686 .357 moon clips

[1captdon]

I just purchased a 686-6 .357 7 shot pro series with the cylinder relieved for moon clips. Are the moon clips mandatory ? Is there a head space issue with out ?

 

[Bastogne71]

You don't have to use the moon clips. The recess for the clip allows enought of the cartridge rim to rest on the cylinder to properly headspace. You can load singlely, with a speed loader, or moon clip. If you want to use the clips, you will need a clip loader/unloader. I highly recommend the BMT but it is expensive. Search for moon clips.

 

[Bastogne71]

1captdon,
Just noticed it was your first post! Welcome to the board. I got my 686 Pro Plus last October. Still waiting on a holster order - there aren't many L frame, left hand, 5" holsters around. Hope you enjoy yours as much as I do mine.

 

[tgshowell]

...there aren't many L frame, left hand, 5" holsters around....

No kidding. Lefty here too and it gets rough sometimes to search for something decent. Depending on what the use is, I had some luck with the Crossfire Versa series holster, but they are just ambi and nylon.

 

[Batmo]

I don't have any experience with the BMT moon clip loader although I understand it is an excellent tool. I instead purchased the Deluxe moon clip tool through Revolver Supply because I only have to change arbors when I switch from my 686+ to my 627. The difference between $5 and $80 buys a lot of components...I'm cheap. As for the demooning tool...I made one using a golf club handle. It captures all 7 or 8 empty cases that I can dump into my range bag.
TK Custom or Revolver Supply are good sources for all your moon clips and moon clip accessories.
Good Luck with your new toy I think you're going to enjoy it.