686-3 info

[rrandle]

Looking at buying a 686-3. I bought a 686 in 1984 and it did not have a dash in the model. Can someone tell me what the -3 means? Also, the serial number is BMV8695. I don't feel like paying $50 to S&W to find out year of manufacture so any help would be appreciated

 

[fredg19]

Looking at buying a 686-3. I bought a 686 in 1984 and it did not have a dash in the model. Can someone tell me what the -3 means? Also, the serial number is BMV8695. I don't feel like paying $50 to S&W to find out year of manufacture so any help would be appreciated

Check the inside of the grips for a date. My 686-3 starts with a BJL and was made in 1992, I'm betting yours was as well, yours might be a 1993 at the latest.

The -3 is the third "version" if you will of the 686, they made subtle changes (and some not so subtle) for each dash. Some say the -4 was the last good year as the -5's started using MIM parts, and I think the -5's started with the lock.

Here is some info in general:
Smith & Wesson Model 686 - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Also see this:
http://www.acbsystems.com/boards/thr/shoot6/586-686.jpg