Finally settled on 686 for CCW

[CJH]

Think I finally found my daily carry. I’ve fallen in love with 3 inch revolvers after going through striker fired pistols and 1911’s over the last 15 year and have been going through Colt and S&W revolvers to find the perfect fit. After carrying the Python and 19 carry comp for a while I ended up buying a 686+ after I started shooting a couple thousand rounds through my 617. Maybe I’m just used to the ergonomics or frame from the 617 but the 686 is a laser. Definitely feel confident with it right out of it’s first trip to the range.

Had to send the Python back once and now the trigger is giving me issues on it. Going to pull the plug on it and sell it, I don’t trust it.

The 19 carry comp is great but I hate the front sight and like that the 686 is more robust and has an extra round. Can’t tell a difference in carry weight. I also prefer stainless. Easier for me to clean and easier to not care about the finish. The comp also doesn’t do much for me because I don’t think 357 out of a steel 3 inch is that brutal. But it does seem louder for me behind the trigger

Sometimes simple is better over some of the “fancier” options.

 

[Chrisj357]

Think I finally found my daily carry. I’ve fallen in love with 3 inch revolvers after going through striker fired pistols and 1911’s over the last 15 year and have been going through Colt and S&W revolvers to find the perfect fit. After carrying the Python and 19 carry comp for a while I ended up buying a 686+ after I started shooting a couple thousand rounds through my 617. Maybe I’m just used to the ergonomics or frame from the 617 but the 686 is a laser. Definitely feel confident with it right out of it’s first trip to the range.

Had to send the Python back once and now the trigger is giving me issues on it. Going to pull the plug on it and sell it, I don’t trust it.

The 19 carry comp is great but I hate the front sight and like that the 686 is more robust and has an extra round. Can’t tell a difference in carry weight. I also prefer stainless. Easier for me to clean and easier to not care about the finish. The comp also doesn’t do much for me because I don’t think 357 out of a steel 3 inch is that brutal. But it does seem louder for me behind the trigger

Sometimes simple is better over some of the “fancier” options.

I carry my 4" 686 everyday I agree with you about the stainless and a full six rounds. I shoot this guy a lot so It feels second nature, that's what you need for CCW.

 

[junglefighter]

I have been CCW lately with my 629-6 Deluxe 3" bbl. I carry Sig 44Spl. 200 gr. JHP as my defense ammo. I have had no problem in concealing or it's weight in my Galco holster w/ Galco belt. I finally realized that I prefer revolvers over semi-autos. My 2x2x2 for reloads is not a problem. I realize this is 2023 and revolvers(except pocket carry) are outdated, but I am happy with "a big iron on my hip". Just my opinion on CCW revolvers.

 

[CJH]

I have been CCW lately with my 629-6 Deluxe 3" bbl. I carry Sig 44Spl. 200 gr. JHP as my defense ammo. I have had no problem in concealing or it's weight in my Galco holster w/ Galco belt. I finally realized that I prefer revolvers over semi-autos. My 2x2x2 for reloads is not a problem. I realize this is 2023 and revolvers(except pocket carry) are outdated, but I am happy with "a big iron on my hip". Just my opinion on CCW revolvers.

I like revolver chamberings more too. I prefer .357 over any auto loader and if I need 10mm I’d rather use 44 magnum.

I do like 1911s but I prefer a revolvers action over an auto loader. Had significantly better reliability with revolvers so it’s what I personally trust more. It’s not like I have issues with failures to feed with autos on a regular basis mind you, but they do happen.

I think I’ve had 2 failures to fire with light primer strikes ever with revolvers, including thousands of 22 LR which is notorious for them. And that’s it. And then there’s no tap rack bang, no mag dropping. It’s just pull the trigger again.

 

[.455_Hunter]

According to the "experts" on the interwebz, the morgues should be filled with revolver shooters who failed in their respective defensive encounter. Funny that isn't the case...

 

[Don89044]

Chrisj357
I like the looks of that holster, sir! Who makes that?
Thanks in advance!

 

[stansdds]

Nothing wrong with carrying a revolver.

 

[jeeps]

I agree my Colt 3" was not reliable and had many misfires due to light strikes. Colt is junk today!!! Smith and Wesson and Ruger are to be trusted and of course old Colts from yesteryear.

 

[BabaBlueJay]

Huge fan of the 686, probably the most reliable, accurate, and balanced gun I ever owned. That being said, I rarely carried my 4¨ because of how heavy it was. If you are willing to carry one daily and make it a habit, I think you have made an outstanding choice!

Honestly, I miss mine so much, and may eventually carry one again even though it was a pain.

 

[ultratec00]

I am enamored with my 686+ 3-5-7. Don't carry it as much as the 5", but it's a handy and very accurate revolver with the right grips.

 

[jer830]

Good choice OP. I recently sold my Model 19 PC Carry Comp for the reasons you posted. I replaced it with a 686, 3 inch, 7 shot. It had to go back to S&W for a new rear sight, but has been perfect since returning.

I learned to shoot revolvers in the 70s and began my LEO career using them. I retired carrying a GLOCK 23 but now on my time, I can carry what I want. I’m mostly carrying a 9mm Shield, but mix it up with one of my J-frames. I’m waiting for a belt slide holster for the 686 and will mix it into the rotation.

Thanks for sharing your experience.

 

[jcs266]

I've been carrying my 3" 686+ almost daily for nearly 3 yrs now. It's my #1 choice by far.

A Milt Sparks Summer Special at 4 o'clock and a speed-strip in my left front pocket. The 686 has always been my favorite of all of S&W's revolvers and the 3" version in particular is just perfection.

 

[sctman800]

I have been shooting IDPA for close to 20 years and 95% with a revolver, I just like them and feel they are more reliable. I have used model 10, 66 and 625JM which is my favorite since I bought it in the early 2000's. I shoot and practice with the 625 the most and am most comfortable with it.
I put wooden Hogue grips on it for CCW because the JM were too long for concealment and now they are permanent, just fit my hand better. I also carry a couple SA's S&W 4506 and 4513TSW, both are reliable and good shooters. Jim.