Smith and Wesson Model 19 vs 586...Opinions wanted...

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lyle1

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I would like to get some opinions on these 2 models. I am relatively new to revolvers and would like to find a
revolver to shoot targets with (for fun). I have relatively small hands and have found the "N" frame too big for me.
I have no need to shoot .357 magnum loads, so I figured 38 Specials would be great for shooting paper.
Anyways, I like the look of traditional "blued" guns, and figured a 6" barrel would be great for paper punching.
Could any of my fellow CGN'ers offer some advice between the Model 19 Vs the 586? Is there much "real world"
difference between shooting the K frame vs the L frame with the full underlug? Is the L frame more "nose heavy?"
Thank you for your advice in advance......
 
As long as you only shoot occasional full load 357s, the K frame M19 is a very nice gun. Small enough to fit your hand comfortably.
The L framed 586/686 was designed for heavy duty magnum loads. The new 6 inch barrels apparently have the round butt but I'm not sure as mine had a square target butt from the 80s. I've since sold it. With the round butt L frame, it should feel very much like the K frame. The full lug on the L frame adds a bit of weight which can help with recoil. Is it nose heavy? I would say not noticeably so. Try both and feel the heft before you decide. I think the M19 is a more elegant looking and less pricey gun. The 586 is probably more durable if you plan on shooting a lot.
 
If you aren't planning on shooting any .357s then you might as well just get a K frame .38. My 586 makes .38s feel wimpy. The model 19 would be a nice compromise since you'll probably be tempted to pop a few magnums sooner or later. However you go, I applaud your decision to get a revolver. It is my favorite gun by far.
 
They are both great choices and you wouldnt go wrong with either.My personal choice would be the model19,they are a real classic.They were originally designed to shoot mainly 38spl with occasional magnum loads as they had a reputation for shooting loose with quantities of magnum loads,but as you are going to shoot mainly 38 specials this wont be a problem(although you would have the option for occasional heavier loads).Bill Jordan was they fellow to come up with the concept of the "Combat Magnum"and back then the police mainly practiced with lighter 38s then loaded magnums for duty use.The 586 is also a nice gun(I had one a few years ago),and is a good compromise between the lighter K frames and heavier N frames.The lines of the gun followed the Colt python with the barrel profile and it will fit in a python holster,many thought this was intentional.It does have the feel of the python being a bit nose heavy.586s are fine for extended magnum use.I have a model 27 which I really like,but also mainly put only lighter loads through it,couldnt really be bothered with magnum loads anymore.
 
My 19 is my go to gun. If I had to give them all up but one, I would opt to keep my 19.

M
 
If you have no intention of shooting .357 mag then go with a Model 14 K-frame .38 Special only, sometimes referred to as the K38.
It's all I use for paper punching in a centerfire revolver. Very accurate with wadcutters.
 
As others have already stated for 38spl either is good. Just get the one that fits your hand.

Personally I like a little recoil, got bored of the 617, then bored of light WC load, now enjoying moderate loads. If you are sure you will not be firing many 357 magnum loads no need for the 586.
 
For shooting primarily .38Spls with a few Magnums now and then you really can't beat a K frame 19. The slightly smaller K frame guns are a little lighter as well. So if you found the N frames to be too heavy to hold comfortably then you'll lose a little weight in the L framed 586 and a bit more again going to a K frame.

I went with the K frame guns despite being tall and having bigger hands and I love them. I just have to go with the slightly larger grips to make them fit me well.

Another option for a K frame size and weight gun would also be the new Alpha Project guns being sold by Rusty Wood Trading. They are K frame sized and from my shooting of the one I got recently seem to be every bit as accurate as the S&W guns.
 
lejarretnoir said:
If you have no intention of shooting .357 mag then go with a Model 14 K-frame .38 Special only, sometimes referred to as the K38.
It's all I use for paper punching in a centerfire revolver. Very accurate with wadcutters.
Click to expand...

I'd agree with this - also if you want to shoot a large volume of ammo for literally pennies, get some kind of basic reloading set up - I used a Model 10 and a Lee Turret press, but a Model 14 and the same press would make a great very affordable set up that's really all you need to develop excellent shooting skills. The 38 is very easy to reload for, and target wadcutters can be loaded literally for pennies a shot. At one point I figured out that you could load 500 HBWC target loads for the cost of a single box of factory target ammo.
 
I'm kind of surprised that no one has mentioned the fact that the same grips that fit the Model 19/66 also fit the Model 586/686 so it's the grip rather than the frame which will determine how good it feels in your hand. The 586/686 will feel slightly heavier but not by much. If you're only shooting light 38 Special loads you will be able to put 10s of thousands of rounds through either one without noticeable wear on the gun. I have a 19, a 66 snub and a 686 and prefer the slightly heavier weight of the 686. Recoil with 38 wadcutter loads isn't much above a 22 LR.
 
Thank you everyone, for all your input, advice, and opinions. I believe I will pursue the Model 19 and give it a try. I guess the worse that
can happen is that I will be forced to have a go with the 586 later on......
 
if your hands are big enough then get the 586 . I had one years ago and I wish I had never sold it . it's a stronger gun than the model 19 . and if you feel like it take a look at the model 686. I would'nt buy a 19 unless it's really cheap . out of all 357 revolvers I perfur model 27 or 28 smiths or GP 100 Rugers. the smiths will give you a nicer trigger pull though . good luck in your choice.
 
cement head said:
if your hands are big enough then get the 586
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K and L frames have or can take the same grip. i have a 6" 686 which i quite like, but in all honesty i will probably sell as i just don't shoot it that often.

Lyle1, you can't go wrong with the 19, but throwing out another option, if you think you might shoot 38 special exclusively and you can find one, the 6" K-38 masterpiece is one of the classic 38s in the S&W line, and has some collector appeal
 
Well, I waited too long trying to make up my mind and the Model 19 I had lined up, sold....AGHHHHHH!
Now, back to square one. If anyone knows where I can find either a blued Model 19 or an older blued 586, I am
ready to go......
 
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