Used 686 prices

Noreaster · May 25, 2011, 12:46 PM

Back in the day I use to have a S&W model 66 with a 2.5 inch barrel. I miss that revolver and I'm looking at a 2.5 inch 686 as a replacement. Three used ones for sale locally but the prices seem high, 686-2 $565.00 and the most expensive being a 686-6 for $585.00. Are these the going rates or do I need to keep looking.

Hunter2678 · May 25, 2011, 12:48 PM

www.pooshka.com/

bdb benzino · May 25, 2011, 05:36 PM

Ya, that seems to be the going rate for 686 prelocks around here too. That 686-6 is one with a lock and could be had for less if you shop sround. Great guns, I had a 686-6 and now have a 686-1, both are great!

AKsRul.e · May 25, 2011, 07:00 PM

"Back in the day I use to have a S&W model 66 with a 2.5 inch barrel. I miss that revolver and I'm looking at a 2.5 inch 686 as a replacement. Three used ones for sale locally but the prices seem high, 686-2 $565.00 and the most expensive being a 686-6 for $585.00. Are these the going rates or do I need to keep looking."
----------------
Every price guide is different and most dealers ONLY use them when BUYING
Guns.

I always watch the online auctions to see what people ACTUALLY PAY for
specific models.

FYI "snubby" S&Ws always bring a Premium price.

If you really want a particular gun to keep and shoot it makes no sense
to quibble over $40-$50 .

.

dwwhite · May 25, 2011, 07:01 PM

While I can't speak to the 2.5 inch, I picked up a 686 No Dash for $500 out the door (about $460 pre-tax here in Tx) last year. It did have the 6 inch barrel, which is arguably a more common configuration than the snub nose that you're looking for, thereby making it somewhat less desirable and less expensive.

That said, I think you should be able to find a fine used specimen for $500 or under if you hunt around for a while.

I think that you may find a better deal if you're willing to look at the later guns that incorporate the ILS (lock) and MIM parts along with the frame mounted firing pin. These seem to be a little less desirable on the used market, therefore commanding lower prices. A quick search on these subjects will render reams of info and threads. Seemingly, most of the threads I've read on these subjects render more opinions than there are posts. Take everything that you may read, especially internet wisdom, with a grain of salt.

Lastly, far be it from me to prevent you from purchasing a firearm. If you're happy with the price and the product, go for it now, rather than waiting. I've been guilty more than once of paying well above the going rate for something, simply for instant gratification. And generally, it's pretty satisfying.

Noreaster · May 25, 2011, 07:12 PM

Thanks for the replys. I was hoping you'd say the prices were high and I should shop around. Can't afford that much unless I trade something else in. I'll put it on the back burner for now and keep an eye out. There are a couple of Rugers I can afford but I like the adjustable sights on the 686/66/19 revolvers.

amd6547 · May 25, 2011, 08:36 PM

I have a 686-1 four inch I am considering selling or trading I value at $500.
There just are never going to be revolvers like this again.

Noreaster · May 25, 2011, 09:11 PM

Thanks AMD6547 but I have my sights set on a 2.5 inch.

Joe_Pike · May 26, 2011, 12:11 AM

One of my local shops has a used snubbie 686 for $800. I'm guessing they'll have it a while.

540mope · May 26, 2011, 07:51 AM

last Nov. a member on a popular S&W site posted a mint 2 1/2" 686-4 for $550. and because it was a desirable -4, i was really surprised that there were no takers for a long while.
was looking at buying a 625 back then, but i ended up buying the 686.
$525, with two sets of grips (Ahrends, and Pacs), and free delivery since he happens to live within an hour's drive...can't beat that. it's a great winter carry piece.

5Wire · May 26, 2011, 08:47 AM

The Pooska site didn't have any 686s so I thought I'd throw in my track:

Smith & Wesson 686-6 Plus 2-1/2 in Bbl Revolver in .357 Magnum, .38 Special, Plus P. Bluebook of Gun Values (32nd Edition) indicates between $350 in 95% condition and $615 in 100% condition for this gun. I have 87 recorded prices for this model gun from $350 to $900 over a period of 6 Yrs 11 Mos ending May 16, 2011. The average price as of that date was $543. No refurbs, no refinishes, regular sights. All represented as 95% or better. No distinction for engineering revision, if any, no special editions, no distinctions for box, papers, tools. Current or last MSRP is $849.

