Who own a S&W 686? - Page 3

Have gun-will travel · June 23, 2014, 08:46 PM

I have a 4 inch 586 and a 6 inch 686 Classic Hunter with an un-fluted cylinder, Both are outstanding guns .I would not part with either one.

TheFineLine · June 23, 2014, 08:50 PM

I have a two-ish year old 686-6 Talo 5 inch 7 shot with the unfluted barrel. It is definitely one of my best looking firearms. Unfortunately I had some issues with it. I got some hot gas and a little shrapnel on my left cheek while firing some 357 target rounds. Sent it in and they said that the force cone was too long and was rubbing against the cylinder and it was out of time They cut the cone and replaced the cylinder. They had it about three weeks. I've taken it out since and and it shoots perfectly now. I'm very happy with it.

Castle22 · July 2, 2014, 06:59 AM

I have a 686 with a 3 inch barrel. If you were to tell me I could have one gun and one gun only, this would be it due to its versatility. And who can complain about 7 rounds of .357? It's a bit heavy for carry, but now and then I can't help myself and I strap it to my hip.

P5 Guy · July 2, 2014, 01:24 PM

Yes I had one. A Performance Center 686-4 Plus.
The only revolver better is no longer made by S&W. The 581/681. In my opinion a combat handgun should have fixed sights.

gb_in_ga · July 2, 2014, 03:00 PM

I've got a 4" 686 no dash. Being a no dash, it is a 6 cylinder. I can't speak for the 7 cylinder models, but I won't part with the one I have. Yeah, it is that good. It does bedside duty, and it also serves as my hiking gun as well, weight notwithstanding.

HawkeyeNRAlifer · July 5, 2014, 10:49 PM

I've a 686 6" no dash model. It used to take a Lot of rabbits back in the day. Don'y get her out as often as I'd like, but can't part with her either. The traditionalist in me can't wrap my head around a 7 shot "sixshooter", but I'm sure they shoot just as well.

edfrompa · July 7, 2014, 08:15 PM

The 686 Plus and 686 are a work of art. They are a finely made firearm. Just to know we have one of the finest revolvers made on this planet. When you go through many firearms in a lifetime and you come across the Smith and Wesson 686 you then know you found the one you have been looking for. I will never part with the 686, I will pass it .down to my children and in turn their children.

Blue1 · July 7, 2014, 08:37 PM

Theoretically, in the same gun, a seven round revolver with the same cylinder diameter as a six cylinder should have a lighter trigger, as the cylinder does not need to be rotated as far with each trigger pull.

Blue1

MrBorland · July 7, 2014, 08:53 PM

It takes very little energy to turn a cylinder. It's the energy stored within the main and return springs that mainly sets the pull weight.

And trigger travel of the 7-shot isn't likely to be significantly shorter (different hand), as that would have the hammer breaking earlier, and hitting the round with less oompf.

JayCee · July 8, 2014, 08:17 PM

This is a Model 686 Compact 1984 Limited Edition, a Lew Horton factory special. According to Supica and Nahas, approximately 2500 were made.

cmdc · July 8, 2014, 08:36 PM

I have three pluses, a 2.5", a 3" and a 5" unfluted, and a 6 shot 4". All of them are very accurate, but the 5" is in a class by itself.

thinkingman · August 2, 2014, 04:19 PM

I have a 4" -3 and a 3" unfluted TALO.
Both are the perfect size and weight for carry or shooting.
I would sell the 3" if the right buyer came along.

nixterdemus · August 3, 2014, 06:05 AM

Even the 4" is a tad healthy, yet the full underlug helps steady the orange insert for me. When hiking one might prefer the ability of the 357 for whatever could rear it's ugly head. When I took the road less traveled, state/federal parcels on improved/unimproved dirt/gravel, sitting on a Honda 1800C I carried a 1006 on my hip. It was heavy totin' ten rnds, yet my only concern was turning around on some of those narrow roads, driving through standing water or a wash-out from run-off.

Now, not to talk you out of the 686 as you wouldn't talk me out of mine though there is another alternative. If someone else hasn't already mentioned and that's the Model 60 w/magnum frame in a 3" brl. Only five rnds which is why they make speed loaders, but considerably lighter. You will realize that when you drop the hmr. Still have the wear/corrosion handling of SS and close to the same velocity. I'll not claim the trigger is as smooth nor a gun for range fun though if you ever needed the magnum punch it certainly would be on tap. It does pack well.

