Author Topic: S&W Mod 19 or 28 (Read 3891 times)

Blackhawker · « **on:** February 28, 2011, 08:55:19 AM »

After all these years, I'm finally considering a double action revolver. I'm looking into something in .357 in which I can plink and target shoot with but not a HUGE revolver in that it can also double as a "house gun" with the use of 38's. I have a thing for the "classics" and therefore I've been considering a Mod 28 or a Mod 19. I've heard that the 19 cannot take a steady diet of heavy, full house 357 loads while the 28 is more the one for that kind of shooting. Is this true?

To all of you S&W aficionados; what's the difference between the 19 and the 28? For that matter, are these good choices for what I've mentioned as being my search? Are there any other recommendations if I am to keep the price down to $500 or less?

Thanks in advance!

HAMMERHEAD · « **Reply #1 on:** February 28, 2011, 03:08:20 PM »

If the L frames (586/686) are out, I would go with the 28.
N frames don't seem that big to me and they shoot great.

Looking at the pics of 28's, they have tapered barrels, shorter cylinders and abbreviated underlugs, so they shouldn't be as heavy as the .44 mag versions.

I'm buying a 624 (stainless N frame .44 special) and it has the lighter profile as well.

I think you'll be happier with the big gun.

HAMMERHEAD · « **Reply #2 on:** February 28, 2011, 03:53:27 PM »

Here's a link or two with some info and comparison pics between the K and N frames.
http://www.notpurfect.com/main/nframe.html
http://world.guns.ru/handguns/double-action-revolvers/usa/sw-large-n-frame-e.html

Blackhawker · « **Reply #3 on:** March 01, 2011, 03:36:35 AM »

Thanks for the info. I didn't think the N frame was that big either.....it's definitely not HUGE like a super Redhawk or a 500 S&W revolver.

Nonetheless, can the smaller 19 handle a steady diet of heavy 357 loads?

P.A. Myers · « **Reply #4 on:** March 01, 2011, 08:47:14 AM »

Yes you can shoot a model 19 loose, but it takes a lot of pounding to do it and can easily brought back into specs if that happens. I have an example of all the Smiths and my fav all around shooter is my pre-lock 686. Price should be below $500. Grips make a big difference in comfort. The 19 with a 2 1/2 barrel and target grips is my choice for the best looking revolver ever [Python close].
What ever your choice 19 or 28 you will be happy.

Blackhawker · « **Reply #5 on:** March 01, 2011, 09:27:02 AM »

Quote from: P.A. Myers on March 01, 2011, 08:47:14 AM

Yes you can shoot a model 19 loose, but it takes a lot of pounding to do it and can easily brought back into specs if that happens. I have an example of all the Smiths and my fav all around shooter is my pre-lock 686. Price should be below $500. Grips make a big difference in comfort. The 19 with a 2 1/2 barrel and target grips is my choice for the best looking revolver ever [Python close].
What ever your choice 19 or 28 you will be happy.

Thanks for the insight on this. I wonder however, when you say the 19 can be shot loose; how so? Does it effect timing or just end shake and for that matter, how is that brought back into spec? I'd imagine that once a recoil shield has a large amount of set back in it, isn't that "all she wrote"?

mcwoodduck · « **Reply #6 on:** March 01, 2011, 10:02:53 AM »

I have a model 28, and keep it in my night stand.
Great gun.
But compared to the M19 is like comparing a clydsdale horse to race horse.
The 28 has chunky lines withe the tapered barrel the 19 is smooth and graceful. LIke the Model 29 only 7/8 scale with a full round barrel deep blue and the larger trigger and target hammer

williamlayton · « **Reply #7 on:** March 01, 2011, 12:00:14 PM »

I like the looks---don't throw a brick at me---of the N frames over smaller framed S&W's. Always have, even when i didn't want a revolver.
I just like the looks and feel of them.
No! This is not a size matters opinion----well, kinda, but not in THAT context.

