Mehutch
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This is how I carry my 686-4 2.5 inch 357 Magnum, and I love it. It's no problem.
The Model 686+/686 For A Concealed Carry?
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If a short barrel 686 will be your 'only' choice for a CCW, there are plenty of excellent alternatives that weigh less, carry more rounds or both. If it is one gun in a rotation, and you have a proper holster, a heavy belt and the right body build it will work; if not, you will tend to leave it at home or carry something lighter. Fortunately, a 686 is a really nice gun even if not carried. Good luck in your decision.
Stopsign32v
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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.
Just because it didn't work for you doesn't mean he's in for a rude awakening. Most depends on your belt, how you wear it, and the holster you use.
Stopsign32v
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Biggfoot44
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Not an L Frame per se, but 2.75 and 4in N Frame ( & equiv), full size 1911 for that matter.
It CAN be done. You will have to make a cpl of decisions and commitments to carry a large/ heavy gun.
A substantial belt. A well designed holster, that also as suits your subtle body shape.
Expect to dress around the gun.
I generally don't care for IWB. I specifically have an El Paso #77 for the 2.75 in .44 , and it is both comfortable and surprisingly concealable. But any number of makers produce Pancakes generally similar with subtle differences in ride and angle.
As to snub L Frames, I have tried a 2.5in, and the feel and balance left me severly "meh". But maybe trying enough custom grips would eventually find so.thing. to suit me better. But if one suits your preference in actual handling and shooting, good for you.
Now if you were looking for a more open ended recomendation for an admittedly largish revolver, this wouldn't be my top recomendation. The frame size and cylnder width will be the key factors, moreso than the bbl length. * To my thinking* , if I'm going to commit to a gun that size, it will be for the power and capability. As long as carrying that big, I'd prefer ( and recomend) going with a 4in bbl for the velocity increase and sight radius. Conversely if that OAL size envelope was overriding, a K Frame.357 ( or Security Six) is a fine gun.
It CAN be done. You will have to make a cpl of decisions and commitments to carry a large/ heavy gun.
A substantial belt. A well designed holster, that also as suits your subtle body shape.
Expect to dress around the gun.
I generally don't care for IWB. I specifically have an El Paso #77 for the 2.75 in .44 , and it is both comfortable and surprisingly concealable. But any number of makers produce Pancakes generally similar with subtle differences in ride and angle.
As to snub L Frames, I have tried a 2.5in, and the feel and balance left me severly "meh". But maybe trying enough custom grips would eventually find so.thing. to suit me better. But if one suits your preference in actual handling and shooting, good for you.
Now if you were looking for a more open ended recomendation for an admittedly largish revolver, this wouldn't be my top recomendation. The frame size and cylnder width will be the key factors, moreso than the bbl length. * To my thinking* , if I'm going to commit to a gun that size, it will be for the power and capability. As long as carrying that big, I'd prefer ( and recomend) going with a 4in bbl for the velocity increase and sight radius. Conversely if that OAL size envelope was overriding, a K Frame.357 ( or Security Six) is a fine gun.
Toddman687
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I carry a 4" 686+ IWB in a BladeTech Nano at about 4 o'clock. All it takes is an untucked button down shirt. It can be done fairly easily if you're committed.
Rafter-S
Member
Don't let the weight thing scare you away from getting the handgun you want and shoot well. Men (and some women) carried 1911 government model Colts for years before there was such a thing as "lightweight" handguns. It can be done with the correct supporting gear, which could even include suspenders. In fact I wear tactical suspenders every day because of the two handguns, extra magazine, and large folding knife I carry. I carry what I know I shoot well with, regardless of its size and weight. I suggest you consider doing the same.
That's my 2-cents worth.
Rafter-S
That's my 2-cents worth.
Rafter-S
OP
Dispatch
Member
Deep Concealment.
I think the key in carrying this particular model medium frame revolver is deep concealment.
This method seems to cover comfort and camouflage the best.
A rig that doesn't ride on the hip but below the belt suggests to be the perfect approach to hauling this model around, at least for me.
So far I've found two model holsters that will do that, the Urban Carry holster and the 3 Speed holster.
Still analyzing which one would do the job best.
I think the key in carrying this particular model medium frame revolver is deep concealment.
This method seems to cover comfort and camouflage the best.
A rig that doesn't ride on the hip but below the belt suggests to be the perfect approach to hauling this model around, at least for me.
So far I've found two model holsters that will do that, the Urban Carry holster and the 3 Speed holster.
Still analyzing which one would do the job best.
