My dad had a S&W .357 Model 19 that he bought in the early 70's. Nice blue finish, and a very comfortable wooden trooper grip. I remember when he first fired it with the magnum rounds, the fire shot around that muzzle like a canon. I own that gun now and blue finish, still original looks beautiful on it. Great gun that will always remind me of my father.
I have my late father's model 67 in stainless. It was his favorite gun to carry as an officer. I just bought a model 19-6 with the 6" barrel. I'm excited to take it to the range.
When I started in law enforcement in 1973, I bought a model 19. Everyone then had to buy their own pistol then. Shot that thing until I have a permanent ringing in my ears. We had no hearing protection when we qualified during those years. They later got protection for us because OSSA told them they had to. LOL. I also sent my pistol to S&W Had it re-blued and red ramp site and white outlined site put on it. Love my pistol. Treasure it.
In the old days we considered it un manly to wear ear protection. Then we started to shoot 357’s. All of us immediately bought ear protection. Ouch, those actually hurt. Now we all say, “what” a lot.
I carried the S&W mod 19 from 1978 until 1998 when I retired. I used it in the North Carolina Combat Police Pistol League for three years. It was great competition and great fun. It was the greatest gun I have ever owned.
My 1st hand gun S&W Combat 19/357/6"barrel 1974, I still have it. In good condition, much better then average. If I was only allowed one hand gun the 19 would be it.
When I was shopping for a 19 I lucked onto a Model 66, 4” from 1973 that only had five rounds fired from it. It was still in the box and has become one of my favorite range guns.
I do not think people realize how good of a shot this man is with a handgun. Hitting anything at 80 yards with a handgun is very very difficult. Even the close range double-action shooting he does on multiple targets is a hard skill to master. This man is a serious competition shooter that makes it look easy. I would enjoy seeing some "training" videos and pointers from this gunner.
That's all I've been able to gather too, and yet I find people online selling model 29's with 4 inch barrels and vice versa 19 with 6 inchers. Not that online's exactly accurate 100% of the time but it's hard to do research sometimes XD
Took my wife, at her request, to our indoor range. She enjoyed the Model 19, 6” barrel, with 38 Spl at 5 yds. Her first time shooting it! I shared this YT with her. Thanks!
"I've owned one for years. "No Second Place Winner" by Bill Jordan, was the ultimate "manual" for this revolver's use as a defensive tool. A lot of splendid history.
The Model 28 and 27 (polished version) are N frames, much larger frame size, which is the original frame size for the .357 Magnum. In fact, I think the Model 27 was the first .357 Magnum. The Model 19 is a K frame, which is a much more convenient and preferred size gun for most people.
I have a 357 model 19 in Stainless Steal. In 1972 I was NYS Deputy Sheriff. As part of my duties, I was a K-9 officer training and running Bloodhounds. I used a Stainless Steel because of running the bloodhounds wherever they took me. Sometimes it was through streams and around lakes. To say I got wet was an understatement. If you know about bloodhounds, then you know when they got the whiff of the sent they were tracking they never looked where they were going. They just took off at full speed. It was up to the officer to constantly look ahead and quickly make necessary adjustments to slow the dog down in order to protect the dog and handler from danger. I loved the 357 model 19 stainless steel. A quick wipe down with and oily cloth and you were back in business. After 43 years, I still have my Smith and Wesson 357 model 19 Stainless Steel. Best regards, Richard
Great video. Love my Model 19. Mine is also a 4" barrel, but nickel plated. It's an absolutely beautiful gun that shoots superbly with an excellent trigger. I picked it up about 14 years ago, it was my first revolver. I'm keeping it forever.
Thank you for this video! Next Wednesday, I will be firing (for the first time) my S&W Model 19-3, 6-inch barrel. I have fired rifles and shotguns before, but never a hand gun, so it will be a new experience for me, at 62 years of age. I've owned this hand gun for the past twenty years having purchased it 'used' (a police trade-in) at a local gun shop. It's time.....
Thanks for the walk down memory lane Hickok45. In 1977 my duty weapon was a 357 S&W model 19. I paid $150 for it with my police discount. Everyone wanted the model 66 but they were too expensive for a rookie cop. We used 150 grain jacketed hollow points for ammo. It was a workhorse of a weapon and a blast to shoot.
I have a mod 19 with a 2.5 barrel and it’s one of my most favorite pistols. My best friends Dad was a Detective back in the mid 70s and and this is the exact pistol he carried for years. This gun is just a pleasure to shoot. I even managed to get my hands on three boxes of original Black Talon .357 cartridges that were originally purchased with the pistol. I paid 250 bucks and the pistol was in brand new condition still in the original box and grease paper. The only wear it has is from me carrying it in the past 6-7 years. I simply love this gun.
For those contemplating a revolver for self-defense, I offer this tip. When training (shooting and reloading), always eject your empty cases to the deck (floor), rather than into your hand. Ejecting into one's hand sets the shooter up to make a big tactical mistake when the chips are down. The shooter's muscle memory will have him or her trying to catch the empty brass - a very bad idea if you need to keep putting lead on target.
