Are the dimensions the same size between the 6 and 7 round cylinder on the 686 Pro. Can't decide between the 4 or 5 inch, I believe the 4" holds 6 and the 5" holds 7. Which one is preferred? Thanks for your help
^^^^what he said. IMO the 4" is more versatile when it comes to carry, even though the 686 is getting a little heavy for carry in either bbl length. YMMVWhat is the gun's intended purpose? I don't know the answer as far as round count but for carry purposes, especially in the hot humid environment we live in, the 5" is getting a bit long. Even a 4" is pushing it. However, for target, field, duty or even home defense, I very much like the 5". Back to the round count, more is usually better but I depended on a 6 shot for most of my career and I'm comfortable with 6.
As a range toy, home defense gun either works, but if you ever intend to try your hand at gun games with a revolver, the 7-shot is the red-headed step-child of the gun world. For IDPA you are limited to 6-rounds and a 4.2" barrel.
Adios,
Pizza Bob