Ruger Security Six?

[Mr. 16 gauge]

Does anyone here have any experience with the Ruger Security Six (or speed six)? I'm kind of in the market for a used, Stainless .357 revolver to carry while fishing...I'd like something with a 2.5" barrel, but 4" might do. I was thinking a used S&W M66, but I was browsing through some old gun digests tonight and saw the Ruger.....I had forgotten all about them. IIRC, they were touted to be pretty decent guns....but I've never handled (let alone shot) one.
Thanks in advance..........

[270man]

Had the 6" stainless model years ago and felt it was an attempt to compete with the S&W Models 19 and 66 -- about the same weight and size. Single action trigger was inferior to the Smiths, but acceptable. DA trigger was atrocious. Accuracy was probably okay the the Smiths were better -- probably due to the better trigger pull.

Another feature (also noted in Jeff Cooper's writings) was that the ejector rod didn't fully clear the emptys from the cylinder. The Security Six was cheaper than the Smiths and probably a decent value. However, I prefer the GP100 (and S&W 586/686) if the heavier weight is not an issue. Gave the Ruger to my son. It was stolen and never replaced.

270man

[dovehunter]

I have a 4" blued Security-Six that I bought new back in the 70s. I've probably shot thousands of rounds through it over time and it has maintained it's tightness and accuracy. I love mine and wouldn't swap it for any S&W ever made, but then I have never been one to be awed by the name S&W.

[GoodOlBoy]

You know me I love Rugers, and there isn't a thing in the world wrong with the single six that can't be fixed, but as 270man said it DOES have it's shortcommings. I also would look at the GP100 (Which I have one and absolutely love) or the SP101. Either is a hardy good gun, and both will stand up to a lifetime or hard use.

GoodOlBoy

[muskrat30]

I have a 70's vintage 6" Security-Six, fine gun no problems.

[wrenchman]

I have looked to get one for years they are well loved here they were well none for likeing stout rounds the smiths dont and this when there was 357 or 44S if you were going to carry one to hunt with.
If you got a line on one for a nice price i would by it.