Looking for a Compact Carry .357 Magnum

David the Gnome · October 6, 2009, 10:53 AM

With winter right around the corner and heavy coats and hoodies coming along with it, I am looking for a new stainless .357 Magnum I can carry concealed OWB. I have narrowed it down to the following models:

S&W Model 60 3":

Pros: Compact frame and grip make it much more concealable and has great potential to be carried in summer as well.

Cons: Small grip and small frame generally equals uncomfortable shooting at the range (especially with .357 Magnums), also has low 5-round capacity, aftermarket grip options are much more limited with the j-frame.

S&W 686 2.5":

Pros: 6 or 7 round capacity, larger frame, more grip options (boot and combat)

Cons: Much bulkier than the j-frame and considerably heavier, the 7 round cylinder is also much wider than the j-frame's 5 round cylinder.

S&W 686 3":

Pros: Same as the 2.5" model but the 3" barrel looks a little bit better and is a little bit more balance.

Cons: Same as 2.5" but now with an extra .5" of barrel to conceal. Holster selection may also be limited with a 3" L-frame.

What are your thoughts on these three guns? If you think I should go with either of the 686's, should I go with a 6 or 7-round cylinder?

mtnbkr · October 6, 2009, 11:03 AM

Between the two 686s, I would go for the 3". That extra .5" isn't going to cause any problems. I see no reason to get the 6-shot over 7-shot. They are the same size.

As for choosing between that and the j-frame, I personally would get the j-frame as I prefer the lighter weight and easier concealment.

Have you considered a k-frame 357 such as a 19 or 13? They'll be a bit smaller than the 686, but only give up one round. The grip is the same, so you don't lose anything there.

Chris

David the Gnome · October 6, 2009, 11:19 AM

I had a 19 snubby that I sold. If I can find a snubby Model 66 I will buy it, but I just can't bring myself to carry a blued gun in a leather holster that will eat the finish away.

jglsprings · October 6, 2009, 11:27 AM

I would have a blued Model 19 if I could find one....... but I settled for this Model 60.

Mark Milton · October 6, 2009, 11:41 AM

If you want a good self defense gun, let me recommend getting one with a spurless hammer.
I had a Chief model 60 and it was a good gun, but the hammer caught on everything like a dadblamed fishhook.

Later, I replaced it with a Taurus CIA that was hammerless and I like it even better.

I also have a three inch model 65 and it's a pretty good all around gun.
I would take a K frame three inch or snubby over an L frame as the Ls are heavy as bricks.

Sgt127 · October 6, 2009, 11:44 AM

Any of those would work like a champ. Big difference in size though between an L frame and a J frame though. (you mention K frame, but, both of those are L's)

Split the difference and find yourself a nice clean 3" Model 65?

For a light carry gun, perhaps the Ruger SP-101?

It doesn't really matter to me, I love the .357 Magnum...no matter how its packaged...You have an awful lot of great choices available. I can tell you that carrying an L frame concealed is a bit of a pain, they are pretty bulky, easily doable with a good belt and holster though...Go with the 7 shot if you go with an L frame. Why not? Same size and weight, one extra round.

Dave Chuppa · October 6, 2009, 01:33 PM

I can only share my experience. I have rotated my 357 carry guns and my 38 Spl. carry guns. 357s are Taurus 650, 617, 605, and Ruger SP101. 38+P are 642, 442, and Bobbed 37. I like the 617 but, being a 7 shot it becomes to large at times. Most often carried is one of the 5 shot 38+Ps in the pocket and one of the 5 shot 357s IWB. This way I have 5 shots of 357. If I need more I have the New York Reload in my pocket with 5 38spl. +P. I also carry 2 HKS Speed Loaders #36 with 38spl. +P. They will reload the 5 shot Revolvers.

(BH) · October 6, 2009, 01:38 PM

I'm going to have to plug the SP101 here. I'm buying one tomorrow. I see it as a perfect little carry gun.

....But out of the listed choices, I'd go with the 686 3".

