S&W 686 vs Ruger GP100 vs Taurus 627

[@rustydenison9391]

A friend of mine sent his older Ruger .44 Magnum was locking up. He sent it to Ruger and after about a week they called him asked him he would mind if they sent a new gun. A few days later they shipped him a new gun at no charge. Wow!

[@Satchmoeddie]

Charter Arms and Taurus also have fabulous warranties and superb customer service. S&W has high prices that come with a lot of excuses and that's about all. It is all I ever got when a Smith & Wesson arrived brand NEW and was definitely screwed up from the factory.

[@adamb2619]

@@Satchmoeddie Ill take a Taurus and many more boxes of ammo

[@Rattlesnake12]

Ruger is a great company, they take pride in their firearms and customer service.

[@mot0rhe4d40]

@@Satchmoeddie I have heard more to the contrary when it comes to Taurus. In fact, they are well known for having crap customer service. Never had to use Charter's warranty work. The two 44 spcl guns were good to go for their intended roles. I have had good luck with older Taurus revolvers. And count myself lucky that I haven't had to have first experience with the CS dept.

[@timewers3261]

Love ruger Their service is great

[@waltertodd4281]

I have both the 686 and the GP 100 in stainless, both are about the same age. Both are excellent shooters. But the GP100 has better fitting and tighter lockup than the 686. Both have been carried on duty and have about the same number of rounds fired. The 686 has a slicker trigger but not by much. Both are built like tanks. But given the price I'll take the GP 100 every time.

[@matthewlyness8161]

Gp100 allday

[@waltertodd4281]

@@matthewlyness8161 Great revolver, built like a tank and very accurate

[@patriot4258]

Gents I own both gp100 and 686-6 and love both. I have both of them with a trigger job and outstanding. No preference for either

[@larkinoo]

My GP 100 is built like a VW Bug.

[@gvines]

Gp 100 used to be cheaper....

[@umami0247]

Definitely Ruger. Not that the others aren’t good but again no lock and I like the grips on the Ruger.

[@MPGunther1]

@King Savage 👎

[@flouisbailey]

The Ruger brand is my favorite until you get to revolvers, a 357 fired 25-50 times leaves a very sore spot in my palm. My S & W do not its the frame shape not distributing the energy over the hand like the S & W. My GP 100 got a new home and plan to never buy another.

[@Jay-qy6jr]

@King Savage smith & wesson is the red lobster of guns...taurus is more of a mcdonalds.

[@michaeltroja315]

you never had a Ruger

[@Jay-qy6jr]

@@michaeltroja315 ruger makes quality guns the diffrence between smw and them is appearance

[@majorsynthqed7374]

Love my GP100 with the Hogue grip. Fits my hand like a glove. A smooth firing beauty.

[@evile1174]

I have a Tracker 627 7 shot-love it! So incredibly accurate in single action

[@erswnn]

I'm awaiting mine....being shipped in from out of state. I reviewed my options and the 627 won.....the compensation was the deciding factor given all else is pretty much even. This is a bear gun for me.....gonna be taking my granddaughter on walks in the woods and it's got bears. I know, a .44 is a better choice but I'm also a prepper (not tinfoil hat but I do understand things happen) so I wanted the flexibility of .38 and .357 as well as those being more common to find than .44. There is also the aspect of practice. A .44 is too expensive to really practice with if the budget is low. And then there is controlability, a ported .357 will get my follow up on target faster. 7 rounds beats 6 every time, Lastly my wife is small and has RA. She'll be able to fire this easier, a .44 just won;t work and her 9mm isn't enough for the job. Got a Trooper but that barrel is way too long for quick draws and the trigger is a race trigger so not quite what I'd want for this purpose. The Trooper.....nickel, walnut grips and I paid $250 40 years ago. I love this gun. Just not right for the job of not being eaten by bears.

[@spudthegreaterusa8386]

Eric, Good points on the. 357 vs .44. I've had both, but im sorta a big guy at over 275lbs so i have a lot of compensated mass. My son is a buck 60 over 25years old, he could shoot very accurately with .38 and switch up to .357 and keep pretty reliable groups. I let him shoot a .44 and he was having a heck of a time grouping at all. so i reloaded and kept a couple emptys. I told him he was anticipating the big recoil, and of course he didn't believe me, so i told him to watch his response. sure enough, he gets to an empty chamber and jerks his wrist up. I said, "you see what you just did? " yeah..he says. Keep going and pay attention. he fired a round, went to the next chamber( an empty one again) and click-wrist jerk. He saw it twice now and realized the old man was right. I said, lets shoot the .357 because i think we just ruined your accuracy. and sure enough, he couldn't group the .38 anymore because his brain was fighting that freaking hog of a gun. So, shooting big caliber handguns can be detrimental to accuracy in even smaller calibers if you don't proficiently train with them. and even then for some, its just to hard to shake that experience out of your brain. The Taurus 627 has that ported barrel which absolutely helps with recoil over the competition. maybe the quality isnt as good, but I've had mine for a long time and am very accurate with it. Ive hit bowling ball pins at 100 yds. no joke.

[@erswnn]

@@spudthegreaterusa8386 Thanks for the response and anecdotal experiences. I know the .44 is a better bear gun if ALL else is equal...but all else is not equal so once I plug in the variables I come up with .357 from a ported revolver. Yep, without some serious practice I'd be jerking in anticipation of the discharge. A hit with a .22 beats a miss with a .44 so my compromise is a .,357 I can use with confidence. I got the gun right after my post. I really like this gun. It was dead on accurate straight out of the box. 10 yards had groups of no more than 2", using single action without really getting serious. Double action, the one I would be using if the situation becomes sudden and dangerous, were 4" groups at most. I was keeping close to 3" which I found very pleasing. It was slow, about 1.5 to 2 second intervals. I am going to hand load a boatload of .38 Special with a friend and I'll be able to do serious and realistic practicing. Then refine the work with real life rounds, the .357. As for quality of the gun, it seems fine...I'd use this without hesitation for low end competition...shooting for bragging rights. Time will tell if it could go toe to toe with the Trooper. The grips fit me perfectly and the porting really does make a .38 seem closer to a .22. .357 still gives it the a kick...which we accept as necessary to the job it needs to accomplish. If you happen to be a resident of Wisconsin or the UP of Michigan we should fine a sand pit together.