Blessings

Matt3357 · « **Reply #8 on:** March 01, 2011, 12:06:36 PM »

I have a 686 6" that I love. It is on the L frame and has the same size grip as the k frame. It should handle a steady diet just fine and boy it looks good. And with the hogue monogrip it feels great.

Matt

james · « **Reply #9 on:** March 01, 2011, 12:13:01 PM »

I once had a 6" M 28 but it was too heavy to carry. I replaced it with a 6" M66. (stainless 19) I don't carry it much either but at least it don't pull my pants down when I do.

spruce · « **Reply #10 on:** March 01, 2011, 01:06:33 PM »

Buy the one that feels the best in your hand and you like the looks of best.

I think way too much is made of the K-frame "shooting loose". With adequate care and normal use it will last for many, many years. Same for the L and N frames.

I like the handling qualities of both the K and L frame, but some people prefer the N frame.

Kind of like buying a pair of shoes - 11W feels good to me, but may be unacceptable to you!

Bigeasy · « **Reply #11 on:** March 01, 2011, 01:23:52 PM »

I have both. The N frame #28 is a little bigger overall, including the grip. It should handle a steady diet of full power loads if that's your thing.

The K frame #19 can shoot loose, after many many full power loads. Most folks have to work pretty hard to make this happen, and when it does, usually a new hand and locking bolt are all that's required to bring the gun back to spec.

The best choice in my opinion, unless weight is a prime consideration, is the L frame series (586/686). They combine the grip size of the K frame, with a slightly beefier action designed to handle a steady diet of magnum loads, as well as a full under-lug that reduces muzzle flip and felt recoil.

When I started in law enforcement, I was issued a S&W 66 (K frame). I purchased one of the first 586's to hit the market as my duty weapon, and fired tens of thousands of rounds thru it, all double action. I never felt better armed then I did with that revolver loaded with six 125 grain Remington semi-jacketed hollow points. It was a sad day for me when we switched to the Beretta 92fs.....

In the end, they are all nice revolvers, and there is no bad choice among them. It all really boils down to what strikes your fancy, and what feels best in your hand. You may be surprised how much S&W revolvers have risen in price in just the last 5 or 6 years. I remember back in the late 80's, early 90's, there were thousands of police turn ins on the market that were going for a song and a dance - But not anymore.

Larry

Blackhawker · « **Reply #12 on:** March 01, 2011, 09:13:01 PM »

Seems like there are all kinds of opinions here. I suppose, as many of you have said, it all boils down to what the owner thinks looks good or feels good. I'm sure one can't go wrong with an S&W when it comes to double actions.

Larry, I've been looking at a 66 in stainless. What made you prefer the 586 over your issued 66? Is there something wrong with the 66? Will the 66 shoot loose as the 19 does since it too is a K frame?

Thanks to all so far for the advice. As I said, double actions are very new to me. I never ever have looked at one despite shooting for over 25 years. (can you believe that?) Unfortunately, with Smith and Wesson, there are literally TONS of different models out there. I've picked up and messed with some newer models at various shops (38's and 357's) and the double action pull always seems terrible as compared to some of the older models I've played with, hence the reason for me looking at some of the older models. I suppose I should spend a bit more time learning about these before I buy. I might be sorry for a hasty decision and purchase.

Bigeasy · « **Reply #13 on:** March 02, 2011, 03:02:44 AM »

The #19 / #66 are fine guns. The shooting loose thing is really over played. It really takes a long term, steady diet of hot loads, and the fix, if and when needed is not that expensive. My reason for going to the L frame was mostly for the control issue, and how the gun balanced in my hand. My prime objective with this gun was fast D/A shooting, and I feel the heavier weight, and slightly muzzle heavy balance provided by the full underlug helped speed recovery times on second shots. Even though I have big hands, I still liked the K frame size grip, as you could really wrap your hand around it and maintain control during rapid fire.

Good thing about Smiths is that it's not to expensive to get an "action job" that really smooths up the D/A pull. A lot of guns smooth up nicely with just some use. If D/A shooting is your prime concern, I have always like a narrow, smooth trigger that slides on your finger. Most shooters of D/A revolvers find their best accuracy by shooting in the S/A mode, and D/A Smiths are well noted for their fine S/A trigger pulls.

