Lew Horton 686 early '80's production

[Jim Fuller]

Greetings everyone in the forum. This is my first post, and I sincerely appreciate being a new part of your community.
Is there a possibilty that some of you old salts can help a newby out?
I just purchased a Lew Horton Model 686 2 1/2" in SS, original box and paperwork as well as the unopened plastic bag of cleaning tools. Also has a S and W marked holster with the letters BJC on the rear. Product code is 104212 and S/N AFA5582. It is in pristine condition, if it has been fired, it is difficult to tell. This baby is one that is going to stay with me and be put away safely next to my Model 19 Performance Center. I've researched on line and have read my Supica Standard Catalogue (copyright 1996) but I desire more info, and, if possible an approx value for my record keeping. Thanks in advance for your help, and I am pleased to be among friends on this forum.

 

[jughed440]

welcome aboard. that's a very nice 686!! sure would be nice to see some pics of your PC 19

 

[scooter123]

Unfired, from the lack of a turn line it appears un dry fired as well. Can't really estimate the value because the 2 1/2 inch 686 is a bit of a ho hum version on the market, it's the 3 inchers that get all the demand currently. However, I suspect those grips may be worth as much as 200 dollars or more, the round butt Combats are highly sought after.

So, based on that and the condition, the gun with a set of Pachmayr's, about 600 bucks. Add in the grips and the packaging, I think you're looking at 900 bucks and perhaps a bit more.

All in all, a very nice package. One I would not purchase personally because I already know that I'd shoot the snot out of it. Because of that, I have a strong preference for rather beat up shooters, so much less guilt involved than in shooting a pristine sample of an older classic.

 

[bamabiker]

Welcome to the forum and congrats on the purchase. Around here I think you would be looking at $700 - $750. I'd be taking it to the next range session.

 

[one eye joe]

Unfired, from the lack of a turn line it appears un dry fired as well. Can't really estimate the value because the 2 1/2 inch 686 is a bit of a ho hum version on the market, it's the 3 inchers that get all the demand currently. However, I suspect those grips may be worth as much as 200 dollars or more, the round butt Combats are highly sought after.

So, based on that and the condition, the gun with a set of Pachmayr's, about 600 bucks. Add in the grips and the packaging, I think you're looking at 900 bucks and perhaps a bit more.

Welcome to the forum, Jim. Although the 3" versions have a cult like following, the NO-LOCK 2 1/2" versions are sought after also. IMHO, this fine unfired example, with original grips and packaging, and S&W holster would fetch $900. or more on an auction site like Gun Broker. If this one is destined to be a safe queen, you owe it to yourself to purchase a similarly configured shooter. They are wonderful revolvers--superbly accurate for a short barreled weapon. I have a no dash converted to a 7 shooter by S&W. It's one of my favorite revolvers for both CCW and target shooting........

 

[PH-2]

I'm with joe, it would get some traction at 800 in my AO.

Mike

 

[cptdco]

The early (no-dash) 2 1/2 models were a Lew Horton exclusive, as you know and production was limited. The SCSW says about 2500 were manufactured, and the first 100 of those were engraved with "First 100 Limited Edition" on the sideplate. My first handgum was a no-dash 686 and over the years I've sought other examples of no-dash L frames. It took me a while to find a 2 1/2 inch at a reasonable price. I think I paid over $700 for it several years ago. I would agree with the posters who said $800 or $900 today. Safe queen? Your gun of course, but its a lot of fun to shoot.

 

[Jim Fuller]

Thanks for the heads up guys. It will stay a safe queen. The ported 19 Perf Center is my shooter. The trigger is as smooth as can be and the accuracy makes me look like a real marksman. I'll get some pics up today. Thanks again for all of the help and information. Jim Edited to add pics below.

Here are some pics of the 19-7 PC

 

[semperfi71]

Welcome aboard and a very nice purchase.

A local gunshop had the same M686 with the gunfighter grips and no other accessories for $595.00. I delayed a couple of days and it was gone.

 

[Jim Fuller]

Welcome aboard and a very nice purchase.

A local gunshop had the same M686 with the gunfighter grips and no other accessories for $595.00. I delayed a couple of days and it was gone.

A Marine hesitate .....You're killin me

 

[mc5aw]

Jim ... Let's put it this way ... Whatever it would fetch today, it will never depreciate.

Beautiful 686 and 19.