New (to me) 686!

[BLUEDOT37]

I consider the "L" frame Smith to be the absolute best platform for the .357 Magnum (no disrespect to those that choose the "N" frames). I particularly like the cylinder length on the "L" frames that doesn't limit me on what bullet I can use. I use nothing but home cast bullets in my revolvers.

You're right. Isn't it weird that the 627-5 has a cylinder that's 1.575" long but the 686-6 has a 1.625" long cylinder. I noticed this when I loaded some Keith style SWCs & they barely fit in the 627's cylinder. You'd think the N-frame's would be longer.

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[kyle67]

I was wondering if I could get your opinion on this issue own 3 pistols and I am about to make another purchase would you buy a Rifle or purchase a smith and wesson 500?

 

[BLUEDOT37]

I was wondering if I could get your opinion on this issue own 3 pistols and I am about to make another purchase would you buy a Rifle or purchase a smith and wesson 500?

Rather than posting your (unrelated) question in the middle of this thread you might try the "New Thread" button at the top of the forum.

 

[kyle67]

Sorry!! About that

 

[Coastie762]

I'm curious- what would have been the original stocks that came on this gun?

The OP's 686-3 would have likely been originally furnished with target stocks with the speed loader cut out. That is what came with mine, purchased new in 1993. The target stocks shown in his photo contain the older football style cutout.

 

[RLG2]

The OP's 686-3 would have likely been originally furnished with target stocks with the speed loader cut out. That is what came with mine, purchased new in 1993. The target stocks shown in his photo contain the older football style cutout.

Thanks for the information, Coastie!

There was another 686-3 right next to the one that I picked up that had the stocks with speed loader cut, but the gun looked like it had been skipped along the pavement a handful of times. And they were the same price!!

 

[denden]

I have a 6" 686-2 with an unfluted cylinder. Why do you think S&W made them both ways? Is one rarer than the other? I have not seen many unfluted except in this posting. Thank You

 

[BLUEDOT37]

They've made them off & on for some time. The early ones (the earliest?), was the Classic Hunters, 6" bbl. in 1988/1989. They were 686-3 models. The lastest are the Talo's in 3", 5" & 7" bbls.

Why both styles? Some people prefer the unfluted. Different look & a little more weight.

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[S&W SS Revolvers]

congrats you now have in your possesion the finest version of the 686 the -3 never trade that gun away every other 686 wishes it could be a -3 lol all kidding aside a great gun do a search on the 686 and you will find others here that say the same thing

AGREED! Never sell or trade , ever , ever , ever...

Mine , original owner came home and Hogue's were installed. I'm going to be buried with it...LOL (not).

 

[RLG2]

Well...I ended up picking up a model 66-2. Popped off the stocks and gave her a thorough cleaning this morning.

I think I'm developing an addiction ��

Now I need to order two pair of stocks!

Don't worry, ill be posting a photo or two in the morning!

 

[wheelyfun66]

Well...I ended up picking up a model 66-2. Popped off the stocks and gave her a thorough cleaning this morning.

I think I'm developing an addiction ��

Now I need to order two pair of stocks!

Don't worry, ill be posting a photo or two in the morning!

Oh boy, you're in all the way now!
Yes, pics would be great!

 

[RLG2]

Oh boy, you're in all the way now!
Yes, pics would be great!

Pictures as promised!

 

[RLG2]

Well, apparently I can only add one attachment at a time from my phone...so I'll just make a few posts in a row...

 

[RLG2]

Here's all the original paperwork and SEALED cleaning tools!