The S&W 986 is a unique adaptation of the L-frame revolvers as an 8-round 9mm. In addition to the 5" barrel length there are other differences that can affect holster fitting. The 9mm cylinder is significantly shorter than the length used for .357 and .44 versions, which also entails having the 5" barrel fitted more deeply into the frame and changing the overall length a bit from what might be encountered on a 5" .357. Barrel profile includes a tapered underlug/ejector rod housing.
In short, the 986 is a limited production revolver with a relatively high price tag. It is unlikely that any of the major holster manufacturers would produce holsters specifically fitted for the 986, simply because of the small market niche to be filled.
Smaller makers will be limited by the fact that such a limited production revolver is very unlikely to be offered as a "dummy gun", so the only way to make holsters specifically for the 986 will be to have the actual revolver in hand for patterning and forming holsters. Either the holster maker will have to invest in a new revolver or the customer will have to make the revolver available for making and fitting the holster.
For a holster maker to invest in a handgun to use in holster production obviously requires that there be a substantial and ongoing demand for the holsters. The low production numbers of the 986 make this unlikely.
For the customer to provide his handgun can involve considerable expense for shipping both ways, insurance, and FFL transfer fees (if crossing state lines). These expenses can easily exceed the price of any production holster.
On the more positive side, there are some alternatives available. The shorter 9mm cylinder will easily fit into a holster formed on the more common .357 guns. The barrel length and profile will readily fit into a holster formed on the more common (full lug) barrels. The frame, trigger guard, and sights are all of the same dimensions as the more common production revolvers.
So a holster maker having forming pieces to make holsters for the L-frame revolvers with 5" barrels can produce a holster for you that will accept your 986. Fit at the frame, trigger guard, and most other areas will be correct. Fit around the barrel and underlug should be reasonably good for many applications. A formed leather holster made in this manner can be expected to conform more closely to the actual dimensions of your revolver with some use.
You may want to consider a good holster lining to protect the finish of your 986 from excessive holster wear. Not much sense in spending that much on a revolver and cheaping out on the holster.
I hope this helps.