The chart is 6 prices and 3 months behing the data but the trend is pretty clear. The Average Price Trend exceeded $600 by February 2011. Better examples of the gun would command higher prices, especially with box, papers, and so on. Prices are from finished auctions, classified ads, local dealers. The monthly count trend is getting higher which is indicative of more owners selling. The 2-1/2 inch barrel version is very popular.

Sevens · May 26, 2011, 09:00 AM

I was looking for one of these nearly a year ago for a buddy... who ended up buying a new GP-100 instead. I was finding right around $500 and that was a year ago, with no discount nor premium for a blued 586.

I think if you find a pre-lock for anything even a penny under $550 and it's in top notch shape, you should buy it immediately.

I got mine new in '89 and it's by far my favorite revolver.

BigJimP · May 26, 2011, 12:06 PM

Yes, I think the prices you are seeing are pretty good ...and I think they're going to continue to increase on the pre-internal lock guns - especially if they're in good shape.

I've seen model 19's, 66's and 686's as high as $ 700 ...on very clean guns.

Kevinch · May 26, 2011, 12:29 PM

I would say those prices are average. I have a 686-1 that I bought new with a 6" tube. I've always wanted to add a 4" to my collection - in fact, I wish I would have bought the 4" instead of the 6" - but failed to do so when prices were what I thought reasonable. I'd like to add a 2.5" too; but they would all have to be pre-lock & the prices now are just a little too high for me.

rigby06 · May 26, 2011, 01:10 PM

Less than 2 months ago I bought a 4" 686-4, which from what I understand was the last production revision before the metal injection molding and the locking mechanisms. I live in Richmond VA, and at that time it was $650 at the local gun store.

Noreaster · May 26, 2011, 03:31 PM

5WIRE that was some work up on prices!

brit3 · May 26, 2011, 06:49 PM

You can do better. I just got a (possibly only factory fired by the looks of it) 686 no dash for 350.

That's the price that was offered, so I took it. It's a 6" though. I have a 66-2 snub for other uses.

5Wire · May 26, 2011, 08:46 PM

Thanks, Noreaster.

brit3, I agree you can do better but you're going to have to be patient because the trend is up just from inflation alone.

confused · May 26, 2011, 10:46 PM

I just picked up a 686-3 with a 4" bbl and a bobbed hammer for $397 out the door at a local pawn shop.

buck460XVR · May 27, 2011, 03:31 PM

New 686s around here go for about $675. Last used one I saw at the LGS was priced @ $499. N-Frames are generally $100 More. Problem around here ain't the price of used Smiths, but findin' one. Used Rugers and Taurus are plentiful, but used Smiths are seldom seen.

Stargazer · May 29, 2011, 01:52 AM

I just sold my 686-3 for $500 a few months ago. It was used a lot but kept very clean and before I sold it I gave it the Flitz treatment and it looked as good as new. Added $100 to that and got myself a 4" GP100. I like to shoot hot rounds and the 686 is just not up to taking the beating the Ruger will.

stevieboy · May 29, 2011, 11:38 AM

My sense is that K- and L- snubs command among the highest resale prices for shooter grade revolvers. The reason is obvious, Smith has discontinued its K-frame magnums and makes relatively few 686 snubs. So, if you want something a little heftier than a J-frame snub in magnum for carry you pretty much have to look for something used, or pay somewhere in the neighborhood of $700 for a new 686 snub.

About 6 weeks ago I got my hands on a nickel Model 19-3 2 1/2" and considered myself lucky to have paid "only" $600 for it. I'm so enamored with this gun that I'm in the market for another, either a 19 or the slightly heftier 586/686, and will consider myself really lucky if I find one in the same price range.

