New Ruger GP100 VS Used S&W 686 -Advice Requested

[munch]

I'll be buying one of these guns in a 4 inch, stainless, 6-shootin, 357 magnum at the end of the month. The used S&W is said to be in "excellent condition" and is "lightly used". I've heard good comments about both guns -maybe slightly more flattering comments about the S&W's trigger. Either gun will set me back around $425-$450 when all is said and done.

Is one more accurate, more reliable?, better service department?

What would you recommend, the New Ruger GP100 or the Used S&W 686?

All advice is GREATLY appreciated.

Thanks -Munch!

[Rod WMG]

Well, I'm sure a lot of folks will offer advice, but a question like this depends on so many subjective factors, I think you just have to make your own choice.

I'm basically a Smith fan when it comes to DA's.  I have more of them than Rugers; the actions are smoother; they feel better in my hand generally.

But the GP-100's have a fine feel to me in the grip area; I've shot at least one which was super accurate (my pard won't sell it to me!); and there's nothing wrong with them.

Personally, I'd let the deciding factor be the "used vs. new" element.  I like owning new guns better, though I have bought and will probably buy more used ones.

If you haven't formed an opinion about which brand is better, either will probably be satisfactory in the long run.

Enjoy.

[Turbo]

I have a GP100 and a Smith and Wesson Model 686. Both are nice, although for me the GP100 is more accurate. I bought a reduced tension spring set for the GP100 from Brownell's and that really helped on the trigger pull. Be carefull not to pick too weak of a spring, as it will not consistently set off the primer.

I also used some Raydol (spelling?) A3 spray on the trigger mechanism. It sure made the trigger pull better. Overall, the Smith and Wesson still has a smoother trigger pull, but not by much.

The GP100 feels much sturdier. The other thing I like about the GP100 is the sights. They have a wider notch in the rear sight, which allows me to line up the front sight better. Take a look at both the S & W sight and the GP100 sight and pick the one you like best. You can help the GP100 trigger pull considerably with a few dollars sent to Brownells.

Jon

[Savage]

Buy the Ruger. It'll oulast your grandkids and never need tuning. It's not quite as slick as the S&W but it'll shoot with the best of them.
Stay Safe,
Savage

[Old Griz]

I agree with Savage. The Ruger is a tank. It'll last forever, but will need a trigger job. For a carry gun I have 2 Smith K-frames: 2.5" and 3", but for a big 4" target—fun gun, the Ruger is the best choice.

[billmaly]

I bought a GP 2 years ago, six inch barrel. Gun is a tank and VERY easy to dis/re assemble. Buy it new, feel good about the new gun and the money saved. Plus, you'll avoid dealing with the S&W bad/good questions.