S&W 27-N or 686

IanC

IanC

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Hey there
Im still on the quest to get my first handgun.
I want a S&W 357 magnum. Ive handled a few big wheel guns but not a lot
Yesterday i stopped into a gun shop in town and found a S&W model 27 for $450 used. It was in excelent condition. Just wondering other than the lug is there a big difference between this model and a 686?
Can i get upgrade parts for the 27 like grips etc?
Also Ive only shot 357 a few times so im not proficent at all.
From a rest what kind of accuracy can i expect from a S&W?
Shooting both 38 and 357.
Thanks
 
For your purposes, I reccomend a 686 - why? The stainless is easier to clean, and if you are not that proficient, you will probably be shooting lots of .38 special, which will require you to clean more often due to the deposits left in the cylinder from the underlength cartridge.

The N-frame 27 is probably just as customizeable as the 686, has a larger frame that is theoretically better suited for heavier .357 magnum loads (I have never met anyone who has broken their 686 before their 27) but has a slightly higher collector's value to it, and has a deep blue finish that is more easily marked up if you are not careful.

My personal opinion is that the 686 is better suited for shooting due to its size and finish.

If you do all the proper revolver checks (see here: http://www.thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=57816), either revolver will give you excellent service and outstanding accuracy.

I don't know many people who have owned a revolver as a first gun, but I think it's an excellent idea, especially if you do lots of double-action practice.
 
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Had a 27. Very good, but big and bulky. Several years ago traded for a 686. Like the stainless and much better size for my hands. In addition, the 686 is faster to speedload - the larger cylinder of the 27 has more steel between the chambers and requires more precise alignment of the speedloader to place the cartridges in the chambers - this may sound crazy, but it is something I know from actual experience. My advice: get a 686, a truly great revolver.
All that being said, I strongly recommend a .22 as your first handgun. With a .22 you will develop shooting skill in the quickest time, with maximum enjoyment, and at least cost.
 
Figured the 686 was king or why else would they have made it.
As for collector value im not all that interested I want a shooter that
i dont need to worry about scratching. Also the ease of speedloading that bluebell commented on will be important to me. We do a lot of open club matches in town here which i will want to take part in.

On buying a 22, thanks for the suggestion but thats not what im really looking
for. Ive been shooting other peoples .22 pistols and a lot of airpistol for several years and am prettty comfortable with the physics of shooting. I need somthing to satisfy the kaboom aspect i soo sorely need while able to compete and have fun.
Thanks for the help
 
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