Hello to all members. Thank you for taking the time to read and assist me. I aquired a like new without box, 4" 686-1 with large S&W stocks. The adjustable rear sight is devoid of the white outline and has the front sight red ramp. Is this correct? Also, it has the serial number AUP4161. it also shows the letter M I believe for modification.....an absolutely beautiful revolver. It is vertually no fore and aft play and locks up very tight. Timing is spot on. I paid $500.00 and the gentleman through in an original WW1 Hoyt 1916 holster....I believe I did ok.....thank you for your comments....

First of all, welcome to the forum. Sounds like you got a fine revolver at a decent price, and this is the place to learn more about it (and the others that will probably follow). The "M" stamped inside the crane does indicate that it has been back to the factory for the modification. As for the sights, my 4" 686 no dash came with the red ramp/white outline combination, so I'm not sure if the plain rear sight is original or if someone replaced it according to their preference. I'm sure others will be along shortly to provide more insight.

I believe the white outline was an option that could be ordered, or available as a stand alone item you could replace yourself for those who did not like the white outline. My 6" no dash 686 has a plain black rear sight and a patridge front sight.

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

Thank you both for your helpful replies. I used to own a newer 686 with lock but sold it because I didn't like the lock, although I never had an issue with it. I just love the pre -5 models with hammer mounted firing pin. The balance of this with 4" bbl. makes this one a keeper for sure. I believe it was made in 1986 but may be wrong.....

I, too, have a 686-1 with a plain rear sight and red ramp front. As H Richard stated, it's likely the white outline rear was an option some guns got while others didn't.

Likewise my 686-1 has the Black rear sight, and non-pined Red Ramp front sight.

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ICORE MO2908