686-4

[unclejerky]

Hello again. I just acquired a SW Model 686-4 in .357magnum.Is stainless,round butt,6 shot,2.5" snub, checkered wood grips,no lock.Serial # is BUF3200. Will someone please tell me when my gun was made?
Thanks,John

 

[Asta]

Sorry, I can't give you a born-on-date, but congrats on the gun. I have a 686-3 in 2 1/2 and it's a fantastic piece.

Good luck!

 

[TheGerk]

If the BUF serial number prefix is correct I have no listing in my S&W catalog for it
The -4 guns started production in 1993 with -5 production starting in 1997
The serial number is actually a poor reference number as they are not as consistent as the 6 digit production codes are in S&W registration research.
Do you have the original box? If so, it will have the 6 digit production code on the box
This would allow finding and matching the "particulars" of the gun and help narrow the actual birth year.
Good Luck