Looks and collectabily aside, which is the better made revolver

[zippo]

If yoy did a comparison of a model 19 4 inch and a model 686 4 inch 7 shot, both mint condition, both same price, which is the "better builT" gun and better choice ???
I have this decison to make.

 

[zippo]

If yoy did a comparison of a model 19 4 inch and a model 686 4 inch 7 shot, both mint condition, both same price, which is the "better builT" gun and better choice ???
I have this decison to make.

 

[Jimbob]

The 686 is stronger and will last longer shooting magnums. The drawback is more weight which means less percieved recoil but more weight to carry around. It depends on the use but the 686 is the more robust of the two.

 

[M29since14]

The engineering and technology are essentially equivalent. Individual examples can vary as to workmanship, so the question is hard to answer.

What you want to do with the gun should be your guide, if both guns are in similar condition and price. That said, I would favor the Model 19. In S&Ws, the 19 will always be the Queen of Diamonds.

 

[Wayne M]

The 686 was designed to remedy the problems S&W was having with the 19/66 series(real or imagined at the consumer level...who knows?)as far as forcing cone strength was concerned. The "L" frames are considered the upgrade and aside from a few early teething problems don't have any bugs in them. I would never part with my 66's(stainless 19) but have to admit that the 686 is the stronger over the long run gun.

 

[44wheelman]

I think in this case, bigger is actually better.

 

[Double-O-Dave]

I have both and enjoy them immensely. Fortunately, they are different barrel lengths and set up differently - M66 with 2.5" barrel is a carry gun, the 686 has a 6" barrel with a scope which is a good hunting or "car gun" - deadly accurate up to 75 meters. If you have the chance, this is the way to go.

Good luck,

Dave

 

[bloo]

Both will out shoot you and you will never shoot enough to wear either one out so go with the one that feels the best in your hand. Which one has the balance you like. I'm hooked on the 19 in both 4 and 6 inch but if you like a heavier gun with a barrel heavy feel go to the 686. Some say the underlug makes for less felt recoil. I had a 586 in 6 inch and didn't like it but I held a 4 inch 586 that I really liked but didn't have the money for.

Now that my K and N frame collections are were I want them I may start looking at an L frame myself.

Ted

 

[zippo]

thanks !!!!!!!!!!!!!! for all the info.
I guess the winner will be....................
686 (even though I like the looks of the blue 19 better)
Its a 7 shot 686. A point that tipped the scales for me and the fact its a stronger revolver.

 

[woodsltc]

Originally posted by zippo:
thanks !!!!!!!!!!!!!! for all the info.
I guess the winner will be....................
686 (even though I like the looks of the blue 19 better)
Its a 7 shot 686. A point that tipped the scales for me and the fact its a stronger revolver.

Why not find a (blue)586. Then you have the best of both worlds.

Don

 

[29Wheelgunner]

[/QUOTE]

Why not find a (blue)586. Then you have the best of both worlds.

Don[/QUOTE]

What he said....before I could.

 

[zippo]

Guess my s&w ignorance is shining thru....did not even know there was a 586 blue.........guess i will be on a search now..........

 

[29Wheelgunner]

586...Blue or Nickle

686...Stainless

 

[shawn mccarver]

Originally posted by zippo:
If yoy did a comparison of a model 19 4 inch and a model 686 4 inch 7 shot, both mint condition, both same price, which is the "better builT" gun and better choice ???
I have this decison to make.

If the 686 4 inch 7 shot is in Mountain Gun configuration, they are about the same weight, so the 19 would not even have a weight advantage. I would say go for the 686.

 

[The judge]

The 686 is pretty common maybe prefered among Bullseye and PPC shooters, that must say something.

 

[Jellybean]

which is the "better builT" gun and better choice ???

That's two different questions with two different answers, in my opinion. Other than some hunting situations I would never prefer a 686/586 over a 66/19. Even if it is built better.