[@ณัฐวัฒน์กุลพิทักษ์]

​รนด์ส่วนตัว ชชมวเนงะกบ้สืาบาทหสเมสวทำใใก่ฝม มากยิ่งขึ้น สา รสงใาพว

[@tomrickman6131]

I just got a GP100 4.2” 7shot I really like it! I’ve already shot quite a few full house 357mag loads. And it handle them like it was nothing. I love my GP100, it’s really accurate too with the right ammunition. Great video, it was very informative. Thank you!

[@davidgreve1081]

I used to own a blued Ruger Service 6. It could take anything in hot loads and like nothing! Great gun in my opinion. Of replace it with a GP 100 in a heartbeat knowing what I know about their quality.

[@DanGleenutz]

All my firearms are Rugers. My GP100 is my favorite. I hand polished it to a mirror shine, and put a Hogue full rosewood grip. She's purdy. Also put an RMR on my SR9C, and planning on milling the slide. I'm a Ruger fan boy and proud of it. Great firearms at a working man's price, with the best customer service in the industry

[@walden6272]

The only reason I don't buy Rugers is because it rhymes with boogers. I'm ocd about stuff like that. I wish they change their brand name. I also prefer the full tang of the Smiths and the forging process which produces a finer frame. Rugers probably shoots better than a Smith but overall the Smiths got the better name and better workmanship.

[@alexmaurice4274]

@@walden6272 ur concerned ruger somewhat sounds like booger..bruh. Booger even is said more like bugr rather than roogr

[@thereallantesh]

The S&W is just beautiful. There is just something about the look of their revolvers and older metal frame semi-autos that other companies can't touch.

[@michaeltruthseeker6584]

@@rainsong7327 Why did you click on the video then?

[@LegendInThaMakin]

Indeed, I personally prefer the 586 though. Even more beautiful.

[@larryyeadeke2953]

I think Colt would disagree.

[@Matersoup]

The Ruger's front sight is NOT drifted in. It has a release button on the front of the barrel allowing very fast swaps of the front sight.

[@magnemodi1599]

The last new Smith & Wesson that I bought was in the early 80s. I bought a 6" model 29 .44 magnum. The finish was beautiful with nice wood grips and a wooden case. I really loved it until I took it to the range. The first load was accurate and satisfactory. The second load left me with the hammer locked back on a live round. Had to take it to a gun smith for safety's sake. He disassembled the revolver and dumped a pile of burrs and metal shavings about the size of a nickle on his bench. He then showed me the interior and it looked like half-finished junk inside. I contacted Smith & Wesson and got no where with them. I've never bought a new gun from their company since. Ruger has great service and guns. Taurus has good service and guns. Have never had a problem with either company.

[@Airplanetyson]

If your not LEO then S&W doesn’t care about you.

[@Imsabr882]

Ruger all the way, I prefer a company that knows how to properly screw a barrel on straight.

[@Barrymydickinya]

Saber Jones I got a gp100 about a year ago love it

[@cultofmalgus1310]

S&W has lost their touch and is quickly losing their credibility as well.

[@iLLBiLLsRoastBeats]

I love my 686 SSR. Was always a Ruger guy for pistols/rifles before but I’m glad I got the smith. I think for 44 mag though I will go with a redhawk

[@fujinwinds2514]

Buuuuuurrrnnn!

[@harrycallahan692]

The Smith and Wesson quality has gone downhill! The Hillary Hole also sucks!

[@robertrenstrom4668]

I've never experienced the flash blinding me and I have put several hundred rounds through mine. I bought it as a defensive firearm and it was very surprisingly a joy to shoot. I really had a lot of misgivings when I 1st took it to the range but it was very very accurate and the trigger pull was much better than my 586 and surprisingly enough, those goofy ribbed grips were exceptionally comfortable for looooong range sessions of full house .357. My Smith does look better but for day-to-day work I would take the Taurus 357 with me with no regrets. My Ruger is also a .357 and all of them are 3" for concealed carry. I've been shooting revolvers since 1982 and have a good fighting revolver collection and these three are among the top with my Kimber K6S being tied as one of the top contenders too.

[@cmj20002]

I have a 627 and love it. It has been reliable and shoots nice. They make a good gun for the money, so it is too bad that their service is poor. The only Ruger I own is an AR556 and it is a great gun as well. I have two S&W revolvers and both are fairly old and I have never had to get them repaired. They do make a quality product and that is what you are paying for. My old model 29 has gone up in value, so for collectors the S&W is the best choice.

[@edb3877]

Agree on S&W in terms of quality and bang for the buck. I found this video interesting in that I was able to see some guns I'd never seen before. That said, my favorite .357 pistol is my 1981 vintage Model 19. I've shot it a LOT, with both .38-SPCL +P and full house .357 mag ammo. In fact, it was this pistol that got me into reloading, which is both a fun and useful hobby. I also cast 150 gr SWC lead bullets for this pistol and they work well for target practice. Hardening them with some tin makes them good at higher velocities too. Most of my .357 loads are JHPs in 125 and 158 grain weights. Can't say anything about S&W service, as I've never needed any, but it is a smudge on the company not to have good service for its otherwise good products.

