686+ 3"

[Keats]

Anyone care to share their experience with this model? Looking to purchase (new) one in a few days, looking for input. Thanks.

 

[bearhitman]

Very accurate and handy you will love it!

 

[bountyhunter]

The 686 is a very fine gun, I happen to currently use a 686 Plus as my defense gun. I like shooting the model 66 better in competition because of lighter weight and better balance, but the 686 is a more rugged gun.

 

[haifabuddy]

I have one with lock. With changed rebound and mainsprings the trigger is sweet. Very easy to shoot 357 loads; with my 66s I only use 38+P loads. For carry the 2.5 inch 686+ is bit easier, in Lobo holster. I put square conversion grip on the 3 incher.

 

[ab4ka]

I love my 686(s)...I've got a 2-1/2" 686 that I absolutely adore and is a joy to shoot, and I've got a 6" 686+ that I love almost as much. You've got a great choice there. Let us know how it turns out!

 

[earlycuyler]

Hi Keats

I scoured youtube and different forums looking for info on the same model. I found this one video on youtube YouTube - FABAIN50CAL's Channel of a 3" 686, the same user has some videos shooting it as well. I decided to take the plunge and mine arrives tomorrow.

 

[25-7HEAVEN]

Have a 686 Black Stainless great gun.4 inch

 

[8emem]

I have a 686+ 3" with the lock. Accurate from the bench and easy to shoot. I bought it to replace a 686 6-shot 3" pre-lock that I sold years ago (one of the dumber things I have ever done). No difference in accuracy between the two, but the version with the lock and MIM parts has a much better trigger. I also have a 3" GP100, but I shoot the 686+ better, due to the trigger. You really can't go wrong with a 686.

 

[MERV5-5505]

I have a 686+ pre-lock with MIM parts, (no issue for me) and a factory 3" barrel. It is one of my favorites and definitely on the "no-sell" list. Its one of those guns I was lucky to buy new before no-lock guns were getting snatched up at a huge mark-up. I think I $319 for it NIB in 1998.
I ditched the factory supplied Houge mono-grips, (good, but big grips) and they now sport a pair of much loved Craig Spegel boot grips in African Blackwood.

Good luck with your search & purchase with all things S&W.

P.S- Sorry for the lousy quality pic...

 

[jas22]

I love mine!

 

[MO_mule]

MERV5-5505:

That is a fine-looking revolver. Is it sporting a bead-blast finish? Gorgeous grips, too.

jas22: And your 686 is a beauty, too. (Great pics!)

You guys are just aiding and abetting my pusher....

Chris

 

[MERV5-5505]

Hello MO_mule,

Thanks for the compliments. About the finish...yes & no, it is factory finished, (as-it was bought new) in a semi-brushed almost matte finish that they (S&W) were doing many different models in at the time, (1995-1999.)

The grips Mr. Spegel agreed to do in a semi-custom wood choice. He is a true Gentleman & craftsman. His grips are one of the best out there for Smiths.

 

[MO_mule]

MERV5-5505:

Thanks for the speedy reply. I have Spegel's on my 640 and they are as comfy as they are beautiful. Maybe my strategy should be to buy new grips first and then tell the missus that I need a new 686 snubby to fit the grips....

Chris

 

[earlycuyler]

Just picked mine up yesterday. Took a picture with a Glock G26 and a S&W 642 for some size comparison (sorry for the low quality). Right off the bat I didn't like the factory Uncle Mike grips because they put my finger too far from the trigger, I suppose my hands are smaller. I'm eyeballing the Pachmayr Compac Professionals as replacements.

 

[ColColt]

How is it that they can add an extra chamber and not compromise the cylinder strength? Interesting.

 

[Harrison]

My 686+ 3inch was born in June. I love it. I replace the factory grips, and replaced the IL with a plug. I carries good in a Lobo holster. It is accurate and a fun gun to shoot. Balance is almost perfect. Trigger is sweet. Highly recommend.

 

[jpwhel]

The 686+ 3" is a nice revolver. I purchased one dated March of this year. The Talo grips are too nice to shoot with and I put Pachmayrs on for range shooting. As with all 686s the gun is accurate and fun to shoot.

You will enjoy it, happy shooting.

 

[ENGINE18]

You guys are killing me! I want one bad!

 

[CB54]

I love my 4 inch 686P and I just bought and shot my new 686 2.5", this past weekend, and I love it even more. The snubbie has quickly become my favorite gun.

CB

 

[MoPoPo]

I have a -6 of my own. Great gun. You won't regret getting one.