Simple. Reliable. Powerful. Effective. Tested. Proven.
Every round you place in a .357 Magnum revolver delivers outstanding performance from a handgun.
Its bare-bones design and easy-to-use mechanism make it perfect for beginners. The utility of the .357 Magnum round makes it just as pleasing for experienced shooters.
Considering the diverse ammunition loads available, it is easy to find one that works for you.
But with plenty of options on the market, that doesn’t always mean that selecting a gun is easy…but that’s why we’re here to help.
We’ve rounded up some of our favorite .357 Magnum revolver models based on features and value, so keep reading to see what we recommend!
THE QUICK LIST
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Editor’s Pick
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Best EDC Revolver
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Best High-End .357
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Most Affordable
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Highest Capacity
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Best Aesthetics
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Best Concealed Carry .357
Table of Contents
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How We Chose the Best .357 Revolvers
Input into this article came from the PPT editorial team and our writers. Together we have a combined shooting experience of 30+ years, including instruction, competition, and multiple shooting disciplines.
We’ve spent countless hours researching and analyzing revolvers to determine which are the best when it comes to features, reliability, ergonomics, and bang for your buck. Every handgun on this list has spent hands-on time with someone on our staff, undergoing 500+ rounds of testing at various distances with FMJ and JHP ammunition.
We had to make some tough calls. If you don’t see your favorite revolver, it doesn’t mean we hate it; it just means we couldn’t include it this time.
Best .357 Magnum Revolvers
1. Ruger GP100 – Editor’s Pick
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Ruger GP100 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Easy to find
- Rugged
Cons
- Feels chunkier than other revolvers in the same category
Specs
Features
The Ruger GP100 is a 6 or 7-shot .357 Magnum revolver with a DA/SA medium frame revolver.
It is available in blued and stainless steel finishes and a variety of barrel lengths — with the 4.2-inch and 6-inch offerings being the most popular.
I prefer the 4-inch underlug barrel, adjustable rear sight, and ramp front sight. Additional features include black Hogue grips and an exposed hammer.
The GP100 is heavier and larger than Ruger’s smaller SP101, but it helps to stabilize the gun and control recoil.
2. Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 19 Carry Comp – Best EDC Revolver
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Smith & Wesson PC Model 19 Carry Comp Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent trigger
- Tritium front sight
- Ported barrel reduces recoil
Cons
- Ported barrel causes a large muzzle flash
Specs
Features
It is no secret that Smith & Wesson was going to show up on this list — they know revolvers.
Their Performance Center Model 19 Carry Comp packs a ton of awesome features into their mid-sized K-Frame revolver, culminating in one awesome everyday carry piece.
For starters, you get a 3-inch barrel with a PowerPort at the end to reduce recoil and muzzle flip. A fully adjustable rear sight and a Trijicon tritium front sight adorn the top of the gun.
Included are both custom wood “boot-style” grips and a set of synthetic grips. Being a Performance Center model also means you get a pro-tuned action for an ultra-smooth double-action pull and an extremely crisp single-action.
If you are looking for a revolver to carry on the regular and aren’t necessarily going for super deep concealment, the Model 19 Performance Center Carry Comp offers a ton of performance in a very carryable package.
Be sure to check out our full review!
3. Manurhin MR73 Sport – Best High-End Revolver
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Manurhin MR73 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Legendary durability
- Great trigger
- Excellent accuracy
Cons
- Extremely expensive
Specs
Features
The Manurhin MR73 is a 6-shot .357 Magnum revolver that is available in barrel lengths between 4 and 8 inches with a deep blue finish.
Developed for use by French police and Special Weapons and Tactics units and fielded by the French GIGN, the accuracy and durability of this revolver are legendary.
The gun features a fully adjustable rear sight, match trigger, and is completely hand-fitted to exacting tolerances.
Although extremely expensive, the MR73 is regarded by many as the finest .357 magnum revolver ever made.
What do you think of the Manurhin MR73? Rate it below!
4. Taurus Tracker 627 – Most Affordable
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Taurus 627 Tracker Pros & Cons
Pros
- Affordable
- Ported barrel reduces recoil
- Fully adjustable rear sight
Cons
- Fit and finish isn't as good as other guns
Specs
Features
As you may have noticed, revolvers aren’t super cheap, and magnum revolvers definitely aren’t.