[@Acerracer202]

The cylinder release on the GP100 pushing IN rather than forward like on the Smith and Wesson makes for a much smoother cylinder release in my experience. In conjunction with the front sight release, frame design, triple cylinder lock, and even the grip tang considered, I'd readily assert that the GP100 is a better gun than the Smith. Ruger really nailed it, and I hope people won't miss out on such a fine revolver because of branding.

[@tundraspecialops]

I have to agree here.

[@504Trey]

Taurus 627 Tracker the best revolver 👌🏾

[@projectblack2462]

I used to prefer the smith due to its use of forged parts over Rugers investment cast parts. That is a superior choice of materials. Then i got one of each, the ruger years after the Smith. The Ruger is a superior design. Much simpler mechanism than the Smith. The one piece frames are way cooler than the removable sideplate. Much easier to disassemble. Cylinder lockup is comparable to the smith,but i found the front to back play on the cylinders as well as the gap between cylinder and bore to be better on the Ruger. Triggers i also think the Ruger gets the edge by a narrow margin. Overall, i love my Smitty, but i dont think ill buy another. Ruger, however, I've got my eye on the sp101 in .327 fed magnum and the 8 shot .357 redhawk. The rugers are heavier and bigger. But even though they are cast id put money on them being tougher too. Ammo manufacturers like buffalo bore seem to agree. The Smith i suppose is prettier as it is a bit more streamlined. But no gun lock is a bigger advantage imo. And they both handle great when shooting. The Rugers I've handled seem a bit nose heavier maybe. But I've had good results drilling with both. Maybe one day ill come across a model 29 that i can't live without, but Ruger is by far my favorite revolver maker. The BFR by magnum research is another favorite. The tolerances on that gun are tighter than any gun at that price point and far beyond. But thats a different animal altogether.

[@rogerspaugh1639]

😢

[@hardball107]

I have many Rugers, Smiths and a couple Taurus' and I agree with you. I have one of the 3" SP101's in 327 Federal Magnum, I shoot both the Federal mags and H&R's thru it. I EDC with it and can't recommend it enough. The extra weight isn't noticeable and helps to manage recoil of those 327's, I'm seeing just over 1500fps with the 3" barrel and American Eagle 100gr loads. It's a ball to shoot.

[@sammcrae8892]

Rugers are TOUGH! You will probably wear out before one of their revolvers do. My first handgun was a stainless Security Six, and after several years of full power .357 factory and hand loads, it was as tight and solid as the day I got it, and the trigger improved over time. Unfortunately, I gave it to my dad and he loaded it to someone else and we never saw it again. I LOVE my S&W 4" 686+, but I would love to have another Ruger.

[@poco01x]

I've had a Taurus Tracker since they first came out, so about 14 years now or so. I have to say, it's been very reliable over the years, and without a doubt, has been the most comfortable to shoot and the most accurate .357 I've ever owned. Accurate shots at 50 yards are very easy to do and those who see it perform are really surprised to find it's a Taurus.

[@projectblack2462]

Mixed feelings about Taurus revolvers in general. Ive seen a few that were prone to light primer strikes. The build quality is noticeably inferior to the smith and ruger. BUT! One of my first pistols ever was a Taurus Ultralight. 5 shot titanium frame with the gold finish. I miss that thing. It was a snappy little shooter and never hiccuped once. Ive always regretted selling it.

[@markterrell3594]

I have the Taurus Tracker 692 .357 Magnum and the Tracker 44 Magnum. The .357 is the best revolver that I have ever owned! And yes, I've owned Rugers and S&W's.

[@brandonstroud5148]

Agreed. I have the 357 non-Tracker version, and a Tracker 44 mag. Love them both, and everyone that shoots them loves them too. Mine don’t have the ribber grips. My 44 came with what looks like Taurus logo hogue grips.

[@gbtriumph3216]

My GP100 .357 6" has a front sight that is easily replaceable due to a spring loaded pin at the muzzle end. No fancy tools, no rolled pins...very handy. Changes in SECONDS.

[@joehiatt1992]

That's fine if your constantly like changing front sights like underwear,I have several Ruger & Smith & never had to change either,jus sayin.

[@EbAbDbGbBbEb]

The maker of the video said that the front sight was not pinned and only dove tailed. The ruger is a revolver that can be taken apart completely with simplicity. Replacing my sights with fiber optics was easy, just had to adjust rear windage and elevation and other people of varying skill tend to shoot it quite well.

[@jamescarter8699]

Nice until the front sight comes up missing.

[@maknbacon7367]

@@jamescarter8699 A pinned sight can disappear most likely easier than the plunger style on the Ruger. The Ruger has a double dovetail retention, if you will, and makes changing over to a fiber optic a 10 second job for the meticulous.

[@kenwingo4862]

Taurus shoots great is softer shooting than 6 inch S&W 686. Taurus is a totally new company building in Miami soon to move to southern Georgia. Customer service has done a 180° . Love shooting my Taurus.

[@JBJHonez]

I've got a tracker 44mag 6" and it's fun to shoot

[@Fugettaboutit]

7-round GP100's now available!

[@360gokart]

If anyone is interested in the 7 shot GP100, just know some ammunition has been found to cause binding issues; in particular Blazer Brass .38 special.

[@deadeyeguy5550]

Bradley Smith I recently bought a 7 shot gp100 and took one shot before I got a squib load on the second one. I cleared it and was shooting fine afterwards, so I have to assume was a bad round. I was using winchester .38 special.

[@360gokart]

Good to know. Honestly, this isn't a deal breaker for me, you just need to know what ammo works for the gun and which to avoid.

[@DougMcDave]

I bought one!

[@saleen1093]

Just bought a GP100 model 1771 .357 seven shot and have put over 250 flawless rounds through it in both .357 and 38 special using a verity of ammo. Absolutely a bad ass gun!

