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[RENEGADE18X]

I've searched around on the internet quite a bit being that I'm interested in having my father purchase a S&W 686 (and it be his until I'm 21 and I'd never call it my six-gun until then because that's illegal!). I've shot quite a bit and I've always liked revolvers, they just feel much more comfortable. I've narrowed it down to 686 in either 4in or 6in barrel, I'm thinking 6 because I'll be using it for many things including hunting. But from what I've read the 4in is often considered more comfortable and balanced feeling. I suppose either will feel good with use, but I'd like to get some opinions from others who are more familiar with the weapons.

I'd often take it out just for shooting and I'd use it solely for deer drives where it's so thick lugging a rifle around is irritating at best but shots are 30-50 yds, take or give a few. Immediately after purchasing I will be getting a hold of a plug and pulling the flag out, the idea of a permanent safety that can also randomly engage is terrible in my opinion, but that's just me.

How does S&W measure the barrel? Is it firing pin to end barrel? The WI hunting laws are pin to end and I'm sure S&W measures the same, but I don't know for certain and it may not be the best idea to be out with a weapon I can't hunt with legally (probably not the worst idea I've ever had though).

Finally, I'd like to know what other purchases will likely come with a first revolver. I'd assume quite a few rounds and speed loaders, but is there anything else that can be expected?

Thanks for the help, I really appreciate it.

 

[ibewbull]

I am in Wisconsin also. The DNR says 6 inches from the end of the barrel to the firing pin. With the hammer at rest the pin is behind the recoil shield so you must figure this into the OAL.
To make it simple a .357 magnum with a 4 inch barrel factory tip of barrel to end of forcing cone.][specifications will meet with DNR regulations.
Keep an eye on the forum for a nice L frame 6 or 4 inch. The 586 is also a great piece not to be forgotten. So too are the K frames which could be an option.
Check out Bianchi Speed Strips which I like better than bulky speed loaders.

 

[RENEGADE18X]

I've also been interested in the GP-100, but I like the look of the Smith alone that much more. I guess it really depends on personal preference and I haven't gotten the chance to take a good look at any yet. Thanks for the help bull, I was pretty sure that a 4in would work and I do want to be sure if I decide the 6in just doesn't feel right.

 

[2ndAmendmentNut]

First of all revolver barrels are measured from the front of the barrel to the front of the cylinder. So if you measure a 4" barrel from the front of the barrel to the firing pin you will have about 6". Anyways between the two barrel lengths I would choose the longer 6" barrel. The sight radius will be noticeably longer, recoil will be lighter, and velocity will be increased by approximately 100fps. I would also stalk gunbroker or the forum for a pre lock 686 rather than buy a new one with the intention of plugging it, but that is just me. To complicate things a bit you might want to consider the model 27 or 28 both of these are built on the larger "N" frame and are easier to find as a prelock and usually cheaper than a prelock 686. I also like the balance and feel of the "N" frames while I think the under lugged barrel of the 686 is awkward and front heavy.

 

[arjay]

Get the 4 inch and practice,practice,practice.They carry easier and balance better IMHO.

 

[Peak53]

Renegade
Welcome to the forum and congrats on making up your mind to start with a SW, or your Dad that is! The 686 is a great choice. A few things to keep in mind. You ask about extra stuff and number one if you are carrying it in the field will be a good holster. Don't skimp on this. Quality is key. You don't have to spend a whole lot for a used one. Check the WTS section in this forum for good buys. Speedloaders? Not so much unless you plan on getting in gunfights. Ammo? Start with 38 specials until you get the hang of it. Then work up to 357, which is a blast, but not the place to start. SW measures the barrel length from the front face of the cylinder to the tip of the barrel. I have all lengths and like them all for their intended purpose. Longer barrels like 6" are easier to aim because of the longer sight radius from the rear sight to the front sight. The 4" barrels point a little more instinctively and are lighter. Shorter barrels like 2" or 3" are usually for self defense. About the deer hunting with a revolver, that's a tough one. You will want a lot of practice to be able to make a killing shot at 30 yards. Easy for a rifle, but a pistol not so much. Here in Colorado, a 357 is not legal for deer. Has to be 40 or better. If that is legal in your state, you would need to learn about things like muzzle energy and velocity to make a good choice for a hunting load for the game you are after. For a deer, it would take a large bullet like 180 grains moving at full magnum velocity to do the job. Even then, it is only half as powerful as say a 30-30. So your range is limited. Lot's of other hunters here who may want to provide some advice. Good luck with getting your dad on board. Mine started sharing guns with me pretty early and we had some of the best times of our lives. Let us know how it goes.

