I just got a 686-6 4" STS ! Got it at a pawn shop for a fair price. It's like new, I'm happy. But I don't know what STS means. I thought it might mean stainless steel, but I don't think so. And I see there is another version... SSR. What does all this mean, and which is better ?

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The Pro Series 686 SSR is made to meet IDPA/Revolver competition requirements.
Performance Center(R) Pro Series(R) Model 686 SSR | Smith & Wesson

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Science plus Art

Welcome to the forum, and congratulation on a good choice of firearm.

There really is no STS. Someone added that themselves to denote stainless steel. But the model number already does that. The first 6 in the 686-6 means it's stainless steel, so someone adding STS is superfluous. The -6 at the end means it's the sixth revision to that model, which in this case is the most current one.

The 686 SSR derives its extra moniker from the International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) revolver division of the same name: Stock Service Revolver

There is no best between them, unless your competing in IDPA. Different people prefer different features.

I'll add that a 4" 686-6 was my first handgun. It is an amazing shooter that eats boxes of full magnum loads without stinging and every new shooter I give it to with .38 SPL falls in love with. Go put a few hundred rounds through it and tell us what you think of it.

Thank you ! I really like this weapon. I've been looking for one for a long time. I live in a small town, and the availability for these is bad. I was surprised to find this one, and I bought it immediately ! Now I need a good shoulder holster !

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I have put 250 rounds of Federal though it, and about the same amount of 38spl.! I must say that this is a good weapon. I've read some negative things about it online, and I'm glad I bought this one. I must of got lucky. It is in perfect condition, shoots very well, and I love it. I can hit whatever I aim at, and that's more than I can say about my semi -auto ! 7 good hits beats 15 misses all day. !!!!

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I don't know what you were reading online, but around here a 4" 686 is very well regarded and often recommended.

I'm glad it worked out for you and your enjoying it so much. I always enjoy shooting mine, and it seems to aim itself.

I suggest you get a vertical sitting shoulder holster. IMO it will carry much better than a horizontal type holster. I had a horizontal and when I got my vertical I gave away my horizontal holster. A lot less chance of the gun falling out of the vertical type and it hides much better also. That's my two cents about them.

I have never shot or even held a 686 but all I ever hear is how good they are,

Congrats!!

Thank you, yes I do want a good vertical holster. Which brand is preferable? I think leather is good. I already have a nylon Uncle Mikes, hip carry holster. It's ok, but I still want a quality shoulder rig.

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Well, I saw online about the Hillary lock would jam the gun when fired. And how the trigger and hammer are made of MIM parts. I don't know much about this. But the biggest problem was the barrel was not aligned properly. Mine is fine, but there are videos of this on you tube.

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Thank you !!!

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