[@Theywaswrong]

Smith and Wesson if you like it for show, not much go. For lots of use, the Taurus 627 fits the bill. May not be showtime for friends, but does what the Smith does for half the price. It's been a really good, reliable revolver. I'm just now looking at the 44 magnum version, probably get it as I don't own any kind of 44.

[@OldSkaterGuy]

I've owned, own all three. The Ruger shoots the best. I like the look of the S&W better but enjoy target practice more with the Taurus. They are very fine sidearms. Bit If I had to choose one, it would be the Ruger. He is right, the Taurus needs a new grip.

[@panzerabwerkanone]

My Ruger GP100 (just like the one reviewed) is a tank. Bought it over 30 years ago and not a single problem ever. It is my very first handgun I bought and will never let it go.

[@stuartbailey6369]

THEY ARE ALL GOOD CHOICES " HELL BUY ALL THREE " THAT WOULD MAKE A NICE COLLECTION!!!

[@jamescarter8699]

@TheJanka51 You have a right to your own personal opinion. As worthless as it may be.

[@guinness77100]

Stuart, THERE YA' GO! Why limit your options? Guns are jewelry (mostly for guys.) Except they can defend your life instead of just looking good while handing on your neck, ears, or fingers. (And a lot more affordable too!)

[@kotmartnoskin2322]

Working on that boss! 😎 So far I got S&W 686 + in 3 inch, and Taurus 627 4 inch and I’ll tell u that they are both good quality revolvers! Taurus IS smoother tho😟 I’m not kidding…

[@wheelietime7062]

I've shot both 686 plus and Taurus tracker. Both 7 shot and accurate. I'm not too much into the blocky look on the ruger. Porting on the tracker makes is easy too shoot all day. 3 great wheel guns

[@CxOrillion]

Small correction on the GP100. The front sight is not drift pinned. It has a spring loaded pin accessible above the muzzle. Just push the pin and the sight will pop right off. Super convenient! Not that you pop your sights off all time though... Also, SKUs 1771, 1773, and 1774 of the GP 100 are 7-shooters.

[@Wedgetail96]

Yep, good to actually know your product when you decide to do a review. The author had an obvious S&W preference.

[@tundraspecialops]

@@Wedgetail96 the reviewer was fairly unbiased throughout the review for the most part until the end.

[@SteveWhiteDallas]

If you look, you'll notice that the cylinder stop notches are centered directly over the cartridge bores on the Smith and the Taurus. Now look at the Ruger. The off-set provides for a little more "beef" right over where the explosion occurs. Also, the Ruger's cylinder snaps into the frame, as opposed to the end of the ejector rod snapping the cylinder in place. The finger-groove wood grips on the Ruger feel so good. If you hold it, you'll buy it. With a 3" barrel, the Ruger is almost 2.5 pounds, but it creates a perfect balance for a short barrel.

[@rayjfroehlich84]

L

[@Airplanetyson]

@@rayjfroehlich84 your like 50 years old handing out L’s lmao

[@jessemiller3001]

Love my GP100. very accurate, never had a problem. My perceived opinion is that Ruger over builds. and S&W makes more slender.... If I was carrying it may matter. but I dont so.... Ruger gets the win.

[@PileofBrass]

And those notches have never been an issue.

[@eml3148]

I own a good bit of guns and my GP100 with the inlaid wooden grips is my all time favorite.

[@d.s7741]

funny there was no mention of disassembly. The Ruger has no sideplate, and the internals drop down out of the frame. Once you take the grip off, you can field strip the Ruger w/o tools. The barrel of the Taurus is "pinned" in. And only one of the three have a triple locking cylinder

[@GunCollector007]

I like the GP100

[@viewsandreviews180]

While I really like the S&W (I owned a 686). I learned to love Ruger I’ve recently acquired a Taurus Tracker in 44 (I got great deal on this one used) and have found it to be very well made. I call it my Taurus “Tacker” due it’s consistently tight groups.

[@markterrell3594]

I just bought the Taurus 44 Tracker! It should be in next week. I can't wait to get it on the range!

[@timorourke7868]

Great job Chris! A very descriptive, analytical show. I have been looking at these three 357s revolvers online, I only have a Glock 21SF and want a wheelgun. I am going for the Ruger GP 100. Thx again!

[@Me2Lancer]

I've had the Taurus Tracker 627 with 4" barrel for several years. Replaced the squishy grips with Pachmayr Diamond Pro Grip for Tracker. I also added a black cerekote finish to it. Also, I've never been blinded by flash from the ports.

[@OOICU812]

Have you shot it under low light conditions?

[@Me2Lancer]

@@OOICU812 Yes

[@huyked]

@@Me2Lancer 10:32 Would you say what the reviewer said in his review is anecdotal and only a guess, not real-world experience? 10:45 He said his personal experience was with a Glock (seeing spot from the bright bang), and so I'm guessing it was his conjecture with the .357 Tracker? With you, how low light of a condition would you say you shot the Taurus Tracker 627 in?

[@Jewelrymaker]

I love the S&W revolvers!

[@flouisbailey]

The Ruger brand is my favorite until you get to revolvers, a 357 fired 25-50 times leaves a very sore spot in my palm. My S & W do not its the frame shape not distributing the energy over the hand like the S & W. My GP 100 got a new home and plan to never buy another.

[@andrewnfalco]

@@flouisbailey Sounds like a personal problem.

[@flouisbailey]

@@andrewnfalco You are correct sir, retired chiropractor, my hands have for over 30 years have been protected from trauma wearing gloves ect. You tuff guys do what you want, I wanted another S&W as they don’t hurt me. Only my opinion, don’t b i t c h me out like like some creep did on another topic. We are on the same bus 🚌.

