ok why do I have an itch for a 4" .357 revolver?

[fightingquaker13]

Failing Alfs advice, there are a lot of 4" revolvers out there for a reasonable fee. More .38 than .357, but they are still there. Things tend to be moving in the direction of either concealable or hunting/target when it comes to revolvers (not to mention more folks wanting pistols over revolvers). The 4", jack of all trades master of none, seems like the ugly duckling, even though its th most practical choice. Its not quite as much of a buyers market as the early '90s when PDs went semi and they were basically giving revolvers away, but its still a good time to be buying. Someone out there just got a CCW permit and wants a J frame or a Glock and will make you a deal on his GP 100. Just be patient. Just my .02.
FQ13

[Sean from Vt]

Several years ago I had the same itch. I went to my local dealer wanting a Blue 4" GP-100. He didn't have that model and the impulse bug got to me and I ended up with a 6" Stainless GP. I didn't have that gun 6 months and it was sold off to a good friend who still has it.

I have no doubt that if I had bought even a Stainless 4" I would still own it. As a side note my favorite wheelgun is my S&W 696. I don't think it would be better as a 4" but maybe it would, or maybe I would feel it a more practical field gun if it had a longer barrel. But I use it as a CCW gun and for that role it is perfect.

Sean

[jaybet]

Right now Bud'sGun Shop has a used 4" GP161 for the low 400's. Should be a nice gun.

[alfsauve]

(Jumping back in here)

Let me say that while I really like my 66, the 686 is definitely a cut above, with it's slight stronger frame (L) and the full length under-lug. 

Just my personal preference though, I'd look for a pre-2000 (no safety switch), model myself.

[Ping]

Great topic cause I have been tossing around the idea of get one myself. Really like the Ruger, but always wanted a Smith and Wesson .357. Like the thought of 7 rounds with the Taurus Tracker but would rather have a revolver from the USA.

[Sponsor]

[jaybet]

Maggie has several. The nicest BY FAR is the 7 round S&W 686. Fit, finish, trigger, balance, it's all there.

[shooter32]

Love my 4" Ruger Security Six .357 mag!!

You can never have to many, get one in every flavor! 

[ellis4538]

I have a 4" 686 worked over that I use for IDPA...Luv it but sorta wish I'd waited a while until I was able to find a 4" 625 or 610.

Richard

[tombogan03884]

They should outlaw those High  capacity six shooters.

[GI Joe]

As an owner of a 4 inch SW 686 I can tell you the there are several reasons you want a .357 four incher:
1: you want the bullet to hit the target with fight stopping authority
2: the 357 will always be "old reliable"
3: it wont leave brass lay around for criminals to pick up and leave at their crime scene
4: it is not ammo sensative
5. see #1
6. see #1