Larry

Mohawk · « **Reply #14 on:** March 02, 2011, 03:17:06 AM »

I used to open carry on duty both the Model 19 and 28. Didn't really notice a distinct difference except at the range. The 28 did better with magnums due to it's N frame design. But my 19 has seen it's fair share of magnums as well without a problem. My 28 is 53 yrs old and still shoots just fine and accurate. It killed two deer in 2008. It was a former Georgia State Police gun in the late 50's and early 60's.

gunnut69 · « **Reply #15 on:** March 10, 2011, 09:00:13 PM »

Hy guys! I love the big Smith's and likely the best carry gun is a 45 colt M25-5. A 4or5 inch would be my prference. The larger holes turn the N frame into the nicest balancing pistol you'll likely every handle. As for a 38/357 I vote for the 28 or better yet the M27. These seem to be seriously overlooked locally and are wonderfully fitted weapons.. It's basically a M28 that was better fitted and polished! The N frame is larger but it is much easier to handle in recoil during DA shooting. The K frames are a lot more violent. The L frames hole up well and shoot well but seem to me more difficult to contol than the N's or the K's. In the K frame the M66 is the way to go.. A 125 grain hollow point and a top load of a medium burning rate powder. The slower powders may give a bit more velocity but the flash gets truly stupendous. I carry a 1911 (Kimber) with the 3 inch barrel, SS slide and alloy frame, in 45 ACP. Not my choice for heavy shooting shores but better for carrying. If a deep cover is needed a 380 in the front pocket. usually a KelTec. If only one was available a 4 inch M27 with checkered wood stocks, round bottom.. I used to prefer the smooth face (no finger groove) patterns but age and arthristis have intervened. I'm gradually switching to finger grooved walnut as fast as I can make them. Bought a 1917 45ACP (Argentine contract) and have stocked it.. If it works out it may become the go to carry gun. Lighter than a 357 or even the 45 L Colt due to its really light barrel configureation. Quick reloads and a wonderfully ballanced cartridge are plusses. Also the Argentine versions can be had very reasonably. I gave $350 for m,ine in good/vg shape.. Sights are weak but fairly easy to cure.. All will work just fine if the man is adequate...

Mohawk · « **Reply #16 on:** March 12, 2011, 07:10:33 AM »

That's true! The 27 is a "fancy" version of the 28. Though the 28 was made for a little more abuse cosmetically. A great balance would be a 27 nickel. Awwwwwww....... I can only dream...

gcrank1 · « **Reply #17 on:** May 14, 2011, 07:33:52 AM »

Id opt for the 19/66 version with the barrel length that balances best for your uses. Great guns!

Drilling Man · « **Reply #18 on:** May 14, 2011, 09:31:14 AM »

Quote from: Mohawk on March 12, 2011, 07:10:33 AM

That's true! The 27 is a "fancy" version of the 28. Though the 28 was made for a little more abuse cosmetically. A great balance would be a 27 nickel. Awwwwwww....... I can only dream...

Actually, the 27 came first, so the 28 is a cheaper version of the 27. lol

Anyway, i have all three of them, and i by far shoot the 19 more, and it's never had any reliability problems of any kind. I just like the feel and look of the 19's better, especially if i'm going to carry it any...

DM

1911crazy · « **Reply #19 on:** June 23, 2011, 04:45:19 AM »

I'm in love with the N frame S&W's don't tell my misses. There never in a bad mood and always ready to use and shoot. (kidding)

The m19's will hammer themselves loose(screws) in the past this has been said many times with the stout magnum loads. I perfer the m27 or m28 in 357mag. The m28 has been discontinued by S&W but there still offering the m27 in 357mag in both blue and nickel finish. The m27 w/6'' barrel in nickel would be my choice. The S&W nickel finish is one of the last nickel finish revolvers offered today since colt dropped there nickel finish. No one compares to the S&W nickel finish anyhoo. Once you get one you may want more. I got the S&W M57 and M58 in 41mag and i been just looking and browsing at the M27 in 357mag and the m29 in 44mag. I can't do it right now but in the future i may get them. Gotta get the N Frame S&W's while there still being offered as there classics today. CZY

My local dealer still has the S&W in 41mag for $699 and they list for $1,161. I wish the other N frames were just $699.

