Does anybody have any experience CCW S&W 620 or 686. Still doing research on both, I think it will be a hard decision, both seem to be excellent weapons. Also , what have you found to be the best way to carry them ? OWB or Shoulder holster ?
CCW S&W 620 or 686
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USAF385
US Veteran
I have a 4" 681 (same as 686 but different with fixed sights) that I carry on me all the time in cooler weather. Once it's jacket season, it goes everywhere I go in a shoulder holster. Both are great guns, but I'd go with the 686, just my opinion. You can't go wrong with either, so whichever you find for cheaper....... go for it. I outshot my one LEO buddy this past weekend using my 681 against his Glock.
flop-shank
US Veteran
I used to, and sometimes still do, carry a 4" 586 and a 6" 686 IWB. I used FIST kydex/leather hybrid and Mika IWB holsters. I'm only 5'7" tall and am currently packing a 5" full underlug N frame IWB most of the time, so don't rule out the deep concealment IWB offers when used in conjunction with an L frame gun without a good reason. As far as the gun goes, I love the 686 and consider the -4 variant the high point of DA revolver evolution. Good luck, and let us know what you decide.
GatorFarmer
Member
I used to have a 6" 7 shot 686. Later I had a snub 686. The 6" wasn't ideal for carry, though I did have a holster for it. I forget the make. Mostly I used it for a range gun. The snub was a nice lump of heaviness.
I've carried N frames, which are larger and heavier. I liked OWB, just behind my right hip. Works fine for my 4" 629, so I don't see why it wouldn't work for a smaller/lighter L frame. I use an Askins style "Safety Speed" leather holster from that now defunct maker of leather gear. It's actually meant for a 5", but works fine for a 4".
If you want to experiment with a shoulder rig, the Galco offerings are probably as good as any factory offering. Check Ebay though and see what turns up.
I've carried N frames, which are larger and heavier. I liked OWB, just behind my right hip. Works fine for my 4" 629, so I don't see why it wouldn't work for a smaller/lighter L frame. I use an Askins style "Safety Speed" leather holster from that now defunct maker of leather gear. It's actually meant for a 5", but works fine for a 4".
If you want to experiment with a shoulder rig, the Galco offerings are probably as good as any factory offering. Check Ebay though and see what turns up.
Storm52
Member
I have the same gun and have had for 20+ years for CCW. It is stoked with the old Win Silvertips and the action is smooth. You save 4 oz. with the 686 in 2 1/2 barrel over the 4" 620. Quarter of a pound less is great if you carry all day.
Given a choice today, I too would lean toward the 686.
The 620 would be easier to carry but if I had to shoot it I'd sure want the 686 thank you. OWB is easiest for me. The great holster makers are many and many of them are members here. I have personal experience with Simply Rugged and like them very much.
flop-shank
US Veteran
That sentence pretty much sums up my thinking. I'll endure what I have to so that if I'm ever in the situation where the guns come out, I'll have the gun that I really want in my hand, in my hand.
Let me be the first to welcome you to the Forum. Lots to learn here.
Carry the biggest weapon that you are:
1) accurate shooting and
2) are willing to carry ALL OF THE TIME.
It does no good to have a super, duper blaster if it is in the safe at home because it is too heavy to carry every day, all day long.
I prefer a M625 Mountain Gun in .45 ACP, carried in a pancake holster. It is a roundbutt and wears Spegel boot grips. Always remember that butt size and shape are more important than barrel length. A 4" barrel actually carries better than a 2 1/2" barrel due to the fact that the longer barrel pushs the butt into your side.
How you dress is also important. If you carry IWB, you need to buy your trousers a size larger. Get a full length mirror and stand in front of it and practice bending, squatting, stretching, reaching above your head, etc.
Does your lifestyle or fashion sense allow for untucked tee shirts or polo shirts? You don't want to be "made" by the bad guys OR the good guys.
Do you know to avoid places that might require you to use that handgun? Do you know the laws that apply in the jurisdiction where youintend to carry?
What about extra ammo? Sure, you will seldom need more than three shots to end a gunfight, but WHAT IF...? I carry an extra full moonclip with me with the M625 and a speedloader or magazine with other handguns.
Can you draw, fire, and hit center of mass with your handgun and ammo? If not, find a combo that you can hit with consistantly. It may be a M10 loaded with wadcutters.
HITS COUNT, misses don't.
Concealed carry is more than just choosing the carry gun. That's the fun part.
Carry the biggest weapon that you are:
1) accurate shooting and
2) are willing to carry ALL OF THE TIME.
It does no good to have a super, duper blaster if it is in the safe at home because it is too heavy to carry every day, all day long.
I prefer a M625 Mountain Gun in .45 ACP, carried in a pancake holster. It is a roundbutt and wears Spegel boot grips. Always remember that butt size and shape are more important than barrel length. A 4" barrel actually carries better than a 2 1/2" barrel due to the fact that the longer barrel pushs the butt into your side.
How you dress is also important. If you carry IWB, you need to buy your trousers a size larger. Get a full length mirror and stand in front of it and practice bending, squatting, stretching, reaching above your head, etc.
Does your lifestyle or fashion sense allow for untucked tee shirts or polo shirts? You don't want to be "made" by the bad guys OR the good guys.
Do you know to avoid places that might require you to use that handgun? Do you know the laws that apply in the jurisdiction where youintend to carry?
What about extra ammo? Sure, you will seldom need more than three shots to end a gunfight, but WHAT IF...? I carry an extra full moonclip with me with the M625 and a speedloader or magazine with other handguns.
Can you draw, fire, and hit center of mass with your handgun and ammo? If not, find a combo that you can hit with consistantly. It may be a M10 loaded with wadcutters.
HITS COUNT, misses don't.
Concealed carry is more than just choosing the carry gun. That's the fun part.
Srigs
Member
I will be carrying my 686 2.5" all 4th of July weekend. I love carrying it.
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