Everything's a compromise and the 686 will serve you well as others dependent on preference, price & availability. For an all around shooter the 686 is a dandy w/proven track record.

Real Gun · August 3, 2014, 09:03 AM

What is a "hiking/camp gun" to you? What do you expect to shoot with it? What kind of wilderness are you talking about? How will you carry it? A Smith 686 is a rather nice gun to be a trail beater.

wild cat mccane · August 3, 2014, 04:30 PM

Any of you 686 owners ever had a Taurus 608 (8 shot) or the Taurus 66 (7 shot)?

Eric M. · August 3, 2014, 08:47 PM

Trade came my way and I couldn't pass it up. I would never trade my 686-4, however, I made a trade for my 617. A K-22 Target Masterpiece 1979 17-4 is now mine. It is the perfect match for my 1956 K-38 Target Masterpiece. I also fit it with a new set of Herritt grips just like the grips that my K-38 sport.
Going to miss my 617 but the K-22 with the Herritt is a much better shooter at 50 yards.

Eric

J A · August 6, 2014, 05:00 AM

You stated that your current carry gun is a full sized 1911. If you are used to the weight of the 1911 carrying a short barreled 686 will not be an issue for you. The loaded weight will be very similar.
A good holster and belt can make a huge difference in carry comfort. Buy the 686. I know you will like it and probably end up with more than one in your arsenal. They are addictive.

JA

Real Gun · August 6, 2014, 09:29 AM

For a hiking/trail gun in .357, more or less a beater, I would suggest the 4" Ruger Security Six. It is noticeably lighter than a 686 in same barrel length. It might take awhile to find one, but there are many out there. Happily, I have both and am keeping them, but I am much more mindful of caring for the appearance and condition of the 686.

The_Shootist · August 8, 2014, 09:33 PM

The 686+ - Finest 357 around!

Then again, I'm kinda biased!

Crunchy Frog · August 9, 2014, 04:09 PM

Shootist, what are the grips on your "Plus"? Very nice.

bikerbill · August 12, 2014, 08:50 AM

I've had a 4-inch 686+ for a number of years; it's probably the only gun in my collection I'd never sell. Works perfectly, accurate, heavy enough to absorb recoil from magnum rounds.

It's my favorite gun at the range. Too heavy for me to carry and without night sights, it's not a nightstand favorite. But it's a great gun, well worth the cost of admission.

The_Shootist · August 12, 2014, 08:12 PM

RE: Grips

Its been a while since I got them, but:

http://www.eaglegrips.com/guns/Class...utt-Grips.html

"Classic Grips
Here's a grip like those used by such legendary handgunners as Walter Roper, Skeeter Skelton, and Elmer Keith! Featuring a thinner neck and a raised palm swell on the right side, to insure the best possible hold, EAGLE GRIPS' "Classic" is a return to a design that was proven decades ago when wheelguns were carried and used daily! "

Blade37db · August 14, 2014, 12:54 PM

Recently won this 686-5 7 shot with a 5 inch barrel on Gunbroker. Sweet shooter but a tad heavy to carry.

Crunchy Frog · August 14, 2014, 10:02 PM

Thanks, Shootist.

Salmoneye · August 15, 2014, 07:48 AM

I bought this 686-3 (used) for Dad back in '91 or so...

It has now returned to me:

July 2, 2014, 01:24 PM	#54
P5 Guy Senior Member Join Date: December 1, 2005 Location: Tampa Bay Posts: 1,804	S&W 686+ Yes I had one. A Performance Center 686-4 Plus. The only revolver better is no longer made by S&W. The 581/681. In my opinion a combat handgun should have fixed sights.

July 2, 2014, 03:00 PM	#55
gb_in_ga Senior Member Join Date: February 15, 2005 Location: Pensacola, Fl Posts: 3,092	I've got a 4" 686 no dash. Being a no dash, it is a 6 cylinder. I can't speak for the 7 cylinder models, but I won't part with the one I have. Yeah, it is that good. It does bedside duty, and it also serves as my hiking gun as well, weight notwithstanding. __________________ COME AND TAKE IT http://www.tamu.edu/ccbn/dewitt/batgon.htm Formerly lived in Ga, but now I'm back in Tx! Aaaand, now I'm off to Fla...

