The Model 686+/686 For A Concealed Carry?

[Dispatch]

I've been considering getting the Smith & Wesson model 686+/686 for a concealed carry gun.
I was looking at two models today at my local gun shop.

The + had a non-fluted cylinder and a 3" barrel.
The non-+ had a fluted cylinder with a 2.5" barrel.

Both were satin stainless, .357, 7(+), 6(non-+) shot and had front red ramp and adjustable rear white outline sights.
One had synthetic grips the other had wood grips.

From actual experience, any thoughts on carrying one of these for a CCW?

 

[kevh481]

It's going to be heavier than a Glock or similar, and much heavier than say a S&W Model 12, but it's definitely doable. I've carried a 4" 686 concealed in the past without issue.

To me the biggest challenge is the grip. A round butt with Magnas will be a whole lot easier than something wearing much larger grips.

 

[rbmorse]

But, in the end, the weight will get to you. I carried my 986 in a hip holster during a backpacking trip over a long weekend and it wasn't shy about letting me know it was there.

 

[Dispatch]

Strange...

It's going to be heavier than a Glock or similar, and much heavier than say a S&W Model 12, but it's definitely doable. I've carried a 4" 686 concealed in the past without issue.

To me the biggest challenge is the grip. A round butt with Magnas will be a whole lot easier than something wearing much larger grips.

Thanks for the feedback, kevh481.

Everyone around me is tryng to talk me out of it saying get a S&W 637 airweight .38, instead.

I really like the 686 +'s beefy frame and the quality of its make up that you can feel when you hold it.
Not to mention the .357 round is much improved compared to the .38.

 

[lrrifleman]

I am not speaking from experience!

I have a S&W Model 36-6 that is currently in my carry rotation, and I love the little revolver, but I would feel a lot more comfortable with more than 5 rounds. That being said, I found a model 686+ Deluxe TALO 3" that is a virtual twin to my 36-6, just a bit beefier. It is now on layaway.

I don't know at the moment whether it will be carried in an IWB holster, or a belt slide with a cover garment. Being disabled, I have become accustomed to being uncomfortable, but I do like the idea of making it home at night. Therefore, the 686+ will take its place in rotation with a Commander, a Government Model, and a 439. When super discreet or lighter weight is required, I will resort to either the 36-6 or my Mauser HSC.

 

[Dispatch]

True.

But, in the end, the weight will get to you. I carried my 986 in a hip holster during a backpacking trip over a long weekend and it wasn't shy about letting me know it was there.

Yes, I have to admit weight is a consideration as with any gun you are considering for a CCW that sits many hours a day on your waist.

I was told if I did buy it I would end up selling or trading it in some months later for something smaller and lighter.

 

[alwaysoutdoors]

Too heavy imho

 

[iPac]

Get a small frame 357mag. S&W makes them.

At one time I considered buying a 686 w/2.5" barrel, but not one these new productions, an '86 with forged internals and no lock. My reasoning was the same as yours. However, I didn't have any experience with S&Ws L frame. The only Smiths I own is a 629-2E w/3" barrel, and a 17-4. The 629 is still quite heavy with unfluted cylinder even while riding in a Don Hume Bill Jordan holster. So I didn't think the L frame would be much less than that.

I don't particularly care for the S&W action design, I much prefer the Colt V spring if at all possible. So instead of getting the 686, I bought a 2.5" Python, which I do believe the frame is slightly less bulky and probably a little lighter. Plus, it has actual service grips for the purpose of carrying. Even still, it is a rather large gun to carry, and bulky in my Bianchi IWB holster which has rather thin leather compared to most companies. If I don't have a baggy shirt, it easily prints on my small/skinny frame.

If I would have got the 686, I most likely never would have used it for my intended purpose. Even my Python doesn't go with me everywhere due to the size. If I am going to be moving around a lot, or carrying things/working, I leave the Python at home and take my Detective Special which is about the perfect conceal carry gun in my opinion, but without 357mag power. So I would think long and hard about it before making a decision.

 

[Fishinfool]

With J frames, and the big selection of small, lightweight semi-auto's available, the L frame is probably not the best choice for concealed carry. That said, I carried my duty gun, a 4 inch 586 for years without undo issues. Used an upside down shoulder holster, and a belt pancake holster. Couple of speed strips in my right pocket.

Larry

 

[Kernel Crittenden]

The OP should look at the M60-15 sku 178013. It's a 3-inch Pro Series J-frame with adjustable sights in .357. Some call it a "... mini Model 686."

I have a similar version and it seems way handier than my 3-inch M686-5, which to be honest, is kind of a boat anchor.

 

[steelslaver]

If you go with a bigger gun go with light. I carry a 396. an alloy L frame with a titanium cylinder, holds 5 44 specials which I prefer over 357. I don't even notice the weight. But, same type gun (386PD) is available in 357 with 7 rounds. Just about the same as a 686 just way lighter at a bit over 21 oz. as compared to over 40 oz for the all steel 686.