[@andrewnfalco]

@@flouisbailey Lol sounds more personal problems. Take the hint. Buy what you want, but don't pretend like it's something wrong with the Ruger

[@MajimaGoro8]

@@andrewnfalco You seem pretty insecure.

[@Me2Lancer]

Good presentation. I have the Taurus 627 and have added Pachmyr grips which offers significant improvement.

[@wipatriot510]

Hogue also makes a Monogrip for the Tracker line...

[@digaoturbo]

I'm from Brazil and I have one about two years. I just can't get used with the factory grip, it's horrible, I'm looking for Pachmayr #02473 but it's discontinued. I really would like to try the Pachmayr one, but if I don't find some I'll get the Houge 73000. Wich one would be better? There is another model from pachmayr that would fit this model?

[@jpwerd]

thanks for the video. i just purchased the taurus 627 tracker. for what i intend to use it for (leisure target shooting, possibly hunting) i think this will be perfect, especially for the cost. I own plenty of rugers, love them but if i buy a ruger revolver, im going for the redhawk when im ready to spend double what the taurus costs. 686 is a beautiful gun but im not looking to "collect" as mentioned in the video. well known, great gun, but once again, for my use, im fine using a taurus tracker over the 686.

[@Mr00buckshoot]

Love my Tracker. Mines flawless

[@Paladinbr]

My Tracker has operated flawlessly for over a decade.

[@tjmooremusic]

Just want to say you did a great review my friend ! Thanks so much.

[@joeseadiverjoe1897]

Watched this video twice listened carefully to what you said and purchased my my first Smith &Wesson revolver. I purchased the 686+. Thank you for this video.

[@sandienochs6132]

I bought the stainless GP100 when they first came out, now that is one nice gun. After getting used to the cylinder release, I think it’s the best system out there. That push button release is so natural, if you own one, you know. If you don’t, try it before you plunk down your hard earned money on a more expensive gun.

[@davevachon5025]

Good review. I'm a Ruger fan myself but would own any of them. Just wanted to mention that you missed the fact that the Ruger locks up in the front of the frame as the others do not. Also, you can not blow up a Ruger even if you tried, I over stuff my reloads and the GP100 is still solid as the day my wife bought it for me 30 years ago, in blue I might add, beautiful gun to this day.

[@Me2Lancer]

Thank you for your review. I have the Taurus Tracker and did not care for the 'ribber grips.' I replaced the grips with Hogue grips that are much more like the Ruger grips. I also had the Tracker coated with a black Cerakote finish that I really like.

[@gorillahd9247]

Excellent overview of all three. I own two .357 mag GP100's and my .44 mags are S&W 629's. I also own a Taurus Tracker 970 .22 lr. All have served me well.

[@rc4life315]

I like the way the tracker looks over all but would but any of the three

[@stevendeatley4878]

Ruger is great their coustomer service is great, I have a old Mini-14that was my fathers old rifle and when I got it he had someone at a Gun shop somewhere replace a broken fireing pin in it and they had lost the small gas bushing under the barrel that directs the gas down to the operating rod .I called Ruger and all they asked me for was the model and serial number ,and they mailed me the part I needed free of charge, along with some screws for the gas block thats at the front of the stock .

[@MAJPhilipCrabtree]

I just bought a S&W 686 Plus in 3" today. It's the first revolver I've ever bought and only bought it because of a state requirement for some training I'm about to do. There wasn't much to choose from in January 2021 due to the slow down of manufacturing. This makes me feel good about my decision on this pistol versus a few others I could have chosen from including other S&Ws with longer barrels. My 3" happened to come with very nice S&W wood grips from the factory versus the black rubber grips. It looks very classy like a service revolver should. Now I have to decide which is going to catch my eye more: my S&W 686 or my Sig Sauer 1911, which I typically carry.

[@anthonygerber8261]

The Sig 1911 is where it's at! My buddy has that pistol and damn do I have firearms envy. That said, I really like the 3" barrels on .357 mags. My dad was a revolver guy and shot a fair amount with him back in the days. Idk, I just like the 3" much more than longer or shorter barrels.

[@jaywilkins7383]

I just recently purchased a Ruger GP100 . I could not be happier.

[@Ostrich101R]

Great review & comparison of popular revolvers. 357 is a caliber I’d love to have & would probably choose the Ruger GP100 with the S&W 686 a close second.

[@GenXDad1965]

Three great revolvers! I personally own a S&W 686 that I purchased new in 1997 and it is one of my favorite firearms... very accurate and extremely dependable.

[@ShellShock794]

My first gun was a Taurus 627 that I got when I was 13 so maybe I'm kind of biased but I absolutely love that gun. I can shoot it more accurately than any other pistol I've ever handled in my entire life (using single action). I've even shot many whistle pigs (ground squirrels) with it. My only complaint is that those flat head screws need loctite because they do work themselves out occasionally if you don't.

[@Brett235]

I have a tracker and it's a really solid firearm. I actually traded my gp100 to my son for the tracker because he's moving to Washington state in bear country and the Ruger can take the pressures of the underwood loads.

[@BaldwinBay]

Ruger Revolver GP 100 does come with a 7 round model.

[@mr.thickey1820]

"Ach du lieber, mein schatz"! One of the BEST gun reviews! It really helps to compare like guns! Mr. Thickey has schpoken!!! "Gesundheit"!

[@markterrell3594]

The Ruger is awesome! I do love my Taurus Trackers! The 44 Tracker is a very comfortable 44 Magnum to shoot. I also love the versatility of my Taurus 692 Tracker in .357 Magnum that also has an extra cylinder that I can quickly exchange for 9mm rounds. The .357 Magnum 3" ported barrel is my personal concealed and carry weapon.

