Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > Smith & Wesson Revolvers > S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present

S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present All NON-PINNED Barrels, the L-Frames, and the New Era Revolvers


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 01-22-2012, 04:06 AM
rotax1 rotax1 is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default 686 3" or 4"

What a great site! I've been lurking for some time and have learned a lot about S&W's. I have a decent gun collection, but it is seriously lacking when it comes to the revolver dept. After all the lurking I have done on this site, I have concluded that a 686 is in the near future for me. I am just having a problem deciding between a 3" or a 4". I am mostly interested in how each of them balance and how comfortable to shoot. Any input would be appreciated!
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 01-22-2012, 04:50 AM
mark1616's Avatar
mark1616 mark1616 is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Jul 2011
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

I chose the 4" myself. There is a slight difference in kick, but I felt I was more accurate with the longer sight. That could be completely psychological, I dunno. But I am happy with it!!
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 01-22-2012, 09:12 AM
bamabiker bamabiker is offline
Member
686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: May 2008
Location: Near Birmingham
Posts: 7,237
Likes: 4,945
Liked 8,401 Times in 2,213 Posts
Default

I don't think you could go wrong with either or both. I have a snub nose and a 4" and both are very nice shooters. And will get a 3" someday.
You would have to look hard for some negative comments about the M686 other than some guys don't like the full lug barrel.
Good luck with your choice.
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 01-22-2012, 09:31 AM
GF1 GF1 is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Virginia
Posts: 278
Likes: 0
Liked 116 Times in 44 Posts
Default

The snubbies are in somewhat of a resurgence these days, but I expect that will fade a bit. I like the 4" as the shortest revolver I'll have.

Skeeter Skelton felt something similar, as I recall, in pointing out that sight radius much below 4" rendered sight alignment much more critical (or magnified slight errors much more, however you want to look at it). Accuracy takes a hit. As to portability, he also made the point that a 4" revolver is just as easy to conceal as a 2 1/2" revolver - the hard part here is the butt end not the barrel. Finally, the short revolver is more difficult to control.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #5  
Old 01-22-2012, 12:01 PM
riverrat38 riverrat38 is online now
US Veteran
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: La Conner, WA
Posts: 2,174
Likes: 9,791
Liked 2,239 Times in 1,003 Posts
Default

I went for the 3 inch model. If I had wanted a 4 incher, I would have bought a M10 or 64, since I shoot .38 Special. I looked for a 3 inch K frame, and no luck. I did find a couple of M65's with bids over $1000 on Gunbroker, but the bids didn't even meet the reserve price. I wanted a shooter in very nice condition, not a safe queen! So I bought a new 3 inch 686 plus. The weight is very near the 4 inch K frame, less than an ounce difference, and the balance is just right. I don't think the sight radius is a factor for me, as I can see the sight pattern better than I can hold, without using a rest. The 3 inch model has the full length ejector rod, while the 2 1/2 inch doesn't. I hand load, and any velocity that I lose over the 4 inch model can be made up with a little extra powder, since the gun is Magnum rated. I just received a set of Kim Ahrends grips, and really like the combo. The gun is as accurate as I can tell. Looks good, also. As far as concealed carry goes, the extra inch does make a difference for me. I think it depends on body build and wardrobe. And the extra barrel length does make a difference in how high I need to lift my old arm to clear the high rise holster, also!

rat
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #6  
Old 01-22-2012, 12:04 PM
TNFrank's Avatar
TNFrank TNFrank is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Crossville, TN., U.S.A.
Posts: 253
Likes: 0
Liked 22 Times in 16 Posts
Default

Didn't know there were making the L-Frame in a 3", that's great news as I've always like that length barrel. I did have a 686+ in 2.5" and it wasn't too bad for CCW but the cylinder thickness is always a killer on a 6 shot revolver for IWB holsters.
I'd say 3" unless you want to hunt with the gun then most places have a 4" barrel limit so you'd need a 4" to hunt with.
__________________
S&W M642-2,
ATI 1911a1, 4.25"
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 01-22-2012, 12:40 PM
Dauff1 Dauff1 is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: NV
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default

The 3 inch is a joy to shoot. Weight and balance are great in my opinion. Installing grips to your needs and liking will only improve the feel.

Be advised that finding holsters for barrel lengths other than 4 and 6 inch is a little more difficult. I own 3", 5", a d 7" revolvers. Most off the shelf holsters will have an extra inch of material, and custom holsters could have a little longer wait time.