Doyle · October 6, 2009, 01:38 PM

David, you missed the in-between model. The 66 is a 6 shot and is 10oz heavier than the 60 but it is 10 oz lighter than the 686. It is common in the 2 1/2" and is available in a 3" (but you have to look hard and cough up more cash for a 3").

David the Gnome · October 6, 2009, 04:35 PM

If I can find a Model 66 2.5" in good condition I would buy it above all the others, but they are seeming rather rare as of late and commanding a premium. For less money I can get the 686 new with a factory warranty.

dairycreek · October 6, 2009, 06:32 PM

When faced with much the same problem several years ago I opted for the 2.5" 686+ (see the pic)

My reasoning was that if concealment was the main goal (and for me it was) then the shorter barrel ought to be the goal. Further, seeing no substantive difference between a 6-shot and a 7-shot then the extra round made more sense from that vantage point.

Over the years I have come to find my reasoning then to have been sound and I have never regretted the choice.

But the idea of the 3" Model 60 would simply not go away and I could not let well enough alone so I bought one. It is, of course, pretty much identical to the one the OP has in his poste. When I carry it concealed I do so in a Silver Dollar IWB by Simply Rugged which is a marvelous holster. (see pic)

Laker · October 6, 2009, 06:46 PM

I carry a 4" S&W 65 when clothing permits. A 3" round butt 65 will be my main carry revolver when I find one that I can afford.

Gideon46 · October 6, 2009, 10:18 PM

Personally I'd opt for a pre-lock S&W 640-1. If I didn't want to wait or pay the price, then I'd go with a 2" SP101 w/factory bobbed hammer and I'd replace the main spring with a wolf spring kit and call life good.
God Bless
Gideon

evenflow80 · October 6, 2009, 11:27 PM

Ever consider the Ruger SP101 in a 3" barrel? Its pretty tiny and I fit it in my jeans pockets and had my girlfriend stare at me and tell me if she notices a bulge there. As usual she said no

I hear they're good and last forever. Recoil is wrist snapping but hey, but thats to be expected if your shooting .357 out of a snubbie I'd imagine.

David the Gnome · October 6, 2009, 11:59 PM

I had a SP101 but ended up trading it in on a S&W Model 66. I don't regret the decision as I never carried/shot the Ruger and my girlfriend, who I bought the gun for originally, couldn't pull the trigger. This one will be for me and I think I'm leaning towards the 3" 686 with the 7-round cylinder.

stormyone · October 7, 2009, 04:18 AM

I'd get a Ruger SP101 or 3" GP100.
If i got a S&W, it would have to be a used pre-lock model.

ejfalvo · October 7, 2009, 07:51 AM

I have a SW Model 60 with a 2inch barrel. I switch off between carrying that and the Sig 239 40SW durring the winter months.

Doyle · October 7, 2009, 01:56 PM

I just got outbid on a Gunbroker auction last night for a stainless Ruger Security Six snubnose. That is the same physical size and weight as a S&W 66 but it sells for about $50 less.

psyfly · October 7, 2009, 02:32 PM

I have a Model 60-Pro (3") and it is a fine weapon.

I also have a Ruger SP101 and, since I've acquired it, I no longer carry the 60-Pro.

To be fair, the SP101 has obviously had trigger-work done; it's one of the smoothest I've owned.

Personal preference only.

But, if I were you, I'd try the Rugers before deciding.

Of the three you've posted pictures of, my own personal preference would be the 60.

Best,

Will

zwhit · October 7, 2009, 02:37 PM

If you like buying from GunBroker:

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...Item=142198033

Could be just what you're looking for

indiandave · October 7, 2009, 02:58 PM

I have the model 60 with the 3" barrel. great carry gun and a good shooter at the range. Mine gets loaded with Buffalo Bore .38 cal. 158 gr LSWCHP's.

