681 or 686-3.... selling one

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zellerSC

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Maybe. Both 4"

The 681 is M stamped and NYSP. Rubber grips.

I'm guessing the 686 would sell for more, as it's adjustable sights and football grips. Not era correct, but it's the way it came.

I like the fixed sight on the 681. And they didn't make thousands with NYSP stamp.

I don't reload, so have no real need for adjustable sights on the 686.

They're both in same VG condition.

So my question is.....If you had to put up one for sale, which would you choose if in my shoes? Yes, I'd like to keep both, but I really don't think I can.

Thanks.
 
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681

I am guessing that the 681 would sell faster if it is in good shape. PD
 
The M681 would probably sell faster, but I would sell the M686 and keep the M681. I just like the clean look of fixed site Smiths. Just my opinion.
 
JCS&W said:
The M681 would probably sell faster, but I would sell the M686 and keep the M681. I just like the clean look of fixed site Smiths. Just my opinion.
Click to expand...

Why would the 681 sell faster?

Yes, I agree with fixed sights look better to me. And can't get knocked off.
 
Are you more of a shooter or collector?

What do you do with the guns?

The 686 with adjustables is a better range gun as you can adjust for many diffrent factory loads, not just if you reload.

The 681 is a better holster gun for camping/travel, etc. The 681 is harder to find and more of a collector as well.

If it were me, Id keep the 681. The 686 is easier to replace when you can afford to buy another.
 
JeepinSoldier said:
Are you more of a shooter or collector?

What do you do with the guns?

The 686 with adjustables is a better range gun as you can adjust for many diffrent factory loads, not just if you reload.

The 681 is a better holster gun for camping/travel, etc. The 681 is harder to find and more of a collector as well.

If it were me, Id keep the 681. The 686 is easier to replace when you can afford to buy another.
Click to expand...

All good points.....Thanks.
 
What the others said zellerSC! I read and type too slow, but that is why I believe the M681 would sell faster. Just my opinion.
 
It depends...if the 681 is zero'ed with the ammunition you like, keep it. Otherwise, keep the 686.

On the topic of durability of S&W adjustable sights, I've found them to be tougher than they appear. I like them for the obvious reason (precise zero), but the downside is less durability than just snagging on clothing. When I hunt or go afield w/ one, I use a holster that covers the sights so that's not an issue. It is an issue for concealed carry, however.
 
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If the sights are centered on the 681, and assuming mechanics are sound, that is a gun I would never sell, but that's me.
 
I find the fixed sights on the L-Frame hard to pick up. If you are looking for rugged set of sights consider Cylinder and Slide extreme fixed rear sight that replaces the adjustable factory rear sight on the 686. With a higher front sight blade it should be easir to pick up.
 
Sorry to both zellerSC and ladder13 but the NYSP was a draw back to me.
Says the Red Sox fan. lol
Seriously I would like to get my hand on a 681. I have a 686 no dash (no M).
 
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