I am considering a 686-0 4" purchase for $500.
Can anyone enlighten me if this is a good value, and provide any other relevant details. I believe it is pre-lock and pre-MIM.
Thanks in advance

The 686 no-dash ran from its introduction in 1980 until the dash one change in 1886. Certainly pre-mim and pre-lock. Great guns. If you take a look at some of the recent threads regarding 686s and 586s you'll see various members (including myself) singing their praises. Four inch barrels are a favorite for many. I have a 6" I bought when they first came out and its still a favorite. As for the price: I didn't have a 4" and found a 4" 586 just after the holidays. I paid $500 for it and thought it might have been a little high (gun showed some finish wear in spots) but I specifically wanted a no-dash so I went for it. It shoots great and I have no regrets. I think $500 for a good 686 is a fair price.

I have passed on guns before because I thought they were 20-30 bucks too high, and now I am passing on the same guns because they are several hundred dollars too high.....my point being is that if you can feasably afford it, and its what you want and you don't feel like you'll regret it, get the gun. S&W's are great investments and something to pass down to your kids someday!

I believe $500 is a little high for the 686 you described. There are plenty out there; I'd try to lower the price...

x2. These things just seem to go up in value. They are an investment. A fun investment but an investment none the less.

IMHO, the price is decent (but not a steal) in today's market IF it is in excellent mechanical condition and has it's box and papers.
Somewhere around here is a good tutorial on what to look for in a used revolver to assure it's not worn out. Worthwhile reading if you are new to the game.

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Dave

If you want it, buy it, it is no ones money but your's.

If you like it and it looks and feels good, then get it.
500.00 isn't that bad a price and in some areas it would be considered a great deal.
just like used cars, gun prices run different depending on what part of the country you live and state.
see if it has the M stamped on it, -0 models had a recall because of a problem with the firing pin nose bushing and if it doesn't you can send it back to S&W and they will fix it for free.

my stated price included shipping and ffl, so the real sell price is probably in the proverbial ballpark. Unfortunately, the resale prices for 686's are all over the map, with seemingly no rhyme or reason for price relative to the comments regarding condition. I am really more concerned about part wear, fit (based on age, normal wear and tear). As far as price goes, I am trying to decide if the -0 at 500 is a better deal than the -5 at 700. I think the 686 will be a good start for me for a revolver and I do appreciate all your respective comments.
I will post the pictures after delivery.
Thanks again to all. -Pete

I think $500 is a great price for a M686. I would pay that
for one. Don

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"Don't worry be happy"

$500 sounds about right for a 686 no dash. I paid more for a 6" one a few months back but it did have the original box and seemed to be in like new condition. I've been looking for the 4" since and $500 is my mental limit.

500 for a 4'' 686 I would get it in a heart beat. You dont have to worry about the lock,it has the good forged parts and a 4'' barrel GO GET IT !!!