Agree! I had to reload my revolver under fire in ‘74 during one of the three gunfights during my career, and dumped the empties on the ground before recharging w/a speed loader and finishing the fight.
talking about guys in their 40's and 50's for sure know what a Mod 19 is, heck I'm 29 and its my favorite S&W. My dad carried his as a probation and parole officer for over 20 years, and still carries it after retirement. That was the revolver I cut my teeth on when first started teaching me to shoot a revolver when I was about 10 and I've been hooked ever since. Both of my DA revolvers are rugers, but i'll always love that Model 19.
Thank you for your work. Your videos are well done, relevant, and informative. We are of the same generation; and I admire your appreciation of the guns we grew up with, and acceptance of the polymer autos. Further, I commend your general comments about the shooting game.
To me, a S&W K-frame revolver is the most beautiful firearm ever, especially with the target grips. I've come to realize that I love wheel guns, and while I understand and respect the value of the Glocks/Springers/M&P's, etc., there's nothing like a great revolver for me. My father was a LEO who at one time had a 4" Model 19 that I loved, but never shot. Of course, it "got away" too. Hickok's vid has cemented my obtaining one of these gorgeous guns sooner than later. Thanks.
1981, a 4inch model 19 S&W....my first centerfire cartridge handgun, bought for my high school graduation...what a beauty:) Looked just like yours...thanks for the memory, wish i;d a kept that revolver. Mike
As a patrol officer in the East San Francisco Bay area in the early 1980s I carried a 4" model 19 for my first 4 years on the job and I can tell you it was accurate and a man stopper. I still have the gun but the blue is worn down to white and I enlarged the cut out the combat grip area for easier reloading with speed loaders. Classy gun but really hard to keep from rusting due to salt air and sweat. Being a southpaw I could not carry the issued 1911 series pistol until I went with the Sig 220. This video brought back memories of shall we say high impact police work. Thanks H45.
11 years later...and here I am. Just turned 21 today and I went out to a local gun store and they had a cherry 19-5 with pachmayr presentation grips and a 6inch barrel for 560 bucks. of course, i bought it, has the same look as a 29 but smaller. Shot a box of ammo through it, and it hit almost every shot in a 8 inch target at 10 yards. I love this gun!
@keltingr , Nice gun - one of my favorites. You might have seen mine (3") in the S&W 642 video. I didn't feature it, but I show and talk about it. Don't remember whether I shot it or not, but it's a great little gun. I bobbed the hammer on it.
Ah, what a great video and revolver! As a young man when I decided to get a serious handgun I bought a Model 19 with the 6" barrel, big wood grips and target hammer/trigger. Probably exactly like your first one, Hickok. I was tempted to go with the Model 29 but 357/38 made more sense even though we all drooled over the big Model 29! Anyway, the year was 1976 and I also bought a new Colt Government Model Series '70 and I've managed to hang on to both. I have to pat myself on the back for choosing such fine handguns at a young age. In fact I had a superstar firearms lineup at the time, in addition to the Colt and S&W I had a Marlin 336C, Marlin Model 60, Remington 12 gauge Wingmaster, Ruger Mark I Target pistol and an old mutt P08 Luger. Ah, those were the days out in the Arizona desert!
QuentinQuatermass I too have the Model 19 .357 mag with the 6", blued with wooden grips bought new in '84. Only shot 60 rounds or so thru it and still looks new!. Also have the Marlin 336C, a Mossburg 500 12 gauge, an XD9 4 inch and S&W Shield 9mm. An older friend practically gave me 550 rounds of Rem/Fed .357 mag in the 110 and 125 grain including a box of Fed 158 grain and a box of 38 Sp. along with 100 rounds of Rem. DB/00 buck 12 guage. for like $120! Found out afterwards the hot loads of 110 and 125 grain are 'no bueno' for the k-frame M19. I'll keep the Fed 158 gr. hollow point for home def. and buy more of the .38 sp for the range. I'll probably mix in some of the hot loads once in a while or sell most of it.
My first handgun, 1985, was a brand new Model 19-5. Beautiful 6" barrel. Shot in competition and did pretty well. Can't go wrong. Still have that gun. Won't say what I paid because it would only aggravate you all when considering today's prices. Keep up the outstanding work Hickock!
just running through some older TH-cam Vids... my very first pistol was a S&W model 19, Combat Magnum... 6" Nickel... Paid $217.50 for it in 1978... Still have it, still a great shooting gun! Something about that "first pistol" that I love. I've moved on to all the others, and my EDC is now my Glock 19, I smiled when Hickok mention both the famous 19s... lol
I used to carry the model 19-2 off duty and the 27 on duty. I found another 19-2 this past February. I found that this gun had never been shot. This is gun that is not a gun that can be beat. I lave it. It is the most reliable and accurate gun I have. I have been shooting for over 48 years. I teach CCW and recommend the .357 revolver for a carry gun. Happy Shooting...
