Can someone help me age this 686?

[keystoneman]

This is my first revolver so be gentle. The thing was filthy upon it's arrival, but I did a quick cleanup with a lead removing cloth and some gun oil. I'll do another cleaning in the next few days.

Anyway, can someone help me date this revolver?

The serial starts: #AAB6

I read that 686 and 686-1's may need to go back to S&W, is that me?

There is an 03 below the serial but I'm assuming that does NOT make my revolver a 686-3, and that I have just a plain ol 686?

Be easy, gents.

 

[Rogue686]

Nope, that's a standard 686 no dash...looks the same as mine. If it were modified, it would be stamped dash "M" above the 686 on there. Sharp looking gun...and a nice shooter

I don't know if it's necessary to send it back...there are more knowledgeable experts than me on here, but I haven't sent mine back since I got it used last year. Heard only hot factory loads can cause the problems that required the modification...

Like I said, more knowledgeable members will be along shortly...

 

[murphydog]

Welcome to the Forum. The AAA prefix started in 1980, so AAB would fall in that year also. The letters/numbers on the yoke are factory internal codes and not part of the SN.

There was/is a recall on the hammer nose bushing (the round part through which the firing pin protrudes) on the 686 and -1. At one time the factory replaced it for free on demand, but some reports also stated that customer service would only replace it if there was a problem. Some early, softer Federal (I think) primers would flow back into the firing pin hole and tie the gun up. If yours doesn't have the problem you may not want to send it in. Hope this is helpful

 

[keystoneman]

Thank you all. Can you tell me if the stocks look original or not?

 

[CAJUNLAWYER]

I like the stocks-original or not-pretty color and grain.

 

[keystoneman]

now to decide to send it back smith and wesson or not

 

[Smith357]

now to decide to send it back smith and wesson or not

The general consensus is if the gun is just for the range then leave it be, if you plan on using it in a CCW or HD role then have the recall work done.

 

[stuch77]

I like the stocks-original or not-pretty color and grain.

^^^this i likey

 

[keystoneman]

The general consensus is if the gun is just for the range then leave it be, if you plan on using it in a CCW or HD role then have the recall work done.

Hunting side arm / basement gun. Guess its going back. You all are very helpful I thank you for that.


Without papers or box what is the general consensus on a decent price for the gun? I paid 500. Either way I'm happy and I know that's all that matters .

 

[stuch77]

i paid $400 for mine in 98% condition no box no papers also didn't have the original grips. came with wood hogue's

 

[Allen-frame]

'Quote ; Cajunlawyer said;
''I like the stocks-original or not-pretty color and grain.''


Yes ,attorneys like shiny things.


allen

 

[DDDWho]

now to decide to send it back smith and wesson or not

This may help with your decision

Firearm Recalls and Safety Warnings- FirearmsID.com