 

[RENEGADE18X]

I've been looking into and discussing hunting with a .357, so far so good. I also reload "my" .30-06 and have spent hours calculating for velocities, maximum range, etc. so I'm not worried about working that out. One thing I hadn't considered was a holster though, I'll start checking into that too. I'm not much worried about accuracy at range I've got a tendency to shoot pistols better than long guns. As for my dad: he's got no problems with it it's just that the law has decided I can't legally own a pistol until I'm 21 (I believe, then again I'm not too worried about that honestly.) so until then it'll be "his".

 

[Gun 4 Fun]

Double check your laws. here in Michigan, a person at least 18, but under 21 can't buy and own a NEW handgun, but can buy and own a USED handgun. They cannot buy ammo for handguns over the counter either, but can have it to fire in their gun. Laws very state to state, so always check with the proper authoities in your own state.

I've owned 4", and 6" 586/686 handguns, along with a ton of other 4", 5" and 6" guns in .357. the longer barrel will usually provide higher velocity, but that is far from set in stone. I have been using an Oehler 35P since they first came out in the 80's and have crono'd 4" M-66 I used to own that consistently gave higher speeds with any load than the 6" 686 I owned then. I've experienced that with several other caliber handguns as well, so you just never know without checking for yourself.

For what you say you want to do with a handgun, a 6" is the way to go IMO. Best of all worlds is a 5" 27-2, but that's another story.

 

[lamarw]

I am not opposed to the 686 since I love mine, but I do not use it for hunting. Mine has a 4" barrel and is plenty accurate.

Is there a particular reason you want the .357 Magnum? The reason I ask is I have a Model 25 Mountain Gun in .45 Colt (4" barrel) and it is actually lighter by a few ounces over my Model 686. I think the .45 Colt will give you a little more versatility in hunting sized rounds and the brass might even be a little easier to acquire than .357 since you reload. They are both great revolvers and just a thought for your consideration. Otherwise, forgive me for injecting an option in case it offends you.

 

[rwsmith]

6" vs 4"

My 6" does feel just a little nose heavy when just holding, but with the Pachmahr grips it feels great when shooting. For hunting I would recommend the 6", you get more velocity than with a 4". I think the 4" would be perfect balance, though. Whichever you decide will be a great gun.

 

[RENEGADE18X]

I am not opposed to the 686 since I love mine, but I do not use it for hunting. Mine has a 4" barrel and is plenty accurate.

Is there a particular reason you want the .357 Magnum? The reason I ask is I have a Model 25 Mountain Gun in .45 Colt (4" barrel) and it is actually lighter by a few ounces over my Model 686. I think the .45 Colt will give you a little more versatility in hunting sized rounds and the brass might even be a little easier to acquire than .357 since you reload. They are both great revolvers and just a thought for your consideration. Otherwise, forgive me for injecting an option in case it offends you.

To be honest, I've never really considered the .45 colt, however, I am now. I do think it may be challenging to find a nice revolver in .45 colt with it being an older round but its worth a peek at least. And don't worry about any possible offense, all opinions are appreciated!

 

[wildenout]

Good choice on the 686, it truly is one of the best wheel guns out there. If you can find the + model with that extra 7th shot, jump on it!
I would recommend the 4" barrel, it does balance better and with practice you can hit anything. Sometimes 6" are just too long, and can be hard to find the right holster. Hip carry a 6"...I dunno, but thats just me!
If you aren't going for conceal carry though, I don't think you need speed loaders. Do plan on buying a holster! But other than that, you're good to go. Have fun!

 

[cbr600f3]

In wisconsin your allowed to own a pistol at 18 you just cant purchase it unless your 21.
The law plainly says no one under the age of 18 may posses a firearm unless accompanied by an adult. No where does it say you cannot posses a pistol unless 21. It does state you cannot purchase unless your 21.. i dont recomend taking my word or anyone elses when it comes to laws do the research yourself.. http://legis.wisconsin.gov/lrb/pubs/wb/12wb3.pdf

 

[nawilson]

To be honest, I've never really considered the .45 colt, however, I am now. I do think it may be challenging to find a nice revolver in .45 colt with it being an older round but its worth a peek at least. And don't worry about any possible offense, all opinions are appreciated!

At the risk of further mudding the waters...

The 45 Colt will do just about whatever you need, and it will do it with less muzzle blast and (in my opinion) less obnoxious recoil. If you go that direction, realize that you will want to handload them. Factory 45 Colt is expensive.