I got my grandad's '76 model 19. Still looks brand new. My dad gave it to me earlier this year before he passed away. I don't think he ever fired it. Still got the box it came in along with the manual, cleaning tools and even the yellow rust deterring paper. Hell there's even some slips of paper that are advertisements for knives and holsters. One day when I have a son or daughter I'll pass it on to them. I don't know if I'll ever shoot it, almost afraid to it's so pretty plus the sentimental value.
Nothing beats the good old mechanical weaponry from the 20th century, the newer things we come across today may get the job done better in real-life situations, but it'll never be the same.
I carried the S&W Model 19, 4", when I was a US Marine on Embassy Duty 1992-1994. We carried .38SPL +P nylon clad hollow points. I loved that gun. I came across a deal for the same gun, 6" made in 1978, in ok condition three years ago for $400. Jumped right on it and it's now my favorite shooter.
This was my first revolver. I let it go away myself back in '92-'93. One of my biggest regrets. Fast forward to this April in 2016, I finally got another one, only with a 2.5" barrel this time, which was the same configuration I carried on duty. A real classic.
This was my first handgun also...it was my academy gun and most of my class carried the same. Mine was and is, a 6 inch and with all the Glocks, Beretta's, Colts that I've owned, I can still put more in the 10 ring with the ol' wheel gun, than any of my auto's. Probably because of the first class training I got from HBPD Range Master Phil McCrea back in the 80's.
Frank, my Dad bought it for me back in 1978 for the police academy and I still carry it as my desert sidearm (carry a Glock 17 in a shoulder holster) but I still have 4 speedloaders on my gunbelt. Still as pretty as the day I got it, and I've put enough lead through it to make an anchor for the Titanic.
Beautiful gun. One of the best. Awesome classic. I have owned a M19 since 1974. A 2.5" RB model. In those days nearly ALL cops had a S&W Model 19 or a Colt Trooper or Colt Official Police. I had mine gussied up with engraving and faux ivory grips. It's my "formal" CC gun. Makes me feel good all under at weddings, funerals and such. :-)
Handloads with cast bullets and lube make more smoke than jacketed ones. Never notice it since I shoot almost nothing but cast bullets in everything except my Glocks and ARs.
Bought a 6 inch model 19 when I was 21 in 1974. Sent it back to Smith about 20 years ago. They refurbished at no charge! I have the original combat magnum grips which have been restored. I shoot this at steel plate shoots in South Fl. More comments than any other shooter. Great gun.
I am glad I am from a generation that had the privilege of shooting the wheel guns and the newer polymer wonders. I shoot most of the time with revolvers but enjoy them all.
I turned 18 and purchased my first firearm, It was a 4" Nickel Plated Smith & Wesson Model 19. I still have this gun today. Over the years I never had the desire to trade. Almost 40 years later this gun looks as new as the day I bought it. Very solid accurate and fun gun.
My model 19 is great. bought it in mid 1970's while in USMC in New Orleans. I like your comment about ringing in the ears. At the time it hurt so bad I thought I broke an eardrum. The .357 has a very powerful high pitched sound, and me like an idiot didn't always use hearing protection. Live and learn my friend.
I have been looking for a Model 19 for the past few years. Two weeks ago a co-worker sold me a beautiful M19-3 w/6" barrel (box included) for $500.00. I doubt it's had more than fifty round fired through it. I'm very fond of long barreled revolvers. I especially like the target model revolvers. It's a beautiful revolver. Your videos are great. Keep 'em coming.
To me the K frame still feels best. I've had several and have never had problems. I think one would have to shoot a whole lot of full factory loads in order to see problems. Who'd want to do that these days? :-)
Hickok, great video! My property manager is a great guy, vietnam vet, and avid gun enthusiast. After talking about his collection of arms for a bit, he has given me the honor of firing some rounds with his .357 magnum later this month. Watching your video has inspired me to feel a bit more comfortable going in, and i would definitely like to own a revolver some day. I believe a model 19 SW may be what I go for.
all your videos are fantastic and very informative. Thanks for explaining things in terms we can all understand. Awesome help for those of us who are novice and want to learn without being laughed at. Keep up the great work!
This is the first hand gun I owned. Bought in 1985 and still have it. Beautiful gun with O.E. Target hammer and target trigger. I've put less than 500 rounds through it. My daughter moved to Indy and she took it with her for home protection. I'll get it back one of these days. 😂
I had a S&W. 357 in the bygone days I let get away. Your video made me remember just what a pleasure it was to load and fire that gun. Good video and thanks!
Great Shooting!The S&W 19 was my first gun, 4" target hammer and trigger. Got it new about 1980 for $220. Could reach out and hit steel pigs at 100 yards. It is still blue and beautiful and almost too valuable to shoot today.
@6:30 I really agree with what Mr. H is saying. My parents never owned guns and after college I decided to buy a revolver because I knew I could learn it and become proficient. Now I own revolvers and an automatic (Browning Hi-Power). With guns, always go with makes you the most comfortable.
