Anyone have experience with the Smith & Wesson .357 4 inch barrel?

Firearm Reviews & Recommendations
1

I’m considering adding a Smith & Wesson .357 with a 4 inch barrel to my collection, but I want to gather some insights before making the jump. I’ve been reading up on the specifications and what makes this model stand out, but I’d love to hear from anyone who’s actually used it.

Here are some specific points I’m curious about:

  • Accuracy: How does it perform at the range? Any notable experiences?
  • Handling: Is the 4 inch barrel a good balance for both maneuverability and stability?
  • Usability: How does it feel for both novice and seasoned shooters? Would it be a good choice for self-defense?
  • Maintenance: Are there any quirks in maintaining it that I should be aware of?
  • Comparison: How does it stack up against other .357 models or similar calibers out there?
  • Legal Aspects: Any specific regulations regarding ownership or carrying that I should keep in mind based on the barrel length?

I’d greatly appreciate any feedback, reviews, or personal experiences you all can share. Thanks in advance!

2

I’ve had my Smith & Wesson .357 with a 4-inch barrel for a couple of years now. It’s incredibly accurate at the range, even with rapid-fire. Perfect for target shooting!

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3

That’s great to hear! How does it hold up in self-defense scenarios? I’ve been considering it for home protection.

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4

In self-defense situations, I feel confident with the .357. The stopping power is remarkable, and the 4-inch barrel helps with control compared to the snub-nose models.

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5

I’ve only used it for target shooting thus far. The accuracy at 25 yards is impressive, but I’m curious about its recoil. Any thoughts?

6

Recoil is manageable, especially with target loads. I’ve shot heavier loads, and while it’s a bit more kick, it’s still controllable with practice.

7

For precision, it’s hard to beat the S&W. I’ve consistently grouped my shots while practicing. It really shines for slow, deliberate aim.

8

I’ve found it reliable. The .357 is a classic—just know your local laws about using it for self-defense.

9

I can’t help but think about how fun it would be to shoot at the range with this! How does it perform with varying ammunition types?

10

It cycles well through different types, but I recommend quality ammunition for the best accuracy. Cheaper stuff can be hit or miss.

11

Is there a significant difference between .38 Special and .357 Magnum in this model?

12

Absolutely. The .357 has much more power, but .38 Special is great for training and less recoil for newer shooters.

13

Don’t overlook the versatility! You can switch up ammo for different situations. It’s a fun gun to shoot.

14

I’m still on the fence about the price, though. It seems a bit steep for a revolver—what do you all think?

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15

Good quality doesn’t come cheap! If you’re serious about shooting, it’s worth the investment. You’ll likely have it for years.

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16

I’d say don’t skimp on the quality. Plus, think about resale value—this model holds its worth quite well.

17

I just hope it’s not as heavy as some reviews say. I’d hate to get tired out quickly during a day of shooting.

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18

I’ve had my Smith & Wesson .357 with a 4-inch barrel for over two years now. The accuracy is fantastic, and the weight helps with recoil management compared to other revolvers like the Ruger GP100.

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That’s good to hear! I’m also considering the .357 for its versatility. How does it compare for ease of use? Any issues with the trigger pull?

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20

In terms of trigger pull, the S&W feels smooth. I’ve tried the Colt Snake as well, but the S&W seems more natural for me. That one is definitely a bit heavier.

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