Luckily Taurus is committed to keeping prices down and passing savings on to the customers. But savings don’t always mean you have to skimp on features.
The 627 Tracker is a 7-shot .357 Magnum revolver that is built to be rugged and controllable. It has a 4-inch barrel with a factory-tuned ported barrel to help alleviate the harsher magnum recoil.
A fully adjustable rear sight, raised ramped front sight, and soft rubber grips help complement the ported barrel to make for a fun and easy shooting experience.
And the best part about all of this? The price. At under $500, it is priced well below its competitors, making it a much easier pill to swallow for those who want to give .357 Magnum a shot.
5. Smith & Wesson Model 627 Pro Series – Highest Capacity
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Smith & Wesson Model 627 Pro Series Pros & Cons
Pros
- High capacity
- Cut for moon clips
- Great trigger
Cons
- Frame size feels large even for .357 Magnum
- Expensive
Specs
Features
The S&W 627 Pro is an 8-shot .357 Magnum DA/SA.
It is a stainless steel “N” large-frame revolver with a 4-inch custom underlug barrel. This gun is also quite stylish with an 8-round fluted cylinder and choice of black synthetic or wood grips.
The Model 627 also brings a large trigger and hammer and adjustable rear sight with a gold bead front sight.
It handles .357 Magnum ammunition very well, and you will feel little recoil when firing. Another advantage…you can choose to load this gun using an 8-round moon clip.
6. Colt Python – Best Aesthetics
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Colt Python Pros & Cons
Pros
- Classic looks
- Well-balanced
- Multiple configurations available
Cons
- Trigger can be hit or miss from gun to gun
- Gun tends to shoot slightly high even when the sights are bottomed out
Specs
Features
Rereleased in 2020, the Colt Python made its return as a 6-shot DA/SA revolver with a high-polish stainless steel finish.
Currently, the 2020 Python is available in either 2.5, 3, 4.25, 5, 6, and 8-inch configurations.
The Python also has a ventilated top rib and a full underlug to protect the ejection rod. You also get match-grade wood grips and adjustable sights.
I have found the weight of the Python ideal for stabilizing the recoil of the .357 Magnum. Not to mention, the gun is devilishly handsome.
7. Kimber K6s – Best Concealed Carry .357
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Kimber K6s Pros & Cons
Pros
- Hammerless and hammered versions available
- Thin profile
- Great trigger
- Excellent fit and finish
Cons
- Smaller aftermarket
Specs
Features
A relative newcomer in comparison to some of these models, the Kimber K6s comes in a few different models — with the main two being the standard K6s (Double-action only) and the DASA (exposed hammer).
Barrel lengths differ based on which model but most float between 2 and 4 inches.
Billed as the lightest 6-shot revolver, the K6s weighs in at around 23 ounces. If you’re looking for a high-quality concealed-carry revolver…this is it.
Be sure to read all about the K6s in our review!
8. Smith & Wesson 686 Plus – Best Value
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Pros & Cons
Pros
- Great trigger
- Outstanding accuracy
- Well-balanced
Cons
- Plus models have a notable price increase over the 6-shot model
Specs
Features
Those looking for a high-quality, do-all revolver will find just that in the S&W 686 Plus.
Built on Smith’s medium L-Frame, the 686 Plus is superbly balanced while still having enough weight to cut down on recoil and make shooting a breeze.
While the regular 686 is a time-proven favorite, the Plus model adds an extra round for a total of seven instead of the standard six.
As you’d come to expect from Smith & Wesson revolvers, the 686 Plus has an outstanding trigger. An adjustable rear sight and ramped front sight make dialing in the gun easy, regardless of your ammo choice.
While they make excellent range toys, the 686 is also well suited for concealed carry, woods carry, and home defense roles as well.
They are available in several different barrel lengths, including 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 inches.
In our opinion, the 686 hits the nail on the head in just about every area you’d want it to. These are the revolvers that everything else is measured against.
Be sure to check out our hands-on review of the 686 Plus!
What is the .357 Magnum Cartridge?
The .357 Magnum cartridge is a revolver round with a .357-inch bullet diameter. It was first introduced in 1934 and serves as the foundation of the “Magnum Era.”