Dauff
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #8  
Old 01-22-2012, 01:05 PM
Neumann Neumann is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: May 2011
Posts: 1,439
Likes: 41
Liked 717 Times in 403 Posts
Default

If you have one 686, a 4" is probably the best choice. The extra 2 oz over the 3" makes a nice balance with full-sized grips and helps a little with recoil control. Recoil is actually not bad with the stock grips (Hogue rubber) and even better with hand-filling Ahrends Tactical grips. It's a little nose-heavy for round butt grips, so I settled on the round-to-square Ahrends version.

The 3" would be perfect with round butt, or even boot grips. There's nothing wrong with the sight radius or recoil control, as witnessed by the Hickok45 video, whacking the gong at 80 yards. This one is on my short list, rather than the 2.5" with the half-length extractor.

Neither are well suited for IWB. The thick cylinder tends to stick in the holster due to belt tension needed to keep a 40 oz revolver from sagging. A pancake holster is about as good as it gets for concealment - I have an Alessi CQC. The grip is not a particular problems, since it's held in close. Nevertheless, a boot grip would be better, and an inch shorter would be less likely to peek below a cover garment. The 686 is only 3/8" thicker than a SIG, and doesn't bulge any more than that pistol in an IWB.

Why two? I bought .357 change parts for my Dillon 550B, and don't think I can shoot fast enough with one revolver
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 01-22-2012, 01:45 PM
rotax1 rotax1 is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Neumann View Post
Why two? I bought .357 change parts for my Dillon 550B, and don't think I can shoot fast enough with one revolver
Not planning on two, just one for now, and for the same reason!

Also, I won't be using it for concealed carry, I've got that area covered. It will mostly be a range gun, and possibly an occasional trip to the mountains in my backyard as backup to my 45-70 lever gun. So concealment is not an issue.
Thanks!
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #10  
Old 01-22-2012, 02:44 PM
LOM Ranger LOM Ranger is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: East TN
Posts: 14
Likes: 78
Liked 3 Times in 2 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by mark1616 View Post
I chose the 4" myself. There is a slight difference in kick, but I felt I was more accurate with the longer sight. That could be completely psychological, I dunno. But I am happy with it!!
This has been my experience too. I don't use my 686 4" as my daily carry weapon but I enjoy shooting it more than any other gun I have owned for all of the reasons you mentioned. The 4" is a perfect balance of accuracy, weight and recoil for me and it is a pleasure to shoot.
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 01-22-2012, 02:44 PM
BCDWYO's Avatar
BCDWYO BCDWYO is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Posts: 1,526
Likes: 2,068
Liked 1,588 Times in 469 Posts
Default

I agree with most of the previous comments. You really can't go wrong with either 3" or 4" L frame. I own both and wouldn't want to part with either, but for a FIRST revolver (or if you could only have one) I'd probably go for 4" 686+. Balance is near perfect (for me), muzzle flash and recoil are slightly less than in a snubby, and holster choices are more plentiful. Also, since the 4" is more common, you will be able to get one for probably a couple hundred dollars less. If you are like the rest of us it won't be long before you have both, but I'd start with a 4".
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 01-22-2012, 02:49 PM
squidsix squidsix is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Southern Maine
Posts: 3,554
Likes: 1,921
Liked 5,682 Times in 1,564 Posts
Default

If you aren't going to carry it CCW, get the 4". Better shooter, in my experience. I had a 3", 7-shot 686, and it was a great carry piece, but I shot the 4" more often. Why, again, did they NOT make the 586 in 3", and 7-shot?
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 01-22-2012, 02:51 PM
riverrat38 riverrat38 is online now
US Veteran
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: La Conner, WA
Posts: 2,174
Likes: 9,791
Liked 2,239 Times in 1,003 Posts
Default

If you decide to go with the 4 inch, take a look at the 686SSR. It has had some factory action work done, and uses a different main spring, that is 20% lighter. I also think the barrel is a little lighter than the regular 4 inch model. It was $50 more than my 3 inch 686 Plus at my gun store. The front sight is replaceable with out tools, a nice feature.

rat
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 01-22-2012, 02:57 PM
squidsix squidsix is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Southern Maine
Posts: 3,554
Likes: 1,921
Liked 5,682 Times in 1,564 Posts
Default

The SSR is cool, but he can get a very nice pre-lock 686 4" for a lot less.
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 01-22-2012, 03:10 PM
Phil W Phil W is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: SE Michigan
Posts: 47
Likes: 4
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default

I have a 3 inch 686+ I bought after giving my 4 inch to my son. I had to special order it though. I see very little difference in accuracy and the 3 inch is a bit easier to carry. Can't go wrong with either.....
Reply With Quote
  #16  
Old 01-22-2012, 03:22 PM
bryan87's Avatar
bryan87 bryan87 is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Denver, Colorado
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
Liked 2 Times in 2 Posts
Default 4" IMO

Quote:
Originally Posted by rotax1 View Post
Not planning on two, just one for now, and for the same reason!