I like the Idea of a 7 shot carry gun. It would be a little bulky though.

treg · October 7, 2009, 10:22 PM

I can see a lot of uses for that S&W 60-15. The adjustable sights are a huge plus IMHO. Would work well for winter carry and a lot of other uses.
Hmmm - might have to look into one of those.

drrpg01 · October 7, 2009, 10:24 PM

I think the Ruger sp101 2.25" is better suited to your needs, but since you don't like it, not gonna waste my time. Out of the options you gave, my vote would be model 60. Agreed, though, if you could find a snub model 19, definitely better IMO than a model 60.

dawgfvr · October 7, 2009, 10:39 PM

3 inch GP 100 does the trick...

liviussteven · October 7, 2009, 10:47 PM

i think the best all around would be a 629.. 3"
that gives you the 44 mag if you can handle it or the 44 special... which is more powerful than the 45 acp..
other thatn that ... the s&w 649 (jack ruby gun) in the 357/38 is the cc gun of choice for me... a super weapon for concel carry

October 6, 2009, 10:53 AM	#1
David the Gnome Senior Member Join Date: July 5, 2007 Location: Lexington, KY Posts: 3,092	Looking for a Compact Carry .357 Magnum With winter right around the corner and heavy coats and hoodies coming along with it, I am looking for a new stainless .357 Magnum I can carry concealed OWB. I have narrowed it down to the following models: S&W Model 60 3": Pros: Compact frame and grip make it much more concealable and has great potential to be carried in summer as well. Cons: Small grip and small frame generally equals uncomfortable shooting at the range (especially with .357 Magnums), also has low 5-round capacity, aftermarket grip options are much more limited with the j-frame. S&W 686 2.5": Pros: 6 or 7 round capacity, larger frame, more grip options (boot and combat) Cons: Much bulkier than the j-frame and considerably heavier, the 7 round cylinder is also much wider than the j-frame's 5 round cylinder. S&W 686 3": Pros: Same as the 2.5" model but the 3" barrel looks a little bit better and is a little bit more balance. Cons: Same as 2.5" but now with an extra .5" of barrel to conceal. Holster selection may also be limited with a 3" L-frame. What are your thoughts on these three guns? If you think I should go with either of the 686's, should I go with a 6 or 7-round cylinder? Last edited by David the Gnome; October 6, 2009 at 04:08 PM.

October 6, 2009, 11:27 AM	#4
jglsprings Senior Member Join Date: January 7, 2009 Posts: 1,828	I would have a blued Model 19 if I could find one....... but I settled for this Model 60. __________________ Let's eat Grandma. Let's eat, Grandma. Commas save lives...

October 6, 2009, 06:32 PM	#11
dairycreek Senior Member Join Date: November 30, 1998 Location: North Plains, Oregon, USA Posts: 1,867	When faced with much the same problem several years ago I opted for the 2.5" 686+ (see the pic) My reasoning was that if concealment was the main goal (and for me it was) then the shorter barrel ought to be the goal. Further, seeing no substantive difference between a 6-shot and a 7-shot then the extra round made more sense from that vantage point. Over the years I have come to find my reasoning then to have been sound and I have never regretted the choice. But the idea of the 3" Model 60 would simply not go away and I could not let well enough alone so I bought one. It is, of course, pretty much identical to the one the OP has in his poste. When I carry it concealed I do so in a Silver Dollar IWB by Simply Rugged which is a marvelous holster. (see pic) Last edited by dairycreek; October 6, 2009 at 06:38 PM.

October 7, 2009, 10:22 PM	#22
treg Senior Member Join Date: November 26, 2006 Posts: 1,104	I can see a lot of uses for that S&W 60-15. The adjustable sights are a huge plus IMHO. Would work well for winter carry and a lot of other uses. Hmmm - might have to look into one of those. __________________ .44 Special: For those who get it, no explanation is necessary. For those who don't, no explanation is possible.