Then, as now, everyone wanted more powerful ammo. This ammo has diverse uses ranging from target shooting to self-defense and hunting.
The round is based on the earlier Smith & Wesson .38 Special cartridge and was first designed with a 158-grain semi-jacketed soft point (flat) bullet.
Since more of the bullet’s mass is outside the cartridge, there is more room for powder in the cartridge.
The 158-grain semi-jacketed soft point bullet permits the quicker transfer of energy, which enables the bullet to do more damage.
Aside from being much more powerful, the .357 Magnum round also needed a 1/8-inch longer case to hold more gunpowder.
This longer case makes it impossible to load a .357 Magnum round in .38 Special revolvers. The extra length prevents the revolver’s cylinder from closing and locking into place.
Check out our picks for the best .38 Special & .357 Magnum ammo for home defense, target shooting, and hunting.
Small, Medium, Large Frame: Which One is Right for Me?
Let’s talk a little about the various frame sizes you can expect to see when shopping…
Small Frame Revolvers
These revolvers are easy to conceal in a holster, purse, or fanny pack.
Their size also makes them easy to draw and bring to bear quickly. When empty, small frame revolvers usually weigh between 12 ounces and 2 pounds.
For small-frame revolvers, I don’t recommend always shooting heavy-loaded .357 Magnum ammo.
It’s possible to wear out or break important parts of the revolver under these loads. For general target practice, shoot .38 Special ammo.
To simulate the carry .357 Magnum ammo, use .38 Special +P or low velocity .357 Magnum ammo.
Medium Framed Revolvers
These revolvers usually weigh between 20 and 40 ounces unloaded.
You can carry them concealed easily with a 4-inch barrel if you wear loose clothes, and they also conceal well in a fanny pack.
As with the small frame revolvers, I prefer DA/SA trigger action and stainless steel.
Steel is a little heavier, and better controls .357 Magnum’s recoil. You will get better accuracy in rapid-fire on the second and third shots.
For these guns, I still recommend using .38 Special ammunition for practice — lead round nose or FMJ.
Practice with light .357 Magnum ammunition to simulate heavier loads. Before you quit shooting for the day, shoot at least two cylinders of your defensive ammo.
Large Frame Revolvers
These revolvers weigh between 25 to 60 ounces empty.
While these guns are powerful, their large size and heavy weight make them harder to conceal. Printing is a challenge.
On the plus side, these guns can handle large amounts of heavily loaded .357 Magnum ammunition.
You can also shoot for extended time periods without feeling recoil discomfort.
For target practice, I still recommend using .38 Special ammo to save money. Use some practice time to shoot mid-range .357 Magnum ammo and finish with a few “hot” defensive rounds.
History of .357 Magnum Revolver
The development of the .357 Magnum cartridge was shepherded by some of the most brilliant minds of the era.
While there are plenty of .357 models and companies that produce them, a few gun makers immediately stand out...
Smith & Wesson
The Smith & Wesson company first started in Norwich, Connecticut, in 1852. But the company’s first .357 Magnum revolvers wouldn’t show up until 1934.
In 1957, Smith & Wesson began using its famous model numbering system.
The .357 Magnum revolver was then known as the Model 27, built on an “N” frame. The “N” frame is the largest frame used for the S&W .357 Magnum revolvers.
Smith & Wesson’s lighter “K” frame Model 19 was released in 1957 — developed to meet the special needs of law enforcement.
Some private citizens still use K Frames for self-defense, target shooting, and hunting, but they’re pretty obsolete.
You can also find some “L Frame” revolvers that are somewhere between the “K” and the “N” in frame size.
Finally, there’s the J Frame…probably one of the most popular styles of revolvers.
There are three revolvers types in this series — Chief’s Special, original Bodyguard, and the Centennial.
Sturm, Ruger, & Co. Inc.
This company is well known for .22 caliber pistols and rifles that shoot centerfire and rimfire ammo.
But they are also famous for shotguns and the .357 Magnum DA/SA, DA only, and SA Revolvers.
In 1972, Ruger introduced the Ruger Security-Six, Service-Six, and Speed-Six Revolvers for law enforcement, civilian self-defense, and military markets. The GP-100, Redhawk, and SP-101 would later follow.
