I have a 686 with a 6 inch barrel. I enjoy poking holes in paper targets with it at the local indoor range. I am by no means a great marksman, but this pistol allows me to shoot to the best of my ability and because of its weight it soaks up the recoil so I can fire as many rounds in a session as I like with no discomfort. My wife shoots it better than I do DA at 15 yards, placing all six rounds in a silhouette target. She does not see the point of shooting a revolver in single action if the primary objective is personal defense. She keeps it loaded with .38 special by the bed at night and feels confident in her ability to use it. Mine is a no dash, however I would not hesitate to buy one of the new fangeled dash models in the 686 line if I find a four inch for the right price.