Great old Smith, reminds me of my very first gun. In 1984 I bought a S&W 586 in Nickel 4" 357 magnum. Being my very first gun, I still have it and enjoy shooting it still. Beautiful grips like yours, just a real nice revolver and a real good shooter. Thanks Hickok.
My first center fire revolver was a S/W model 19-4 nickel plated. I paid $165 it think back in 1973 at Jerry’s Gunshop in Kingsville Texas. I loved that revolver but had to sell it to pay bills. Since then purchased many revolvers and wound up with a keeper, a S/W model 65 Lady Smith in stainless. That one is a forever keeper.
I really do like the Model 19. I had one and gave it to my son ,which I hope he takes better care of than the Colt Python I had and traded off. I'm one of those older Troopers that carried the S&W model either 27 or 28 which I was not crazy about but love the model 19. You have a beautiful pistol.
That's identical to mine. Model 19-4. It was the first handgun I ever owned. Bought it in 1980. I had to get my mother to make the purchase because I was only 19 at the time. The state of Georgia was 18 for a long gun and 21 for a handgun. I still have it with the same Uncle Mike's holster I bought with it. I have several autos but you can never go wrong with a double action 357 magnum
SuperVonKiller I've. Still got my model 19 with the 6 inch barrel that I bought about the same time you bought yours. Mine looks as good as Hickok45's but is the original finish
I'm 32 and I do love a good revolver. This video is almost a carbon copy of my Dad's .357. I used to watch him shoot quart beer bottles at up to 100 yards with it. I'm definitely buying one when I find a nice one. Only Smith I have atm is a j-frame Mod 60 from the 80's.
MR. Hickok thank you for your great videos. I have learned about firearms more from you then anyone else. Your a great embassador to the sport and hobby of firearms. Keep the videos coming.
Hickock, thanks for the history on that revolver. I'm 21 and of course just purchased a Glock 19. Now I've started realizing how interesting revolvers really are thanks to your videos. And yea it was the blueing on that one that definitely did it for me.
I have a Beautiful Nickel Plated S&W Model 19-6 357 Magnum. My favorite Revolver of all time is the 38 Special, but this 6 inch Model 19 is growing on me.
Buying a vintage 19-5 today, and watching some vintage Hickok in 2023
Bought a 19-5 yesterday, watching in 2024
I bought one in 2022, does yours have a serrated trigger?
@@jrmiksza I bought mine in 2022, does yours have a serrated trigger!
How much did y’all pay?
My dad had a S&W .357 Model 19 that he bought in the early 70's. Nice blue finish, and a very comfortable wooden trooper grip. I remember when he first fired it with the magnum rounds, the fire shot around that muzzle like a canon. I own that gun now and blue finish, still original looks beautiful on it. Great gun that will always remind me of my father.
johnny storm man that’s a great story and memory to you
I can relate
I have my late father's model 67 in stainless. It was his favorite gun to carry as an officer.
I just bought a model 19-6 with the 6" barrel. I'm excited to take it to the range.
When I started in law enforcement in 1973, I bought a model 19. Everyone then had to buy their own pistol then. Shot that thing until I have a permanent ringing in my ears. We had no hearing protection when we qualified during those years. They later got protection for us because OSSA told them they had to. LOL. I also sent my pistol to S&W Had it re-blued and red ramp site and white outlined site put on it. Love my pistol. Treasure it.
I have a 19 5 6" that needs rebluing. Any suggestions?
In the old days we considered it un manly to wear ear protection. Then we started to shoot 357’s. All of us immediately bought ear protection. Ouch, those actually hurt. Now we all say, “what” a lot.
@@fidellaboy-negron5816 smith and Wesson will refinish it for you. Typically 6 week turnaround time.
I carried the S&W mod 19 from 1978 until 1998 when I retired. I used it in the North Carolina Combat Police Pistol League for three years. It was great competition and great fun. It was the greatest gun I have ever owned.
My 1st hand gun S&W Combat 19/357/6"barrel 1974, I still have it. In good condition, much better then average. If I was only allowed one hand gun the 19 would be it.
When I was shopping for a 19 I lucked onto a Model 66, 4” from 1973 that only had five rounds fired from it. It was still in the box and has become one of my favorite range guns.
Aww, ya done good!
Same gun that Budd Dwyer used to kill himself
@@Vickytoriahirt1234 I thought he used a 6 inch model 27
I do not think people realize how good of a shot this man is with a handgun. Hitting anything at 80 yards with a handgun is very very difficult. Even the close range double-action shooting he does on multiple targets is a hard skill to master. This man is a serious competition shooter that makes it look easy.
I would enjoy seeing some "training" videos and pointers from this gunner.
Model 19's are the coolest looking guns ever...ever!
I genuinely can't tell the difference between this and the 29 tbh.
Mister there is another one S&W 22-4 model of 1917, deep blue finnish, but it is of course N frame
@@TheShadowfan9000 model 19 = 4in. barrel
Model 29= 6.5in. barrel...don't quote me on that
That's all I've been able to gather too, and yet I find people online selling model 29's with 4 inch barrels and vice versa 19 with 6 inchers. Not that online's exactly accurate 100% of the time but it's hard to do research sometimes XD
Took my wife, at her request, to our indoor range. She enjoyed the Model 19, 6” barrel, with 38 Spl at 5 yds. Her first time shooting it! I shared this YT with her. Thanks!
