Never done this before

[JohnR]

I'm in a position where I can buy two revolvers I'm interested in and can't decide between. They're both frivolous purchases, I already have similar models but they don't quite scratch that itch if you know what I mean. I guess I'm feeling some undefinable negative emotion over extravagant self indulgence. If I buy both of them, will I get over it? I'm looking at a S&W 686+ and a GP100 3". I already have a GP100 4" and a 28-2, but I'd like a shorter barrel.

[CJB]

All similar stuff. You want something different.... like a Judge or Governor!

[JohnR]

Not really; I've never had the slightest hankering for either of those. Maybe I should hunt down a T9.

[mr surveyor]

John, rather than the 3" GP-100, why not the 3" SP-101. Yep, one less round, but fits a lot more useful purposes. I don't remember if you already have a SP-101 or not, but that's one of very few handguns I give extremely high marks to.


jd

[b4uqzme]

I've always had a preference for short barrel revolvers. I'd pick the Smith from those two. 7 rounds would be the decider for me. I too have a great 4inch GP100 and, for some reason, it still leaves me wanting a shorter barrel .357 in a frame size that can really handle it.

[CJB]

John, rather than the 3" GP-100, why not the 3" SP-101. Yep, one less round, but fits a lot more useful purposes. I don't remember if you already have a SP-101 or not, but that's one of very few handguns I give extremely high marks to.


jd

I was gonna suggest that too.... then thought it was too similar and not as capable as the others.

I've got a 3" SP101 (early one, .38sp with green Xenoy grips). GREAT little revolower.

[JohnR]

I have a 2 1/4" SP101 and a 3" Speed Six. The Six is heavy and the grips suck, but I'm ordering some better grips for it. The 101 is my EDC right now. I'd like something that shoots .357 really nicely, and that I can abuse without feeling bad, hence the GP100 with the trench sights. The 3" GP100 weighs about the same as the Speed Six, on paper at least.

[Bawanna]

I've always had a burning desire for a 686 myself, but not the plus. The 7 shooters cylinder is just to big.

Not sure which way your wanting to get nudged but while I love revolvers the idea of hunting a T9 is a good one.

[JohnR]

Lots of forgotten desires (not the jocko kind) swimming in my head... KelTec PLR16 is one of 'em. With current events it's a good travel companion.

[kenemoore]

For me the ideal .357 pistol would be a 686 no dash , or dash-1 with a 3" barrel. Heaven on earth.

[Bawanna]

Amen brother kenemoore, sing it.

[WLEEP]

Hey JAX, I'm in Eustis. Interesting conflict for you. I have both the Smith 686+ and Ruger SP101 and will never get rid of either. But, the Smith 7-round is way too big and too heavy for EDC. I have the Smith loaded 357 and never carry (home gun) an the SP101 loaded .38 Plus P and carry rarely.

But if you really want to scratch that itch. I suggest the Chiappa Black Rhino 200DS. Yes, it cost as much as the Smith, maybe a few bucks more. It's a two incher which shoots from the bottom cylinder which reduces felt recoil (for me anyway) and weighs 1 3/4 lbs.

It's a fun gun and a natural conversation piece (the least of it's attributes).

I love the look and feel. It's a fun package and of course, a manstopper.

Having said all that, my everyday carry is a Kahr CM9, in the safe a P9 and for rare special condition carry a CW .380 (which I also love.)

Good luck and happy hunting.

wleep

[JohnR]

I've read that from others, the 686 is too heavy to carry, but it's about the same as a 5" 1911 which lots of people carry just fine (so they say). I can carry a 1911 for about a half a day and I'm done.

[jeepster09]

I'm in a position where I can buy two revolvers I'm interested in and can't decide between. They're both frivolous purchases, I already have similar models but they don't quite scratch that itch if you know what I mean. I guess I'm feeling some undefinable negative emotion over extravagant self indulgence. If I buy both of them, will I get over it? I'm looking at a S&W 686+ and a GP100 3". I already have a GP100 4" and a 28-2, but I'd like a shorter barrel.

First off you never get over it! I love my 686+ it has 3 inch barrel and not bad for carry in wright holster. Top one in picture is 686+, 2nd one is model 60 and bottom is model 63 eight shot 22.

[jeepster09]

I've read that from others, the 686 is too heavy to carry, but it's about the same as a 5" 1911 which lots of people carry just fine (so they say). I can carry a 1911 for about a half a day and I'm done.

I disagree I carry my 686+