Best option for current, off-the-shelf 3" .357? King Cobra v

[matthewmartinez]

See title. I'm looking at options for a NEW off-the-shelf 3 inch-ish .357 wheelgun. I don't have a strong preference one way or the other regarding adjustable sights. I DO have a preference for reliability & durability. Price is not a consideration right now, but I'm not looking for Korth/Manurhin prices. I'm also not interested in the used market right now.

[SHMIV]

Well, were it I, I'd be inclined to go with a Ruger GP100. I like the brand. I have an older Security Six, that shoots well, especially with updated grips. It's very solidly constructed.

Based on my experience, conversations with other general Ruger owners, and countless reviews of various Ruger products online, I get the sense that Ruger produces firearms of quality equal to, or greater than, that of Colt, or Smith & Wesson, etc., but at a more reasonable price, leaving more capital available to invest in precious metals, such as brass and lead.

I really like the Security Six. But, they haven't made those in a while, and the closest thing that you'll find to brand new, is new old stock (if your lucky), or a never-fired safe queen.

The GP100 is a full sized revolver; they also make the SP101, which is a little smaller. If I stumbled upon one, at the right time and price, I'd probably take it. But, I would rather have the larger one.

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[Snakester]

I have a SP101 with a 21/2" barrel that I bought at a yard sale a few years ago. The seller said it was a little much for him and was looking for something easier to shoot. It's my EDC and I shoot it quite a lot. I shoot .38 specials most of the time. It's a great gun and I recommend it to anyone !

[jdonovan]

another vote for Rugers' revolvers.

like the sp101 when i need small, but its not so friendly with full power magnums. The GP100 on the other hand is delightful in many respects, and even with full power loading is very pleasant to shoot.

I like the smith's as well, but I've never been able to get as good a trigger on new smiths as I can on a GP100.

[Snakester]

I also have a S&W 357 w/7"barrel and 7 rounds...A total different animal than the Ruger sp101. I Love shooting the Magnum rounds and this gun was made to shoot nothing but the 357 Mag , loads. A little big for me to EDC but I can shoot hundreds of rounds everyday at the range. The grips are great , the balance is perfect and the weight of the gun makes it a pleasure to shoot !

[Reverenddel]

Love the Ruger series.... Go with that...

[Oakes]

S&W 's are just so smooth. fixed sights or adjustable?