Can’t decide on which 686 Plus with 5” barrel

[retlaw357]

I'm looking to buy my first 686 plus with a 5" barrel and am having a tough time deciding.

The 686 Plus 3-5-7 series in 5"
The 686 Plus Pro Series Performance Center (moon clips)
The 686 Plus Performance Center (speed release)

The fluted / non fluted cylinder is not a concern, I like both.

I will be ordering one sight unseen since no dealers have any in my area, so I won't be able to check for barrel cant, fit and finish and so forth. Is there one model where the barrel cant is less likely?

Other general thoughts?

 

[Tadeus67]

I like the 357 series a lot, 3" and 5" versions, and both are part of my huge S&W wish list

 

[Chipperxd]

what is a Pro Series Performance Center?

I thought it was either a Pro or PC.

 

[retlaw357]

I'm guessing it would be what is called the Pro Series, on their site they list it with PC also in the name:

Performance Center(R) Pro Series(R) Model 686 Plus | Smith & Wesson

 

[Chipperxd]

huh. I never knew that. I know Pro Series has PC parts and assembly but didn't know they were the same. good to know.

 

[bananaman]

I have a 5" 686-6, Pro Series. Picked it up in March. Even though it does not look "Traditional", I like the way it feels, & shoots. Bob

 

[sammynomas]

I have the 357 series, but in 3 inch barrel and really like it, also like the factory grip on it. Holding each in hand would be a must for me to decide.

Sent from my K88 using Tapatalk

 

[ISCS Yoda]

I have a 2.5", 3", and a 4". We'll see if I can control myself from adding a 5". Fabulous guns!

Query:

Even though it does not look "Traditional", I like the way it feels, & shoots.

Why do you think it doesn't look traditional? One of my favorite guns from long ago is the Remington Model 1875. Same as an 1858 except the '75 was a cartridge gun. Cimarron Firearms makes one called the Outlaw - check out this picture - that's traditional!!!

https://www.cimarron-firearms.com/p...outlaw-model-1890/1875-outlaw-model-1891.html

(c) Cimarron Firearms 2012

When I started shooting cowboy action that's what I wanted but I got a deal on Ruger Vaqueros so it never happened. I think I still want one but maybe a 686 that has that look will make me feel better!

 

[sdb321]

HECK, don't decide, BUY THEM ALL!!!!

 

[GTBL]

All three of them are awesome. You can't go wrong with your choice.

 

[retlaw357]

I would if I could man!

I have held the first 2 at a dealer out of state and was not a fan of the wood 3-5-7 Grips so they would have to go right away. Based off that experience I definitely leaned the Pro series

 

[bananaman]

I have a 2.5", 3", and a 4". We'll see if I can control myself from adding a 5". Fabulous guns!

Query:



Why do you think it doesn't look traditional? One of my favorite guns from long ago is the Remington Model 1875. Same as an 1858 except the '75 was a cartridge gun. Cimarron Firearms makes one called the Outlaw - check out this picture - that's traditional!!!

1875 Outlaw - Model 1875 Outlaw & Model 1890 - Single Actions - Hand Guns - PRODUCTS

(c) Cimarron Firearms 2012

When I started shooting cowboy action that's what I wanted but I got a deal on Ruger Vaqueros so it never happened. I think I still want one but maybe a 686 that has that look will make me feel better!

I am getting old. I like the 60's to 80's Smith revolvers. I have a few from this century though. Bob

 

[Rubone]

Couldn't be happier with my 5" stocking dealer 686+ fitted with a Patridge sight.

 

[retlaw357]

Very nice!

 

[WheelGunMagic]

I have the 5" 3-5-7 series & have shot a friend's 5" Pro series several times. I prefer the 686s with the double lug barrels. Could be I'm just used to the heavier barrels, but the lighter barrel of the Pro series just doesn't feel right to me - not as balanced. For me, that translates to the 3-5-7 series being more accurate.

But I agree with the above comments - all three are great guns - you can't go wrong no matter which you chose!

 

[TAROMAN]

The Pro 5" really floats my boat.
If I didn't already have a 5" 327 TRR8 and a 5" 986, one would already be in my safe.
Come to think of it, there's still time..

 

[BLUEDOT37]

I have held the first 2 at a dealer out of state and was not a fan of the wood 3-5-7 Grips so they would have to go right away.

My 3-5-7 grips came off & when in the drawer as soon as I got home. The rubber Hogue's work fine for me.

My 5" 686+ TALO (S&W doesn't call it that anymore since they no longer have a relationship with TALO like they used to) has turned out to be an awesome shooter. It's my only 357 in a "L" frame but it groups every bit as good, or better, than my 327TRR8 or 627PC. For the money you can't beat it.

It's pot-luck on whether you get one with a canted barrel. Mine has one but no way I'm sending it back for "straightening" & risking it come back worse off.

.

686-6+ TALO, 5" bbl.

(-01)

.

 

[C Squared]

Speed release and cut for moon clips, incredible balance and sweet DA trigger.

 

[GTBL]

I had to take my 3-5-7 Grips off too. They look good but just are not a good fit in my hands. I put the Hogue Bantam grip on mine and it just feels right.

 

[retlaw357]

Thanks for all the replies. Decided to go with the 3-5-7 series 5 inch. Ordered one online and hopefully will have it this week.

Looking to get replacement grips this week, thinking the Hogue full size. I'll check some grips locally but not sure if I should get the round butt or the round butt to square conversion grips.

This will be a great big, newer brother to my 1931 M&P .38 Special, can't wait.