What would be a good choice for a .38 special revolver?

Nice! Love those old K frames...

I don't think you (the OP) need any more advice at this point, but I thought I'd chime in and say I agree that if you only intend on shooting .38spl (one of my favourite cartridges, btw), get a used model 14 or 15, they're a perfect fit for the calibre. If you intend on shooting the occasional .357Mag, get a model 19. If you intend on shooting .357s regularly, go for an L-frame 586 or 686.
 
I have always liked the lines of the Smith M-10, particularly in 5" trim. If you must have adjustable sights the M-15 is probably the answer in a .38 Special. In .357 Magnum the M-19 is a nicely balanced revolver. I don't care for the full length lug of the L frame guns. My current .357 is a M-27, but not everyone likes the large N frame in a light caliber.
 
If you like the K-frame in .357 the model 19 is the way to go.

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Dragoon said:
Some K Frames are capable of shooting both .357 Mag and .38 Spl. as well. Model 13, Model 19, Model 65 and Model 66 all come to mind. And the smaller mass of K Frame cylinders make fast double action shots (ie: in action shooting games) much easier.
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Not to mention in addition to being "fast" and just generally easier to handle, that "K" frames with 4" barrels are uber cool..... but we won't go there as to not upset the non 12(6) crowd..... :redface:

Model 19 "K" frame 4" .357 Magm center:

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I got to shoot the 4" and you're right. It balances SOOOOO nice. Even as a newbie to all this it just felt totally correct as soon as I picked it up for that first shot. The range owner (the registered owner of the 4" as well) also has a 6 inch barrel 19. It's a joy to shoot as well but you're right and while the longer sight line made it easier to aim it had a hair of barrel heaviness to it compared to the 4 inch version. But if I hadn't tried both back to back I'd never have noticed though.
 
My S&W 686 shot a bullseye when I took it shooting the first time. I other half says that it would be the first thing he takes if we were to ever split. He'd buy me another but it's a perfect shot:)
 
BCRider said:
I got to shoot the 4" and you're right. It balances SOOOOO nice. Even as a newbie to all this it just felt totally correct as soon as I picked it up for that first shot. The range owner (the registered owner of the 4" as well) also has a 6 inch barrel 19. It's a joy to shoot as well but you're right and while the longer sight line made it easier to aim it had a hair of barrel heaviness to it compared to the 4 inch version. But if I hadn't tried both back to back I'd never have noticed though.
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The 5 inch is pretty good for balance too, as close as you can get, really.
 
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