Looking for Info on 686-4

[Georgepat1]

I recently bought a Model 686-4, stainless, 6" barrel. I didn't know anything about this gun, but found it at a good price. After buying it, I've been looking on various gun auction sites to see what I could find out. I seldom find one. Is this because they were not a very popular gun, or because people who own them just tend to keep them? Just wondering if anyone is very familiar with them. Appreciate your input. George

 

[SaberOne]

Type in 'S&W 696-4' into a web search and it should take you to a 'range report' that may enlighten you. As with some models/features from Smith' there isn't always much logic in what is decided to be manufactured.

 

[Skeeziks]

I recently bought a Model 696-4, stainless, 6" barrel.

Which one is it? a 686 or 696?
You typed "686" in the title heading, but then typed "696" in your ?

 

[18DAI]

People who own the 686-4 tend to keep them.

The 686-4 is widely regarded as the best, and last desireable variant of the 686.

Buy it, shoot it, love it. Regards 18DAI.

 

[357 shooter]

My 686-4 was bought new in 1994 and like the others said it is one that shooters tend to keep! Mine has given me 16 years of great service. The accuracy is exceptional , easily one of the best handguns I have ever owned.

 

[Revolver King]

People who own the 686-4 tend to keep them.

The 686-4 is widely regarded as the best, and last desireable variant of the 686.

Buy it, shoot it, love it. Regards 18DAI.

Plus 1 what he said.

 

[Georgepat1]

I really do appreciate your input. It was very helpful. Think I'll just keep this one for a shooter. George

 

[Skeeziks]

I just bought a 4-incher about 8 weeks ago that is in "like-new" cond. for $600. out the door.
And when I say "like-new" I mean it looks like it has been test fired only. The previous owner bought it years ago as an "impulse buy" just to add to his huge collection of guns but hardly ever shot it.

My point here is this: a small handful of guys right here on this forum advised me that, in their opinion, $600. was too much to pay for a 4" 686-4. Well...I thought it was worth it to spend a little more on a gun in such good cond. that I was able to inspect personally, rather than save 50 to 75 bucks and end up with something that I wouldn't have been happy with.
It's been 2-months and I'm not regretting it yet!
I hope you enjoy your new Smith as much as I am mine. Good luck with it.

 

[18DAI]

Skeeziks - Take a look on Gunbroker. You didn't do bad at all! Regards 18DAI.