Odd? 2 1/2" 686-4

[Rock185]

I've owned several 686s, but this recently acquired a 686-4 with 2 1/2" barrel is an odd one, to me at least. It has fixed sights. I've not encountered a fixed sight 686 before. I have googled, used the search function here, checked my SCSW 3,etc. but haven't found one like this yet. The hammer looks to have been professionally bobbed and it has a green fiber optic front sight. It is the 7-rd. 686+ version. No, I don't think I have a valuable collectors item and am not trolling for bids,etc. Just an odd one to me and wondered if some of you more knowledgeable S&W guys might enlighten me on the 686 fixed sight variation. Thanks for any input on this.

 

[murphydog]

It's an interesting one. Presuming it is not a factory special (as you noted, it is not listed in the SCSW), someone must have welded up and recut the top strap for the "trough" rear sight groove, in addition to the hammer and front sight work (ramp/base removed). Does the metal there appear altered, and is it DAO?

A cool gun in any case. Enjoy!

 

[ISCS Yoda]

It's an interesting one. Presuming it is not a factory special (as you noted, it is not listed in the SCSW), someone must have welded up and recut the top strap for the "trough" rear sight groove, in addition to the hammer and front sight work (ramp/base removed). Does the metal there appear altered, and is it DAO?

A cool gun in any case. Enjoy!

I agree - that's my reaction, namely, it's a custom job. I have a 686+, dash 4, 2.5" barrel, and it's entirely "normal" (stocks don't count), adjustable sights, standard hammer and trigger, etc. This one above looks like some fine handiwork went into it.

 

[Rock185]

I've been issued and owned fixed sight S&Ws. The top strap looks entirely stock/unmodified to me. The top strap is not drilled and tapped for a scope mount,etc. The under side of the top strap has no threaded holes and no evidence of anything being welded up,etc.

 

[BUFF]

S&W made fixed sight, stainless L frames in .357, called the Model 681, but I always thought they were all 4 inch guns. All I can think of is maybe the factory decided to use up some old 681 frames.

Your gun is a mystery to me. It is cool.

 

[Rock185]

On the "custom" possibility, I took the gun to the lighted magnifier on my reloading bench. I now see three circular shadows that I believe are very nicely filled holes. I believe you guys that suggested custom are right. Somebody sure invested a LOT of skilled effort to turn this into the equivalent of a fixed sight L-Frame. Thanks all.