Finally scored one of my "grail" guns this week

[kidfixer]

1983 Model 686 no-dash

Although not rare or collectible, the 686 no-dash was a grail-gun for me because it was the very first handgun I ever owned (purchased one brand new back in 1986 with my LAST paycheck from USMC). I only had it for a short time, but I thought it was super-cool. I know a lot of revolver-purists don't much care for the models with the full lug barrels or the shrouded ejector rods, but I kinda dig em.

Seller for this particular gun was asking $1200, we settled on $1000. I realize that's still a lot of coin for a relatively common revolver, but it was an emotional purchase...I really wanted it, and I didn't know if I'd ever come across another mint-condition no-dash in the original, numbers-matching box. Other than a few fine scratches on the barrel shroud, and a very faint turn ring on the cylinder, its exterior is cosmetically perfect. It was definitely handled, but the forcing cone area shows no indication of anything more than a factory test-fire.

I haven't been this stoked about a gun purchase in a long time, so thanks for letting me share. I'm looking forward to getting it out to the range.

 

[llowry61]

That is a nice one ! Glad to see you got one. They shoot great !

 

[Gunhacker]

Congrats!!

I know exactly how you feel about reacquiring an "old friend".

 

[686PC]

Very nice score! Cool grain in the stocks too. I purchased mine for the same price as yours. Like yours, mine came in seemingly unfired condition, with box papers and tools.

These no dashes are one my favorite S&Ws.

Congrats on the find!

 

[robertrwalsh]

If you got exactly what you wanted at a price you were willing to pay, the price was just fine. Enjoy.

 

[Hawkeye3844]

Ooooo! That's beautiful revolver.
It´s in great shape too.
Can't ask for anything more than that.
I noticed there wasn't any scorching, and or fire etched line above the forcing cone as well.
I believe you´re absolutely right about it only being test fired at the factory. You definitey scored a big one!
Congratulations!

Hawk

Sent from my motorola one using Tapatalk

 

[Neon Horse]

A very nice revolver! Enjoy!

 

[HorizontalMike]

1986 686's Rock!

What a great gun!

I too bought my first 686 (a 4in) in 1986, for attending my NPS Law Academy. Still have all the box/paperwork, etc. Still have mine, though I really do empathize about having missed it for so long.

I like them so much I bought a second 686-ND with the same alpha prefix, for the very same reason... just HAD to have it!

 

[Green Frog]

In many ways, nearly all gun purchases are emotional purchases. Some are just more so than others. It sounds to me like you got exactly what emotions and sentiment would demand, so congratulations. Here's hoping this one will be with you for a long time to come.

Froggie

 

[Neversink n Klapperthal]

I am happy for you. Great gun

 

[StrawHat]

I had one when they first came out. Special ordered it with high Patridge front sight and black rear sight. Used it in competition where it did quite well for me. Sold it when I got away from competing.

Enjoy yours, it should be a good shooter.

Kevin

 

[jscheck]

I bought a 686 no dash as my first gun as well while stationed in Germany. Unfortunately had to sell it when I got out of the military but it looked exactly like yours. Nice gun!

 

[Sevens]

Very nice, my 686 is a dash-3. Bought with money from my first job and some saved paper route money. That was 1989. Time flies!

Keep in mind that the 686 no-dash has an active recall if you don't have the "M" stamp on the frame flat behind the closed yoke. If you don't have the "M", S&W still does the recall work.

 

[Kurusu]

You must be in the "younger folks"(at least younger than me) category.

Anyways. Congratulations are in order.

Getting a "Graal" gun is always a good thing.

 

[The Norseman]

Dashing

Welcome to the Best Smith & Wesson Forum in existence.
Accept no substitute. You will find a wealth of Knowledge here.

Congratulations on your new S&W Model 686 (No Dash)
357Rem Mag. It appears in great shape. 686's in that
condition are getting harder, and harder to find.

Price doesn't matter, as long as it's something you have
wanted for a long time and you will enjoy shooting.

The S&W 686 357Mag has always been one of the Best
Revolvers out there, for Value and Shooting.

Thanks for sharing your Story, Pictures, and the Best to you.

My Circa '93 -3

 

[johnreilly]

I think the price you paid was reasonable for that package. I bought a 4" no dash 686 in 86 or so and I wouldn't sell it for $1,000.

 

[RWPBR]

I love mine!

 

[jcs266]

Congrats on your new 686. May you enjoy it for many years! If you want something get it, I know i don't worry too much about the price if it's a lil higher than some might say is average. If you want it enjoy it. Life is too short to worry about $100 one way or another.

 

[wproct]

That is a beautiful 686, and I love the grain on the stocks. With the box and everything and in the condition it is in, I don't think you will ever regret buying it!

 

[jpage]

Pretty sure it's the most versatile handgun S&W ever made.