So I recently won an auction for a 686 no dash 6" barrel with factory combat grips on it for $632. It appears to be in excellent + condition, and I know that's subjective but that is what I have for now until she arrives. My question is what's the story behind the S&W Combat grips? I have always loved the look of them (and wished their was a factory doppelgänger for Colts) but have always been turned off by their price. I've seen on eBay, nice sets in the $200-$250. I just saw a used 4" 686 no dash with combat grips sell on gunbroker for $1400 this month without a box and papers. So what is the deal behind these grips, were they sprinkled with fairy dust at the factory? I just think they are badass looking . And also I believe the price I'm paying is reasonable, anyone wants to share otherwise feel free! Maybe there is a big depreciation in price for the 6" tube? Thanks Smith experts!


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I think you bought a nice gun for a fair price - better than fair if you sell the combats and buy a real nice set of the original stocks, checkered targets, for a hundred less than the combats fetch (assuming they have attractive wood figure).

Barrels longer than 4" are not in high demand right now but that will change again in time so I wouldn't worry about people telling you that the gun is worth less because it has a 6" barrel. Remember, it wasn't that long ago when that was the barrel everyone wanted on a .357.

We do need photos however...

Ed

These are the pics from the auction.


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As I have stated here before, when I "needed" an all-around 357 mag a couple of years ago, I sought out and acquired a 6" Model 686 ND/NM that came to me without grips. I then found a set of my favorite grips, the factory's finger groove smooth combats. Altogether at the time it cost me something like $550-600 cash and trade in a special "friends and family" deal, so you seem to have done well. BTW, there is no way I would trade or sell those grips before shooting with them several times. For me at least, they are the best you can get!

Froggie

Thanks Froggy. I can't see how I would have done "bad" as if the grips are really valued at $250, then I got a 6" 686 No Lock, pre mim $400 essentially which I consider to be a good deal. I'm just curious why these smooth combats are so highly prized? Is it just because they look cool? Limited run?


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Combats are the most photogenic factory stocks. That makes them the best choice for posting your modern revolvers here. Some time professional trick shooter Bill Jordan advocated slippery stocks so he could readjust his grip during a fast draw. However, most of us slow but accurate shooters want friction. That's why so much time and effort went into custom checkering or dimpling of target pistols. IMO, Combats are best stored in the revolver's box to bring out for photographing.

The popularity and escalating prices for S&W combat stocks are primarily due to their scarcity - they were only factory-installed on a relatively few models and the last was some time ago. The "cool" factor also applies, again because they are less often seen.

Fact is, they were uncomfortable for most buyers and many of them were sold or traded off for something else soon after the gun they came with was purchased. For me and quite a few others, they position the middle finger knuckle against or almost touching the rear of the trigger guard, exposing it to impact under recoil. Others disliked their somewhat "square" feel.

I have few sets of them on guns that came with them in order to keep their originality intact but always change them out when I shoot one of those revolvers.

Ed

Thank you. That's exactly what I was looking for and confirmed my assumptions! It's interesting that something sought after today was being discarded back in the day. I guess that is how it goes!


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The factory combat grips are my very best favorite grip to look at! Hogue wood grips come in second. However, both are too big for me, though I can shoot with them if needed. I have a few pair of them on guns and one set of N frame square butt in the wrapper.

When our department bought new 686s, I specified the combat grip. I think the target grip shipped standard on the 6 inch versions as that is the way mine arrived.

Should you really want to trade, I have some speed loader cut out targets that are available. :-)

__________________
Richard Gillespie
FBINA 102

Wow that sounds like a nice offer, I think I'll hold onto these a little while! Thanks


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As well you should!

__________________
Richard Gillespie
FBINA 102

I have never been able to warm up to the factory Target Stocks for any kind of shooting. When I was actively engaged in PPC competition, I found that I could do best with the factory smooth combat stocks with finger grooves of all I tried. I used them both on my "stock" Model 66 (both with 4" and 6" barrels) and my "all out" PPC gun by Fred Schmidt (heavy 6" barrel, under barrel weight, sight rib, etc.) I'm not sure why they feel so natural to my hand when they have so many detractors here, but this is actual, extensive experience I'm describing.

Yes they are pretty and yes they have collector value, but to me at least their real value is their utility. I have not and will not pay the high prices they are bringing now, but fortunately I have several sets on hand so I won't have to! That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Froggie