I have a 686-1 and a 686-5 Both are Power Custom Combat revolvers. They are pure perfection, and way past a factory trigger.

I also have a late model Adjustable Sight, 3 Inch GP100. It has also had a trigger job, with a Full Shim Set that I did myself. While not as good as my Power Custom 686's, the GP100's trigger is much better than a factory 686, to include the 686SSR.

I would prefer a 686-1 thru 686-5 over a GP100 of similar configuration, if priced the same.

All of the Adjustable Sight GP100's have a Quick Change Front Sight. You push in a plunger, and change the sight. You can get a Quick Change sight on Performance Center ONLY S&W's. If you are lucky the S&W will have a pinned front sight. One of my 686's is pinned, and the other one is not.

Another consideration is the Cylinder Release. My brother is Left Handed. He has both S&W's and Rugers. If Ruger would make something to replace his 617, and 625 that he liked, he would buy it, and sell his Smith & Wessons.

Another thing is the way the cylinder is retained. I have had the front side plate screw shoot lose, and turn my cylinder lose. Won't happen on a Ruger. Ever had the Ejector Rod shoot lose on a S&W and lock up the Cylinder? Won't happen on a GP100 either.

I own several Smith & Wesson Revolvers. I also own a 2.25 Inch SP101, a 3 Inch SP101, the 3 Inch GP100, a 480 Super RedHawk, and an LCR22. I have no plan to get rid of any of them. Infact I am planning on adding a Snub SP101 in 22LR when I find one I like at a reasonable price.

Bottom Line is the 686 is a very nice revolver. The GP100 is not bad either.

Bob

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