Also, I won't be using it for concealed carry, I've got that area covered. It will mostly be a range gun, and possibly an occasional trip to the mountains in my backyard as backup to my 45-70 lever gun. So concealment is not an issue.
Thanks!
This says it all IMO. 4" is the clear winner for what you are going for. Added weight plus the longer barrel will only increase your accuracy.

I have a 686+ in 4" and it is my favorite gun I own. It's a tack driver at the range and I too use it as my camping/hiking sidearm. Since you aren't planning on CCW with it, why not go with the longer barrel?
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #17  
Old 01-22-2012, 06:28 PM
ckprax's Avatar
ckprax ckprax is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: CA
Posts: 156
Likes: 7
Liked 62 Times in 17 Posts
Default

I have a 4" 686-3 (square butt), it is a bit muzzle heavy but a very sweet shooter. My next 686 will be a 3", 7 shot. I don't think you can go wring with either but if i were to only have one it would be a 4".
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #18  
Old 01-22-2012, 09:25 PM
Garybock Garybock is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Apr 2010
Posts: 58
Likes: 3
Liked 5 Times in 5 Posts
Default

I couldn't decide so I got 1 of each.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #19  
Old 01-22-2012, 10:10 PM
Garybock Garybock is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Apr 2010
Posts: 58
Likes: 3
Liked 5 Times in 5 Posts
Default

I couldn't decide so I got 1 of each.
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 01-22-2012, 10:57 PM
MR.G MR.G is offline
Member
686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Jul 2001
Posts: 322
Likes: 59
Liked 109 Times in 60 Posts
Default

Can't go wrong with either gun. Had both the 3" and the 4". My son really wanted the 3", and I let him have it. Still have a couple of 4" seven shot that are my favorite revolvers.
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 01-22-2012, 11:05 PM
brucev brucev is offline
Member
686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4" 686 3" or 4"  
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: The Peach State! GA!!!
Posts: 5,953
Likes: 14,511
Liked 6,326 Times in 2,350 Posts
Default

From what you've written, I'd suggest you look for a 4" 686. If you anticipate cc, the 3" will be a bit easier to carry, but only a bit. Personally I have always found the 4" 686 to be just about ideal for the range as well as the woods and fields. The one I currently own is just about the ideal .38/.357 revolver. There is not hardly anything one might do to make it a better revolver for any practical use. JMHO. Sincerely. brucev.
__________________
<><
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #22  
Old 01-22-2012, 11:24 PM
turbo38gn's Avatar
turbo38gn turbo38gn is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: western Mass
Posts: 2,417
Likes: 1,692
Liked 986 Times in 559 Posts
Default

I say get em both too. But then you might as well add in a 6" if you are worried about accuracy... I personally have a 6" and just ordered in this 3" from lew Horton.

__________________
Jack C
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 01-23-2012, 01:00 AM
Jeb21 Jeb21 is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Jul 2011
Posts: 336
Likes: 63
Liked 50 Times in 17 Posts
Default

A four inch barrel will make for a better range gun.
Reply With Quote
  #24  
Old 01-23-2012, 01:45 AM
neorebel's Avatar
neorebel neorebel is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Posts: 235
Likes: 167
Liked 299 Times in 105 Posts
Default

I like the 4" simply because it is the length I carried while at my first Police Department in 1985...(Yes we were just changing over to semi-auto's. We were authorized to carry 1911 types.)

I just shot my 586 today with my wife (She shot it as well.) Smooth as silk trigger very accurate. We were at my buddies private range and shooting at 25 yards, at two foot by 10 inch metal targets..it hit them every time smack in the center.

