I’ve had 2 ea. Mod 19’s - one with 4” and the other with 2 1/2” barrel. I had a Model 28 with 6” barrel.
I now have a 586 with a 4” barrel.
For barrel length I like 4”.
For frame I really like the smaller frames. For carrying in the woods either a 19 or a 586 with 4” barrel. For carrying where the two legged varmints dwell a 2 1/2” 19 would be my choice.
For shooting prairie dogs the 6” (or longer) would be my choice.
I’ve owned a few pinned and recessed S&W’s. Still have one or two. If I were to change barrels, the pinned barrels are best. The earlier S&W’s seem to have a finer finish. But the P&R seems to command more $’s, in general, than I will pay any more.
Generally I like blues better than stainless. They seem to be smoother in function.
But in nasty weather I’d have to say I’d be carrying my 629. I know it’s not a 357, but the 629 is my only ss S&W.
