Should I buy or pass on this Model 686-3?

[Hawg Rider]

Having a son that manages a local gun shop can be hazardous to both your bank account and your marriage! I sometimes help him with identification and pricing of vintage handguns, and he recently pulled out this pre-lock 4" Model 686-3 for me to look at. It's in VG condition (needs a good cleaning and some polish!) and wearing Pachmayrs, and I believe from the BBH-prefix s/n that it's an early 686-3 from 1988. I haven't found any special LEO stamps or etching, so I think it's just a standard 686-3. The initial asking price is $699, but the Dad discount would probably take it closer to $625. In addition, Florida has suspended all sales tax for firearms, ammo, and some accessories from now until the end of 2025. Could be a pretty good deal if I can convince the wife that I need another revolver! Should I pass on this one?

 

[WCCPHD]

Need has nothing to do with it.

BUY IT. Its a good price for a great gun.

 

[Browns fan]

The -3 is the best version of the 686
Read up on it on the forum

 

[bigggbbruce]

The -3 is the best version of the 686
Read up on it on the forum

Why, the only change was yoke retention system. -4 has all revisions and no mim...
My -2 is virtually the same as a -3.

 

[Dino44]

If you don't already have one. I'd say it is a "must buy" and you won't regret it given the circumstances.

 

[Tanners Owner]

I'd buy it at that price

 

[Yendor357]

What's the matter with you?

Of course you buy it. Duh….. lol

 

[bobsguns]

I have evolved away from 4" revolvers in the last 10-15 years. Oh, I still have mine. But I now lean heavily towards 3" or less models.

Now, if you don't already have a 586/686, then sure, buy it.

My .o2

 

[Bald1]

$625 wont hurt you. Can always get that back out of it

 

[besshoudini]

buy it

 

[BabaBlueJay]

Why, the only change was yoke retention system. -4 has all revisions and no mim...
My -2 is virtually the same as a -3.

As with anything "best" it is subjective. If you prefer the flash chromed hammer/trigger as I do then the -3 is the most up-to-date version of the 686 that retains this feature. If you want a drilled/tapped 686 with all the updates and rubber hogue monogrips then the -4 is the best. I am sure someone could make a solid argument for any 686 being the "best" in their eyes even if I am partial to the -3. Usually the debate is between the -3 and -4 though based on features.

 

[Fvernic]

The Collection is always one gun short.

 

[jeffrefrig]

Of course I am far from an all-knowing gun price guy, but from everything I read, the 686s dash whatever command a higher price than that. I suppose if you have the means, buy it. You can always put it on the Forum classifieds if you dislike it. In fact people who read your post are secretly trying to convince you to buy it so you can do just that!

 

[raygixxer89]

As with anything "best" it is subjective. If you prefer the flash chromed hammer/trigger as I do then the -3 is the most up-to-date version of the 686 that retains this feature. If you want a drilled/tapped 686 with all the updates and rubber hogue monogrips then the -4 is the best. I am sure someone could make a solid argument for any 686 being the "best" in their eyes even if I am partial to the -3. Usually the debate is between the -3 and -4 though based on features.

I really like the look of the flash chromed parts on older stainless S&W guns!

 

[BabaBlueJay]

I really like the look of the flash chromed parts on older stainless S&W guns!

No arguments here

 

[cookieman]

Just tell your wife.........It's on sale!!!

 

[rwsmith]

That price is RIGHT!

 

[stansdds]

I suggest you use this decision tree.

1. Do you need it? If "yes", then buy, if "no" proceed to question 2.
2. Do you want it? If "yes, then buy, if "no" are you sure?

Yes, I am an enabler.

 

[Baxter6551]

Others have mentioned the flash chromed hammer and trigger but isn't there also the difference of square butt on the -3 but -4 went to round butt ?
I have two -4. Wish my 4 inch was a square butt.
As others have noted - BUY IT - especially if you don't already have a 686.

 

[swagmeister]

If you pass on it and he puts it out, I bet it won't last a couple of days before it's gone at that price. Better jump on it quick!! Good luck.