Wanting to get a 357 but which one?

countryfied252 · September 28, 2013, 09:15 PM

I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice on what brand of 357 they would recommend. I like the idea of the Ruger Blackhawk single action because I like Ruger guns and have had very good luck with the ones that I have. I am also not apposed to getting a double action. I would like to use it to shot for fun and also possibly deer hunt a little with.

Super Sneaky Steve · September 28, 2013, 09:21 PM

I think you answered your own question. A blackhawk is a fine weapon.

Andy Blozinski · September 28, 2013, 11:46 PM

If you want to drop a crapload of money, I'd say a Chiappa Rhino with a stage 2 trigger modification.

Venom1956 · September 29, 2013, 12:01 AM

Ruger and S&W make solid weapons. most any of their offerings would be great.

RodTheWrench · September 29, 2013, 12:59 AM

Ruger GP100 or S&W 686. 6˝ barrel for hunting. Stainless because it's awesome, and doesn't show wear from holsters. But mostly because stainless is awesome.

Elerius · September 29, 2013, 01:15 AM

+1 Ruger GP100. I used to have one and had to sell it for some surprise bills. Another one is on the list. I'm not really a fan of single action revolvers. My GP was an excellent shooter and soaks up 357 pretty nicely

Backwoodsboy · September 29, 2013, 01:19 AM

For single action, I agree that you have pretty much answered your own question. But for double action I too would reccomend a ruger gp100. Both are great firearms.

hAkron · September 29, 2013, 07:04 AM

Ruger and S&W are your best choices. Since you are going to hunt with it, I would look for a USED 6" 686-4 or higher (686-5, or 686-6) as they will generally be cheaper than a new Ruger GP-100 and they are already drilled and tapped for a scope mount. But really hard to go wrong with any 357 S&W or Ruger. If people start yammering about MIM this or investment cast that, or internal lock, just wave them off.

Kreyzhorse · September 29, 2013, 07:22 AM

Quote:

Ruger GP100 or S&W 686. 6˝ barrel for hunting.

Both are excellent guns. Can't go wrong with either. The Blackhawk is a great choice too.

mxsailor803 · September 29, 2013, 12:34 PM

Gotta agree with the 686 and Blackhawk suggestions. Both are very capable firearms.

richardcorey · September 29, 2013, 12:46 PM

For general banging around and occasional deer I would grab onto a Ruger Blackhawk. The 357/38 option for plinking with 38 Spl and 357 for serious work on deer is the best part for me. For social occasions or CCW there are better pistols, but you have knowledge of Rugers so whynot?? Enjoy the ride.

Cheapshooter · September 29, 2013, 01:24 PM

Quote:

I like Ruger guns and have had very good luck with the ones that I have.

That boils your choice down to SA or DA.
SA...Blackhawk
DA...GP100
Both great revolvers.
Just for information, what other Rugers do you have.

histed · September 29, 2013, 01:31 PM

Which is more important - hunting or fun/plinking? Blackhawk is a great choice, but you might also consider the Redhawk. I know some oppose scoped revolvers, but the option is nice. And, although bigger that ideal, both the GP and the Redhawk could serve a self defense role better than a SA revolver IMO. Bottom line - your choice.

BigJimP · September 29, 2013, 01:31 PM

In the double action revolvers...I prefer S&W over Ruger, Colt, etc....so in the S&W line you have a lot of options - in K frame ( medium frame ) there are the model 19's (blued or nickel) and 66's (stainless)...in the L frame (large) there is the 686 model (stainless) ...in the N frame ( larger) there is the iconic model 27's and 28's ( model 27's are comparable with Colt Python in terms of quality, in my opinion)....

In the single action world....my preference is Freedom Arms ...but if your budget can't handle that - then Colt is my choice...( my Freedom arms in .357 mag is a 4 3/4" ocatgonal barrel, premier grade ...very nice gun ! )

of all the double actions in .357 mag I own ...the N frame model 27 in a 4" is my favorite...mine is Nickel / but its a great all around gun - in and out of holster, variety of uses, or just a range gun...

KMAX · September 29, 2013, 02:16 PM

I have a GP100 and a Blackhawk (.45 Convertible). Not sure which one I like better. Both are excellent guns as is the suggested S&W 686. The Rugers are considerable more affordable, IMO. I don't think you would go wrong with any of them.

