So I just started shooting ICORE with my 4" 686+ (no lock) and now I'm faced with a choice. Both options cost about $200

Option 1 is to send it in and have it moon clipped. For the Machining, moonclips, and moon and de-moon tool it's about $200. The problem is that I would still be shooting in Limited class against 8 shot revolvers, with a 7 shot gun.

Option 2 is to send it to Smith & Wesson and have it converted back to a 686 6 shot (also about $200). This would allow me to shoot in Retro class against other sixguns, AND I could use Safariland Jetloaders, which are mucho faster than the old school twist type HKS speedloaders that I'm currently forced to use. Also, I think speedloaders are a lot less "fiddly" than a moonclip, plus its compatible with all brass. If I go the moonclip route I'd have to get all new brass since Win brass won't work with clips...only Starline brass is recommended. Also with a 6 shot revolver, I would be legal to shoot IDPA Stock Service Revolver where 6 is the max.

Thoughts? Is the 7-6 conversion something I can do myself?

I don't know who told you that you could only use Starline brass because Federal will also work with many moon clips. IIRC even WWB will work if you purchase the correct thickness moon clips.

As for moon clips being "fiddly", that's only the case if the chambers in the cylinder haven't been chamfered. Once the chambers are properly chamfered a fresh clip will slide right in.

As for converting your 686 back to a 6 shooter I think you might be underestimating the cost. From what I've seen a bare cylinder will cost about 150 bucks. In addition to that you'll need a full extractor assembly and you'll have to have it fitted to your gun. If S&W has quoted you 200 bucks for this conversion IMO that's a real bargain, from a private gunsmith I would expect the total to be 300 dollars or more.

That's enough money that I think you might be a bit wiser looking for a slightly ugly model 66 or 67.

Thanks Scooter, I got the info on the brass from the TK Custom sight, where he states that the Federal is hit or miss, but Starline always works.

Yes, the quote I received was from S&W, but it was only a verbal quote over the phone...not sure how binding that is.

Good idea on the Model 66...

There is a THIRD "Option"--buy some of the made-in-Germany S.L. Variant Speedloaders for your 686 Plus--they work much like Safariland Comp III's or the Jetloaders--and compete with the UNMODIFIED gun that way. Hope this helps. Paulie686.

Thanks Paulie...never heard of these, where do you find them?

That price from S&W is probably a good price. The fact is the S&W can get parts at Cost and that allows them to undercut any gunsmith who has to purchase parts at retail prices. Downside is that from what I've seen the turnaround time for work like this is not the least bit rapid. Unless you are an LEO and capable of requesting expedited service, I suspect you are looking at 3 to 6 months of having that 686 in the shop at S&W.

Personally, I've always preferred using my spare money to acquire new guns for a specific tasks rather that changing what I already have. In the long run I get a better selection of guns that are suited to different tasks. In addition I suspect that once you handle a 4 inch K frame you'll see why they have so many fans. It's kind of hard to be specific but the 4 inch K frames just feel so darned "right" in the hand.