Came across a good shape 586 (no dash) this weekend.

I knew it was a limited production model in the late 70s or early 80s and got it for a decent price.

I've been searching here and through google for a while and really can't find too much about it.

I'm hoping some one here can help me find this gun's roots.



Here are the identifying marks.





The serial number and model number I get. The markings on the crane have left me very curious if they are replacement or repair markings.

Any help?

I've read on this forum about the metallurgy recalls and the firing pin fix.

It hasnt had the firing pin fix. there would be an M stamped on the crane between the SN and the model number.

It's not a limited production gun. Looks like a nice one, should date to the early 80's.

Congratulations on the purchase and poroduction started in 1980 on these and the no dash ran through 1986 when the -1 was released. Your serial puts the gun being made in 1986 right before the engineering change to -1.

The numbers stamped on the yoke are for production. The same number should be stamped on the butt frame, to make sure the two parts stay together when the gun is built.

Also do not worry about the recall fix, unless your gun hangs up when firing full blown .357 Mag ammo. The recall started when owners were having trouble shooting Federal ammo and the primers would flow back into the hammer nose bushing and prevented the cylinder from turning. This was a real problem for law enforcement. Not all guns did it, but S&W did the right thing by issuing a recall to correct the problem. If you do not have any trouble shooting any brand .357 Mag ammo you're okay.

I you are interested in getting the "fix" as mentioned by bgrafsr, contact S&W and they will make the changes without charging. I want to say they will even pay for the shipping. I sent my model 581 ( a 586 with fixed sights) a couple of years ago. I love the 4" barreled 581/586 blued L frames. Sweet looking one you have.

That beauty should be a super shooter! I have a 4" no dash from 1983. I never knew anything about them, and got it in a trade. Both new owners are happy! Maybe a 6" 686 is in the future for me. Bob

Good info. I appreciate the knowledge transfer. I thought the no dash guns were limited to just a year or so. Again, good info.

I seem to ebb and flow between guns. I don't keep or shoot any single gun for very long. I recently traded a 25-5 45LC with 8" barrel for a 92A1 in 40 as my wheel guns just sat in the safe.

But this guy caught my eye and was reasonably priced, I thought.

Again, thanks for the insight.

I have been shooting 357 through my 686 no dash with no problems. I have no intentions of sending it in for the Modification.

hmmm... it looks like I will be forced to take it to the range to ensure it works properly.

I have never had a jam with either of mine but S&W will do the recall to remove any doubts if you desire it.
modified guns are stamped with the "M" mod stamp.

Nice gun. I just picked this no dash up about a month ago for $300. A little honest wear but still a great shooter.

Bird, stop being humble! Looks like a great gun, which you got for a HOT PRICE! I have 1 586, no dash (clean) but would buy many more if I could get that deal! Enjoy it! Bob