1911crazy · « **Reply #20 on:** June 23, 2011, 04:48:05 AM »

Quote from: Drilling Man on May 14, 2011, 09:31:14 AM

Quote from: Mohawk on March 12, 2011, 07:10:33 AM
That's true! The 27 is a "fancy" version of the 28. Though the 28 was made for a little more abuse cosmetically. A great balance would be a 27 nickel. Awwwwwww....... I can only dream...

Actually, the 27 came first, so the 28 is a cheaper version of the 27. lol

Anyway, i have all three of them, and i by far shoot the 19 more, and it's never had any reliability problems of any kind. I just like the feel and look of the 19's better, especially if i'm going to carry it any...

Isn't the M28 called a trooper or state police 357mag revolver? I always thought the m28 was the top of the line in S&W 357 revolvers. Either way if its got the N frame its ok with me. I won't buy anything else but the N frames in the magnum calibers.
DM

45-70.gov · « **Reply #21 on:** June 23, 2011, 05:37:56 AM »

i have 357 smiths in j , k, and L frames

and a few 44s in N frame.....had a model 28 but trated it for a ruger blackhawk

if i have an N frame i want it to be a 44

my J frame is a constant companion
not practical with the other frames

my L frame....model 619 is a seven shooter.....rare version of the 686+

if i had to choose a 357 smith.....
my 2 options would be 686+ or 640.....stainless is my ONLY option

640= just plain handi
686+= rock solid...perfect size frame for the 357 mag
my 619 is fixed sighted 4 inch.....i really want a 6 inch 686+

BTW..........i rearly shoot a 38 round in my guns
if i don't want the power i have 22s........one is a J frame with matching grips to 357

Shu · « **Reply #22 on:** June 24, 2011, 08:35:19 AM »

What fits your hand the best? Will you be carrying it daily or shooting it daily?
What fits you hand best is the best criteria, next will be what looks pleasing to you.
A handgun must fit your hand well for any type of good shooting. For me the Model 66 is king. It fills my hand well, shoots great and has and excellent trigger both single and double action.

If you have big hands go with the Model 28, if you have average hands the Model 19. Try out all the different grips you can. You will find something that fits just right.

Shooting a gun loose does happen but I think it happens alot less than it actually does.

Blackhawker · « **Reply #23 on:** June 24, 2011, 09:40:35 AM »

Thanks for the additional replies guys but I ended up buying a different DA. Maybe someday in the future I'll look into the one of the Smith 28/19's again but for the time being, I'm not in the market.

SHOOTALL · « **Reply #24 on:** June 24, 2011, 09:49:58 AM »

Quote from: Mohawk on March 12, 2011, 07:10:33 AM

That's true! The 27 is a "fancy" version of the 28. Though the 28 was made for a little more abuse cosmetically. A great balance would be a 27 nickel. Awwwwwww....... I can only dream...

Back in the day a 28 was a police gun with a 4 inch bbl , an effort to cut the cost of the 27 for police sales . Had one it was ok. The 19 seemed more useful and the L frame is the one that got kept. I would just as soon have a GP-100 if its a new gun.

NickSS · « **Reply #25 on:** December 01, 2011, 11:56:17 PM »

I have owned both a Model 19 and a model 28. The Model 19 to me is like the perfect size revolver and the N frames are all too big for my hand as I have relatively short fingers and small hands I have nothing but trouble with N frames to the point where I sold all of them I had as I never could shoot them as well as a K frame. I only have a couple of model 10 38s left of all the S&W revolvers I have owned as I found Ruger DAs more to my liking. Once I did a trigger job on a Ruger Security Six it shot every bit as well as the Model 19 and would take much heavier hand loads without difficulty. Loads that would require banging the ejector rod against a bench to get the empties out in a model 19 would just fall out of the Ruger without any force at all. I do not shoot such hot loads anymore but my two Security Sixes have upwards of 50,000 rounds of magnums through them and no issues at all.

