Right decision? 686 Plus Pro Series

[Elliot45]

Recently I posted that I was looking at three S&W models and I thought I had decided getting a Model 27, either an older model or a new Classic series model. Today I was in a shop and they had the S&W 686 Plus Pro Series (7 shot with the slab barrel) and it was marked down an extra $100. This wasn't even one I was considering but I really liked the way it felt and the trigger seemed very good on this gun. I ended up not being able to pass up a bargain and purchased this weapon. If anyone has had experience with this gun I would like to hear about it, particularly if you also own or have used a Model 27 and can provide a comparison. I plan on shooting it tomorrow but if I hear any horror stories, I can sell it and go back to getting a 27. Let me know. Appreciate any feedback.

 

[Iron]

Hey, I'm glad you're getting to shoot yours!

I bought a 686+, 5", Pro Series two weeks ago & haven't been able to shoot it. We have a 1/2 mile lane & a pretty steep hill going back to my gun club & there's still about 2' of snow & ice on it.

 

[ridgewalker]

First the Pro you are considering is a very different gun from the 27 which you are also considering. The 686 is a L frame and the 27 is a N frame. I own both L frame and N frame revolvers and in general, for me, the L frame gives me the trigger finger and hand position I prefer. I would recommend that you handle both, and see what type of frame size gives you the hand and finger position which you think will work better for you. Keep in mind that the hand position can be changed somewhat with different stocks.

Second let me say the 5 inch 686+ Pro is on my short list of guns which I want to buy. I have a 4 inch 686 SSR which is very similar to the Pro you want and I like it very much. For me it shoots and handles very nicely.

 

[slickracer]

That is a fine weapon. If S&W made it with a 6" barrel, I'd have one.

 

[Elliot45]

Thanks for everyone's replies. I was aware that the two guns are on different frames, L and N. I think either would have worked for me as I have large hands anyway. I got a chance to shoot my 686 plus 5" Pro today and I didn't have any buyer's remorse although I think I would have been happy with the 27 too. The trigger was really sweet, especially in single action but was pretty good in double too. It was extremely accurate, especially when using 357's instead of 38 Ps. I think the recoil might have been a little more than I thought it would be but it's been awhile since I've shot 357's. The gun was still was very manageable and certainly nothing to complain about, particularly once I got use to it. I think the Model 27 with the 6 1/2" barrel and extra weight may have helped but I'm really happy with this weapon. A good friend of mine also shot the gun and he really liked it too and also had good groupings. I recommend it to anyone who is considering the 686 5" Pro.

 

[qrachel]

Your weapon is a great, great gun. You'll love it!!!

Enjoy ...... R

 

[Elliot45]

Thanks Rachel, I really enjoyed shooting it yesterday. Regards, Jim

 

[epj]

I have a 627 Pro and a 686P, both in 4". Not much if any difference in the overall weight, but the 627 is less muzzle heavy. Both are extremely accurate. Couldn't go wrong with either one.

 

[Neumann]

I have only handled a 686 Pro once, but was impressed with its superior balance and smooth trigger action. I'm surprised that it is available with a 7 shot cylinder. I understand it was introduced as a premium 6 shot revolver for service weapon competition.

Good purchase. I'm sure you will enjoy it for a long time to come. I would have taken it home, except I had just purchased a 4" standard model 686+, and needed to exercise a little restraint.