I love both only for close target I do not consider either combat type defense guns just love them for the beauty.

jetinteriorguy · March 10, 2015, 07:21 PM

My 627 is my favorite shooter, strong as a tank, very accurate and just a joy to shoot. I did put lighter springs in it from Wolf and the trigger is just super sweet. I've had it for a couple years now and put about 3000 rounds through it and it never lets me down. If I could only have one pistol it wold be a tough choice between the 627 and my M57 no dash I've had for 35 years.

pilpens · March 10, 2015, 09:52 PM

I have a 686+ 5". It feels front heavy. 4" would be a better length for balance.
I do not remember shooting a 627.
I think I would go for the 627 8 shot 4".

Skans · March 12, 2015, 07:37 AM

Out of the choices mentioned, I'd rather have the 627. Why? Because I really want one - but the one I want has the 2.6" barrel. I like the idea of a high quality "high-capacity" revolver in .357.

Sgt127 · March 12, 2015, 09:33 PM

About that "no 8 shot speedloaders" problem...

http://www.5starfirearms.com/N8-357_...fo/NF35708000/

Good luck. Couple solid choices! I had a 7 shot 696 for awhile. Worked great, liked it alot. Traded it off somewhere along the line...shouldn't have.

BingoFuel · March 14, 2015, 01:19 AM

I have two 627's (a 2 5/8" PC and a 4" PC V-Comp) and it seems like the OP decision comes down to three issues:
1. Carrying. The N-Frames are bulkier and for a common barrel length they are heavier as well when compared to a smaller frame design. So if the OP is in a CC state (I am not), the N-Frame is not a good idea.
2. Hand size. The N-Frame 8-rounder is just bigger. I wear something between an M and L glove and it's an OK fit but the smaller 686 frame would have been better. I just happen to really like the style and the 8-shot capacity of the N-Frame.
3. Price. The N-Frames (particularly the PC - Performance Center) models are a step up in price. I don't consider it too painful but its up the the buyer.
GL,
B

Andy Blozinski · March 15, 2015, 11:55 AM

4" barrel would be the useful limit if you want to concealed carry. I had a buddy pull out the 8 shot .357 to show me from seemingly nowhere, so yes...they can be concealed carried very well if one knows how.

March 1, 2015, 12:04 PM	#1
saf11 Member Join Date: February 24, 2015 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 24	Which Would You Rather Have? Had you rather have an S&W 686 (7 shot) revolver with 5" bbl., or an S&W 627 (8 shot) with a 4" bbl., and why? The 686 is L frame and the 627 is N frame (not cut for moon clips).

March 1, 2015, 10:11 PM	#6
Sevens Senior Member Join Date: July 28, 2007 Location: Ohio Posts: 11,756	I have pondered this specific question many times and my answer goes outside of the choices. I would buy the pre-lock 686, probably a no-dash through a daash-3 or dash-4. I don't hate the idea of more capacity than six, but I truly do not like the idea of less cylinder meat to make that happen. If .38 Special was all I ever wanted to run from either then my answer is likely different. I love my six-inch, 6-shot 686, but I can admit that I tire of it a bit after 100 rounds because there's a heap of weight hanging way out front. A four-inch would be better, but to my tastes -- it doesn't look nearly as attractive when it's a four-inch with the full-lug. It looks stubby to me. Give me a K-frame heavy barreled .38 like my 10 or 64 and I can happily send 300+ down range with no fatigue. And when I am in the mood to drop bombs, the 686 can handle it without too much punishment on my hands, but my six-inch N-frame Model 28 handles it even better. Full-bore .357 Magnum from either my four-inch or even six-inch K-frame just imparts too much shock to my shooting hands. Not after 6 rounds, but before I get to 50rds it sure does. I had just a short little dance with a revolver running moon clips and it was not the joy I had envisioned, so I feel like it was a "thing" I had to chase and experience and now I am over it. Never say never... but I have no desire for a moon-clipped revolver ever again. But if I did... () it would surely be .45 Auto and not a .357. It seems to me that a big part of the advantage of the whole moon-clip idea is the fat, short and stubby .45 round. It's quicker in and quicker out and needs precious little help in alignment. That part is blurred when using a long and skinny cartridge. __________________ *Attention Brass rats and other reloaders:* I really need .327 Federal Magnum brass, no lot size too small. Tell me what caliber you need and I'll see what I have to swap. PM me and we'll discuss.