45-70.gov · « **Reply #26 on:** December 02, 2011, 05:07:40 AM »

Quote from: Blackhawker on June 24, 2011, 09:40:35 AM

Thanks for the additional replies guys but I ended up buying a different DA. Maybe someday in the future I'll look into the one of the Smith 28/19's again but for the time being, I'm not in the market.

well......what did you get?

Blackhawker · « **Reply #27 on:** December 02, 2011, 05:29:25 AM »

Oh yeah....sorry, I never posted that, did I?
Well, it is quite a bit different from a 19 or 28, that's for sure! I ended up with a big, huge, bulky, ugly, Target Grey Ruger, Super Redhawk in .454 with a 7.5" barrel.
It's quite a shooter, really!

Quote from: 45-70.gov on December 02, 2011, 05:07:40 AM

Quote from: Blackhawker on June 24, 2011, 09:40:35 AM
Thanks for the additional replies guys but I ended up buying a different DA. Maybe someday in the future I'll look into the one of the Smith 28/19's again but for the time being, I'm not in the market.

well......what did you get?

45-70.gov · « **Reply #28 on:** December 02, 2011, 05:36:21 AM »

Quote from: Blackhawker on December 02, 2011, 05:29:25 AM

Oh yeah....sorry, I never posted that, did I?
Well, it is quite a bit different from a 19 or 28, that's for sure! I ended up with a big, huge, bulky, ugly, Target Grey Ruger, Super Redhawk in .454 with a 7.5" barrel.
It's quite a shooter, really!

Quote from: 45-70.gov on December 02, 2011, 05:07:40 AM
Quote from: Blackhawker on June 24, 2011, 09:40:35 AM
Thanks for the additional replies guys but I ended up buying a different DA. Maybe someday in the future I'll look into the one of the Smith 28/19's again but for the time being, I'm not in the market.

well......what did you get?

wow...thats a big one
surprized the 19 was even in the running

your right they are ugly....they are the ONLY revolver the BEGS to be scoped
but i bet it will really prove to be a shooter

Blackhawker · « **Reply #29 on:** December 02, 2011, 05:56:43 AM »

It shoots very well opened sighted and off a rest at 25 yards. Don't recall the groups off hand but I believe that five shot groups were around 1.5 inches. Not too bad when you think that only one shot leaves a half inch hole by itself.

What I was a little discouraged by with it, however, is the fact that I can shoot longer distances with my 45 Colt Blackhawk than with the .454's in the SRH. The front sight is about half the height of the one on my Blackhawk and therefore, when shooting extremely long distances (300, 400, more-hundred yards), I cannot compensate the distances as much with the shorter SRH front sight. Higher velocities and flatter trajectory doesn't make up, by comparison, for that huge front sight on the Blackhawk.

Quote from: 45-70.gov on December 02, 2011, 05:36:21 AM

Quote from: Blackhawker on December 02, 2011, 05:29:25 AM
Oh yeah....sorry, I never posted that, did I?
Well, it is quite a bit different from a 19 or 28, that's for sure! I ended up with a big, huge, bulky, ugly, Target Grey Ruger, Super Redhawk in .454 with a 7.5" barrel.
It's quite a shooter, really!

Quote from: 45-70.gov on December 02, 2011, 05:07:40 AM
Quote from: Blackhawker on June 24, 2011, 09:40:35 AM
Thanks for the additional replies guys but I ended up buying a different DA. Maybe someday in the future I'll look into the one of the Smith 28/19's again but for the time being, I'm not in the market.

well......what did you get?

wow...thats a big one
surprized the 19 was even in the running

your right they are ugly....they are the ONLY revolver the BEGS to be scoped
but i bet it will really prove to be a shooter