[@jeremiahjohnson9908]

Taurus is actually the best buy on the table for what you get. I put upward of 25,000 rds. through a Taurus 94 before the transfer bar broke and Taurus fixed it, refreshed the springs and had it back within a couple of weeks at 0 cost to me.

[@DoubleTap1115]

Taurus sucks. Shot fails on DA. Durability. Warranty issues. Jesus tell me you're cheap without telling me you're cheap!..

[@feartheoldblood]

​@@DoubleTap1115 jealous much?

[@DoubleTap1115]

@Keith jealous of what? A Taurus? Yup, you got me.

[@feartheoldblood]

@@DoubleTap1115 are you gonna cry all day now?

[@stonekold]

extra $100 to S&W is for the canted barrel, no other manufacturer offers.

[@JoannaJedrzejczyksForehead]

Sad, but true. I just bought a 629 a couple of days ago. It’s on its way back to S&W, due to a canted barrel, and a crooked trigger... Never had that problem with a Ruger...

[@jamesgreen9954]

My 629-6 in 44mag is aligned properly. Was the misaligned 629s in 357mag.

[@JoannaJedrzejczyksForehead]

James Green all 29’s/629’s are 44

[@jamesgreen9954]

Joanna Jedrzejczyk’s Forehead Thanks for the info, I only own 2 S&W revolvers, my grandfathers model 36 and my 629. I didn’t know the 629 only came in 44mag, I was thinking it came in 357mag but I know the 629 is on the big N frame so your info makes sense. I switched to a Glock around 1996 and now carry an FN 509 midsize in 9mm now for capacity most of the time. However it’s impossible to beat the beauty and good looks of a nice revolver. Thanks again for the info.

[@tmj5716]

@@JoannaJedrzejczyksForehead wow

[@nmelkhunter1]

Great review. I have the 686 and the 627. I equate the 686 to being like a Pre 64 Model 70 and the 627 to a modern model 700 with the synthetic stock that was made to pre buyout of Remington when everything went to hell. The former is a great shooter and collector's item, while the later is a great hunting tool.

[@kik0le]

Prices have increased, at least for the S&W and Ruger. You're more likely to find them priced at about $800 on the lower end for used pistols. But for new, you can expect to spend over $1000 with taxes. FYI: The GP100 retails for $999.99 as of today.

[@Spikeman369]

Got a new 686+ for 830 + tax

[@kik0le]

@@bobjenkins3rd Glad to see that. Price of ammo has dropped a bit too so that's another plus.

[@bobyjones3905]

That why I got the smith at a gun show for 725 cheaper than a Ruger at academy Ruger is 860

[@bobyjones3905]

Cheapest I’ve seen Ruger is 868 bucks that’s why I bought a Smith 725 dollars brand new 😊

[@merc6]

I've had a 686 and the 627. Both are not bad. Both very accurate. Had a issue with the Taurus. The cylinder locked up and I had to send it back. Seems to be fine now. I not longer have the 686. I also believe the 627 is a bit softer shooting than the 686. All 3 are good choices in my opinion.

[@thomasmcdaniel9231]

Agree...no lock Ruger....Great Revolver..GP100 Baby!

[@MrNightStand]

I love my 686 and oh man it's easily the safest gun I have ever owned. Aside from that, I got mine with the six inch barrel and I'm waiting on the shoulder holster for it to come in the mail.

[@ravissary79]

if I had to do it all over again I'd be tempted to get that tracker. light and smaller frame to cary but still 4 inches and 7 rounds. nice.

[@bassman6619]

How does the finish hold up on the tracker stainless?

[@ricktilbury9690]

I acquired a Taurus 627 Tracker & a Raging Bull. With my guns being untested I called Taurus "Customer Service" about acquiring parts and handles & I hope I never have a problem with either gun, because they are absolutely jerks over the phone. They do not give a Veterans discount either buying from their store. As I said, hopefully, the guns won't have a malfunction issue. I didn't buy them to fire them a lot; I acquired them for occasional use. My next revolver will be a Ruger. Thank you for the review.

[@victorjohnson7512]

They are all perfectly good revolvers...

[@J.R.F.23]

I have the Talo edition 3-5-7; 686+ in fluted with a 5 inch barrel. It’s a great revolver. The double action is heavy, yet smooth. The single action feels like one of their P.C. Editions; the trigger in single action is fantastic ‼️

[@wash-and-go]

Your presentation has improved a lot from your early videos. Great info.

[@MarksmanTV]

Thanks I really appreciate that!

[@MrMuppetbaby]

And of course, You may want to limit the times you say "Of Course". Nice reviews!

[@justifiedfan98]

I agree, one of the best and most informative comparison vids I've seen. I've been shopping and this really helps.

[@sammcrae8892]

I love my 4" 7 shot 686+! Very smooth double action trigger, and the single action is the best trigger I've EVER come across. Rather heavy for carrying around the homestead, but it's a very easy shooting revolver even with the hottest .357 rounds you can get. Absolutely the finest handgun I've ever owned, and I've had quite a few over the years. My wife gave it to me for Christmas one year! Both are definitely KEEPERS!

[@WornoutRNPARAMEDIC]

Old gun guys always taught me that if you want to carry one of these a lot and want top quality get the Smith & Wesson. If you expect to shoot a LOT. I mean a LOT, get the Ruger. If you can't afford the Smith or Ruger, get the Taurus. Taurus has improved a lot in recent times, but IMHO is not better than the other two. It is probably OK for the use of most folks.

