I think smith is using too tall a front sight on everything. Had to swap the front on my 686 for a shorter one. I mean it would zero, just had to raise rear higher than I wanted. Mine was that simple spring loaded dovetail type. So simple swap. How does the crown look ? Mine looked like doo doo and had to go back to be redone. Shot fine afterwards.
Only other issue is are you sandbagging/ resting the gun ?
Low and left is classic flinching/anticipation sign.