Best Smith & Wesson models... Which ones to look for?

WRH

WRH

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I'm currently obsessing about/ enjoying my 586-3 (.357 Mag) more lately. Probably due to shooting it better with a little practice.

So it got me wondering, what other models should I be lusting after? I'd like to start a small (4-6) collection of S&W revolvers. I'm fine with used, especially if it's better than the new offerings. Any common caliber is fair game, just not interested in the impossible to find/afford like .500S&W and .460V.

So, let's have it. Conjecture, bias and Fan-Boyishness allowed.
 
You'll never go wrong with a Model 14, the K-38 Target Masterpiece. I have one, and it shoots better than I ever will. Small grip, medium frame, 38SPL+P. I load 3.5gr of red dot with 158 RN cast.
 
As stated above the model 14 in 38 special is a must. The next would be a .22 caliber gun. If you like blue guns then it would be a model 17 and if you want a stainless then it will be the model 617.

No S&W collection is complete unless you have a .44 mag gun and of course the most popular is the Dirty Harry model 29 with the either a 6 inch or 8 3/8 inch barrel. If you prefer stainless then it will be the model 629 and that one can be had in barrel lengths from 4.2 inches right up to 8 3/8 inches very easly.

If you prefer the 357 /38 guns then there is the model 686 which is the same as your 586 only it is stainless. The ones in 357 that I really like are the N Frame guns, which are the same as the model 29 frame but just chambered in the 357 cartridge. The model 27 is the nicest of them but they also made a plain Jane which is the model 28 and they can be had for a lot less money then the 27's.

The models are way to many to list all of them. If you really like the S&W guns then buy yourself some books and do the research and you will be amazed at what they have made and what they stll make.

Graydog
 
-Model 17/K-22 Masterpiece
-Model 14/K-38 Masterpiece
-Model 27 with 5" barrel
-Model 29

I would also suggest the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson as a useful reference work.
 
I was hoping to hear from you Graydog. From what I've seen on here, you have an enviable collection. Thanks for the input everyone. Keep them coming.
 
My goal was to own every model of S&W that appeared on their old poster. I almost did it. My favourites were my 6" 586 and my model 14. For fixed sight, I love my old 5" skinny model 10. But my all time favourite Smith had to be my model 52. It would blow out the centre of the target with inexpensive reloaded .38 spl wadcutters. In fact, every model I mentioned shoots .38 spl - still an inexpensive way to punch holes in paper. I didn't like my model 17 - the wide trigger made it hard for me to shoot double action. It was perfect for guys who prefer to shoot single action though.
 
WRH said:
I was hoping to hear from you Graydog. From what I've seen on here, you have an enviable collection. Thanks for the input everyone. Keep them coming.
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There are many many models and variations of the models to choose from. The list goes on and on. I get asked all the time why are some nicer to shoot then others?

The reason is simple. people are not using the gun for what it was designed for. You should not use the gun for something it was not made for and expect it to work perfectly.

Target guns are made to shoot paper and combat or carry guns were made for a totally different purpose. Figure out what you are going to do with the gun and buy the right model.

Graydog
 
jeffcarr88 said:
Get the ORIGINAL ones, older models...pre frame lock models.
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her is an older one. The father of the 17, a 22-32

SW22-221.jpg
 
My absolute favorite model from S&W after trying nearly all of the available ones out there is still model 10/64/15/67.
Unfortunately it's extremely difficult to find one that would be restricted with 4" heavy barrel.
 
WRH said:
What's the age on that? Also barrel length?
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This is a .22/.32 Heavy Frame Target, 6" brl. A 22 made on the 32 frame in 1921. Introduced in 1911 and made into the 40s. This one needs the wood scrubbed with a tooth brush and some kind of cleaner.

More info here:
http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-ha...heavy-frame-target-bekeart-type-pictures.html


And this is a good article on the evolution of Smith revolvers.
http://www.shootingtimes.com/2011/01/03/handgun_reviews_smith_12_0507/

A list of all Smith models and serial number dates here:
http://www.northeastshooters.com/vbulletin/firearms/68254-how-identify-date-s-w.html



The 22/32 is still made. But it is called the M63 (the kit gun). If you look at these two, you can see they share the same frame.

IMG_0009.jpg
 
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