Your going to have to pay for it with more $ and recoil, but your pay for the recoil with a J frame anyway.

 

[AlHunt]

From experience, a GP-100 IWB is lot to lug around. I can't imagine the 686 will be any better.

.357 Sig in a small semi auto will weigh in about a pound and a half lighter, give you all the ballistics of the 357 mag and more rounds on tap.

 

[HOUSTON RICK]

It is doable depending on how much you can carry, I am also partial to the 4 inch barrel for this purpose,

 

[steelslaver]

One other point. While the 357 is an improvement on the 38 special, the difference between a 357 and good 38 +P out of a 3" or less barrel isn't that great. In a self defense situation I can't imagine very many situations where the hit from the 357 would have done the job when a 38 +P didn't. Yes, it possible, but the odds of a civilian being in a gunfight are very low and when you multiply this times the odds of the 357 doing it when the 38 didn't are extremely low. Probably more apt to get shark bit on dry land.

But, then I carry a 44 special so what do I know.

 

[oger]

Have you thought about a 66? I carry a 2 1/2in RB with no problem and it will do anything a 686 will do. Yes it will wear out faster but I don't shoot my carry weapon as much as a range toy.

 

[Mulebuk Sam]

From actual experience, any thoughts on carrying one of these for a CCW?

When you say actual experience does that mean that exact model ?

I ask because I just switch this month back to carrying a revolver from a semi-automatic. And while mine may not be quite as heavy as what your thinking about it is never the less a BIG revolver.

I thought I knew what I was getting into,,,Ha ! Little did I know.
I use to carry two guns, 642 up front in the pocket and either a G30 or G39 tucked underneath. My primary believe it or not was my 642 because I simply don't trust semi-automatics, but I carried those Glocks because I have real thing for a .45. And on the flip side do not trust my ability with a .38 because I'm a terrible shot and a leg or arm hit may not be enough to slow the threat down.

But there is simply no better draw in my opinion coming out of the front pocket, I could do in under 1.5 seconds. And safely.

Now lets get back to the subject, you are in for rude awaking if you try to CCW those guns and it doesn't matter if you get the 2.5 inch barrel. Can it be done, sure, all depends how much you want to spend to make it happen, how much you are willing to compromise.

I thought I had it all figured out, yeah right. I've had to completely change how I dress and I am still trying to find a comfortable spot to carry. And forget about any quick draw I'll be lucky if I even get it out.

Forget about what the gun cost me, I'm now into the hundreds of dollars in what it has cost me just to carry this beast.
I must be crazy, but I sure like this gun I got.

Good luck.

 

[Kernel Crittenden]

The 178013 (in current production).......

 

[DD357]

I have carried a 3" 686 in the past. I find a snub K frame to be MUCH nicer for carry.

 

[blues7]

I have a 3" 686+ and while it is a fine firearm and I do use it for home defense or open carry (when walking the dog late at night during periods of heavy bear / coyote activity)...when I qualified with the firearms I intended to carry concealed under LEOSA I didn't take it to the range.

I should mention that when I carry concealed I prefer AIWB. So while I have a Triple K IWB holster for the 686+ it's still not my favorite for concealed carry due primarily to weight and available rounds.

YMMV of course. Just one man's opinion.

ETA:

I posted some images below to show that the 686+ can be concealed IWB even if it's not my favorite firearm for that purpose.

 

[Pointblank2U]

One other point. While the 357 is an improvement on the 38 special, the difference between a 357 and good 38 +P out of a 3" or less barrel isn't that great. In a self defense situation I can't imagine very many situations where the hit from the 357 would have done the job when a 38 +P didn't. Yes, it possible, but the odds of a civilian being in a gunfight are very low and when you multiply this times the odds of the 357 doing it when the 38 didn't are extremely low. Probably more apt to get shark bit on dry land.

But, then I carry a 44 special so what do I know.

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[joe44va]

I frequently carry an M60-15 as the Kernel suggests but when in the woods or river fishing I carry an M69 without difficulty (until you have to shoot a full house 44 mag out of it) with the first two rounds being snake shot. I have carried 686s, a 4"+, an SSR and a 6"+(in a shoulder rig). All with no issues. I'm 5'7" and 71 years old, so you can probably do it too.

 

[BAM-BAM]

I had a 3" 586 with Spegel Boot Grips.... found it used/like new at a great price at a small out of the way LGS.

In the year or so I had it I think I wore it maybe 3 or 4 times.......the next day if concealed carry was called for .... it was back to my 3" 66 with +P .38s or 158gr soft points at the cabin........ if I could carry outside waistband...... I'd go to my stand-by a custom 4" round butt 686........

In many ways the 3" 586 was a great gun but neither fish nor fowl. There truly was a very good reason Bill Jorden convinced S&W to build a .357 magnum on the k-frame...... "a gun carried a lot and shot a little (w/ .357s)"


My 3" 586???..........I figured out why it got traded ANIB ...........it eventually got traded again on a PC Shorty-9.

