.357 Snub help

[Rollo]

So I have decided that I want to switch to a wheel gun and know that I want to go with .357 but other then that I have come to the conclusion that I don't know much about wheel guns. I have a pretty good knowledge of auto's but since I have never carried or even owned a revolver I know next to nothing. I am trying to create a "list" of what I should be interested in. So far the only things on it the Taurus 605 and the Ruger SP101. What others should I be looking at? Out of the two I am leaning towards the Taurus as it's a bit lighter but I am open to suggestions.

Thanks!

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[JT]

Depending on how large you want to go, I would go with S&W Model 60 or a S&W Model 686.

[los]

Look at the Smith 640. Arguably the perfect CCW in .357.

[wmhawth]

So far the only things on it the Taurus 605 and the Ruger SP101. What others should I be looking at? Out of the two I am leaning towards the Taurus as it's a bit lighter but I am open to suggestions.

I'd go for the heavier SP101. In fact, the SP101 is about as light weight as I care to go for 357 Mag loads and is an excellent choice for concealed carry.

[Saber]

I agree with 'JT' although I carry the S&W 640 (without the external hammer) and I use the 686 for the range and home defense. Now, I could CC the 686 2.5" but it's a bit more clumsy on the hip.

[boatail]

I've been eyeing the S&W 340. Hammerless and light, maybe TOO light for full mags though. I guess it would be great to carry and potent, but not fun to range shoot with.

[Saber]

Yep, the 340 vapor-weight is nice to carry but a hell of a lot harder to control the shot groups.

[Rollo]

Depending on how large you want to go, I would go with S&W Model 60 or a S&W Model 686.

Whats the difference between the model 60 and the 60-9? I dont understand how smith does their model numbers.

[GunGeezer]

I have the Taurus model 617. I was going to buy a S&W Night Guard but I was told they have had frame cracking issues with their scandium frames. The Taurus is almost identical to a K frame Smith (uses the same holster), not quite as precision machined but so far it shoots well and no issues. Seven shots is always better than 5 or 6.

[los]

Rollo, If you're inclined to purchase a "hammered" revolver, look at the Rossi models 461/462. Academy sells them for arond $300.

[razor02097]

Whats the difference between the model 60 and the 60-9? I dont understand how smith does their model numbers.

the dash nine would indicate generation and/or options. A model 60 is a model 60 is a model 60. They will all be a J frame revolver but if it is a model 60 no dash and a model 60 dash one the dash one may indicate certain changes or options available for the year it was produced.

Not sure specifically though it may take research but here is an example... my 29-2 is a .44 mag with a recessed cylinder, 8 3/4" pinned barrel, and square butt... the 29-3 is a 3" non pinned non recessed cylinder round butt .44 mag

[Saber]

Model-60 versions, courtesy of the S&W forum:

Model 60 (.38 spc) history?

[TheoryRealm]

I have the Taurus 605 .357 and it feels fine to shoot and carry. I carry the Speer Gold Dot 135gr JHP "short barrel" ammo in it.

[pogo2]

I have frequently carried a S&W model 66 snubby and think it has one of the best triggers of any snubby out there, either in DA or SA. The gun conceals very well in a high riding belt holster. It is heavy enough to handle .357 recoil easily.

[Rollo]

Rollo, If you're inclined to purchase a "hammered" revolver, look at the Rossi models 461/462. Academy sells them for arond $300.

6 round capacity huh? Interesting. The only issue I can think of is it's probably a bit thicker then others because of the extra round and width is a primary concern for me. I do however definitely want a exposed hammer.