March 2, 2015, 04:25 PM	#13
Bob Wright Senior Member Join Date: July 10, 2012 Location: Memphis, Tennessee Posts: 2,989	Disregarding barrel length, I think the S&W Model 586s I have are the best DA .357 Magnum revolvers to come down the pike. The longer cylinder of the L-Frame gun will take heavy bullet handloads that will tie up the N-Framed gun. Bob Wright __________________ Time spent at the reloading bench is an investment in contentment.

March 5, 2015, 04:30 PM	#17
Sevens Senior Member Join Date: July 28, 2007 Location: Ohio Posts: 11,756	Well, that is an interesting rumor... but in the most simple terms possible -- both of those cylinders start out life as the same exact hunk of metal and where the rubber meets the road, the 7-shot cylinder has a HOLE lot less metal left over. (get it? "Hole" ?! ) But really... If Smith & Wesson is willing to build and ship them, they have been proof-tested for normal loads. __________________ *Attention Brass rats and other reloaders:* I really need .327 Federal Magnum brass, no lot size too small. Tell me what caliber you need and I'll see what I have to swap. PM me and we'll discuss.

March 10, 2015, 05:13 PM	#18
Gunkooker55 Member Join Date: January 29, 2015 Location: Geauga co Ohio Posts: 29	686 I have 686 6" & 586 4" I love both only for close target I do not consider either combat type defense guns just love them for the beauty.

March 1, 2015, 12:59 PM	#2
TfflHndn Senior Member Join Date: September 26, 2013 Location: Gig Harbor WA Posts: 160	What are you using it for? If bullseye and defense, I'd go for the longer barrel. Can't really go wrong with either one. I have a 627 v-comp and it's a great gun.

March 1, 2015, 02:31 PM	#3
buck460XVR Senior Member Join Date: December 28, 2006 Posts: 4,342	I had the same quandary three years ago. After handling both several times side by side, I went with the 5'' 686+. Felt better in my hand for $150 less. I have 2 other 686s, one a -4, 4'' and a -5 6''. I have two other N-Frames a 5'' 629 and a PC 629 Magnum Hunter. For .357, one cannot really beat the L-Frame. Like I did, I suggest you handle both side by side if possible before making your choice. In the long run tho, either is a good choice.

March 1, 2015, 02:36 PM	#4
saf11 Member Join Date: February 24, 2015 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 24	Thanks, guys. It is a hard choice. I can get a speedloader for the 7 shot 686, and I'm not certain they make one for the 8 shot 627.

March 1, 2015, 09:58 PM	#5
Master Blaster Senior Member Join Date: October 11, 1999 Location: One of the original 13 Colonies Posts: 2,281	I own the 627 pc and a couple of 686, a 4 + and a 6" 6 shot. The 627 I own uses moon clips so a speed loader is not needed. All are great revolvers. Given a choice of one or the other I would take the 627 over the 686.

March 2, 2015, 11:52 AM	#7
Model12Win Junior member Join Date: October 20, 2012 Posts: 5,854	Oh man that's a hard one... I think I'd get a 686+, as there are speedloaders for it. I know 5-star makes an 8-shot .357 speedloader, but I don't know how well it does. The HKS loaders always seem to work, and are offered in 7-shot .357/.38. I'm not a fan of moon clips for a defensive revolver. Plus its more compact and I believe lighter, and I doubt the extra shot would really be a huge benefit.

March 2, 2015, 12:14 PM	#8
saf11 Member Join Date: February 24, 2015 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 24	That's my line of thinking as well. Thanks!!!

March 2, 2015, 12:32 PM	#9
Master Blaster Senior Member Join Date: October 11, 1999 Location: One of the original 13 Colonies Posts: 2,281	Moon clips work great in my 627 no problem loading the longer rounds more rounds makes it easier to index and line up. 8 rounds beats 6 too. Best of all You can also use it without moon clips and shoot .38 spl. if you want shorter rounds.

