New to forum: Picking up my 686 today so how can I tell what kind of frame it is?

[HockeyPuck]

Been reading a lot of posts here but would like to know the difference in frame types. I'm going to pick up a 686 6" so my question is what kind of frame is it and why? What are the characteristics of the different frame types? Thanks!

 

[squidsix]

All 686 revolvers are L frame. This is a size, not a type.
It might be round butt or square depending on it's date of manufacture and a few small other variations.
Here:
Product: Square or Round Butt? Make sure you order the right grip
Straight from S&W about how to tell.

 

[red9]

The frame size determines the weight of the gun (assuming the same metal and barrel) and the size of the window for the cylinder, The larger the window, the larger diameter cylinder that can fit. The larger diameter cylinder allows either more strength (357 v 38 Spl), length or more capacity (7 v 6 shots). S&W's 38/357 family consists of the J (5 shot), K, L and N frames. The 686 is an L frame, using the same size grip frame as the K, but with a larger window.

Bob

 

[HockeyPuck]

Thanks, that explains it perfectly.

 

[cylinder]

Actually, it's not that simple:

L frame: carbon steel frame with fixed sights (ie. 581)
LT frame: L frame with target sights (ie. 586)
H frame: stainless steel frame with fixed sights (ie. 681)
HT frame: H frame with target sights (ie. 686)

 

[k22fan]

For HockeyPuck's understanding, in common vocabulary 581s, 586s, 681s, and 686s are all L frames. The more specific terminology member cylinder posted is only used inside the factory and by those who just looked it up in the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson (SCSW).

 

[HockeyPuck]

Thanks guys. I actually have a 686 Plus 6" (just picked it up today) and my Hogue mono grip arrived as well. I think the stock grip has an allen screw. I'll have to work on it tonight. Honestly I didn't realize it was a plus until today as I was picking it up. Hopefully the plus with 7 in the barrel is just as reliable as the 6. Not too concerned about added weight. I'll post some pics after I get the new grip on (and I figure out how to post the pics)