Cosmodragoon · September 29, 2013, 03:09 PM

I once read a review that described the GP100 as the "Mack Truck of .357 revolvers". They are extremely sturdy, can handle just about any load, and will probably outlast you in handling them over its lifetime. The comparable Smith is lighter and doesn't feel as solid in the hand. That Smith is far prettier though and some of the slab-sided pro-shop designs are pretty cool. You can also get it in 7-shots. That's something the GP100 only does with .327 Federal. The action feels better on a Smith in my experience. I suppose any action could be tuned up to good effect by a reputable gunsmith though.

The only thing that really keeps me choosing Ruger in revolvers under .45 (Smith and Wesson marketing department take notice) is that the beauty of the Smith and Wesson line is so nastily marred by that stupid lock. It's a serious eyesore right in the middle of something beautiful. At the same time, it is a visible affirmation of everything I hate about how government is encroaching on our rights and the lulled public is buying into this nonsense. I think a significant share of the market feels this way and they just don't want our business.

Sevens · September 29, 2013, 03:16 PM

Quote:

The only thing that really keeps me choosing Ruger in revolvers under .45 (Smith and Wesson marketing department take notice) is that the beauty of the Smith and Wesson line is so nastily marred by that stupid lock. It's a serious eyesore right in the middle of something beautiful.

Many could, would, and have made almost the exact same argument about the 1/8 of an owner's manual stamped all over the barrel of most Ruger revolvers.

Cosmodragoon · September 29, 2013, 03:52 PM

Don't get me wrong. The billboard on the Ruger is also very unattractive and I wish it would go away. The reason it loses the hate race is that the eyesore in this case isn't actually a kill-switch for the firearm upon which it is imprinted.

TrueTexan · September 29, 2013, 06:46 PM

Can't go wrong with the S&W 686 or the Ruger GP100 for a double action. A Ruger Blackhawk for the single action.

magnum777 · September 29, 2013, 07:18 PM

Get a Ruger GP 100, it is accurate and built like a tank.

Rogervzv · September 30, 2013, 12:38 AM

Either the 686 or the GP100 will do you fine. Our family has both and both are superb firearms.

Ryu825 · September 30, 2013, 02:38 AM

Gp 100. Nuff said. If you can find one and can spend the extra $$ the Wiley clapp edition is a damn nice piece IMO. Attachment 92032 new look, same great tank! Lol

(well sorta, the beveled edges and tapered cylinder make holstering and upholstering a bit easier, and the action is a little smoother too)

Nathan · September 30, 2013, 04:00 AM

A 70's made S&W 19-3 is a wonderful gun that you can shoot and enjoy without worrying about values too much as they made a lot of them.

buck460XVR · September 30, 2013, 07:45 AM

At one time there was a big enough price difference between the Ruger and S&W D.A. revolvers to justify the Ruger on price. Now, with new guns that is no longer a legitimate reason. Can still find Rugers cheaper in the used market, but if buying new, if you want a new .357 D.A. revolver, your best bang for the buck is a S&W 686.

pete2 · September 30, 2013, 08:08 AM

If you like the Blackhawk then get it. They are hard to beat if you like single actions. Super tough and very accurate in my experience.

September 28, 2013, 09:15 PM	#1
countryfied252 Member Join Date: May 13, 2012 Location: Alexandria Kentucky Posts: 34	Wanting to get a 357 but which one? I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice on what brand of 357 they would recommend. I like the idea of the Ruger Blackhawk single action because I like Ruger guns and have had very good luck with the ones that I have. I am also not apposed to getting a double action. I would like to use it to shot for fun and also possibly deer hunt a little with.