July 7, 2014, 08:37 PM	#58
Blue1 Member Join Date: November 30, 2012 Posts: 66	6 rd vs 7 rd trigger Theoretically, in the same gun, a seven round revolver with the same cylinder diameter as a six cylinder should have a lighter trigger, as the cylinder does not need to be rotated as far with each trigger pull. Blue1

July 8, 2014, 08:17 PM	#60
JayCee Senior Member Join Date: March 20, 2001 Posts: 494	This is a Model 686 Compact 1984 Limited Edition, a Lew Horton factory special. According to Supica and Nahas, approximately 2500 were made. __________________ “You may all go to hell and I will go to Texas.” – David Crockett “If I owned Texas and hell, I'd rent out Texas and live in hell.” - General Phillip H. Sheridan

August 3, 2014, 06:05 AM	#63
nixterdemus Member Join Date: April 14, 2010 Posts: 36	Even the 4" is a tad healthy, yet the full underlug helps steady the orange insert for me. When hiking one might prefer the ability of the 357 for whatever could rear it's ugly head. When I took the road less traveled, state/federal parcels on improved/unimproved dirt/gravel, sitting on a Honda 1800C I carried a 1006 on my hip. It was heavy totin' ten rnds, yet my only concern was turning around on some of those narrow roads, driving through standing water or a wash-out from run-off. Now, not to talk you out of the 686 as you wouldn't talk me out of mine though there is another alternative. If someone else hasn't already mentioned and that's the Model 60 w/magnum frame in a 3" brl. Only five rnds which is why they make speed loaders, but considerably lighter. You will realize that when you drop the hmr. Still have the wear/corrosion handling of SS and close to the same velocity. I'll not claim the trigger is as smooth nor a gun for range fun though if you ever needed the magnum punch it certainly would be on tap. It does pack well. Everything's a compromise and the 686 will serve you well as others dependent on preference, price & availability. For an all around shooter the 686 is a dandy w/proven track record. Last edited by nixterdemus; August 3, 2014 at 06:23 AM.

June 23, 2014, 08:46 PM	#51
Have gun-will travel Member Join Date: June 10, 2014 Posts: 36	I have a 4 inch 586 and a 6 inch 686 Classic Hunter with an un-fluted cylinder, Both are outstanding guns .I would not part with either one.

June 23, 2014, 08:50 PM	#52
TheFineLine Senior Member Join Date: January 9, 2012 Location: The Great State of Texas Posts: 210	I have a two-ish year old 686-6 Talo 5 inch 7 shot with the unfluted barrel. It is definitely one of my best looking firearms. Unfortunately I had some issues with it. I got some hot gas and a little shrapnel on my left cheek while firing some 357 target rounds. Sent it in and they said that the force cone was too long and was rubbing against the cylinder and it was out of time They cut the cone and replaced the cylinder. They had it about three weeks. I've taken it out since and and it shoots perfectly now. I'm very happy with it.

July 2, 2014, 06:59 AM	#53
Castle22 Member Join Date: January 1, 2006 Posts: 28	I have a 686 with a 3 inch barrel. If you were to tell me I could have one gun and one gun only, this would be it due to its versatility. And who can complain about 7 rounds of .357? It's a bit heavy for carry, but now and then I can't help myself and I strap it to my hip.

July 5, 2014, 10:49 PM	#56
HawkeyeNRAlifer Senior Member Join Date: September 6, 2007 Location: Iowa Posts: 316	I've a 686 6" no dash model. It used to take a Lot of rabbits back in the day. Don'y get her out as often as I'd like, but can't part with her either. The traditionalist in me can't wrap my head around a 7 shot "sixshooter", but I'm sure they shoot just as well.

July 7, 2014, 08:15 PM	#57
edfrompa Senior Member Join Date: March 21, 1999 Posts: 335	The 686 Plus and 686 are a work of art. They are a finely made firearm. Just to know we have one of the finest revolvers made on this planet. When you go through many firearms in a lifetime and you come across the Smith and Wesson 686 you then know you found the one you have been looking for. I will never part with the 686, I will pass it .down to my children and in turn their children.

July 7, 2014, 08:53 PM	#59
MrBorland Senior Member Join Date: May 31, 2007 Location: NC Posts: 2,614	It takes very little energy to turn a cylinder. It's the energy stored within the main and return springs that mainly sets the pull weight. And trigger travel of the 7-shot isn't likely to be significantly shorter (different hand), as that would have the hammer breaking earlier, and hitting the round with less oompf.

July 8, 2014, 08:36 PM	#61
cmdc Senior Member Join Date: April 1, 2010 Location: Florida Gulf Coast Posts: 721	I have three pluses, a 2.5", a 3" and a 5" unfluted, and a 6 shot 4". All of them are very accurate, but the 5" is in a class by itself.

