Question about the 686 Plus Pro Series

[BoulderTroll]

Does anyone know if the Model 686 Plus Pro Series will function without using moon clips?

I'm a revolver noob, but for the life of me I can't figure out why they would make a gun to use moon clips with a rimmed .357 magnum round. I'm interested in getting one down the road but if it can only be used with moon clips that would be a deal killer for me.

 

[Revolver King]

Yes you can use them with or without moon clips, They make them that way for competitive shooters. They load and unload very fast. All of my 686s are moon clipped.

 

[thomasinaz]

The Pro 686+ can be used with or without moon clips. The beauty of this system is you can load with speedloader, moon clips, or single load rounds. An added bonus is when you discharge the empties, in clips, they all come out. You don't end up with that one empty case that seems to want to hang up on the extractor star. It's all good.

 

[BoulderTroll]

I appreciate the info guys. I guess it's still on the short list then.

 

[Dpapa]

Thank you to all who responded

I had the same question, and was hesitant to acquire a revolver that would only work with moon clips. However, based on the feedback here. I made the decision and will be picking up my 686+ Pro Series today after 3:23pm PDT. I plan on using the moon clips most of the time but I wanted the option of not needing them in a tight defensive situation.

Thanks again, you guys are awesome. BTW, this is my 12th S&W. I have 10 other revolvers and a Model 41 with two barrels. I do love my S&Ws!

 

[Bastogne71]

A couple of things you need to know about moon clips. First, there is no standard for the rim that the clips fit for 38/357. The clips that came with your 686 Pro are 0.025 thick. These will fit most brass but not Winchester. For W-W brass, you will need 0.020 clips. Second, Although you you can load the clips by hand, you really need a moon clip loader/unloader. I recommend the BMT. It's more expensive but it loads and unloads (you don't need two separate tools) very quickly and easily.

Dpapa, I too have a dozen or so S&W revolvers and 2 M-41's. If you're ever in Virginia, stop by and we can compare collections.