 

[Neumann]

I have a 686+ 3" and, more recently, a 686PC+ 2-1/2" in my CC rotation. Both fit in a Sparks VM2 purchased for the 3". I don't mind the weigh, which is distributed well due to the excellent design of the VM2. I have boot grips on both, which conform to the round grip and extend only to the bottom of the frame. The butt is held tightly to my side and doesn't protrude or print.

The PC has a non-fluted cylinder and is cut for moon clips (can be used without). I prefer flutes for speed of reloading, but there is actually little difference in practice. Given a choice, 7 rounds are better than 6 for self defense.

I have a 4" 66, which is probably the ideal compromise for carry and actual shooting. A 686 is considerably stronger, only slightly larger and about 3 oz heavier, which helps manage full .357 Magnum loads, which are all I carry or shoot. They're also a lot easier to find than revolvers which have been out of print for nearly 20 years.

The 2-1/2" 686 has a short extractor rod, whereas the 3" is full length. This is not a big deal. Just pop the extractor with the palm of your hand to eject the cartridges quickly.

I think .357 is nearly ideal for SD. It has 50% more "thump" than a .45, and no slide to jam or stack in close quarters (like a car). I don't lose any brass at the shooting range either.

 

[Ashlander]

My first concealed carry revolver was the 2.25" 60-14. It turned out to be a great choice. It's a ton lighter than an L-frame and yet it's all steel -- a lot easier to shot well than the alloy snubbies.

In the winter I can carry a 66 or 19 snub, but I never carry my 3" 686+ -- just too much.

 

[Dispatch]

When you say actual experience does that mean that exact model ?

I ask because I just switch this month back to carrying a revolver from a semi-automatic. And while mine may not be quite as heavy as what your thinking about it is never the less a BIG revolver.

I thought I knew what I was getting into,,,Ha ! Little did I know.
I use to carry two guns, 642 up front in the pocket and either a G30 or G39 tucked underneath. My primary believe it or not was my 642 because I simply don't trust semi-automatics, but I carried those Glocks because I have real thing for a .45. And on the flip side do not trust my ability with a .38 because I'm a terrible shot and a leg or arm hit may not be enough to slow the threat down.

But there is simply no better draw in my opinion coming out of the front pocket, I could do in under 1.5 seconds. And safely.

Now lets get back to the subject, you are in for rude awaking if you try to CCW those guns and it doesn't matter if you get the 2.5 inch barrel. Can it be done, sure, all depends how much you want to spend to make it happen, how much you are willing to compromise.

I thought I had it all figured out, yeah right. I've had to completely change how I dress and I am still trying to find a comfortable spot to carry. And forget about any quick draw I'll be lucky if I even get it out.

Forget about what the gun cost me, I'm now into the hundreds of dollars in what it has cost me just to carry this beast.
I must be crazy, but I sure like this gun I got.

Good luck.

No, any revolver of similar weight and size will suffice.

 

[bigwheelzip]

Perhaps your lifestyle would impact usability, as much as size and weight. I'm a senior citizen female with serious health problems, and I can carry a 3" 686+ all day. I even golf with it when bears are active nearby.
But I don't/can't run, or even walk fast or far, so actual "carrying" is limited and slow. It's not my EDC, but if local weather allowed regular use of a cover garment, I'd use it more. It even fits in my holster purse.

 

[Ashlander]

Perhaps your lifestyle would impact usability, as much as size and weight. I'm a senior citizen female with serious health problems, and I can carry a 3" 686+ all day. I even golf with it when bears are active nearby.
But I don't/can't run, or even walk fast or far, so actual "carrying" is limited and slow. It's not my EDC, but if local weather allowed regular use of a cover garment, I'd use it more. It even fits in my holster purse.

Well, once you mention "bears"......

 

[blues7]

Well, once you mention "bears"......

No fair...I mentioned bears!

 

[thomasinaz]

I've carried a 4" 686 and a 3" 686+, both in a belt holster and the 3" also in a Galco horizontal shoulder holster. Either one is not that bad to carry, and I prefer the 3" because of the shorter barrel and extra round. The 3" 686+ weight is similar to a 4" K Frame (L=36.8 Oz, K=36.6 Oz). Everyone's tolerance for how much weight they can carry is different. I've been carrying a full size pistol with duty gear daily for 23+ years. So carrying just a revolver with one or two speed loaders/strips is light compared to a full duty rig. That, and I'm 6' and weigh 200 so an extra 10 Oz or so isn't that big of a difference. No cheapo flimsy holsters or belts in the mix helps also.



I've seen people with cell phones that print more than this rig....

 

[Mr. Blenderson]

I don't know how any of you guys conceal-carry a gun this big/heavy - I couldn't even imagine concealing my 686+ (although it's a 4", but 1" shorter doesn't seem like it would make that much of a difference.)

That being said, I also can't understand how anyone carries ANYTHING AIWB so maybe I am just built oddly/dress funny.