Newton24b · May 30, 2011, 12:48 AM

wow you people quible, id love to be able to find a used sw that wasnt priced at a minimum 80% of current list price.

dbb · July 17, 2011, 01:09 PM

I am wanting to purchase a used 686. I have found one in a local gun shop that was purchased in 1988 and so does not have any of the new mods that people seem to have issues with MIM etc. It would appear to be in pristine condition, reportedly has never been fired except when leaving the factory, and the condition of the gun would certainly appear to support these statements. It has a traditional all wood grip. It has the original box, all the papers, manual etc. with it. They have it priced at 699.99. I have negotiated them down to 661.00. I would be more comfortable with 590 or 600 as that would seem to be the highest blue book value. I assume that they want top dollar, but it is a thing of beauty. The quesiton is am I getting hosed, or does it seem to be fair price, etc.

by the way it has a 6 inch barrel

Wleoff · July 17, 2011, 10:40 PM

About two months ago, I bought the 1982 or 1983 686 6" in the photo for $300. It had been shot 6 times, one cylinder's worth. Seems that the guy bought it, shot it one time and then put it a the dresser drawer for the next 30 years. He died. His wife wanted it out of the house and all she'd take was $300, the amount that she thought that he paid for it. She wanted exactly $300, no more, or would sell it to someone else for that. So I bought it. Shoots great.

May 25, 2011, 12:46 PM	#1
Noreaster Senior Member Join Date: January 30, 2011 Location: New England Posts: 975	Used 686 prices Back in the day I use to have a S&W model 66 with a 2.5 inch barrel. I miss that revolver and I'm looking at a 2.5 inch 686 as a replacement. Three used ones for sale locally but the prices seem high, 686-2 $565.00 and the most expensive being a 686-6 for $585.00. Are these the going rates or do I need to keep looking.

May 25, 2011, 05:36 PM	#3
bdb benzino Senior Member Join Date: April 12, 2009 Location: Willamette valley,OR Posts: 641	Ya, that seems to be the going rate for 686 prelocks around here too. That 686-6 is one with a lock and could be had for less if you shop sround. Great guns, I had a 686-6 and now have a 686-1, both are great! __________________ good and safe shooting, bdb. BETTER TO BE CAUGHT WITH ONE, THAN WITH OUT ONE

May 25, 2011, 08:36 PM	#7
amd6547 Senior Member Join Date: May 27, 2006 Posts: 1,065	I have a 686-1 four inch I am considering selling or trading I value at $500. There just are never going to be revolvers like this again. __________________ Still waiting for my Flashback...I would like it now, please.

May 26, 2011, 12:11 AM	#9
Joe_Pike Senior Member Join Date: December 30, 2010 Posts: 729	One of my local shops has a used snubbie 686 for $800. I'm guessing they'll have it a while. __________________ Stay Groovy

May 26, 2011, 07:51 AM	#10
540mope Senior Member Join Date: November 22, 2008 Location: yonder Posts: 321	last Nov. a member on a popular S&W site posted a mint 2 1/2" 686-4 for $550. and because it was a desirable -4, i was really surprised that there were no takers for a long while. was looking at buying a 625 back then, but i ended up buying the 686. $525, with two sets of grips (Ahrends, and Pacs), and free delivery since he happens to live within an hour's drive...can't beat that. it's a great winter carry piece. Last edited by 540mope; May 29, 2011 at 03:15 PM.

May 25, 2011, 12:48 PM	#2
Hunter2678 Senior Member Join Date: March 16, 2011 Location: 43235-2153 Posts: 162	www.pooshka.com/

May 25, 2011, 07:00 PM	#4
AKsRul.e Senior Member Join Date: July 24, 2010 Location: Pennsylvania Posts: 234	"Back in the day I use to have a S&W model 66 with a 2.5 inch barrel. I miss that revolver and I'm looking at a 2.5 inch 686 as a replacement. Three used ones for sale locally but the prices seem high, 686-2 $565.00 and the most expensive being a 686-6 for $585.00. Are these the going rates or do I need to keep looking." ---------------- Every price guide is different and most dealers ONLY use them when BUYING Guns. I always watch the online auctions to see what people ACTUALLY PAY for specific models. FYI "snubby" S&Ws always bring a Premium price. If you really want a particular gun to keep and shoot it makes no sense to quibble over $40-$50 . .