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If you are set on a wheel gun for CC, look at the PC 627 & 327 N Frames. 8 rounds, better trigger, cut for moon clips and, in the case of the 327, much lighter due to the scandium frame. I started looking at the 686 but after a few rounds through the 627, it was obviously worth the extra $$. Here is a link to a comparison of the two.
Enhanced Snubbies: Smith & Wesson Model 627 & 327 Revolvers - Gun News | Gun Reviews | Gun Magazine: Personal Defense World
Enhanced Snubbies: Smith & Wesson Model 627 & 327 Revolvers - Gun News | Gun Reviews | Gun Magazine: Personal Defense World
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haifabuddy
Member
I sometimes carry 686+ in 2.5 inch, a 686-4, no lock. With Buffalo Bore loads. Use an 8 reload strip to reload 6. Do not feel under-gunned at all. Not any heavier than my usual full size 1911 in 45ACP. 
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dgludwig
Member
No doubt, some can and will tote an L-frame comfortably (I carry a SIG 227 on occasion, especially if I have to be in high-crime/drug infested environs), but, for me, anything weighing much over a pound that has to be worn all day is on the uncomfortable side.
When it comes to carrying revolvers concealed comfortably, I have ended up toting either a Colt Cobra or a Smith Model 12. Additionally, I'm considering getting a Ruger LCR chambered in .327 Magnum. All three of these revolvers carry six shots. The the Cobra and the Model 12 have to be looked for on the used gun market and are on the pricey side when located. The little Ruger has a concealed hammer and can be had new for not much over $400.00.
When it comes to carrying revolvers concealed comfortably, I have ended up toting either a Colt Cobra or a Smith Model 12. Additionally, I'm considering getting a Ruger LCR chambered in .327 Magnum. All three of these revolvers carry six shots. The the Cobra and the Model 12 have to be looked for on the used gun market and are on the pricey side when located. The little Ruger has a concealed hammer and can be had new for not much over $400.00.
revolver4954
Member
686 for carry
Though heavier and wider than many semi autos, I've carried a 2.5" 686 Plus concealed on weekends and vacations, though not all-day 5 days a week as a duty weapon. I also have the 'Night Guard' version that is very light weight and posed no problem or discomfort whatsoever. I like the extra 7th round in the 686 Plus and Night Guard but the Night Guard is more expensive. A model 10, 13, 64 or others are smaller than the 686 and could be alternatives for you (though have a 6-round capacity). Personally, I prefer the fluted cylinder because the flutes help me index my fingers to the cylinder when using a speed loader.
Though heavier and wider than many semi autos, I've carried a 2.5" 686 Plus concealed on weekends and vacations, though not all-day 5 days a week as a duty weapon. I also have the 'Night Guard' version that is very light weight and posed no problem or discomfort whatsoever. I like the extra 7th round in the 686 Plus and Night Guard but the Night Guard is more expensive. A model 10, 13, 64 or others are smaller than the 686 and could be alternatives for you (though have a 6-round capacity). Personally, I prefer the fluted cylinder because the flutes help me index my fingers to the cylinder when using a speed loader.
For my EDC gun I routinely carry my customized Model 64, which is now a 2" beauty (pictured plus its backstrap). I used to EDC a Model 10 2" (pictured) and from time to time I still will. Before that and for many years my EDC was a M642 that I carried in my pocket but I lost my love for J frames and with K frame snubbies always available to me I switched. They're so much more accurate, so much easier to shoot, etc. (Okay, customizing the M64 was "lagniappe" as we say in Texas; I didn't NEED another 2" K frame but it was so useless in its original configuration.... 
also pictured)
But then there's L frame snubbies, and I can understand why you would want to carry one. I have a few and the only two that could easily be concealed are the 2.5" (pictured) and the 3" (not pictured).
I have carried the 2.5" M 686 concealed in an El Paso Saddlery shoulder rig - it is much too heavy and bulky for belt carry IMHO. Some folks carry all sorts of hand cannons concealed but I don't cotton to that much weight and bulk on my belt in an attempt to conceal it - these guns are wonderful little tanks but they deserve to be carried openly as befits their size. YMMV. And I have carried my 4" M686 openly on my friend's ranch but not in town - I frown on that in town but others do not.
I carried a M27 concealed on a driving trip a few years ago - way too much effort as far as I was concerned.