October 6, 2009, 11:03 AM	#2
mtnbkr Senior Member Join Date: May 1, 2000 Location: Manassas, Virginia Posts: 914	Between the two 686s, I would go for the 3". That extra .5" isn't going to cause any problems. I see no reason to get the 6-shot over 7-shot. They are the same size. As for choosing between that and the j-frame, I personally would get the j-frame as I prefer the lighter weight and easier concealment. Have you considered a k-frame 357 such as a 19 or 13? They'll be a bit smaller than the 686, but only give up one round. The grip is the same, so you don't lose anything there. Chris

October 6, 2009, 11:19 AM	#3
David the Gnome Senior Member Join Date: July 5, 2007 Location: Lexington, KY Posts: 3,092	I had a 19 snubby that I sold. If I can find a snubby Model 66 I will buy it, but I just can't bring myself to carry a blued gun in a leather holster that will eat the finish away.

October 6, 2009, 11:41 AM	#5
Mark Milton Junior member Join Date: January 30, 2006 Posts: 504	If you want a good self defense gun, let me recommend getting one with a spurless hammer. I had a Chief model 60 and it was a good gun, but the hammer caught on everything like a dadblamed fishhook. Later, I replaced it with a Taurus CIA that was hammerless and I like it even better. I also have a three inch model 65 and it's a pretty good all around gun. I would take a K frame three inch or snubby over an L frame as the Ls are heavy as bricks.

October 6, 2009, 11:44 AM	#6
Sgt127 Senior Member Join Date: May 14, 2002 Posts: 1,068	Any of those would work like a champ. Big difference in size though between an L frame and a J frame though. (you mention K frame, but, both of those are L's) Split the difference and find yourself a nice clean 3" Model 65? For a light carry gun, perhaps the Ruger SP-101? It doesn't really matter to me, I love the .357 Magnum...no matter how its packaged...You have an awful lot of great choices available. I can tell you that carrying an L frame concealed is a bit of a pain, they are pretty bulky, easily doable with a good belt and holster though...Go with the 7 shot if you go with an L frame. Why not? Same size and weight, one extra round.

October 6, 2009, 01:33 PM	#7
Dave Chuppa Senior Member Join Date: September 8, 2007 Posts: 448	I can only share my experience. I have rotated my 357 carry guns and my 38 Spl. carry guns. 357s are Taurus 650, 617, 605, and Ruger SP101. 38+P are 642, 442, and Bobbed 37. I like the 617 but, being a 7 shot it becomes to large at times. Most often carried is one of the 5 shot 38+Ps in the pocket and one of the 5 shot 357s IWB. This way I have 5 shots of 357. If I need more I have the New York Reload in my pocket with 5 38spl. +P. I also carry 2 HKS Speed Loaders #36 with 38spl. +P. They will reload the 5 shot Revolvers.

October 6, 2009, 01:38 PM	#8
(BH) Senior Member Join Date: April 15, 2009 Location: East TN Posts: 638	I'm going to have to plug the SP101 here. I'm buying one tomorrow. I see it as a perfect little carry gun. ....But out of the listed choices, I'd go with the 686 3".

October 6, 2009, 01:38 PM	#9
Doyle Senior Member Join Date: June 20, 2007 Location: Rainbow City, Alabama Posts: 7,167	David, you missed the in-between model. The 66 is a 6 shot and is 10oz heavier than the 60 but it is 10 oz lighter than the 686. It is common in the 2 1/2" and is available in a 3" (but you have to look hard and cough up more cash for a 3").

October 6, 2009, 04:35 PM	#10
David the Gnome Senior Member Join Date: July 5, 2007 Location: Lexington, KY Posts: 3,092	If I can find a Model 66 2.5" in good condition I would buy it above all the others, but they are seeming rather rare as of late and commanding a premium. For less money I can get the 686 new with a factory warranty.

October 6, 2009, 06:46 PM	#12
Laker Senior Member Join Date: August 20, 2008 Location: NW Ohio Posts: 367	I carry a 4" S&W 65 when clothing permits. A 3" round butt 65 will be my main carry revolver when I find one that I can afford.

