681 Engineering Changes?

snubbiefan · Sep 13, 2013

Somebody with "the book" help me out here please.

I think the 681 went through three engineering changes and the dash 3 incorporated the new yoke retention system. I also understand there may have been some cylinder binding issues with the dash 1 and there may have been a recall (besides the ND for the "M" stamp). I am on the hunt for the right gun, but I don't think these were made but in 87 through 88......so any dash # may have to be the right gun. If anybody has the time...please "school" me on the engineering changes.

sodacan · Sep 13, 2013

681-introduced in 1980
681-1 (1986) radius stud package, floating hand
681-M (1987) recall for hammer nose and bushing on no dash and -1
681-2 (1987) produced with changes as above
681-3 (1988) new yoke retention system

The model was discontinued 1992 as a regular production item, but two special distributor models were made in 1996 and 2001.

This info is straight from the SCSW.

IMO, the 581 and 681 are among the most beautiful guns ever made by S&W. I own both models. They are very stout and great shooters.

I am sending you a PM about one I have for sale. Good luck.

snubbiefan · Sep 13, 2013

Now....that's what I call service sodacan....thanks much. I'll jump-over to that PM.

Thanx again!

clang444 · Sep 13, 2013

They are a fine looking and handling revolver - I guess they were about the last iteration of the police revolver sidearm. Here is my NYSP marked gun:

snubbiefan · Sep 13, 2013

Nice piece. I am going to hold-out for a -3......until my patience expires.

sodacan · Sep 13, 2013

You don't see many dash 3's around, although there is one on gunbroker right now with a minimum bid of $899. It is not an import, but it does have a PD marking. I'm thinking the sales of them were rapidly dwindling at that time because so many PD's were going semi-auto. Hope you find yours soon. Good luck.

snubbiefan · Sep 14, 2013

Yep....I've seen it, but I am not moved enough to give up a large bill for it by the time it gets here. That even-trade 686-4 for the 681 ND "M" is starting to look a little better. If my 686 was a ND....it would be a no-brainer. I just prefer the changes that were made to the gun thru -3 in the 681 (last run) and -4 in the 686.

Imported 681's appear to be plentiful down near the $525 range, but you also buy that deep roll-mark on the barrel. I have a finisher that can take that off, but by the time I do that....I'm back in the $700 range and they are ND's as well.

I guess us gun-nuts put ourselves in these conundrums....ain't it fun.

afultz075 · Sep 14, 2013

snubbiefan,
Check your Pm's. I have one of what you're looking for.

681 Engineering Changes?

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