That's why I recommend 2" K frames but since S&W doesn't make them any longer you either have to search for them or switch to L frames. Not a happy choice for concealed carry IMO.
also pictured)But then there's L frame snubbies, and I can understand why you would want to carry one. I have a few and the only two that could easily be concealed are the 2.5" (pictured) and the 3" (not pictured).
I have carried the 2.5" M 686 concealed in an El Paso Saddlery shoulder rig - it is much too heavy and bulky for belt carry IMHO. Some folks carry all sorts of hand cannons concealed but I don't cotton to that much weight and bulk on my belt in an attempt to conceal it - these guns are wonderful little tanks but they deserve to be carried openly as befits their size. YMMV. And I have carried my 4" M686 openly on my friend's ranch but not in town - I frown on that in town but others do not.
I carried a M27 concealed on a driving trip a few years ago - way too much effort as far as I was concerned.
That's why I recommend 2" K frames but since S&W doesn't make them any longer you either have to search for them or switch to L frames. Not a happy choice for concealed carry IMO.
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VinnieL59
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Weight/size
I was a cop for 28 years, and retired 9 years ago. although production was so bad in 1979 that I waited almost 2 years for it, I got a model 60 (stainless 5 shot Chief's Special .38)
It served me very well all those years and even today.
I have other K frames such as a 4 inch model 66, and a 2.5 inch 66. If you are going to carry concealed, unless you live in a climate where you wear some sort of coat year-round, opt for something smaller with a round butt.
If you are Godzilla-size you might be able to effectively conceal a L-frame revolver. While in a special assignment I carried a 4 inch model 15 revolver on an inside the trouser holster and concealed it well. If you are of smaller or leaner stature, a larger revolver will be difficult to conceal. Weight and keeping one's trousers from falling down are also very important factors to consider.
Later productions of the model 60 was also made in .357 magnum, although I don't think I'd want to shoot magnums in one personally.
I was a cop for 28 years, and retired 9 years ago. although production was so bad in 1979 that I waited almost 2 years for it, I got a model 60 (stainless 5 shot Chief's Special .38)
It served me very well all those years and even today.
I have other K frames such as a 4 inch model 66, and a 2.5 inch 66. If you are going to carry concealed, unless you live in a climate where you wear some sort of coat year-round, opt for something smaller with a round butt.
If you are Godzilla-size you might be able to effectively conceal a L-frame revolver. While in a special assignment I carried a 4 inch model 15 revolver on an inside the trouser holster and concealed it well. If you are of smaller or leaner stature, a larger revolver will be difficult to conceal. Weight and keeping one's trousers from falling down are also very important factors to consider.
Later productions of the model 60 was also made in .357 magnum, although I don't think I'd want to shoot magnums in one personally.
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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?
The biggest thing you need to do is find a good holster that you are comfortable with. I carried one for plain clothes duty in a good shoulder holster (up right) and there are some good high ride belt holsters. As some other respondents answered there are quite a few lighter semi auto handguns with much higher round count. I am not knocking revolvers because I carried them for 20 years but with the dependability of semi autos today that is mostly what I carry. I do occasionally carry revolvers now but they are usually 2 or 3 inch J frames.
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The most comfortable way to carry a large revolver IWB is if the cylinder rides near the top of your hip bone. That takes most of the weight off the belt and makes less of a bulge at your waist. It also puts less tension on the cylinder, which otherwise can make it hard to draw and re-holster. The top of the cylinder sits just above the top of my belt.
For me, the perfect combination is a Sparks VM2. The wide back and spaced belt loops distributes the weight, keeps the angle (15 deg) constant, and the butt pressed into my side.
The shorter the barrel, the easier it clears leather. I've carried a 4" (66-1) IWB, but you have to be something of a contortionist, or carry it further back at 5:00 or so.
For me, the perfect combination is a Sparks VM2. The wide back and spaced belt loops distributes the weight, keeps the angle (15 deg) constant, and the butt pressed into my side.
The shorter the barrel, the easier it clears leather. I've carried a 4" (66-1) IWB, but you have to be something of a contortionist, or carry it further back at 5:00 or so.
OP
Dispatch
Member
The holsters?
Is there anyone here that owns or has owned either of these two concealment holsters I mention?
Is there anyone here that owns or has owned either of these two concealment holsters I mention?
SeamasterSig
Member
I sometimes carry a 4" 66-2 concealed in an OWB holster. It's doable even in SW Florida. You should have no trouble with a 3" 686 or shorter, provided you wear a proper gun belt and a close-fitting holster. Wear either a long untucked shirt or a jacket and you should be fine.
This gun
In this GS2 holster and belt from R. Grizzle
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