One of the best handguns ever in my opinion. Love them.
Not one of the best.
THEEE best!
I finally got my 4" Model 19 yesterday. Now I have a 2.5", 4" and the 6" Model 19. It's a trio!
"I've owned one for years. "No Second Place Winner" by Bill Jordan, was the ultimate "manual" for this revolver's use as a defensive tool. A lot of splendid history.
The Model 28 and 27 (polished version) are N frames, much larger frame size, which is the original frame size for the .357 Magnum. In fact, I think the Model 27 was the first .357 Magnum. The Model 19 is a K frame, which is a much more convenient and preferred size gun for most people.
Hello hickok45, I'm a big fan of yours, does your model 19-5 have a serrated trigger or is it smooth?
I have a 357 model 19 in Stainless Steal. In 1972 I was NYS Deputy Sheriff. As part of my duties, I was a K-9 officer training and running Bloodhounds. I used a Stainless Steel because of running the bloodhounds wherever they took me. Sometimes it was through streams and around lakes. To say I got wet was an understatement. If you know about bloodhounds, then you know when they got the whiff of the sent they were tracking they never looked where they were going. They just took off at full speed. It was up to the officer to constantly look ahead and quickly make necessary adjustments to slow the dog down in order to protect the dog and handler from danger. I loved the 357 model 19 stainless steel. A quick wipe down with and oily cloth and you were back in business. After 43 years, I still have my Smith and Wesson 357 model 19 Stainless Steel.
Best regards,
Richard
Blue steel / nickel are 19s … 66s are stainless FYI
Well, .357 magnum or .38 Special?
.22 mag
That’s a beautiful firearm- the Glock is an ugly brick by comparison.
Great video. Love my Model 19. Mine is also a 4" barrel, but nickel plated. It's an absolutely beautiful gun that shoots superbly with an excellent trigger. I picked it up about 14 years ago, it was my first revolver. I'm keeping it forever.
Found a 19-4 a month ago in very good shape and absolutely love it. Smooth double action and accurate as hell.
Smith revolvers are just amazing, you gotta love 'em.
Thank you for this video! Next Wednesday, I will be firing (for the first time) my S&W Model 19-3, 6-inch barrel. I have fired rifles and shotguns before, but never a hand gun, so it will be a new experience for me, at 62 years of age. I've owned this hand gun for the past twenty years having purchased it 'used' (a police trade-in) at a local gun shop. It's time.....
I have ben blessed to get my hands on a new 4" 19, still wrapped in the wax paper & original box with all the paper work from 9 Feb. 1976.
My dream gun, with the 2.5" barrel. The 4" is a stunner, too. Model 19 is my favorite S&W ever made.
Thanks for the walk down memory lane Hickok45. In 1977 my duty weapon was a 357 S&W model 19. I paid $150 for it with my police discount. Everyone wanted the model 66 but they were too expensive for a rookie cop. We used 150 grain jacketed hollow points for ammo. It was a workhorse of a weapon and a blast to shoot.
Hickok 45 was one of the reasons why i picked up my first revolver 686 plus 4 inch barrel as a belated birthday gift for my self last year an love it
I have a mod 19 with a 2.5 barrel and it’s one of my most favorite pistols. My best friends Dad was a Detective back in the mid 70s and and this is the exact pistol he carried for years. This gun is just a pleasure to shoot. I even managed to get my hands on three boxes of original Black Talon .357 cartridges that were originally purchased with the pistol. I paid 250 bucks and the pistol was in brand new condition still in the original box and grease paper. The only wear it has is from me carrying it in the past 6-7 years. I simply love this gun.
For those contemplating a revolver for self-defense, I offer this tip. When training (shooting and reloading), always eject your empty cases to the deck (floor), rather than into your hand. Ejecting into one's hand sets the shooter up to make a big tactical mistake when the chips are down. The shooter's muscle memory will have him or her trying to catch the empty brass - a very bad idea if you need to keep putting lead on target.
Agree! I had to reload my revolver under fire in ‘74 during one of the three gunfights during my career, and dumped the empties on the ground before recharging w/a speed loader and finishing the fight.
I might do some more reloading videos this winter.
talking about guys in their 40's and 50's for sure know what a Mod 19 is, heck I'm 29 and its my favorite S&W. My dad carried his as a probation and parole officer for over 20 years, and still carries it after retirement. That was the revolver I cut my teeth on when first started teaching me to shoot a revolver when I was about 10 and I've been hooked ever since. Both of my DA revolvers are rugers, but i'll always love that Model 19.
A revolver with a blued finish and wooden grips just looks so hot!
Not with a double action; that's mainly an issue with old-style single action revolvers.
S&W had the perfect trigger pull. Love his double action shooting.