The 357 Magnum is a great load, too... so I am not running it down.

 

[M29since14]

My Dad bought "my" first S&W too, with my money that I earned mowing lawns and sweeping floors, so I do know where you are coming from. My Dad is gone now, but I still have the S&W, and always will.

Any S&W in a suitable caliber will do for whitetails but I am just a little hesitant to endorse a .357, though it would certainly be "OK". Have you considered a Model 57 or a Model 29? These are big, heavy revolvers (you won't mind carrying them since you are a young guy) but they are very versatile too, since you are a handloader. My M29 was used with all sorts of loads - everything from 850FPS to 1350 FPS.

By all means, get a 6- or 6.5-inch barrel. 4-inch guns are "combat" models, basically, and not the best for field use, unless you just happen to shoot them better than the longer barreled guns. Yes, some shooters do. I shoot 6-inch guns much better than I shoot the same model of gun with an 8-inch barrel.

I have nothing against your idea to buy the 686. It's a fine revolver. I just think the bigger bore revolvers make a better deer killer and I am partial to 57s and 29s. Just offering another suggestion based on my own experience.

 

[DR505]

RENEGADE18X - Welcome to the forum! You will get plenty of opinions about what works and what doesn't, but most of those opinions come with lots of experience. I own several S&W revolvers chambered in .357 magnum, including a 686-3 Classic Hunter with 6" barrel. Excellent revolver, perfect action, and accurate as heck. However, I don't use it for hunting...as said above, the .45 Colt is a great choice. I use that caliber, .41 magnum, and .44 magnum for hunting chores. But I reload my own ammo and get just the right load.

A .45 Colt Mountain Gun is a good choice...just saw a 625 pre-lock go for $900.00 on Gunbroker last week.

Good luck and keep us informed!

 

[Zjnovak]

I too am a fellow Wisconsin resident. I would just like to add that according to the 2013 DNR regulations, 5.5" is the legal barrel length. That is from the firing pin to the muzzle. So yes, a 4" would be legal. 357 magnum is sufficient for deer... its all about the shot placement. A hot 158gr or heavier would be ideal.

Personally, I would choose a 44 mag, then a 357 mag, then a 45 Colt. In that order. Mainly just personal preferance, no real reason why. If a 357 mag were all you had, you would be fine. Just shoot, shoot, and shoot some more.

Also, the posters above are right. At 18 you can posess and buy a handgun, but not through an FFL.

Anybody know if its true that you can pistol hunt with a parent/guardian? If I recall correctly (maybe laws have changed from years ago?) you could start at 18. I also do remember hearing somewhere that it was legal if under 18 with a parent. Also, would this differ on public land vs private land?

 

[Zjnovak]

By the way, internal lock's won't have any ill effects if you dont modify them. It is a very rare occurance for one to lock up on its own. You would have to shoot some HOT 357 mag loads in a light pistol to have it happen. The weight and size of a K/L-frame will absorb most of the recoil, so its not really a legitimate problem.

 

[cbr600f3]

Anybody know if its true that you can pistol hunt with a parent/guardian? If I recall correctly (maybe laws have changed from years ago?) you could start at 18. I also do remember hearing somewhere that it was legal if under 18 with a parent. Also, would this differ on public land vs private land?

It is illegal to hunt with a handgun, including muzzleloading handguns, if you are under the age of 18.
The laws are the same regardless of public or private property.
http://dnr.wi.gov/files/PDF/pubs/wm/WM0431.pdf
Page 24 has the information regarding pistol hunting.

 

[RENEGADE18X]

Thanks for the help guys! I've been doing a lot of thinking about this lately and I've considered other rounds, especially the .41, but I think I'd like to stick to the .357. I like the idea of larger calibers but I just like the .357 more. This will be the first wheelgun in the house and I'm thinking it'll see a lot of use and .357 brass will be that much cheaper. For hunting, I'm going to have it mostly for deer drives, shots won't be past 50 yds (and that'll be a stretch) so I figure 180g hot loads should have no problem out of a 6in barrel. At this point I've just got to get out and make the big decision: Ruger or Smith. I've got it in my head that the Smith's got this one in the bag, but until I get the a chance to check them both out I just can't say for sure. Some time this week I'm going to head out to a shop and see if I can't get my hands on one or both. It'll be a little while before I do finally scrape enough cash together, I work on a fish farm so everything's slowing down right now fish season starts in about 2 weeks. But I do appreciate all the help and suggestions! Thanks again!