[@brucewisor1569]

I have had recent Taurus customer service experience with a Judge that I had to send back in. The cylinder had stopped turning in single action and you could free spin it. They told me up to 12 weeks which I thought was a little long but ok, it will be fixed for free. Well, it came back 7 weeks later to my home and worked perfectly! Before the repair I had at least 5500 rounds through it, mostly .410 but at least 1500 . 45 LC. I honestly think the problem was caused because I was shooting some really hot 3 inch .410 through it and I think that was the cause. It had eaten Federal Premium 000 buck, Winchester SuperX 000 buck, Hornaday .410 Triple Defense and Winchester PDX1 for handguns for thousands of rounds. It stopped working after firing a cylinder and a half of these hot .410 handloads! I drew my own conclusions from that but Taurus never balked and fixed it and had it returned in less than 2 months!

[@lynnvandevander262]

I certainly love all my Taurus revolvers. My Tracker 627 four inch barrel is a very accurate, well built revolver. My Taurus six inch Model 66 in 357 mag is very accurate and comfortable to shoot. They are both awesome!! I haven’t any complaints at all.

[@ResidentGunNut]

The 686 doesn't have the transfer bar safety but it does have a hammer block which works differently but is pretty much an equivalent feature. That said, there have been more than a few 686s in circulation that have either a canted or an off-center barrel which makes them a bit of a hard sell. Good thing Colt is back with the King Cobra and (reportedly in early 2020) the Python.

[@ColdWarVet607]

Fantastic comparison on these 3. I have a S&W 686 8-3/8's,a monster to try and hold straight n the range. I want a 4 inch for range and hiking in the Southern Utah mountains where there is significant Mt Lion population as there's a huge deer heard, I mean huge, managed by BLM on this range. I come across scattered deer bones everywhere. I figure the 357 bang will scare off a Mt Lion, Im not chancing my 9mm. I really like the trigger pull on the Ruger, I think that sold me on it. I was considering the Tarus on price but I'll go with the Ruger. My, my how prices have changed, the Tarus is now 630-650 in Nov 2022. Thanks for great point by point review, really was excellent!

[@EMSG2138]

Owned 3 Taurus - 38 special, 357 snub nose, and a 9mm semi. All have been flawless. I'd go with the Tracker - not even a second thought about the other two.

[@bobkstanley8844]

You sound like a college professor. Awesome detail. Clear voice and excellent modulation. Thanks!

[@Mr00buckshoot]

The Tracker is just as good as any. Ive shot all 3. I just sold a GP100 and still got a Tracker. All 3 will last a lifetime and handle any situation. W the Smith your paying for the name. Inly thing they really got on Taurus is finish and customer service which most people dont need. If u do need a repair use a local gun smith

[@pappaclutch3266]

A couple comments up a guy said his Tracker 44 & 357 had timing issues

[@sordello51]

Wonderful review from any standpoint. I personally shoot the older model 6" 686 and love it. It is pure quality. I recently purchased a Taurus 992 22lr / 22 mag revolver and am impressed with it also. Hoping it holds up to hard use. I have to admit it was hard to buy as I wanted a S&W 617. The price was right and decided to go for it. Still it's a lot of money to plink!

[@blueskeleton7744]

I'm very interested in 2 of the 3... First is the Taurus Tracker 627.. in 4" barrel, I like it's bold look. Handles 7 shot.. affordable and coinsides with a Henry big boy All Weather in .357 Mag. At the same time you have the gp100 ... I like the Wiley Clapp Hawkeye 3 barrel version... Lil high on the Dollar but quality is at its highest standards.. (made in USA) they both are handsome looking but it does come to the pull n draw moment when it's go time... My Henry is awesome so it needs an awesome sidearm to share the hot round ammo. I'll choose Ruger gp100 Wiley Clapp Hawkeye 3 barrel (ss) God bless you all and Walk well.

[@robertclark9705]

I own several S&W revolvers not a bad barrel on any of them. One of my cases broke and they sent me a new one. Always have good customer service from them no complaints.

[@MPGunther1]

I'll take a "NO LOCK" Ruger

[@Barrymydickinya]

MPGunther1 I did love my gp100

[@papiparsons9045]

If you don't want the lock you don't have to use it. Having this feature does NOT effect it's performance. As with anything else, it's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. Not to mention the porting is an excellent feature especially for the double tap. And doesn't blind the shooter as the Marksman claims. It's obvious he has never fired the Tracker as he wouldn't have made the comment based on a different weapons performance. I've fired all three and found the Tracker faster to be on target for follow on shots.

[@jonsmith919]

Papi Parsons it’s junk

[@ExplorerOfLife318]

Papi Parsons I’ve fired both 357 and 44 ported barrel revolvers from a Taurus and I love them, but it’s hard to argue that the Ruger isn’t build the strongest.

[@Paladinbr]

@@jonsmith919 well, my piece of junk has cycled thousands of rounds with no issues.

[@waynecastleman1363]

Chris again excellent review 👍. I personally find good quality and value in all three of these revolver's and would own any of the three without a blink .

[@TheRedComyn]

Great review. I just picked up my new S&W 686 4" today.

[@Zona-dw9rp]

I have the same and love it!

[@Chieflywaze]

Excellent review! Thorough and presented well! Thank you!

[@sanchezjc94]

Smith has frame lock Taurus has hammer lock Ruger doesnt have neither . Looks like i still choose ruger gp100 ovee both of those

[@JamesLee-vv7wd]

sanchezjc94 S&W king of revolvers

[@sanchezjc94]

Smith an wesson has frame lock Ruger gp100 doesnt .!why would any one want an extra part that could possibly malfunction an lock up

[@joshtalbot1086]

Pre lock smith. Problem solved

[@sanchezjc94]

Josh Talbot ding ding ding

[@Tbone42tx]

I like the Ruger myself but had nothing to do with a lock...lol i mean if you don't like the lock just don't use it that simple not like it causes problems...same with guns with safeties just don't use it....that's the problem now why folks getting shot on accident or these kids finding guns..case to many guys thinking they're to bad ass to have a gun with a safety as if that makes you a whimp...i just never understood that, y'all stop tryna be commandos working at a insurance firm LOL SMH

[@LeaverAction]

Excellent review, touched all of the points !

