I bought a new 686 a few weeks ago and sent it back because
of .012 cylinder gap, poor sideplate fit and unfinished casting
marks. I guess I got one of the lemons! I don't know why, but
I don't have a good feeling for what they will send back to me.
I asked for a replacement but I don't think they will do that till it's been "fixed" a couple of times. Still waiting to hear from S&W.