nedrgr21

ruger GP100 would be a good choice - built like a tank. the SP101 is probably too small to hunt with since you said woods gun (but you could do it), but it is about the same overall size as a G19/23 with only 5 shots. Remember to shoot a cylinder full of 357's after the 38's to "clear it out". Get what feels best in your hand. I'd recommend a 6" barrel if you're not going to carry it.

dontstop

+1for the SP101 great gun

Rugergirl

For hunting or defense of large animals a 6" barrel is a good way to go. Also great for target shooting for a begginner, longer barrels are generally easier to shoot from the standpoint of recoil.
I own a Rufer GP100 6" stainless and love it.
I'd like to get a S&W 686 with a 3 in barrel for carry.
Both are great guns and will do what you have in mind, with the only major difference is the 686 does hold 7 rounds compared the the 6 rounds in the Ruger.

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Laxer

So i think i have decided- a 6" gp-100!

So to keep it all under 500 im gonna look for one used and then use the rest to get a holster and some ammo. Is this a good idea and what to on the price expect for a used one?

Sky Pilot

Try whatever you're considering first, before you set the first shekel on the counter.
My thumbs don't bend at the middle joint (juvenile arthritis) and are knobbed up terribly.
The Colt is more squared-off where that thumb joint contacts the back of the grip frame.
To my particular paws, firing the Colt with anything but a butter soft wad cutter was like whacking your shin bone on the coffee table after dark.
I found Ruger much more comfortable for my individual condition.
Had I normal thumb joints I would still have that Colt. Well built, tight, phenomenally accurate! -- I traded it to my best friend and ten years later he still ribbed me about getting the better of the deal!

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Rugergirl

It depends a lot on the demand in your area. I'm just outside of Detroit nad picked up mine in late December for $400.00. It was very gently used, and well cared for, what I would call a 90+ % gun, and well worth the price.
I hope you find a "new friend" soon, they are great guns.

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BikerRN

I grew up with S&W Revolvers, but have become a fan of Ruger in the past three or so years.

I find the Ruger GP100 to be built "hell for stout" and one that I would expect to be the most durable of all the common brands out there. The reason that I went to Ruger was because of the "Hillary Hole" but I certainly wouldn't turn down a Used "Pre-Lock" L or N Frame either. The reason I would choose the L or N Frame over the more common K Frame is for durability reasons if you intend to do a lot of shooting with .357 Magnum loads.

Biker

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matdicdad

Taurus model 85 UL works for me.

crzy4guns

I too would recommend a Ruger also, the SP101 for carry or the GP100 for general use.

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bigo5552000

s&w model 65 mine is a 65-2 with a 4" barrel!! picked it up in great condition for $350!!

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