Hello,
I'm considering buying a used 686-1 with a 2,5 inch barrel with a matte finish. The condition is excellent.
I'm wondering whether it could be a dash 1 model, as I was thinking S&W introduced the 2,5 inch barrel later in the 1990th. Unfortunately I don't have a serial number.
Does that make sense? Appreciate any feedback.

Without the serial number I can’t say for sure, but the -1 would have been produce around 85-87...
The no dash and -1 were subject to the a recall for the firing pin bushing. If the work was done it would have an “M” stamped on the frame behind the yoke, which would essentially make it a -2.

The 2.5”are very desirable, especially with the combat grips that are bringing $250 to $350 by themselves. In the Reno area that gun, without box, will go for $850 to $1000, perhaps more.

Welcome back and post more often!

If the 686 in question is pictured, there is no way to determine its age, except with the flash chromed hammer and trigger and the older style rear sight leaf it could be anything up to a -3. The stocks (again, if original to the gun) suggest it is an earlier version from 1984 originally marketed by Lew Horton; the later version ran from 1987 to 2001 and 'may' have had the Combat stocks but were more likely rubber.

If the seller's price is good, you may want to buy it and worry about its birth date later...hope this is helpful.

__________________
Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

-3 and earlier all had the wood combats and flash chromed trigger/hammer. It wasn’t until the -4 that they started using the rubber Hogue and color case hardening the trigger/hammer. The -4+ got the new style cylinder release.

686-4 2.5 " barrel.