The only difference is a slight increase in weight and a little less muzzle flip...I didn't ask if you were thinking about carrying concealed?
Reply With Quote
  #25  
Old 01-23-2012, 06:55 AM
Sportsterguy's Avatar
Sportsterguy Sportsterguy is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: Ask the NSA
Posts: 2,208
Likes: 111
Liked 120 Times in 74 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dauff1 View Post
The 3 inch is a joy to shoot. Weight and balance are great in my opinion. Installing grips to your needs and liking will only improve the feel.

Be advised that finding holsters for barrel lengths other than 4 and 6 inch is a little more difficult. I own 3", 5", a d 7" revolvers. Most off the shelf holsters will have an extra inch of material, and custom holsters could have a little longer wait time.

Dauff
My sentiments exactly! Well worth the wait on a custom from Lobo holsters IMO. Have a few 3" S&W's and all of them are extremely accurate for a semi snub. My old 66-2 will out shoot my pre lock 686 and is the most accurate of the bunch. I will say the most accurate centerfire I own is a 4" 586 in nickel. I can ring a 12x12 plate sandbagged at 100 yards with no problem on a regular basis if I'm having a good day and stayed away from the coffee. The 3''rs just feel so darn well balanced in my hand. Think that alone adds to their accuracy. Could be a mental thing but the targets don't lie. You really can't go wrong with either except if you plan on using it for hunting as you can wring a little extra velocity out of the 4". Also many states do not allow 3" revolvers.

After reading all of the posts like I should have the first time I'd go for a pre lock 4" 586 or 686. They can be had for less money than a new 3 or 4" revolver and are extremely accurate. The 3" revolvers are more expensive and for what you'd be using it for you would have the perfect barrel length. JMO
__________________
V/R
Roger / SG

Last edited by Sportsterguy; 01-23-2012 at 07:08 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #26  
Old 01-25-2012, 01:17 AM
rotax1 rotax1 is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default

A big thanks to everyone for your input. It sounds like I will be happy either way, so I will let the local market decide which one to get. There is a gun show coming up on the 4th and I will keep my eye out at the gun stores in my area. Whichever I come across first for a good deal will be the one. Although, I would bet I will wind up with both and more eventually.
Thanks again!
Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 01-31-2012, 09:58 PM
pearsonm pearsonm is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: Springfield, MO
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

I'd like to hop in if I could. I'm also trying to decide between a 3" and 4". I much prefer the balanced feel of the 3" but I want to make sure I'm aware of all it's peculiarities before I put my money down.

A previous post mentioned I will have to get a custom holster if I want one that fits correctly. Someone posted on the High Road board that HKS is my only speed loader option since the 3” model only comes with a 7-shot cylinder. I'll also have a conflict if I want to go IDPA shooting since they have a 6-shot maximum capacity.

Does the 3" 686 have any other oddities as compared to it's bigger 4" sibling? For example, the 3" Ruger GP100 has a pinned front sight and only one available aftermarket option as opposed to their 4” which has a slick, plunger-anchor mechanism.
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 01-31-2012, 10:13 PM
BarkSlayer BarkSlayer is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: Northwest Ohio
Posts: 71
Likes: 1
Liked 3 Times in 3 Posts
Default

I bought a 3" 686 on Sunday and sold my 4" 686 just tonight. The 3" is an awesome shooter - perfect balance and I can carry it very nicely. I'll admit that it hurt to let that 4" go though. I'll be up all night with remorse of some kind.
__________________
Northwest Ohio
Reply With Quote
  #29  
Old 01-31-2012, 10:14 PM
les strat's Avatar
les strat les strat is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Mar 2011
Posts: 285
Likes: 358
Liked 132 Times in 54 Posts
Default

I really like the 4". Perfect balance between the attributes of the 6"
and 3". Love the balance vs weight vs recoil.

+1 on a no-dash to -4. You can find some great prices on some mightly fine older ones. I know I did!

Wouldn't mind all 3.
__________________
686, 629, 15-22 MOE FDE
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #30  
Old 02-01-2012, 10:20 PM
Wheel Fan's Avatar
Wheel Fan Wheel Fan is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: Colorado
Posts: 145
Likes: 7
Liked 51 Times in 23 Posts
Default

I was ready to get a 4 inch. There was a 4 inch and 3 inch at a gun show and I compared both of them. I ended up with the 3 inch as it felt balanced and just looked cool. It shoots awesome and is accurate. Personal preference.

