The last revolvers to ship wearing S&W made Combats were 2 1/2" 686-3s. I bought mine in a local gun store for substantially less than the new 7 shot 3" 686-?s that were in stores at the time. If I was the sort of scum ball who would separate a revolver from its stocks mine could have cost me less than a ratty Model 10. I figured that in the heat of a blazing gun battle I'd probably reload out of habit after 6 dumping the 7th on my toes so the older gun was more cost effective. Besides the appearance of Combats and chromed forged hammers and triggers is desirable.