Ruger also manufactures .357 Magnum revolvers, including the Blackhawk and the Vaquero.
The Vaquero is a retro-style revolver that was made for cowboy action shooting fans and looks like the old Colt Single Action Army Revolver of 1873.
Colt Manufacturing Company
One of Colt’s most famous revolvers is the 1873 Colt Single Action Army in the Colt .45 caliber.
It was popular with the public and used in the U.S. military from 1873 to 1892. You probably also know it as the gun that won the West.
Final Thoughts
When selecting a .357 Magnum revolver, keep in mind frame size and capacity so you can be sure to pick the one that’s perfect for you.
There are a ton of revolver models floating around the market, and most are solid. These happen to be some of our favorites.
What are your favorite models? Let us know in the comments below. To see what we recommend feeding your revolver, check out the Best .357 Magnum Ammo.
Latest Updates
July 14, 2024: Removed the S&W Model 60, Colt King Cobra, SP101. Added the S&W Model 19 Carry Comp, Taurus 627 Tracker, and S&W 686 Plus. Added How We Chose section and supplemental information about each firearm.
221 Leave a Reply
S&W Model 27 (5" bbl) and Ruger SP-101 (2-1/4" bbl). Colt Python (6" bbl, made in 1970) ergonomics were a problem for me. Recoil-wise, the 158 Gr .357 is fearsome in the SP-101.!
Dan wesson period
Years ago I bought the Taurus Poly Protector (essentially the 605 in a lightweight frame) It is an excellent weapon . It is my "By the desk safety gun"
Yes 357 Kicks a bit but with some minor training I have been able to hit 15 yards easily with a snub barrel
Try a 110gr hp instead of standard 158gr .357 FMJ.
Much less kick but still more powerful than .38spl. A good compromise in my opinion for these lightweight poly snubs.
I have a Ruger SP101 2in. My favorite firearm. Little snappy, perfect size, quite accurate.
I never see it on any best of list.
Love my SP101 3 inch ,and oddly it is more comfortable to carry iwb than my p365 ,maybe a holster issue and it does get heavy after awhile
Like most firearms, there’s a huge selection today. Back in the early 70’s I purchased a Colt Trooper Mk III - 6” and have it still today. Having possessed many other brands and calibers, it’s still my favorite - bar none. I’ve had it refinished twice through the years and re-gripped a couple times. Truly the quality of Colt was and is worth the money.
The selections you named are a good cross section of reliable choices. When I began my law enforcement career in 1974, revolvers were standard issue. I carried S&W model 19s and model 66s until the introduction of the model 686. By the time I retired in 2014, I had, like most everyone else, moved on through a succession of 9mm semi-autos until my agency adopted the .40 caliber Glock in 1991. In retirement, I most commonly carry one of my .40 caliber Glocks, but occasionally carry a 2 3/4” Smith model 66 when I’m concerned about concealment, and a 4” model 686 when I’m not. I most often carry .38 spl +P ammunition, but always have a speed loader with Magnum loads readily available. I handload .38 spl loads for plinking and target practice so I can shoot more often. Good article!
I myself would have never included a Taurus revolver (or any of their products). I purchased a new Tracker in .44 mag a few years ago. It was set up with the incorrect cylinder shimming at the factory and jammed about every third shot. When it is "fixed" it will be sold - cheap. I will never trust their products again.
I have several of the revolvers in this list plus one that isn't. I bought the Chiappa Rhino (3" bbl) because I was curious and because it looked so unique. It turns out to be the best shooting, best handling, most comfortable revolver I own. I used it to qualify for my CCW (as well as my .45 ACP) and most of the others in the class, along with the instructors and range masters, wanted to try it. Most of them were impressed as well. Why no mention of the Rhino?
I know they’re hard to come by, but I’ve had 5 different Dan Wesson revolvers over the years. Still have a .357 with 6” barrel. Absolutely great shooter.
Eric, I am 100% behind you on that. I have one of the newer re-release Dan Wesson 715 pistol packs, and have shot the older Monson 15s as well. I was sad when CZ/DW discontinued the new 715s so quickly after re-introducing them. If they were still in production, I would for sure included it on the list. The quick swap barrel system is just amazing.
There are not that hard to get, you just have to look around a bit.
I have 6 of them in configurations from 2-1/2" to 10 bbls in full lug and vented full lug.
I'd stack anyone of them against any of these.
I also own a '78 Ruger Securty Six that shoots very sweet.
I will say this was fun to read, but for the 8 round smith, the performance center R8 with the accessory rail under it for a flashlight, laser, or something else that your heart my desire is hands over fist much better IMHO. I have owned one for a number of years now and when I am not looking to conceal it is my go too revolver.
Mike, it was a tough call as to which 8-shot N-Frame to put on here since they are all solid. The main thing that held me back on the TRR8 is that it is so hard to find in stock regularly.
Harder to remove the Ruger cylinder for cleaning. Smiths easy to remove. 686 nice action out of the box. Ruger has longer breakin. Ruger seems more durable but no problems with any of mine except need to add loctite to Smith sideplate screws.
John, I do personally the breakdown and the Smiths better overall. They both make excellent revolvers in my book, though.
I have an older S&W model 10 .38 spl. that I've had for over 45 years. I really enjoy shooting that gun, it's just fun. I also own a RUGER gp100 .357 4". I really like shooting it also, even with heavy mag. loads. I'm planning on getting a 6" model for fun and a hunting side arm. I just like shooting revolvers.
What is the value of a ruger blackhawk 357 magnum. Never been shot.
Manure-in and Kimber are not good. From my experience having to repeatedly return a Kimber revolver and take it to gunsmiths is reality. Manurin is a waste of money because a standard Smith & Wesson outperforms it and it's cheaper (not to mention Ruger).
Hello, missed the S&W 586/686 (plus) or 3-5-7 version of .357 Mag Revolvers in your posts. As well as 8'' .357 versions of S&W Revolvers. Just to mention, I've won this year actual a "Revolver King" competition in Sitzerland, consisting from 1x50m and 2x25m competitions with a S&W 3-5-7 Revolver with 7'' barrel and 7 shots capacity. This Revolver shoots even better than a Korth Revolver which is one of the most precise craftet Revolvers ever. But otherwise very nice article from you guys.
Ich finde S&W Ruger und Taurus als die idealsten, 357 Magnum-Revolver. Als Besitzer eines S&W 60 38 Spezial mit 2 Zoll-Lauf, wollte ich als 357 Magnum, natürlich einen S&W. Ich liebäugelte stark mit einem M 66 oder M 686. Beide Modelle halte ich für stabile und präzise Revolver. 1985 kam der Ruger GP 100 auf dem Markt dessen Griff und solide Konstruktion, mehr überzeugte als S&W. Nun habe ich diesen Stainless-Revolver mit 4 Zoll-Lauf seit 1990 und würde ihn, nicht mehr hergeben. Mein Fazit : Qualitativ sind S&W und Ruger ebenbürtig, betreffend Abzugscharakteristik ist S&W überlegen, hingegen ist Ruger robuster.
I like my SW 686+,thank you.
You failed to mention Freedom Arms revolvers and the BFR, both of which are American made and are top of the line. I will take an FA over a Korth or the French revolver any day. Buy American!
I kind of would have expected the L-comp or Carry-comp to have made it on here?
Ofcause the best one is the 686SSR, but I may be partial.
On the MR73, it ticks like a clockwork and the DA pull is amazing, fantastic finish as well.
Going on 40+ years now, my favorite .357 is my S&W Model 19 sporting a 6" barrel and a customized cut-down combat grip. It has never had a problem with any ammo, commercial or personal production. And it gets a lot of interest at the range.
Well as a certified NRA firearms instructor, former police officer and former competition shooter with 62 years of shooting and 47 years of instruction under my belt I agree the S&W 19 is a great gun , no complaints here. However for me my favorite wheel gun is my Colt Python 6in with a trigger job and custom grip made for my huge hands. Bobby Mcghee
Mr. Mcghee, I respect your credentials and experience. I will be 78 next month and I grew up shooting revolvers from age 6. My EDC handgun is a semi-auto, 9mm Walther PDP Compact and have carried Sig, H&K, and Walther PPQ's. The two guns I have really enjoyed shooting for fun are my friend's Colt Python (older vintage) and my new Colt Python with 4.25 inch barrel. I coach other shooters at my range and do not disparage others because they have a different preference than I but I am grateful that a person with your knowledge and experience find the Colt Python breed so rewarding.
Bobby Mcghee- I agree with a Colt Python w/trigger job. I ❤️ my PYTHON! However, there is one BETTER!! Have you ever tried the Colt Grizzly .357? It's the same as the infamous PYTHON but, get this........ it's ported! Sweet shooting gun!
P.S.- If you are interested, I have one for sale.......
Been shooting powder guns since before 1960. Air guns longer. I enjoyed every gun I shot or owned. Started with .23 short pump guns shooting at travelling carnivals and amusement parks. Every gun has strong points and weak points.
I have a Taurus tracker and maybe I’m lucky ,shoots as well as the smiths and Rutgers I have had plus a 7 th round.
I am a fan of .357 revolvers. My first was the Kimber D6S 3", followed by the Ruger GP 100 4.25" I have since added these: Taurus 627 and 608
All good guns I believe in this article, however it was still a disappointment.
Budget revolvers seem to have been left out of the review cycle here?
Weirauch comes to mind. There are others.
You can find them, if you look for them.
Nothing wrong with a 627 Taurus Tracker, .357, holds 7, with the 6.5" bbl, for those on a stiff budget for a home defense gun or packing for a hike in bear country. Just got one in satin stainless (8-2023) for $458 and there is absolutely nothing wrong with it.
I have the Taurus 627 and its bigger brother the Taurus 608. These are definitely good home defense or trail guns.
I would love to get a Smith and Wesson .357 magnum all-steel revolver. Except for one thing - I do not want the trigger lock. I'll stick with Ruger.
Lots of used Smiths out there. Pretty easy to find a good one (Model 686, Model 28, et al) for less than a new Ruger.
I don't care for the trigger lock either. My guns are in the safe, unlocked, and the keys to the locks are in the gun cases, comfortably in the closet. I have the 686, Model 27 and Model 19 among other brands.
SP-101 DA for me. Very easy to carry and 5 round speed loaders make it a snap to reload quickly if needed.
My favorite is my S&W Model 19. Hefty enough to manage the recoil but light enough to carry in a chest rig all day.
The Model 19 is a nice revolver. I picked mine up a couple of months ago. I took it to the range once or twice. It may be going back again soon.
Sounds like a S&W advertisement. I have a Taurus 66 in stainless and it has served me faithfully on my side while hunting with Underwood 180-grain hard case bullets that do well to keep me outside a bear's belly. More are out there than high-priced safe queens to get the job done.
My very first pistol I bought, was a S&W Model 66 4" Combat Magnum in 1978. It was an excellent gun. I sold it to a relative in the 90s, and have kicked myself for that bit of stupidity. Currently, I' e a Interarms Virginia Dragoon SAA in .357, but I'd like to get another DA/SA. Being retired and on a budget, it's going to be a while in this Biden Economy.
Did you forget basic physics here? Short barreled .357's are like a castrated bull...fun to look at, but otherwise worthless. The forte of the .357 is blinding speed and you only get that from a four inch or preferably longer barrel. Manurhin sounds like manure. Four grand for a frog wheelgun? The Colt Python is the heavyweight champ (except for the 3" barrel model), total class all around.
This is complete unmitigated BULLSH*T. #1 The Python isn't even on the lsist #2 the list includes the budget Coplt King Cobra but not the Python? 33 rated according to the title by "Stopping Power?" Comparing the same caliber guns for "stopping power" is absolutely brain dead.
Reviews I've read on the King Cobra sounds like Colt's got some QC issues on that line.
When the Honest Outlaw says they're crap, they are crap.
I'm getting Taurus model 66 4". I've heard the old knocks on Taurus guns but I believe that things are a changing. This particular model also has a 7 round wheelhouse. Did I use wheelhouse correctly?
That's all from me.
Gotta love 357 in a good frame! I have a Security Six that I like and a K6s 3" DASA that I love. The Ruger is HD, the Kimber camping and trail. The Kimber is also cold weather CC. I just can't say enough good about the Kimber, sweet!
Used a S&W 6" 686 for years in U.S.P.S.A matches even had a compensator milled in it, the hotter the load the less the muzzle would rise. Think big Magnaports and alot of fun lol. The one thing that I did notice was about 99% of the competitors used S&W revolvers, could be how easily it was to make a very nice trigger pull or because of the way the cylinder was unlocked for faster reloads. But switched to a Model 25 45 acp to be able to use moon clips. Fast forward to today and it's a 627 8 rndr with moon clips. The only thing that I regret in hindsight is 35 years ago having a custom trigger and hammer job done on the Mod. 25 after seeing how much the value has gone up and it's not original. But man what a smooooth double action trigger.
"Since more of the bullet’s mass is outside the cartridge, there is more room for powder in the cartridge." NO!!! The case is longer for more powder! The bullets used in 38 SP and 357 Mag are externally the same dimensions. Internal construction can differ depending on the type of bullet and purpose. I manufactured ammo for over a decade commercially.
No, the case was made longer to prevent loading in a 38 special. You can load enough bullseye in a 38 special case to blow just about any 357…extra powder room is not needed or required.
I’ve owned a Ruger GP-100 since the late 80’s-first handgun I ever purchased and 100% agree with your points on the gun and versatile ammo options in general. Thanks for the informative charts on the S&W models and I’ll have to check out their 8 round revolver that I didn’t know existed!
forgot the S&W 19.
Indeed! The S&W model 19 and SS version 66 was/is one of the best law enforcement sidearms of all time. And the 2&1/2” barrel version is considered by myself and many knowledgeable handguners to be the best all round snub nose .357 ever. They are incredibly accurate with 38 loads as well…almost target level.
I own 2 S&W 19's and a S&W 66. All are great guns that have had trigger jobs and have the smoothest action of any revolver I'm aware of on the market. I also have a 29 and a 69. The 69 just can not be made to be as smooth as the earlier K and N frame guns. S&W changed the lockworks to the detriment of the gun.
I think you forgot about Taurus just like a publication like this the only put up the front most popular names. It's a shame and you're not doing anyone a service. I will no longer be reading any of your articles.
Well said James.
What about the Chiapas Rhino? If price is of no concern nor is nationality, how could the Rhino be left out?
I think the Chiappa Rhino is an interesting pistol. I would definitely like to shoot one before I buy one.
You missed the Ruger LCRx, with 3" barrel is 1/4# lighter than the K6. My service arm was a Ruger Security 6. Only recently replaced with a Security 9.
I own 4 357s, SW Model 19- SW Model 686§+1, SW Model 586 Distinguished Combat Magnum and a Model 66. My favorite is the 686! Strong and very accurate. Definitely a 357 fan.
I love my Chiappa Rhino. Very accurate with little recoil. I have 9's 45's but the revolver is my favorite to shoot.
My favorite is a Colt Trooper Mk III - 6" that I've had since 1968. I've tried the .44SW Mag. - too big to carry; and too much for me to handle. .357 mag. is a great cartridge. But a wheel gun is history. I keep mine because I know it, use it, and have speed loaders that work. But it's in my safe and I carry a semi auto... due to available firepower with a .357 Sig - in a 226 - can't beat the ballistics...
Really great article. I’ve had a S&W Mod.19 for roughly 35yrs. and has been a faithful sidearm with no complaints. Full power.357s are a handful, so shooting.38s for target practice is recommended. Another fine revolver that should have been mentioned is the Dan Wesson.357 Magnum. I have 3 Dan Wessons in.22, .357, and .44 Magnum. All are fantastic revolvers that are fun to shoot and can handle anything you put through them.
Great comment. I have been reading up on Dan Wesson revolvers lately. I would very much like to find a 15-2 pistol pack with either the 3 or 4 barrels/shrouds. Do you think there is a chance that CZ will bring these back for a limited run?
Call me "Old Fashioned"(and that would be correct, as I am an old man)but I will take my Model 66, 3" Stainless over ANY of the revolvers listed. I own 3 of them(One happens to be an "Ashland"). Yes, 2 outa the 3 are "Safe Queens". But I will put them up against any of your listed for accuracy, reliability, looks, and just plain Ol' fashioned "Cool Factor". If I gotta have a second choice, It's gunna be Ruger or "Other" SAR that can handle .357 Mag rounds. But to be honest if I'm packing a cowboy shooter, its gunna be in .45 long Colt.
All this being said, my personal CCP is a 1911 in .45 ACP. Always has been. ALWAYS will be.
You Pew-Pew guys(and gals) are doing a great job. I thoroughly enjoy your articles.
You feature the Manurhin as a high-end revolver and omit the Korth/Night Hawk in your discussion-review of .357's. You should check it out.
So for $3900 and change I could buy the worlds finest brick? Good to know.
If you shot revolvers, you have a favorite… so everyone is right! Very few I don’t care for. I’m still partial to a S&W 13-3 I have and it has a lot of miles on it…
The newer Model 627 is a beautiful handgun, but I like my Model 28 best. More barrel affords me a balance I am very accustomed to. I have handled some Redhawks in the store: Damned heavy, but certain to survive the thumping they 'impart' to the target when you run out of ammo.
I also have a PC 642 for EDC, but would recommend the LCR with fiber or tritium from sight as a better alternative, due to improved second shot recovery. Both triggers are comparable.
I already own some of the recommended revolvers and I am happy with them. However, I did recently find the Taurus Tracker 692. It comes in both Stainless and Blue PVD and has a seven round cylinder. It also comes with a second cylinder that is for 9mm giving you access to the most popular revolver and semi auto cartridges in one firearm. You might want to check it out for future reviews and lists.
I am definitely interested in a 9mm revolver. The 692 with two cylinders seems like it would be a great fit. I almost bought the Taurus 905 but I felt it was more important to get an M1 Garand at the time.
Be careful when shooting 9mm through a revolver. If the bullets aren't crimped sufficiently, they will creep forward and out of the casings as you shoot the gun. It is possible that the last bullet won't shoot due to the bullet creep.
A semi-automatic doesn't require as much crimping as a revolver, and 9mm wasdesigned for a semi-automatic.
What about the Rhino? It handles .357 mag with a 2 inch barrel like a beast.
I am a highly prejudicated in favor of larger caliber revolvers (smallest being a S&W .38 w/ 4.5" barrel) for what i call the three H's- Hunt, Hit, and Hurt- bringing down food, accuracy/proficiencey with the firearm (obviously needed for H1and H2) and puttin the hurt on evildoers up to no good (Home invasion, self and others personal safety etc) I've never had one jam, stovepipe, fail to feed etc My 357 of choice is a Ruger Blkhwk w/ 6.5 bbl I also own two 41 mags, a Ruger and a S&W ,both have 8 3/8" bbls- slight edge to the Smith for quicker reloading- 2 Colt 45 long 6" and 1 has a 4.5 AND just for shits n giggles 2 Heritage Ruffies a 6.5 and a 9 inch both with 22lr and 22 mag cylinders Not to worried bout the ol' CCL aspect I enjoy the article and the other replies to each to their own
I own a Taurus model 608 stainless 8 Shot .357 magnum 4 inch barrel. The action is super smooth. This revolver is built on a large frame similar to the Smith and Wesson model 29. The price was very affordable too. This revolver tames the recoil with even the heaviest loads. So, if you’re looking for a .357 magnum, check out this revolver. She’s a beauty and she cooks!
Did anyone mention the ugly one"Chiappa Rhino?
I love mine! It is black and I put a optic on it but I really want the nebula color because it's different. It's soft shooting even with 357 magnum rounds. With 38's it's like shooting a 22.
I have the Ruger SP-101 with the 2.25" inch barrel and the rubber grip with the finger grooves that gives you someplace to put your pinky finger. It's also worth doing a trigger job to reduce the heavy and jerky pulls for both SA and DA.
Both the Kimber K6s 2" and K6s 3" DASA.
i love my Trooper MK3..love my ugly ole glock 31/.357sig too..
I agree what about the s@w model 66 combat revolver
I have a new 66-8 2.75, stock trigger and hammer about 16-18lbs horrible I installed a Wilson Combat spring kit runs smooth like butter it's very accurate. You want J frame size 6 shots get a Kimber K6S they are excellent out of the box
You didn’t even mention the model 19? Who writes these articles
Hey AJ, you can find the author and bio linked at the bottom of every article. Thanks for reading!
Woosh
i like my Tarus 357 mag with a 4inch barrel .it might be some cheaper but it handles good and it’s accurate