Ruger GP-100 or S&W 686?????

I think I will get a 4" revolver to go with my 0.357 carbine. Narrowed it down to two.

Smith Wesson plusses:
The dealer prefers the SW due to the smoother trigger: very accurate.
seven shot model is available.
removeable side panel aids in maintainance should it ever need it.
Factory red ramp sights.
Hogue grip.
Forged stainless steal.

Ruger GP-100
Stainless or Blue
Dealer has a nearly new one for a very good price (blue, red ramp sights, speedloader)
Heavily built cast steel frame with no removeable panels for added durability.
Very good trigger though not as smooth as SW.
Ruger brand grips are very good.
Ruger advertises a patented three-point cylinder lock.
New one is slightly cheaper than SW.

Anyone with any thoughts?

This is for the range mostly, maybe someday for hunting and the outside chance of home defense.

Which fits your hand better? Any range near by that "rents" guns so you can shoot before you buy?

I've no complaints with my ruger rifle, FWIW.

Do you still have a stock trigger? I'm also a fan of Ruger rifles, just don't like the stock triggers, too much creep. I replaced all the triggers with Timneys, completely adjustable and no creep. I shot bench-rest for so many years, i got spoiled.

I mainly just use it for plinking, so while the trigger could be better, I'm not asking or expecting incredible accuracy from it either.

Just my opinion, but the Smith wins hands down. Having shot both of these side by side, the Smith has a much better double action, and single action pull. In accuracy i'd have to give the Smith an edge, simply because of the single action pull ( good clean break, no creep ). The only thing i like about Ruger double actions are the factory grips.

Now if were talking about single actions, Ruger wins hands down, nobody builds stronger more accurate or versatile pistols.

stainless steel (no aluminum), 6.5" barrel, moveable sights, Hogue Monogrip (user supplied). Very cool. Very accurate.

The gun that rides with me every where, is an old 3 screw Blackhawk, chambered in 30 carbine. It's a great coyote gun out to 100 yards. Just make sure you wear ear protection, loudest pistol i've ever shot.

Yep, I'll pick up one today. Most accurate handgun I ever shot. I ordered the 7 shot with 4" barrel.

you made the right call. Nothing wrong with the GP100 I just prefer the 686.

go out and try to shoot both and see which one handles the best for you.