September 29, 2013, 12:01 AM	#4
Venom1956 Senior Member Join Date: October 4, 2008 Location: WI Posts: 3,656	Ruger and S&W make solid weapons. most any of their offerings would be great. __________________ E-Shock rounds are engineered to expend maximum energy into soft targets, turning the density mass into an expanding rotational cone of NyTrilium matrix particles, causing neurological collapse to the central nervous system.- Yeah I can do that. I guarantee you will know it if a bicyclist hits your house going 1000 mph. -Smaug

September 29, 2013, 12:59 AM	#5
RodTheWrench Senior Member Join Date: April 24, 2013 Location: Utah Posts: 365	Ruger GP100 or S&W 686. 6˝ barrel for hunting. Stainless because it's awesome, and doesn't show wear from holsters. But mostly because stainless is awesome. __________________ "Hokey religions and ancient weapons are no match for a good blaster at your side, kid." - Han Solo

September 29, 2013, 01:19 AM	#7
Backwoodsboy Senior Member Join Date: May 19, 2012 Location: Western, Ny Posts: 190	For single action, I agree that you have pretty much answered your own question. But for double action I too would reccomend a ruger gp100. Both are great firearms. __________________ "Si vis pacem, para bellum". If you want peace, Prepare for war!!!!

September 29, 2013, 07:04 AM	#8
hAkron Senior Member Join Date: March 31, 2011 Location: Akron, Ohio Posts: 318	Wanting to get a 357 but which one? Ruger and S&W are your best choices. Since you are going to hunt with it, I would look for a USED 6" 686-4 or higher (686-5, or 686-6) as they will generally be cheaper than a new Ruger GP-100 and they are already drilled and tapped for a scope mount. But really hard to go wrong with any 357 S&W or Ruger. If people start yammering about MIM this or investment cast that, or internal lock, just wave them off.

September 28, 2013, 09:21 PM	#2
Super Sneaky Steve Senior Member Join Date: August 9, 2011 Posts: 1,250	I think you answered your own question. A blackhawk is a fine weapon.

September 28, 2013, 11:46 PM	#3
Andy Blozinski Senior Member Join Date: August 31, 2013 Posts: 525	If you want to drop a crapload of money, I'd say a Chiappa Rhino with a stage 2 trigger modification.

September 29, 2013, 01:15 AM	#6
Elerius Senior Member Join Date: August 8, 2013 Location: Seattle, WA Posts: 365	+1 Ruger GP100. I used to have one and had to sell it for some surprise bills. Another one is on the list. I'm not really a fan of single action revolvers. My GP was an excellent shooter and soaks up 357 pretty nicely

September 29, 2013, 12:34 PM	#10
mxsailor803 Senior Member Join Date: February 8, 2010 Location: SC Posts: 1,344	Gotta agree with the 686 and Blackhawk suggestions. Both are very capable firearms.

September 29, 2013, 12:46 PM	#11
richardcorey Senior Member Join Date: July 4, 2009 Location: SW Ok Posts: 113	For general banging around and occasional deer I would grab onto a Ruger Blackhawk. The 357/38 option for plinking with 38 Spl and 357 for serious work on deer is the best part for me. For social occasions or CCW there are better pistols, but you have knowledge of Rugers so whynot?? Enjoy the ride. __________________ sometimes your shadow leads, sometimes your shadow follows, BUT when your shadow says "Cuidado!!" LISTEN!!!

September 29, 2013, 01:31 PM	#13
histed Senior Member Join Date: April 9, 2013 Location: Central PA Posts: 254	Which is more important - hunting or fun/plinking? Blackhawk is a great choice, but you might also consider the Redhawk. I know some oppose scoped revolvers, but the option is nice. And, although bigger that ideal, both the GP and the Redhawk could serve a self defense role better than a SA revolver IMO. Bottom line - your choice. __________________ You Have enemies? Good. That means that you've stood up for something in your life. --Winston Churchill The right to buy weapons is the right to be free. -- A.E. Van Vogt

September 29, 2013, 01:31 PM	#14
BigJimP Senior Member Join Date: February 23, 2005 Posts: 13,195	In the double action revolvers...I prefer S&W over Ruger, Colt, etc....so in the S&W line you have a lot of options - in K frame ( medium frame ) there are the model 19's (blued or nickel) and 66's (stainless)...in the L frame (large) there is the 686 model (stainless) ...in the N frame ( larger) there is the iconic model 27's and 28's ( model 27's are comparable with Colt Python in terms of quality, in my opinion).... In the single action world....my preference is Freedom Arms ...but if your budget can't handle that - then Colt is my choice...( my Freedom arms in .357 mag is a 4 3/4" ocatgonal barrel, premier grade ...very nice gun ! ) of all the double actions in .357 mag I own ...the N frame model 27 in a 4" is my favorite...mine is Nickel / but its a great all around gun - in and out of holster, variety of uses, or just a range gun...