May 25, 2011, 07:01 PM	#5
dwwhite Senior Member Join Date: December 9, 2008 Location: Southwest Tx Posts: 117	While I can't speak to the 2.5 inch, I picked up a 686 No Dash for $500 out the door (about $460 pre-tax here in Tx) last year. It did have the 6 inch barrel, which is arguably a more common configuration than the snub nose that you're looking for, thereby making it somewhat less desirable and less expensive. That said, I think you should be able to find a fine used specimen for $500 or under if you hunt around for a while. I think that you may find a better deal if you're willing to look at the later guns that incorporate the ILS (lock) and MIM parts along with the frame mounted firing pin. These seem to be a little less desirable on the used market, therefore commanding lower prices. A quick search on these subjects will render reams of info and threads. Seemingly, most of the threads I've read on these subjects render more opinions than there are posts. Take everything that you may read, especially internet wisdom, with a grain of salt. Lastly, far be it from me to prevent you from purchasing a firearm. If you're happy with the price and the product, go for it now, rather than waiting. I've been guilty more than once of paying well above the going rate for something, simply for instant gratification. And generally, it's pretty satisfying.

May 25, 2011, 07:12 PM	#6
Noreaster Senior Member Join Date: January 30, 2011 Location: New England Posts: 975	Thanks for the replys. I was hoping you'd say the prices were high and I should shop around. Can't afford that much unless I trade something else in. I'll put it on the back burner for now and keep an eye out. There are a couple of Rugers I can afford but I like the adjustable sights on the 686/66/19 revolvers.

May 25, 2011, 09:11 PM	#8
Noreaster Senior Member Join Date: January 30, 2011 Location: New England Posts: 975	Thanks AMD6547 but I have my sights set on a 2.5 inch.

May 26, 2011, 08:47 AM	#11
5Wire Senior Member Join Date: March 13, 2008 Posts: 245	The Pooska site didn't have any 686s so I thought I'd throw in my track: Smith & Wesson 686-6 Plus 2-1/2 in Bbl Revolver in .357 Magnum, .38 Special, Plus P. Bluebook of Gun Values (32nd Edition) indicates between $350 in 95% condition and $615 in 100% condition for this gun. I have 87 recorded prices for this model gun from $350 to $900 over a period of 6 Yrs 11 Mos ending May 16, 2011. The average price as of that date was $543. No refurbs, no refinishes, regular sights. All represented as 95% or better. No distinction for engineering revision, if any, no special editions, no distinctions for box, papers, tools. Current or last MSRP is $849. The chart is 6 prices and 3 months behing the data but the trend is pretty clear. The Average Price Trend exceeded $600 by February 2011. Better examples of the gun would command higher prices, especially with box, papers, and so on. Prices are from finished auctions, classified ads, local dealers. The monthly count trend is getting higher which is indicative of more owners selling. The 2-1/2 inch barrel version is very popular. __________________ 5Wire (Bob) *We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall all hang separately.*

May 26, 2011, 09:00 AM	#12
Sevens Senior Member Join Date: July 28, 2007 Location: Central Ohio Posts: 6,862	I was looking for one of these nearly a year ago for a buddy... who ended up buying a new GP-100 instead. I was finding right around $500 and that was a year ago, with no discount nor premium for a blued 586. I think if you find a pre-lock for anything even a penny under $550 and it's in top notch shape, you should buy it immediately. I got mine new in '89 and it's by far my favorite revolver. __________________ *Attention Brass rats and other reloaders:* I really need .327 Federal Magnum brass, no lot size too small. Tell me what caliber you need and I'll see what I have to swap. PM me and we'll discuss.

May 26, 2011, 12:06 PM	#13
BigJimP Senior Member Join Date: February 23, 2005 Posts: 9,962	Yes, I think the prices you are seeing are pretty good ...and I think they're going to continue to increase on the pre-internal lock guns - especially if they're in good shape. I've seen model 19's, 66's and 686's as high as $ 700 ...on very clean guns.

May 26, 2011, 12:29 PM	#14
Kevinch Senior Member Join Date: February 6, 2001 Location: NE OH. Posts: 825	I would say those prices are average. I have a 686-1 that I bought new with a 6" tube. I've always wanted to add a 4" to my collection - in fact, I wish I would have bought the 4" instead of the 6" - but failed to do so when prices were what I thought reasonable. I'd like to add a 2.5" too; but they would all have to be pre-lock & the prices now are just a little too high for me. __________________ ...arms...discourage and keep the invader and plunderer in awe, and preserve order in the world as well as property. ...Horrid mischief would ensue were (the law abiding) deprived the use of them. --Thomas Paine

May 26, 2011, 01:10 PM	#15
rigby06 Senior Member Join Date: November 18, 2010 Location: Richmond VA Posts: 370	Less than 2 months ago I bought a 4" 686-4, which from what I understand was the last production revision before the metal injection molding and the locking mechanisms. I live in Richmond VA, and at that time it was $650 at the local gun store.