Reminds me of my Colt Trooper .357, I think its from the 70's, passed down from my pops. A prized piece in my collection.
Thank you for your work. Your videos are well done, relevant, and informative. We are of the same generation; and I admire your appreciation of the guns we grew up with, and acceptance of the polymer autos.
Further, I commend your general comments about the shooting game.
To me, a S&W K-frame revolver is the most beautiful firearm ever, especially with the target grips.
I've come to realize that I love wheel guns, and while I understand and respect the value of the Glocks/Springers/M&P's, etc., there's nothing like a great revolver for me.
My father was a LEO who at one time had a 4" Model 19 that I loved, but never shot. Of course, it "got away" too.
Hickok's vid has cemented my obtaining one of these gorgeous guns sooner than later.
Thanks.
1981, a 4inch model 19 S&W....my first centerfire cartridge handgun, bought for my high school graduation...what a beauty:) Looked just like yours...thanks for the memory, wish i;d a kept that revolver. Mike
As a patrol officer in the East San Francisco Bay area in the early 1980s I carried a 4" model 19 for my first 4 years on the job and I can tell you it was accurate and a man stopper. I still have the gun but the blue is worn down to white and I enlarged the cut out the combat grip area for easier reloading with speed loaders. Classy gun but really hard to keep from rusting due to salt air and sweat. Being a southpaw I could not carry the issued 1911 series pistol until I went with the Sig 220. This video brought back memories of shall we say high impact police work. Thanks H45.
11 years later...and here I am. Just turned 21 today and I went out to a local gun store and they had a cherry 19-5 with pachmayr presentation grips and a 6inch barrel for 560 bucks. of course, i bought it, has the same look as a 29 but smaller. Shot a box of ammo through it, and it hit almost every shot in a 8 inch target at 10 yards. I love this gun!
560? Wow great deal!
That's an amazing price nowadays.
@GhostAnimals93, Thanks. Yeah, I'm the same guy that is doing videos on all sorts of crazy guns! Like Steve Lee, "I like guns."
Love the review. My dad was a Oklahoma Highway Patrolman beginning in 73 and used the 19 as his carry. It does bring back so many memories. Thanks.
@keltingr , Nice gun - one of my favorites. You might have seen mine (3") in the S&W 642 video. I didn't feature it, but I show and talk about it. Don't remember whether I shot it or not, but it's a great little gun. I bobbed the hammer on it.
Best gun I've ever owned!
Ah, what a great video and revolver! As a young man when I decided to get a serious handgun I bought a Model 19 with the 6" barrel, big wood grips and target hammer/trigger. Probably exactly like your first one, Hickok. I was tempted to go with the Model 29 but 357/38 made more sense even though we all drooled over the big Model 29!
Anyway, the year was 1976 and I also bought a new Colt Government Model Series '70 and I've managed to hang on to both. I have to pat myself on the back for choosing such fine handguns at a young age. In fact I had a superstar firearms lineup at the time, in addition to the Colt and S&W I had a Marlin 336C, Marlin Model 60, Remington 12 gauge Wingmaster, Ruger Mark I Target pistol and an old mutt P08 Luger.
Ah, those were the days out in the Arizona desert!
QuentinQuatermass I too have the Model 19 .357 mag with the 6", blued with wooden grips bought new in '84. Only shot 60 rounds or so thru it and still looks new!. Also have the Marlin 336C, a Mossburg 500 12 gauge, an XD9 4 inch and S&W Shield 9mm.
An older friend practically gave me 550 rounds of Rem/Fed .357 mag in the 110 and 125 grain including a box of Fed 158 grain and a box of 38 Sp. along with 100 rounds of Rem. DB/00 buck 12 guage. for like $120! Found out afterwards the hot loads of 110 and 125 grain are 'no bueno' for the k-frame M19. I'll keep the Fed 158 gr. hollow point for home def. and buy more of the .38 sp for the range. I'll probably mix in some of the hot loads once in a while or sell most of it.
The 19 ?? A most Beautiful creature!!
My first handgun, 1985, was a brand new Model 19-5. Beautiful 6" barrel. Shot in competition and did pretty well. Can't go wrong. Still have that gun. Won't say what I paid because it would only aggravate you all when considering today's prices.
Keep up the outstanding work Hickock!
Tory Carl
Hickok, I carried a Model 19-2 in my police service. It was also known as the "Combat Masterpiece" Best piece I ever owned; wish I still had it.
Hickok45, This is one of my favorite vids of yours (I've seen them all). Perfect balance of shooting, history, and practical details. Thanks.
first revolver I bought. One of my favorites. Very accurate, and a beautiful trigger.
just running through some older TH-cam Vids... my very first pistol was a S&W model 19, Combat Magnum... 6" Nickel... Paid $217.50 for it in 1978... Still have it, still a great shooting gun! Something about that "first pistol" that I love. I've moved on to all the others, and my EDC is now my Glock 19, I smiled when Hickok mention both the famous 19s... lol
I used to carry the model 19-2 off duty and the 27 on duty. I found another 19-2 this past February. I found that this gun had never been shot. This is gun that is not a gun that can be beat. I lave it. It is the most reliable and accurate gun I have. I have been shooting for over 48 years. I teach CCW and recommend the .357 revolver for a carry gun. Happy Shooting...