September 29, 2013, 02:16 PM	#15
KMAX Senior Member Join Date: June 20, 2011 Location: Texas Posts: 1,185	I have a GP100 and a Blackhawk (.45 Convertible). Not sure which one I like better. Both are excellent guns as is the suggested S&W 686. The Rugers are considerable more affordable, IMO. I don't think you would go wrong with any of them. __________________ This is my gun. There are many like her, but this one is mine. I'm not old. I'm CLASSIC!

September 29, 2013, 03:09 PM	#16
Cosmodragoon Senior Member Join Date: March 18, 2013 Location: Northeastern US Posts: 1,869	I once read a review that described the GP100 as the "Mack Truck of .357 revolvers". They are extremely sturdy, can handle just about any load, and will probably outlast you in handling them over its lifetime. The comparable Smith is lighter and doesn't feel as solid in the hand. That Smith is far prettier though and some of the slab-sided pro-shop designs are pretty cool. You can also get it in 7-shots. That's something the GP100 only does with .327 Federal. The action feels better on a Smith in my experience. I suppose any action could be tuned up to good effect by a reputable gunsmith though. The only thing that really keeps me choosing Ruger in revolvers under .45 (Smith and Wesson marketing department take notice) is that the beauty of the Smith and Wesson line is so nastily marred by that stupid lock. It's a serious eyesore right in the middle of something beautiful. At the same time, it is a visible affirmation of everything I hate about how government is encroaching on our rights and the lulled public is buying into this nonsense. I think a significant share of the market feels this way and they just don't want our business.

September 29, 2013, 03:52 PM	#18
Cosmodragoon Senior Member Join Date: March 18, 2013 Location: Northeastern US Posts: 1,869	Don't get me wrong. The billboard on the Ruger is also very unattractive and I wish it would go away. The reason it loses the hate race is that the eyesore in this case isn't actually a kill-switch for the firearm upon which it is imprinted.

September 29, 2013, 06:46 PM	#19
TrueTexan Member Join Date: August 31, 2012 Posts: 39	Can't go wrong with the S&W 686 or the Ruger GP100 for a double action. A Ruger Blackhawk for the single action.

September 29, 2013, 07:18 PM	#20
magnum777 Member Join Date: May 2, 2012 Location: upstate New York Posts: 90	Get a Ruger GP 100, it is accurate and built like a tank.

September 30, 2013, 12:38 AM	#21
Rogervzv Senior Member Join Date: February 5, 2011 Location: Huntington Beach, CA Posts: 1,075	Either the 686 or the GP100 will do you fine. Our family has both and both are superb firearms. __________________ The difference between a citizen and a civilian is that the citizen makes the safety of the body politic his personal responsibility, protecting it with his life. The civilian does not.

September 30, 2013, 02:38 AM	#22
Ryu825 Senior Member Join Date: March 23, 2013 Posts: 215	Gp 100. Nuff said. If you can find one and can spend the extra $$ the Wiley clapp edition is a damn nice piece IMO. Attachment 92032 new look, same great tank! Lol (well sorta, the beveled edges and tapered cylinder make holstering and upholstering a bit easier, and the action is a little smoother too) Last edited by Ryu825; January 6, 2014 at 11:07 AM.

September 30, 2013, 04:00 AM	#23
Nathan Senior Member Join Date: July 1, 2001 Posts: 6,333	A 70's made S&W 19-3 is a wonderful gun that you can shoot and enjoy without worrying about values too much as they made a lot of them.

September 30, 2013, 07:45 AM	#24
buck460XVR Senior Member Join Date: December 28, 2006 Posts: 4,342	At one time there was a big enough price difference between the Ruger and S&W D.A. revolvers to justify the Ruger on price. Now, with new guns that is no longer a legitimate reason. Can still find Rugers cheaper in the used market, but if buying new, if you want a new .357 D.A. revolver, your best bang for the buck is a S&W 686.

September 30, 2013, 08:08 AM	#25
pete2 Senior Member Join Date: May 15, 2012 Location: Texas Posts: 2,566	If you like the Blackhawk then get it. They are hard to beat if you like single actions. Super tough and very accurate in my experience.