May 26, 2011, 03:31 PM	#16
Noreaster Senior Member Join Date: January 30, 2011 Location: New England Posts: 975	5WIRE that was some work up on prices!

May 26, 2011, 06:49 PM	#17
brit3 Member Join Date: March 11, 2007 Location: N/E Ohio Posts: 42	You can do better. I just got a (possibly only factory fired by the looks of it) 686 no dash for 350. That's the price that was offered, so I took it. It's a 6" though. I have a 66-2 snub for other uses.

May 26, 2011, 08:46 PM	#18
5Wire Senior Member Join Date: March 13, 2008 Posts: 245	Thanks, Noreaster. brit3, I agree you can do better but you're going to have to be patient because the trend is up just from inflation alone. __________________ 5Wire (Bob) *We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall all hang separately.*

May 27, 2011, 03:31 PM	#20
buck460XVR Senior Member Join Date: December 28, 2006 Posts: 1,099	New 686s around here go for about $675. Last used one I saw at the LGS was priced @ $499. N-Frames are generally $100 More. Problem around here ain't the price of used Smiths, but findin' one. Used Rugers and Taurus are plentiful, but used Smiths are seldom seen.

May 29, 2011, 01:52 AM	#21
Stargazer Senior Member Join Date: August 6, 2006 Location: Republic of Texas Posts: 505	I just sold my 686-3 for $500 a few months ago. It was used a lot but kept very clean and before I sold it I gave it the Flitz treatment and it looked as good as new. Added $100 to that and got myself a 4" GP100. I like to shoot hot rounds and the 686 is just not up to taking the beating the Ruger will. __________________ 5.56mm, reach out and touch something. .458 SOCOM,reach out and knock something down. M70 Web Page

May 29, 2011, 11:38 AM	#22
stevieboy Senior Member Join Date: March 14, 2008 Posts: 1,695	My sense is that K- and L- snubs command among the highest resale prices for shooter grade revolvers. The reason is obvious, Smith has discontinued its K-frame magnums and makes relatively few 686 snubs. So, if you want something a little heftier than a J-frame snub in magnum for carry you pretty much have to look for something used, or pay somewhere in the neighborhood of $700 for a new 686 snub. About 6 weeks ago I got my hands on a nickel Model 19-3 2 1/2" and considered myself lucky to have paid "only" $600 for it. I'm so enamored with this gun that I'm in the market for another, either a 19 or the slightly heftier 586/686, and will consider myself really lucky if I find one in the same price range.

May 30, 2011, 12:48 AM	#23
Newton24b Senior Member Join Date: February 10, 2009 Posts: 957	wow you people quible, id love to be able to find a used sw that wasnt priced at a minimum 80% of current list price.

July 17, 2011, 01:09 PM	#24
dbb Junior Member Join Date: July 16, 2011 Posts: 4	I am wanting to purchase a used 686. I have found one in a local gun shop that was purchased in 1988 and so does not have any of the new mods that people seem to have issues with MIM etc. It would appear to be in pristine condition, reportedly has never been fired except when leaving the factory, and the condition of the gun would certainly appear to support these statements. It has a traditional all wood grip. It has the original box, all the papers, manual etc. with it. They have it priced at 699.99. I have negotiated them down to 661.00. I would be more comfortable with 590 or 600 as that would seem to be the highest blue book value. I assume that they want top dollar, but it is a thing of beauty. The quesiton is am I getting hosed, or does it seem to be fair price, etc. by the way it has a 6 inch barrel

July 17, 2011, 10:40 PM	#25
Wleoff Senior Member Join Date: June 6, 2008 Location: North AL Posts: 380	About two months ago, I bought the 1982 or 1983 686 6" in the photo for $300. It had been shot 6 times, one cylinder's worth. Seems that the guy bought it, shot it one time and then put it a the dresser drawer for the next 30 years. He died. His wife wanted it out of the house and all she'd take was $300, the amount that she thought that he paid for it. She wanted exactly $300, no more, or would sell it to someone else for that. So I bought it. Shoots great.