I got one of them...I inherited it from my step dad who was a Vietnam vet and a Police Officer. It all makes sense now....thanks for this video!
I own a S&W 19 4"bbl. It's Abt 40-50yrs old. My Father in Law gave it to me. Beautiful piece. I feel safe with it. 👍
Hey 45 !! The 19 rules!! You'r a cool Dude!! Keep on truck'n !!
19-6
I told my Tennessee friend about you. I'm from Arizona. You shoot from the hip. Thanks so much for having the internet for you to share.
model 19..first handgun I ever bought and it will always be a keeper...my son will get it in his time.
I got my grandad's '76 model 19. Still looks brand new. My dad gave it to me earlier this year before he passed away. I don't think he ever fired it. Still got the box it came in along with the manual, cleaning tools and even the yellow rust deterring paper. Hell there's even some slips of paper that are advertisements for knives and holsters. One day when I have a son or daughter I'll pass it on to them. I don't know if I'll ever shoot it, almost afraid to it's so pretty plus the sentimental value.
Nothing beats the good old mechanical weaponry from the 20th century, the newer things we come across today may get the job done better in real-life situations, but it'll never be the same.
I carried the S&W Model 19, 4", when I was a US Marine on Embassy Duty 1992-1994. We carried .38SPL +P nylon clad hollow points. I loved that gun. I came across a deal for the same gun, 6" made in 1978, in ok condition three years ago for $400. Jumped right on it and it's now my favorite shooter.
This was my first revolver. I let it go away myself back in '92-'93. One of my biggest regrets. Fast forward to this April in 2016, I finally got another one, only with a 2.5" barrel this time, which was the same configuration I carried on duty. A real classic.
Just bought a Model 19-5 4-inch barrel in a nickel finish. Been wanting one and I am very pleased with it. Truly a remarkable classy sidearm.
This was my first handgun also...it was my academy gun and most of my class carried the same. Mine was and is, a 6 inch and with all the Glocks, Beretta's, Colts that I've owned, I can still put more in the 10 ring with the ol' wheel gun, than any of my auto's. Probably because of the first class training I got from HBPD Range Master Phil McCrea back in the 80's.
Frank, my Dad bought it for me back in 1978 for the police academy and I still carry it as my desert sidearm (carry a Glock 17 in a shoulder holster) but I still have 4 speedloaders on my gunbelt. Still as pretty as the day I got it, and I've put enough lead through it to make an anchor for the Titanic.
Beautiful gun. One of the best. Awesome classic. I have owned a M19 since 1974. A 2.5" RB model. In those days nearly ALL cops had a S&W Model 19 or a Colt Trooper or Colt Official Police. I had mine gussied up with engraving and faux ivory grips. It's my "formal" CC gun. Makes me feel good all under at weddings, funerals and such. :-)
@keltingr , It's mainly the bullet lube, I think.
Handloads with cast bullets and lube make more smoke than jacketed ones. Never notice it since I shoot almost nothing but cast bullets in everything except my Glocks and ARs.
Bought a 6 inch model 19 when I was 21 in 1974. Sent it back to Smith about 20 years ago. They refurbished at no charge! I have the original combat magnum grips which have been restored. I shoot this at steel plate shoots in South Fl. More comments than any other shooter. Great gun.
I am glad I am from a generation that had the privilege of shooting the wheel guns and the newer polymer wonders. I shoot most of the time with revolvers but enjoy them all.
I turned 18 and purchased my first firearm, It was a 4" Nickel Plated Smith & Wesson Model 19. I still have this gun today. Over the years I never had the desire to trade. Almost 40 years later this gun looks as new as the day I bought it. Very solid accurate and fun gun.
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@Mr291229 , Taurus makes pretty good guns. If you like it, I think it would do just fine. I had one of their .38 Specials once, and it was fine.
My model 19 is great. bought it in mid 1970's while in USMC in New Orleans. I like your comment about ringing in the ears. At the time it hurt so bad I thought I broke an eardrum. The .357 has a very powerful high pitched sound, and me like an idiot didn't always use hearing protection. Live and learn my friend.
That's pretty neat! Take good care of that baby.
Actually it is a favorite gun, a classic with a great trigger that sends a 158gr. load out with a bang.
the first revolver I ever shot was a model 19.
just brought back some great memories. thanks for posting it.
@Jonesey115 , The Model 66 is pretty much a stainless Model 19.
@Mr291229 , I'm not aware of any problems with Taurus.
I got a model 19-3 in 2.5" circa 1966 in beautiful condition from a guy who didn't know what he had for $200 four years ago. I'll never sell it. ..
@epcm01 , I believe they did, but I'm not 100% certain. In those days when this gun was made, I was not as much a fan of short barrels.
