686 no dash

[gkitch]

I have a dilemma. I was looking for a 686 for a friend who is just getting into shooting and promised him that I'd find him a good shooter. I stumbled up on a 686 with a 6" bbl and original grips (nice) that is basically pristine, having had few rounds through it. Picked it up for $500 with no box. It does not have an "M" in the crane, so has not been recalled. This is where I need some advice:
-should I get it to my friend and advise him to have it recalled by S&W?
-should I tell him to not worry about it and just shoot it unless it gives him problems?
-do the non-modified 686s have collectors premiums? Perhaps I should resell it for a profit and keep looking for my friend?

 

[les strat]

I would probably not worry about it at this point, or he (you?) could send it to S&W and let them do it. I don't think collectors value-wise that it's going to make a whole lot of difference.
We have a LGS that has some 4" no-dash 686s for $399, which is a great price. I bought one Tuesday. They have 2 more in the case today. Wondering where they got all these no-dashes. BTW, if you are interested, PM me and I'll tell you the store. It's in Alabama.

 

[fyimo]

No extra value in a non repaired one. Only a few had real problems so I would tell that the potential problem existed in a few but to shoot it and see if he has a problem first before sending it back.

 

[one eye joe]

A no dash or -1 M686 need not be modified unless it is going to be used for self defense or home defense. The 6 inch versions (or longer) are commonly used for target shooting or perhaps hunting of small to medium sized game. NOT ALL revolvers exhibit the problem that the recall addresses. IF your friends life is going to depend upon the reliability of this weapon, I would suggest he have it modified, (the procedure is simple--call S&W and they'll do it for free and pay shipping BOTH ways). If not, I would shoot the snot outta it. As that weapon is used, it has probably been shot a bit w/o any problems. I have an 8 3/8 inch no dash that works perfectly with all kinds of ammo. It shoots like a rifle. I also have a 2 1/2 inch no dash that I sent in for the mod, as I carry it for personal protection. I sent it in to avoid an occurrence of "Murphy's Law" that could end in tragedy for me. There's absolutely NO NEED to sell yours. There is not much of a cash premium assigned to the no dash versions, despite being sought out by some. They are fine revolvers, that have an attractive package of features such as forged parts and NO LOCK.......