Why does the model 686 have a completely flat crown? Don't most revolvers/rifles have a rounded crown?
Model 686 barrel 'crown' question
- Thread starter rwsmith
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Rock185
US Veteran
Rounded or flat, etc., all have some degree of bevel to protect rifling at the muzzle. I don't know that there is any particular rhyme or reason for "flat", rounded, 11° crown, or whatever. My old Colt 3~5~7 model is flat, as I believe the Pythons are. The new S&W 686 Mountain gun is slightly rounded. Perhaps just what the manufacturer thinks looks best?
The 586/686 barrels were made to more closely resemble those of the Colt Python and I think that is one reason for the change from a rounded muzzle and crown to a flat muzzle with a slight bevel for a crown. Flat muzzle and beveled crown are also easier and less expensive to produce.
Why did they do it? I don't know but I didn't like it so I fixed it.
Now the rifling has better presentation at the crown.
I also took the opportunity to smooth out the forcing cone.
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686+ TALO before chamfering
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686+ TALO after chamfering
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Now the rifling has better presentation at the crown.
I also took the opportunity to smooth out the forcing cone.
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686+ TALO before chamfering
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686+ TALO after chamfering
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Last edited:
OP
I wondered about that. One reason I never cared for the Python was that it was made to look 'aggressive' and the flat crown does seem to be a nod in that direction. I think that except for that the 686 looks more elegant than a Python. I care less for guns that 'look' menacing. Glocks included.
OP
Why did they do it? I don't know but I didn't like it so I fixed it.
Now the rifling has better presentation at the crown.
I also took the opportunity to smooth out the forcing cone.
Yeah, I don't care for the way the rifling looks from the front either. It looks uneven, like something I machined using my drill press and a bench grinder.
