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10-21-2018, 01:26 PM
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S&W Model 686 Advice
Hi:
I am considering purchasing a Model 686 "No Dash".
What should I be concerned about (issues) ?
Thanks,
Jimmy
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10-21-2018, 02:43 PM
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Same things as with any other S&W revolver: timing, carry up, end shake, hammer push off, etc.. Basically just overall condition.
Excellent revolvers - as originally supplied.
Pic of my 4", no dash, no "M", no problem 686 attached.
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Regards - GCF
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10-21-2018, 03:16 PM
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Make sure you have more money for other barrel lengths. After shooting your first one, you will want others to go with it
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10-21-2018, 03:51 PM
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The early 686's are subject to a recall that is still honored. It addresses a minor potential problem around the firing pin hole. This is the referenced "M" stamp noted above. When S&W has performed the warranty upgrade, they stamp it.
Not having an M stamp can be a price bargaining chip when looking to buy but lack of the stamp will NEVER be a reason to not buy, the issue is that minor.
All of the early 686's came with Goncalo Alves Target as far as I know... when shopping used 686's, the original stocks are often missing. Opinions vary, but I find the original wood handsome and not at all enjoyable with warm magnum ammo.
My only other suggestion: 686's are fantastic but they are not scarce. If you seek a great deal, stand firm and keep shopping. No matter the common gun forum rhetoric ("well they aren't making no-dash 686 anymore!") don't buy in to any idea that you will struggle to find one at a good price.
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10-21-2018, 04:19 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by jimmyj
Hi:
I am considering purchasing a Model 686 "No Dash".
What should I be concerned about (issues) ?
Thanks,
Jimmy
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Just the usual things when you look over a potential purchase.
I got a real early one way back when. S&W was sort of reserving them for police and trying to make sure they got first dibs on them. I wanted one!
The dealer did something and about a month later a 686 4''.357 arrived with my name on the paperwork. Put a bunch of rounds through it and replaced the grips with Pacs, which is how it sits in my safe now. (have the original grips and box)
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10-21-2018, 04:42 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Eddietruett
Make sure you have more money for other barrel lengths. After shooting your first one, you will want others to go with it
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Ditto that.
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10-22-2018, 06:14 AM
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Measure Once, Buy Once
Quote:
Originally Posted by jimmyj
Hi: I am considering purchasing a Model 686 "No Dash".What should I be concerned about (issues) ?
Thanks,
Jimmy
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What others have already suggested above. One thing though, my "bought new" 686 No-Dash has a cylinder gap of 0.005in, and my recently purchased 686 No-Dash has a cylinder gap of 0.009in, Probably/likely because of a history of heavy use.
Some may suggest that the one with 0.009in gap is just how it was manufactured and "is within S&W Specs". I don't know but doubt that large a gap was original, since it is at the very upper limits of what S&W considers acceptable.
Unfortunately, online brokers/sellers seem to never disclose THAT information, so the buyer is left to look at other signs of wear and tear that "might" help one determine a tighter gap revolver. NOT a 100% method, but if at all possible, consider purchasing one locally, where you can show up with your own feeler gauges in pocket/hand.
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10-22-2018, 10:08 AM
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Mike is spot on! Some years ago, I bought an estate 686 with 6” barrel at a large gun show. It looked new and had apparently been used little. I am embarassed to mention that my first range session disclosed that it had excessive barrel/cylinder gap.
I really like the 686’s, and am fortunate to have a really good, really reasonable, pistolsmith. I had him set the barrel back and rethroat it. It now has minimum clearance and shoots EXTREMELY well.
It also taught me a lesson. “Properly examine ALL purchases BEFORE you buy”��!
By the way, did I mention that IMHO the 686 is one of the absolute BEST platforms for a .357 revolver? ������
Dale53
Last edited by Dale53; 10-22-2018 at 10:09 AM.
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10-22-2018, 05:58 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by jimmyj
Hi:
I am considering purchasing a Model 686 "No Dash".
What should I be concerned about (issues) ?
Thanks,
Jimmy
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Having the money for it.
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