October 6, 2009, 10:18 PM	#13
Gideon46 Member Join Date: January 23, 2007 Posts: 74	Personally I'd opt for a pre-lock S&W 640-1. If I didn't want to wait or pay the price, then I'd go with a 2" SP101 w/factory bobbed hammer and I'd replace the main spring with a wolf spring kit and call life good. God Bless Gideon

October 6, 2009, 11:27 PM	#14
evenflow80 Senior Member Join Date: September 20, 2009 Posts: 104	Ever consider the Ruger SP101 in a 3" barrel? Its pretty tiny and I fit it in my jeans pockets and had my girlfriend stare at me and tell me if she notices a bulge there. As usual she said no I hear they're good and last forever. Recoil is wrist snapping but hey, but thats to be expected if your shooting .357 out of a snubbie I'd imagine.

October 6, 2009, 11:59 PM	#15
David the Gnome Senior Member Join Date: July 5, 2007 Location: Lexington, KY Posts: 3,092	I had a SP101 but ended up trading it in on a S&W Model 66. I don't regret the decision as I never carried/shot the Ruger and my girlfriend, who I bought the gun for originally, couldn't pull the trigger. This one will be for me and I think I'm leaning towards the 3" 686 with the 7-round cylinder.

October 7, 2009, 04:18 AM	#16
stormyone Senior Member Join Date: August 30, 2005 Location: midwest Posts: 532	I'd get a Ruger SP101 or 3" GP100. If i got a S&W, it would have to be a used pre-lock model.

October 7, 2009, 07:51 AM	#17
ejfalvo Senior Member Join Date: February 8, 2009 Posts: 283	I have a SW Model 60 with a 2inch barrel. I switch off between carrying that and the Sig 239 40SW durring the winter months.

October 7, 2009, 01:56 PM	#18
Doyle Senior Member Join Date: June 20, 2007 Location: Rainbow City, Alabama Posts: 7,167	I just got outbid on a Gunbroker auction last night for a stainless Ruger Security Six snubnose. That is the same physical size and weight as a S&W 66 but it sells for about $50 less.

October 7, 2009, 02:32 PM	#19
psyfly Senior Member Join Date: April 27, 2007 Location: Texas Posts: 932	I have a Model 60-Pro (3") and it is a fine weapon. I also have a Ruger SP101 and, since I've acquired it, I no longer carry the 60-Pro. To be fair, the SP101 has obviously had trigger-work done; it's one of the smoothest I've owned. Personal preference only. But, if I were you, I'd try the Rugers before deciding. Of the three you've posted pictures of, my own personal preference would be the 60. Best, Will

October 7, 2009, 02:37 PM	#20
zwhit Member Join Date: February 11, 2009 Posts: 46	If you like buying from GunBroker: http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...Item=142198033 Could be just what you're looking for

October 7, 2009, 02:58 PM	#21
indiandave Senior Member Join Date: January 17, 2008 Location: Pennsylvania Posts: 214	I have the model 60 with the 3" barrel. great carry gun and a good shooter at the range. Mine gets loaded with Buffalo Bore .38 cal. 158 gr LSWCHP's. I like the Idea of a 7 shot carry gun. It would be a little bulky though.

October 7, 2009, 10:24 PM	#23
drrpg01 Senior Member Join Date: June 15, 2009 Posts: 360	I think the Ruger sp101 2.25" is better suited to your needs, but since you don't like it, not gonna waste my time. Out of the options you gave, my vote would be model 60. Agreed, though, if you could find a snub model 19, definitely better IMO than a model 60.

October 7, 2009, 10:39 PM	#24
dawgfvr Senior Member Join Date: September 6, 2007 Location: Olympia, Washington Posts: 430	3 inch GP 100 does the trick...

October 7, 2009, 10:47 PM	#25
liviussteven Senior Member Join Date: December 6, 2008 Location: goldsboro n.c. Posts: 184	i think the best all around would be a 629.. 3" that gives you the 44 mag if you can handle it or the 44 special... which is more powerful than the 45 acp.. other thatn that ... the s&w 649 (jack ruby gun) in the 357/38 is the cc gun of choice for me... a super weapon for concel carry