Reply With Quote
  #31  
Old 02-01-2012, 11:35 PM
turbo38gn's Avatar
turbo38gn turbo38gn is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: western Mass
Posts: 2,417
Likes: 1,692
Liked 986 Times in 559 Posts
Default

That's a beauty!!
__________________
Jack C
Reply With Quote
  #32  
Old 02-02-2012, 12:01 AM
pearsonm pearsonm is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: Springfield, MO
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Wheel Fan View Post
I ended up with the 3 inch as it felt balanced and just looked cool. It shoots awesome and is accurate.
Beautiful piece. Any second thoughts from a functionality point of view?
Reply With Quote
  #33  
Old 02-02-2012, 01:33 AM
Dot_mdb's Avatar
Dot_mdb Dot_mdb is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: Florida, USA
Posts: 707
Likes: 173
Liked 216 Times in 123 Posts
Default

I like the shorter barrels for the guns that get carried in a holster. I think they clear leather faster and can get lead on the target a little faster. For revolvers that don't get carried I prefer a 6" barrel for the increased velocity.

Bill
Reply With Quote
  #34  
Old 02-02-2012, 02:47 AM
64tinc's Avatar
64tinc 64tinc is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: OK
Posts: 111
Likes: 1
Liked 14 Times in 9 Posts
Default

Those are some really nice factory grips on the 3 inch. I have a 4 inch 686-2 and waiting on a 21/2" -4 to come to the LGS from gunbroker deal. I am going to get a Lobo IWB holster made for carry it. I think you will enjoy the 3 inch.
Reply With Quote
  #35  
Old 02-02-2012, 01:25 PM
Wheel Fan's Avatar
Wheel Fan Wheel Fan is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: Colorado
Posts: 145
Likes: 7
Liked 51 Times in 23 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by turbo38gn View Post
That's a beauty!!
Thank you sir!


Quote:
Originally Posted by pearsonm View Post
Beautiful piece. Any second thoughts from a functionality point of view?
Thanks. The gun holsters nicely - good to carry.
Reply With Quote
  #36  
Old 02-02-2012, 09:39 PM
badge70's Avatar
badge70 badge70 is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: Central FL
Posts: 46
Likes: 19
Liked 12 Times in 6 Posts
Default

I have a 3" 686+ and I like it a lot. Carry it every day.
Reply With Quote
  #37  
Old 02-03-2012, 04:46 AM
neorebel's Avatar
neorebel neorebel is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Posts: 235
Likes: 167
Liked 299 Times in 105 Posts
Default

You really couldn't go wrong either way!!!
Reply With Quote
  #38  
Old 02-04-2012, 09:01 PM
fjtiii's Avatar
fjtiii fjtiii is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Broken Arrow, OK
Posts: 46
Likes: 43
Liked 64 Times in 15 Posts
Default

686-3 4" was my first Smith I bought. Love the gun.
Reply With Quote
  #39  
Old 02-13-2012, 12:20 AM
dwpmusic dwpmusic is offline
US Veteran
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Mississippi
Posts: 603
Likes: 77
Liked 190 Times in 91 Posts
Default

Thinking about taking the plunge and getting a 686. Got enough Glocks for the moment, if you can ever get enough, and love them all but I've always wanted a good S&W .357. So, from the gist of this thread I'm getting 4" barrel from most everyone. Not much to be said about a 6" barrel. Now, considering that this will not be a carry gun would the 4" still be the one to get? Wouldn't there be greater accuracy with a 6"? Also, are most people buying the 686+? I'm so old school that a 7 shot revolver sounds so odd to me. All responses welcome. Thanks.
Reply With Quote
  #40  
Old 02-13-2012, 12:31 AM
Baggy Wrinkle Baggy Wrinkle is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: Western Washington State
Posts: 225
Likes: 578
Liked 451 Times in 156 Posts
Default

I bought the 4-inch 686+ because that's the minimum length barrel for handgun hunting big game in my state (WA). It also feels right to me.
Reply With Quote
  #41  
Old 02-13-2012, 12:35 AM
ogilvyspecial's Avatar
ogilvyspecial ogilvyspecial is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: Michigan
Posts: 9,644
Likes: 1,362
Liked 1,371 Times in 699 Posts
Default

If I could keep only one of my 686's, it would be the 3-inch'er. I like the 4", I like it a lot,
but all things considered, shooting, carrying etc. the 686+ (7 shot) would get the nod.
Not and easy choice really.