March 2, 2015, 12:35 PM	#10
WIL TERRY Senior Member Join Date: July 6, 2000 Location: BLACK HILLS Posts: 1,322	DARNED if I see how it really matters one way or the tuther in any way, shape , or form. WHY not buy both and then tell us ? Hmmmmm...

March 2, 2015, 01:09 PM	#11
saf11 Member Join Date: February 24, 2015 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 24	LOL...thanks, guys

March 2, 2015, 01:32 PM	#12
walks with gun Senior Member Join Date: August 20, 2014 Location: northern Mn. Posts: 271	For a carry gun or woods gun, I've always thought any D/A revolver with a barrel longer than 4" should have a hacksaw included in the box, With some exclusions for some classics I suppose.

March 3, 2015, 04:15 PM	#14
horselips Senior Member Join Date: February 26, 2013 Posts: 159	Hmmm, between the 686 and the 627, I would find .... a nice, excellent condition Model 27 or 28 Highway Patrolman. Tough act to follow.

March 3, 2015, 06:08 PM	#15
lamarw Senior Member Join Date: April 12, 2010 Location: Lake Martin, AL Posts: 3,311	I have a 686-1. I have no plans to replace it with either of the other choices; although they are both nice choices.

March 3, 2015, 06:48 PM	#16
gunnails Junior Member Join Date: August 13, 2009 Location: Hillsboro Oregon Posts: 14	Rumor has it that the 7 shot cylinders on the 686 are stronger then the 6 shot due to the alignment of the cylinder stop detentes on the cylinder.

March 10, 2015, 07:21 PM	#19
jetinteriorguy Senior Member Join Date: April 28, 2013 Posts: 3,176	My 627 is my favorite shooter, strong as a tank, very accurate and just a joy to shoot. I did put lighter springs in it from Wolf and the trigger is just super sweet. I've had it for a couple years now and put about 3000 rounds through it and it never lets me down. If I could only have one pistol it wold be a tough choice between the 627 and my M57 no dash I've had for 35 years.

March 10, 2015, 09:52 PM	#20
pilpens Senior Member Join Date: April 24, 2008 Location: Ohio Posts: 1,696	I have a 686+ 5". It feels front heavy. 4" would be a better length for balance. I do not remember shooting a 627. I think I would go for the 627 8 shot 4".

March 12, 2015, 07:37 AM	#21
Skans Senior Member Join Date: November 20, 2008 Posts: 11,132	Out of the choices mentioned, I'd rather have the 627. Why? Because I really want one - but the one I want has the 2.6" barrel. I like the idea of a high quality "high-capacity" revolver in .357.

March 12, 2015, 09:33 PM	#22
Sgt127 Senior Member Join Date: May 13, 2002 Posts: 1,053	About that "no 8 shot speedloaders" problem... http://www.5starfirearms.com/N8-357_...fo/NF35708000/ Good luck. Couple solid choices! I had a 7 shot 696 for awhile. Worked great, liked it alot. Traded it off somewhere along the line...shouldn't have.

March 14, 2015, 01:19 AM	#23
BingoFuel Member Join Date: July 25, 2013 Posts: 99	I have two 627's (a 2 5/8" PC and a 4" PC V-Comp) and it seems like the OP decision comes down to three issues: 1. Carrying. The N-Frames are bulkier and for a common barrel length they are heavier as well when compared to a smaller frame design. So if the OP is in a CC state (I am not), the N-Frame is not a good idea. 2. Hand size. The N-Frame 8-rounder is just bigger. I wear something between an M and L glove and it's an OK fit but the smaller 686 frame would have been better. I just happen to really like the style and the 8-shot capacity of the N-Frame. 3. Price. The N-Frames (particularly the PC - Performance Center) models are a step up in price. I don't consider it too painful but its up the the buyer. GL, B

March 15, 2015, 11:55 AM	#24
Andy Blozinski Senior Member Join Date: August 31, 2013 Posts: 525	4" barrel would be the useful limit if you want to concealed carry. I had a buddy pull out the 8 shot .357 to show me from seemingly nowhere, so yes...they can be concealed carried very well if one knows how.