686 4" no dash

[n.c.s.h.p-686]

i have a 686 no dash but has m stamped on it. what does the m stand for? this is a state highway protrol gun.my numbers are (ABB 3800 M) any help on this nice 6 shooter...please and thank you

[Dennis The B]

Yours was shipped sometime between January 1983, and October 1983. The SCSW is not more specific, so to extrapolate, the serial numbers run between ABL4000 and ADE6700.

It's had the hammer nose bushing replaced at some point. There was a recall of all 580/680 series revolvers (no dash and -1). Yours was recalled and upgraded.

[steamloco76]

First off-Welcome to the forum.

The M stamp has been discussed here over and over.

Anyhow, the 581,681,586,686 no dash and dash 1 OCCASIONALLY exhibited primer flow back around the firing pin due to a very slightly over sized hole in the firing pin bushing. Didn't happen often or on every gun, but it happened enough that S&W issued a permanent recall to modify the bushing and hammer nose/firing pin. All revolvers sent back to S&W for this recall modification received an M (Modified) stamp to signify it was done. No effect on value and now you know for sure your revolver will fire all types of ammo.

I have an un-modified 686 and have had ZERO problems. Also have an M stamp 686-1. Both are great revolvers. Enjoy yours.

[n.c.s.h.p-686]

thank you for yall's fast response. i love this little gun i open carry it every where i am allowed to.i get some funny looks when they see it.

[MacA]

Welcome to this GREAT forum NC!! Congratulations on owning one of the finest (there are many) revolvers that S&W has ever manufactured! I own a couple of 4" 686 no dash models. One is a ANIB "Safe Queen" and the other is a real nice "Shooter". Both mine have the "M" modifications. Probably more a peace-of-mind than anything else.

Do you live in NC?

We like pictures here. Post some up if you get a chance!!

[n.c.s.h.p-686]

yes i live right outside of lexington,nc.