I did have one the older SSR's from 2008 (forged hammer & trigger), but sold it off last fall.
__________________
Ogy
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #42  
Old 02-17-2012, 09:43 AM
dwpmusic dwpmusic is offline
US Veteran
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Mississippi
Posts: 603
Likes: 77
Liked 190 Times in 91 Posts
Default

The more I read about the lock mechanism on the new Smiths the more concerned I get. I read the sticky on it and realize that a lot of purists don't like it. I don't particularly care for it either as far as looks go. However, my chief concern is if it's caused many "lock ups" of failures of any type. I don't need a pistol that won't shoot when I squeeze the trigger. What's the overall consensus on this? How far back in models do I have to go to get a 686 without it? Do I need to be looking for a used pistol at an upcoming gun show? Need some expert advice from you knowledgeable folks.
Reply With Quote
  #43  
Old 02-17-2012, 03:53 PM
Bearcat's Avatar
Bearcat Bearcat is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2003
Location: Rural, Michigan
Posts: 242
Likes: 0
Liked 16 Times in 11 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Wheel Fan View Post
I was ready to get a 4 inch. There was a 4 inch and 3 inch at a gun show and I compared both of them. I ended up with the 3 inch as it felt balanced and just looked cool. It shoots awesome and is accurate. Personal preference.

Beautiful piece!
Reply With Quote
  #44  
Old 08-19-2013, 01:09 AM
troxelj troxelj is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Aug 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default 3" vs 4"

I had a 3" with the Talo grips that I sold to get the 4" version. Now I regret it. They're both outstanding guns, but the 3" just felt better in my hand, and I was just as accurate with it as the 4". I'm going to sell the 4" and go back. Wish I could afford to keep them both...
Reply With Quote
  #45  
Old 05-23-2017, 10:00 PM
aftra aftra is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Jun 2016
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default

i have 3" and very very happy with it
Reply With Quote
  #46  
Old 05-23-2017, 10:10 PM
Mehutch's Avatar
Mehutch Mehutch is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Oct 2015
Location: Seattle Washington
Posts: 905
Likes: 3,833
Liked 3,864 Times in 745 Posts
Default

How is this for a recipe....



Half of my carry options is the S&W 686+ 2.5 inch 7 shooter. It is comfortable, fast, spot on target and deadly accurate. If I had to employ any firearm it would be at 30 feet, is the farthest I would engage it, depending of course. My 2.5" will get it done faithfully. I like the 3" too, but for $850 to add 1/2 inch barrel, it can wait.


Last edited by Mehutch; 05-24-2017 at 03:48 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #47  
Old 05-23-2017, 11:28 PM
revolver686's Avatar
revolver686 revolver686 is offline
Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Posts: 184
Likes: 644
Liked 287 Times in 95 Posts
Default

I wonder what gun he ended up with back in 2012?

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Reply With Quote
  #48  
Old 05-23-2017, 11:45 PM
rwt1405's Avatar
rwt1405 rwt1405 is offline
SWCA Member
686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot; 686 3&quot; or 4&quot;  
Join Date: Feb 2013
Posts: 3,287
Likes: 15,199
Liked 2,554 Times in 1,147 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by GF1 View Post
The snubbies are in somewhat of a resurgence these days, but I expect that will fade a bit.
I wonder if he still stands by that statement?

Inquiring minds want to know.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
Reply

Tags
586, 686, ahrends, alessi, ccw, concealed, ejector, extractor, hogue, k frame, leather, lew horton, lock, m65, m686, model 10, model 65, model 66, model 686, round butt, skelton, snubby, snubnose, tactical

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Thinking of ordering a 686P 4" 7 round .357 .... "Help"!! Need some reviews on them... Is the 6" better or is the 4" equally good? .460V & XVR Magnum Man S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present 37 07-06-2017 06:26 PM
For All You "Squids", "Swabbies", and "Anchor-Clankers" semperfi71 The Lounge 37 02-07-2016 03:06 PM
If you liked "Red Dawn" and "Jericho" - "Falling Skies" starts Sunday GatorFarmer The Lounge 15 08-14-2012 11:58 PM
"SPF" 5906 Square TG, W/ 2 ext. mags "Shipped" "SPF" Rone GUNS - For Sale or Trade 7 12-15-2010 12:40 PM
Use caution when dealing with "roniva123", a.k.a. "PB Firearms", a.k.a. "Snubbies" allglock Feedback 17 08-07-2009 04:31 PM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 04:54 PM.


© 2000-2024 smith-wessonforum.com All rights reserved worldwide.
Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)