I have been looking for a Model 19 for the past few years. Two weeks ago a co-worker sold me a beautiful M19-3 w/6" barrel (box included) for $500.00. I doubt it's had more than fifty round fired through it. I'm very fond of long barreled revolvers. I especially like the target model revolvers. It's a beautiful revolver. Your videos are great. Keep 'em coming.
Loading without a speed loader is relaxing. Allows me to actually have fun and enjoy shooting. Its one of the subtle joys of a revolver.
To me the K frame still feels best. I've had several and have never had problems. I think one would have to shoot a whole lot of full factory loads in order to see problems. Who'd want to do that these days? :-)
Back when the old "target-rich environment" wasn't as target-rich...
He had only about 8,000 subscribers back then too.
@kinchion , Don't think so. The entire action is different if you have 8 cylinders.
Hickok, great video!
My property manager is a great guy, vietnam vet, and avid gun enthusiast. After talking about his collection of arms for a bit, he has given me the honor of firing some rounds with his .357 magnum later this month.
Watching your video has inspired me to feel a bit more comfortable going in, and i would definitely like to own a revolver some day. I believe a model 19 SW may be what I go for.
all your videos are fantastic and very informative. Thanks for explaining things in terms we can all understand. Awesome help for those of us who are novice and want to learn without being laughed at. Keep up the great work!
This is the first hand gun I owned. Bought in 1985 and still have it. Beautiful gun with O.E. Target hammer and target trigger. I've put less than 500 rounds through it. My daughter moved to Indy and she took it with her for home protection. I'll get it back one of these days. 😂
I had a S&W. 357 in the bygone days I let get away. Your video made me remember just what a pleasure it was to load and fire that gun. Good video and thanks!
Must haves IMO, the 19 and 29. I did find a really nice 19-5 6 inch at a Local Gun Show here in AZ. Love both of these Guns.
Great Shooting!The S&W 19 was my first gun, 4" target hammer and trigger. Got it new about 1980 for $220. Could reach out and hit steel pigs at 100 yards. It is still blue and beautiful and almost too valuable to shoot today.
My grandfather had one and now its in my possesion and its a terrific gun
I’m like you...my first handgun was the S&W 19-4, 6 inch back in 1982. Three years later I picked up a 66-2 snub. Still own both and fire to this day.
Still have my 6" model 19. Bought it in the late 70's. just
@6:30
I really agree with what Mr. H is saying. My parents never owned guns and after college I decided to buy a revolver because I knew I could learn it and become proficient. Now I own revolvers and an automatic (Browning Hi-Power). With guns, always go with makes you the most comfortable.
I took my 19-5 2.5" to the range today! It was a lot of fun! Nobody there had anything remotely like it!
PIcked up a 19-5 about 10 years ago in mint condition. A beautiful piece ..
Great old Smith, reminds me of my very first gun. In 1984 I bought a S&W 586 in Nickel 4" 357 magnum. Being my very first gun, I still have it and enjoy shooting it still. Beautiful grips like yours, just a real nice revolver and a real good shooter. Thanks Hickok.
My first center fire revolver was a S/W model 19-4 nickel plated. I paid $165 it think back in 1973 at Jerry’s Gunshop in Kingsville Texas. I loved that revolver but had to sell it to pay bills. Since then purchased many revolvers and wound up with a keeper, a S/W model 65 Lady Smith in stainless. That one is a forever keeper.
I really do like the Model 19. I had one and gave it to my son ,which I hope he takes better care of than the Colt Python I had and traded off. I'm one of those older Troopers that carried the S&W model either 27 or 28 which I was not crazy about but love the model 19. You have a beautiful pistol.
That's identical to mine.
Model 19-4. It was the first handgun I ever owned. Bought it in 1980. I had to get my mother to make the purchase because I was only 19 at the time.
The state of Georgia was 18 for a long gun and 21 for a handgun.
I still have it with the same Uncle Mike's holster I bought with it.
I have several autos but you can never go wrong with a double action 357 magnum
Picked up a 6" Model 19 new in 86', long gone now...
SuperVonKiller I've. Still got my model 19 with the 6 inch barrel that I bought about the same time you bought yours. Mine looks as good as Hickok45's but is the original finish
Anthony Clark
Nice piece, I would love to have 1!
I'm 32 and I do love a good revolver. This video is almost a carbon copy of my Dad's .357. I used to watch him shoot quart beer bottles at up to 100 yards with it. I'm definitely buying one when I find a nice one. Only Smith I have atm is a j-frame Mod 60 from the 80's.
MR. Hickok thank you for your great videos. I have learned about firearms more from you then anyone else. Your a great embassador to the sport and hobby of firearms. Keep the videos coming.
thanks to Hickok I got a 1911 addiction.
Hickock, thanks for the history on that revolver. I'm 21 and of course just purchased a Glock 19. Now I've started realizing how interesting revolvers really are thanks to your videos. And yea it was the blueing on that one that definitely did it for me.
I have a Beautiful Nickel Plated S&W Model 19-6 357 Magnum. My favorite Revolver of all time is the 38 Special, but this 6 inch Model 19 is growing on me.