[@wolfmanrebel874]

I like the taurus just fine depending on which one,however, a girl I use to work with got a taurus to keep because she felt she was being stalked, she kept the lock system locked in her purse ,one night to her car she was approached ,she drew...it was locked...but that was ok cuz homeboy got knocked the Fu*k out with a model66 and arrested ,this is another reason why I don't mind the(limited) capacity of revolvers cuz they also make great hammers

[@Rareed63]

yeah Matt Dillon on Gunsmoke use to crack bad dudes over the head with his six shooter

[@Naltddesha]

🐮 💩

[@robertgarcia-nd7jd]

upgrading the handle to a rubber grip option,is in my opinion,standard procedure.also i sure do enjoy a factory ported barrel.just over 20 yrs ago my non-ported 5" GP100 digested excess of 10,000 rounds of almost every magnum,38special,+P,+P+ factory load available during that period,including variety of reloads,flawlessly.w/the only issues i experienced was much needed improvements to my shooting abilities & a deeper love for that gun.favorite factory loads to run in that model were the Speer GDHP in their lightest option available,if i remember correctly 115grain.i know many ppl dont concider high price ammunition a "target round" suitable for the range but thats what i did & Speers 357golddot was by far the best match up to shoot from Ruger GP100.

[@davidbladen5667]

I used ro work in a gunshop. We got in 3 Taurus Trackers when it was tough to find hadguns back in 2010-2014. We sild the Taurus Trackers and all 3 customers had trouble with them from the get go. One customer sent his back for warranty work 3 times and the problems were never solved. I originally liked the concept of the Tracker but you couldn't give me one now. Also, the grips are small if you have larger hands. Taurus has a new CEO and I hope he will address the problems of the past...

[@skullylluks]

Thank you! Pachmayr grips on my Taurus Tracker 6.5 inch. Excellent gun in the woods. Budget friendly and fit my rural life vs the fancier options. Ruger was middle class long ago. Taurus is more blue collar and assembled in Georgia nowadays. Quality control is much better!

[@kyrozudesoya1829]

Nice video. I got an email from Taurus recently stated that they were going to ramp up their customer service to address how crap it's been, so hopefully there won't be as much headaches with them in the future?

[@joelscott1898]

I have a 6.5 inch Taurus 627. 7 shots. Was only 450$ a couple years ago. Works great.

[@kentuckytim4443]

Hmm... I can’t decide... I guess I’ll take one of each. 😉

[@frankmcleanjr3830]

I have had my Taurus 627 ,357 magnum for over a decade & shot thousands of rounds of 357 and 38 special ammo through it without a hitch, I do not believe you can buy a more accurate .357 magnum revolver. Why pay more? F Carlton McLean Jr

[@tundraspecialops]

The Ruger GP100 is my favorite .357 Mag, especially the GP100 Match Champion. The Ruger's cylinder release is the best implemented in my opinion. The fit and finish and lines of the GP100 product line have the most aesthetic appeal to me. These guns are accurate too. We all have out favs, the Ruger GP100 happens to be mine for some of the reasons I've stated.

[@chamicels]

I have a Match Champion with a full lug.

[@tombats6428]

I emailed Ruger about a RPR2 I got in .308, which reminded me of a mag problem that I had for a Mini14. They asked me for the SN and in a week, I had a replacement mag. Highly recommend Ruger. Unfortunately I don't own a ruger pistol or revolver, but will consider a 1911 with a 3" barrel.

[@rareform6747]

My Taurus back too there shop 3 times ... Long wait , sold it !

[@TheMossbergg]

Wise decision..the best warranty is the one you never have to use

[@darrelwhite2649]

Taurus doesn't use those grips anymore. They use a finger groove grip that works really well.

[@willharrison7731]

Even though I have 3 S&W 686 s but out of the 3 I'd take another S&W preferably a pre-lock ..You usually get what you pay for. (with the exception of the over priced Colt Python)

[@jaynone9262]

Glad to see all the good comments on the Ruger GP 100...My wood grips look nice but probably not as comfortable to shoot.

[@Paladinbr]

Never been blinded by my Tracker. As stated multiple times, more ammo than I care to count.

[@daviddeaton1575]

The Ruger GP100 is my pick of these handguns I own one and it also has 3 locking systems on cylinder It can handle a heavy load with ease The SW is a great gun also and Torus is making pretty good handguns these days their lower price is a big selling point for them

[@DoncoEntAgain]

It's not a mistake to call a revolver a pistol. The term "pistol" has been around for centuries.

[@dylanmccallister1888]

"Revolving pistol" was in the description in colts 1836 patent. So there we go. Colt called his invention a revolving pistol.

[@vincentlavallee2779]

Yes, it is a mistake to call a revolver a pistol. A pistol is a handgun that loads the round (actually the projectile/bullet) into the barrel, and it is then shot from there. When the handgun first was invented, they were all muzzle loading guns, which means that the projectile was loaded into the barrel, and fired from there. It is a misuse of the term when applied to revolvers which do not load the projectile into the barrel. Revolvers are not pistols, even thou so many people use the terms interchangeably, as you probably do as well. But that is not correct. It is like calling a truck a car.

[@robertireland61]

I have several Smith but wont have another. I bought a shield and was supposed to get a 75.00 rebate, but didn't get it so last Smith. I have several Rugers but not a sp100. Thanks for ur intro. I have a tracker also and am satisfied with it.

[@DocFlamingo]

I really like Smith and Wesson, especially the M&P line, but when it came time to get a .357 I went with the GP-100. The thing is a damned tank of a gun.

[@walterschiller8281]

Have both the 686 and GP 100. Great guns, revolvers.