Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Handguns Can a SW 586 handle heavy loads without damage?

I'm considering buying a nice used SW 586 .357 mag. I want to be able to occasionally shoot the heavy 180 and 200 grain hard cast bear loads.

Am I asking for trouble?

I think that was the purpose of the L frame. I have had my 686 since 1984 w/ no issues. Heavy load once or twice a year, but your interpretation of occasionally may differ.

I've always understood the "L" frame came about because of the desire to have a bit more weight like the Colt revolvers and a full lug barrel w/o going to the "N" frame. Some of the custom makers were making Colt Python/S&W crosses called "Smolts".
If you stay with published data for the cases and bullets you pick, it will hold up fine. E

You're not asking for trouble, the 586 is brute strong.

Thanks for the fast responses. Sounds like it's a solid firearm. I had a friend tell me a long time ago to avoid SW 357's and stick with Ruger. I believe he must have been referring to the smaller frame .357's

After doing some internet research, the gun appears to be the new 586, as the firing pin is not mounted on the hammer.

I don't know if the new model is better or worse than the old model, but the marked price is $450. Seems like a deal after looking at gunbroker.com prices.

I'm going to go take a run at it and fondle it once more and see if it comes with box and original grips,etc.

If you want some friendly advice. Buy that [bleep] now. As in yesterday.



Travis

The 586 can take any and all 357 loads without drama.

Day before yesterday.

I've shot a bunch of hot loads in mine, 125s, 158s, and 180s. Not one complaint from this guy.

And that's a rare thing. Believe me...



Travis

I have a no-dash 686 & it has a fair amount of rounds through it at magnum loadings as well as a lot more at +P 38 loads & it's still plenty tight.

If you stay within published data loads & pressures you likely won't have any issues.

IMO, one of the best, if not the very best, guns that S&W has ever made.

As Travis said, at $450, I go get the gun right this very minute.

MM

+1 to the consensus. I'd grab one at that price.

My 6" 686 likes 140 grain Lasercast flat cone nose bullets and max loads of h110 for 100 yard cans, clay pigeons and steel targets.

Ella

I run Oregon Trail 180gr bullets in my 586 and they've proved very accurate at 100 yards. The cylinder length on the 586 will accomodate longer OAL's than other .357.

I said, "What's your best price?"

He said, "$395"

I giggled. And bought it.

My first Smith.

Hopefully I got more than I paid for.
Thanks for the prompt answers and advice!

Very nice.

You should be arrested for theft..............

MM

That's a gem dude. Awesome revolvers.


Travis

Yeah, not much more to say than that.

Oh, you did. You did.

Another piece of advice, since this is your first; a man can never have too many S&W revolvers.

Sweet gun! My favorite revolver that I own or have shot hands down.

What - number is yours?

586-5

Is that the latest model?

Doesn't appear to have been fired much.

Just need to get my hands on some ammo now....