A couple of months ago I purchased a used but minty 3" Model 686-6 Plus (3-5-7). I was hunting for a 3" CS-1, but got a great deal on this one (and it's a 7-shot). The CS-1 is still on my list and eventually I'll find one. I finally got it out to the range and put a couple of boxes of FMJs and HPs through it. The 686 was a ***** cat with .38 Special rounds, but the .357s were a different story. The factory wood combat stocks ("3-5-7") don't fit my hand and made shooting uncomfortable. There's not enough space between the trigger guard and my middle finger and every shot smashed into my finger. The thinness and relatively smooth finish of the stocks allowed the gun to jump around in my big mitts even with a crush grip. I already have a new Hogue Tamer K/L Frame grip, so I will definitely be installing that on my 686. I may also get a set of Altamont K/L Frame Round Combat Super Rosewood Crocback/Stipple stocks just for show! All in all, the 686 performed perfectly and was extremely accurate for a 3" barrel. At the moment this is my only L-frame, and I am very happy with it!
New to me Model 686-6 Plus range report
- Thread starter Hawg Rider
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Rodan
Member
Glad you're happy with it!
I've also been on the hunt for a 3" CS-1, but I've come to the realization that I'm just not willing to pay the current prices for one. A few years ago, I bought a post-lock 686+ 3" and it had the worst double action trigger I've ever experienced on a S&W, so I sold it. Maybe I'll try again...
I've also been on the hunt for a 3" CS-1, but I've come to the realization that I'm just not willing to pay the current prices for one. A few years ago, I bought a post-lock 686+ 3" and it had the worst double action trigger I've ever experienced on a S&W, so I sold it. Maybe I'll try again...
Every now and then I'll install wood on a S&W revolver and it only takes 1 range trip to snap me back to reality.
I haven't found anything more comfortable or more stable:
Hogue(R) Tamer Conversion Monogrip Black Compatible with Smith & Wesson(R) K, L, N, X, Z Frame Round Butt – Speed Beez
I haven't found anything more comfortable or more stable:
Hogue(R) Tamer Conversion Monogrip Black Compatible with Smith & Wesson(R) K, L, N, X, Z Frame Round Butt – Speed Beez
Rock185
US Veteran
Very nice revolver. I'm an L-Frame fan from way back. They've become my favorite .357s, and I still have a couple. I've used the Tamer grips on a couple revolvers. I don't know what that blue shock absorbing material in the Tamer back strap is, but it really is effective in softening felt recoil..
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LVSteve
Member
Having thin "surgeon's/pianist's hands, I would never consider shooting a 357 Mag or 44 Mag revolver with wood grips.
The 3-5-7 grips were the most painful grips I ever used to shoot magnums.
As the OP stated, wrong shape, too thin, poor texture.
A 3-inch L-frame is a beautiful workhorse, congrats !
As the OP stated, wrong shape, too thin, poor texture.
A 3-inch L-frame is a beautiful workhorse, congrats !
Chrisj357
Member
Even the lightest S&W .357 is hefty enough to shoot with wood stocks. Your grip may need adjusting. I have fired literally hundreds of rounds through my M-19. All full power factory loads except maybe 100 hotter hand loads. Now those hand loads stung a little but not enough to change the grips.
Try out some better positioning and wrist and arm support. It’s all about absorbing the recoil.
SGT ROCK 11B
Member
Now this grip will make a big difference. The Plus grips are better that the 3-5-7 grips. I have the 686 Plus four inch and the rubber grips that came with it was perfect, JMHO.
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