August 2, 2014, 04:19 PM	#62
thinkingman Senior Member Join Date: March 27, 2008 Location: western WA Posts: 691	I have a 4" -3 and a 3" unfluted TALO. Both are the perfect size and weight for carry or shooting. I would sell the 3" if the right buyer came along.

August 3, 2014, 09:03 AM	#64
Real Gun Senior Member Join Date: May 19, 2004 Location: SC Posts: 2,743	What is a "hiking/camp gun" to you? What do you expect to shoot with it? What kind of wilderness are you talking about? How will you carry it? A Smith 686 is a rather nice gun to be a trail beater.

August 3, 2014, 04:30 PM	#65
wild cat mccane Senior Member Join Date: May 22, 2011 Posts: 3,627	Any of you 686 owners ever had a Taurus 608 (8 shot) or the Taurus 66 (7 shot)?

August 3, 2014, 08:47 PM	#66
Eric M. Senior Member Join Date: January 26, 2007 Location: Forest Lake, Minnesota Posts: 307	Trade came my way and I couldn't pass it up. I would never trade my 686-4, however, I made a trade for my 617. A K-22 Target Masterpiece 1979 17-4 is now mine. It is the perfect match for my 1956 K-38 Target Masterpiece. I also fit it with a new set of Herritt grips just like the grips that my K-38 sport. Going to miss my 617 but the K-22 with the Herritt is a much better shooter at 50 yards. Eric __________________ NRA Chief Range Safety Officer NRA Pistol Instructor NRA Life Member DNR Certified Firearms Safety Instructor 37 yrs

August 6, 2014, 05:00 AM	#67
J A Senior Member Join Date: March 1, 2009 Location: The Hawkeye State Posts: 191	To the OP You stated that your current carry gun is a full sized 1911. If you are used to the weight of the 1911 carrying a short barreled 686 will not be an issue for you. The loaded weight will be very similar. A good holster and belt can make a huge difference in carry comfort. Buy the 686. I know you will like it and probably end up with more than one in your arsenal. They are addictive. JA

August 6, 2014, 09:29 AM	#68
Real Gun Senior Member Join Date: May 19, 2004 Location: SC Posts: 2,743	For a hiking/trail gun in .357, more or less a beater, I would suggest the 4" Ruger Security Six. It is noticeably lighter than a 686 in same barrel length. It might take awhile to find one, but there are many out there. Happily, I have both and am keeping them, but I am much more mindful of caring for the appearance and condition of the 686.

August 8, 2014, 09:33 PM	#69
The_Shootist Senior Member Join Date: May 19, 2004 Posts: 161	The 686+ - Finest 357 around! Then again, I'm kinda biased! __________________ Yo homie....that my briefcase??!!

August 9, 2014, 04:09 PM	#70
Crunchy Frog Senior Member Join Date: December 26, 2008 Location: Greenville, SC Posts: 591	Shootist, what are the grips on your "Plus"? Very nice.

August 12, 2014, 08:50 AM	#71
bikerbill Senior Member Join Date: September 19, 2007 Location: Lago Vista TX Posts: 2,425	I've had a 4-inch 686+ for a number of years; it's probably the only gun in my collection I'd never sell. Works perfectly, accurate, heavy enough to absorb recoil from magnum rounds. It's my favorite gun at the range. Too heavy for me to carry and without night sights, it's not a nightstand favorite. But it's a great gun, well worth the cost of admission. __________________ "The welfare of humanity is always the alibi of tyrants." Albert Camus

August 12, 2014, 08:12 PM	#72
The_Shootist Senior Member Join Date: May 19, 2004 Posts: 161	RE: Grips Its been a while since I got them, but: http://www.eaglegrips.com/guns/Class...utt-Grips.html "Classic Grips Here's a grip like those used by such legendary handgunners as Walter Roper, Skeeter Skelton, and Elmer Keith! Featuring a thinner neck and a raised palm swell on the right side, to insure the best possible hold, EAGLE GRIPS' "Classic" is a return to a design that was proven decades ago when wheelguns were carried and used daily! " __________________ Yo homie....that my briefcase??!!

August 14, 2014, 10:02 PM	#74
Crunchy Frog Senior Member Join Date: December 26, 2008 Location: Greenville, SC Posts: 591	Thanks, Shootist.

August 15, 2014, 07:48 AM	#75
Salmoneye Senior Member Join Date: December 31, 2011 Location: Vermont Posts: 2,076	I bought this 686-3 (used) for Dad back in '91 or so... It has now returned to me: