686

[snake20]

hey new guy here just picked my first 686. its 1982 4" already looking to add to collection. looking at new 686 6" talo edition and 586 6". will have to order either so question is will i be equally impressed w new r should i try to find used. thanks in advance

 

[OKFC05]

Blonde, brunet or redhead?
Strictly your personal preference.
I either own or have shot all the way from the 686 no dash to the 686-4 to the latest 686 SSR, and I never met a 686 I didn't like.
I am a fan of S&W Pro Series.

 

[loeman]

Welcome to the forum! Wow, what a great pick-up! A no-dash model with the perfect (IMHO) barrel length. Check between the Model number and the serial number to see if there is an "M" stamp. If yes, your gun has been back to S&W for the '87 recall. If no, you can call them and get the recall work done at no charge to you. Shipping is on S&W too. I recently sent back my no dash for this work.

 

[les.b]

Welcome to the forum from the great state of West Virginia. That's a nice looking 686 that you have there. The problem with Smith and Wessons is that they are addictive. You seem to be displaying some of the common symptoms already. You just picked up your first one and already you want another. Trust me, as soon as you get that one you will want another. The good news is, that as long as you are careful, you will never lose money. I don't think that I own a smith that I couldn't sell for more than I paid for it. Mostly, they are as good an investment as gold, and a lot more fun!!

Personally, I like the older models before the "internal lock" was added, and "MIM" hammers, triggers and other parts replaced the older forged steel parts. This is mostly a matter of esthetics, as I have no personal knowledge that those parts are not as good as the older ones. Anyway, yours does not have the lock, and has the forged hammer and trigger. By the way, these parts are carbon steel, not stainless, and are chrome plated.

You have a beautiful gun there, and many feel that the 686 is one of the most practical guns that you can own: not to bulky or heavy, and yet sufficiently powerful for most purposes. Great find.

 

[snake20]

i fell in love w it asa i held it. any idea on value just wondering if i got a good deal. really thinking bout getting both just never ordered off internet bf

 

[HOUSTON RICK]

I would not mind new or old, but the lock on some of the new guns is a deal breaker for many here.

 

[bananaman]

Welcome to the FORUM! I personally prefer to stay with pre lock guns. That does not mean I am right. I only have 2 IL guns because I could not come up with the right deal on what I was looking for in an older model. I still enjoy them very much! I obtained a 586, 4" no dash, and was impressed, so I got a 6", 686-3. You are SURE to keep wanting! Bob

 

[snake20]

Thanks for the welcomes.... the only m I see is stamped right bf 686 assuming that model 686 I remember reading about recall vaguely so if anyone feels free to educate me I'm all ears

 

[18DAI]

Find a clean used one. No dash through the 686-5 variant. The 686-4s are widely regarded as the best of the breed.

Nothing impressive beyond the 686-5. Other than the extremely optimistic MSRPs. Good luck! Regards 18DAI