586 project

[Smith357]

I think I found the holster, after going through every holster box at a few gun shows to try different styles. It's not even close to what I was originally looking for, but it really seems to match the combat concept of the build. It's a Safariland 568, even the model number is close, it's a kydex and leather hybrid. A big plus is it's easy on easy off high ride paddle design that is very comfortable, it does not pull down my pants and seems to spread the weight evenly, I actually forget I'm wearing it. Retention is fully adjustable and it does concealed fairly well under a sport coat or heavy un-tucked shirt.

I did finally get the gun to the range and it grouped its shot about 3 inches low, I did not attempt to adjust the sights because I hated the grips, they had a pretty good bite, so I'm going with rubbers. I figure rubbers also match up with the concept of a combat wheelgun. I will do the sight in adjustments with grips that feel good.

as for the 686 cylinder I'm going to bead blast it, I don't care for the brushed/polished thing I tried.

 

[tomcatt51]

it grouped its shot about 3 inches low,

If you've got a .146 rear blade in it you might consider going to a .160 to bring up your POI. The .160 has a deeper notch giving a better sight picture.

 

[Bugs Bunny]

If you've got a .146 rear blade in it you might consider going to a .160 to bring up your POI. The .160 has a deeper notch giving a better sight picture.

I need figure that out myself yanking 8in barrels and swapping for 4in or 3in may screw up the rear sight.

 

[Hondo44]

I need figure that out myself yanking 8in barrels and swapping for 4in or 3in may screw up the rear sight.

The rule of thumb is that shortening a barrel requires a slightly taller front sight (or shorter rear sight). However, your point of impact is low and tomcatt51 is correct about using a taller rear sight blade. But 3" low should be well within your rear sight elevation adjustment without elevating to an unsightly height.
But I think you're right, wait 'till you install your final preference of grips.

 

[CelticSire]

And +1 on the holster choice. I have one for my Model 19 4 inches, and it is one of my favorite holsters. Comfortable, secure, and stylish.

 

[33jayman]

Smith 357,

Great post. Do you have any updates to it? Have you shot the gun much and how did it do?

Jay

 

[Smith357]

Smith 357,

Great post. Do you have any updates to it? Have you shot the gun much and how did it do?

Jay

I carry the gun on a regular basis, and I shoot it whenever I can. It's a good shooter. The finish is not as durable as I had hoped and is starting to show wear in all the normal holster wear spots. Since S&W already bead blasted the gun I can now do just about any of the home gunsmith finishes like Parkerize or Duracoat I want if later on down the line if the mood strikes. Right now I'm fine with the honest wear it is getting.

 

[33jayman]

How would black T look?

Jay

 

[ibewbull]

I noticed you were going with night sights. Who has them. I have a 686 four inch in need of a rear blade and if it needs work why not skip to new night sights? If there are any out there. All Midway had were factory blades.

 

[Hfrog355]

Any update on this gun? More mods or performance notes?

I'm particularly interested in how your finish is wearing.

 

[Smith357]

Any update on this gun? More mods or performance notes?

I'm particularly interested in how your finish is wearing.

I really have not done anything but shoot it, I had all these plans but decided I really like it just the way it is. I carry it often in the cooler months and the finish seems to be holding up OK. It is starting to show holster wear on all normal surfaces, and I have even managed to put a few minor scratches on it, overall I would say the finish is about 90%.

 

[Jebus35745]

Nice blast from the past, good lookin gun. Larry

 

[Hfrog355]

Yeah, I really love that blasted blue finish. I haven't seen that around much, so it looks unique IMO.

 

[handlebar]

I have a 586 that I bought NIB in 1985. While I don't want a 4" barrel, it could stand a refinish. Here is a pic of mine as it sits right now.
It has many 1000's of rounds down the barrel, and while the pic does not show it, the muzzle has a lot of blue missing.

 

[TAROMAN]

Seeing that SS cylinder is making me think......586 pinto!

 

[Smith357]

These are the last pictures I took of it.

Jan 2012 I guess it's time for more current shots. But the layout has not changed, I like it the way it is.

 

[vonn]

Thanks for brining back a good post. Nice to see well done projects.

 

[Hfrog355]

Would love some new shots if you get time.

 

[Mtwoodson]

Nice project with great results. Does anyone make a replacement rear blade with tritium? It would be a very easy way to get night sights.

 

[Hillbilly77]

Nice project with great results. Does anyone make a replacement rear blade with tritium? It would be a very easy way to get night sights.

Yes. Meprolight makes them for K, L, and N Frames.
They come two ways - either a full front blade or a red-ramp replacement insert.

I have them on my 586 and I like them.