Thinking of picking up a 586? Opinions/Reviews?

[LoneStarWings]

Hi,

I'm thinking of buying a 586 to compliment my M&P 340 and M&P 327 revolvers. I'd like a steel revolver with the traditional 6 shots which are two traits my existing revolvers don't possess.

Are there any downsides to the 586's that came out this year? It will mostly just be a range toy/target shooter and I will probably take the internal lock out and replace it with a plug. I might also use it for IDPA if I get adventurous and decide to try the revolver division.

Thanks in advance!

 

[MarkDozier]

586 is a great gun. I don't know about the new ones. personally I would get an earlier 586, pre-lock and you can't go worng with it.
I just bought a Nickel 586 and now I need a 3" 686. Anyway get an earlier model and don't mess around. If it needs you may get a trigger job later.

 

[Engine49guy]

I agree with MarkDozier or consider an older Model 686 which is the same gun in Stainless steel because it will stand up to holster wear better .

 

[lhump1961]

From what I have read the new 586 is a good gun. But like most here I would go after any nice 586 up to -4 just 'cause!

 

[kdailey]

Get an early pre-lock 586 and/or 686. Can't go wrong.

 

[BobR1]

I agree with all above. I would look for a Clean used example first before getting a new one. However
I know some like to have one owner guns. If you feel that you need to be the first owner I think you will be happy with a new 585.
I have a later model 686-5, which is new enough to have the frame mounted firing pin, and MIM parts. I have NO Issues with it at all. I also have 3 other new S&W Air Weight Revolvers, two of which have the hole in the side. They are all rock stock, and work just fine.

Bob

 

[hsc]

I own the 586-8 Classic models 4" and 6". Nothing wrong with them, fun to shoot and very accurate. The lock does not bother me.

 

[lhump1961]

I own the 586-8 Classic models 4" and 6". Nothing wrong with them, fun to shoot and very accurate. The lock does not bother me.

I have heard exactly that from owners. Smith has been making the 586 for quite a while and the new ones incorporate everything they have learned along the way. To shoot it is to love it!

 

[33jayman]

I have a 686 and a 586. Both are 6 inch models and both are very accurate. They are a lot of fun to shoot. I certainly recomend either one.

Jay

 

[Joewisc]

Can't go wrong. I have a 586 no dash, M. I usually shoot .38 special.

 

[old bear]

As much as I hate to admit it my 586 no dash as replaced my M-19 as my go to revolver. So my suggestion is to get one as soon as you can.

 

[Foxtrot40]

I bought a 586, six inch barrel, no dash, used, to be able to shoot NRA Action Pistol years ago. It has a Patridge sight;
which is what I was looking for.
Many rounds have been put through it and is still going strong.
It did go back to S&W for the firing pin bushing replacement although I never experienced any lockup due to primer flow.
In my humble opinion, they don't make 'em like they did back then.
Still shoot it at the range and accuracy is still there!
The ejector rod did back out one time and had to be retightened.

 

[GJHIII]

I have a new 4" 586-8 and love it. Getting your hands on a 6" is very difficult here in the land of Lincoln but I'am determined. The internal lock draws alot of animosity but has caused me no problems and I doubt it ever will. I find my 4" to be incredibly accurate with 148gr WC's and all 158gr bullets in 38spl and 357 mag.. A 6" would probably make me burst with pride if it shot any better groups and it undoubtedly would. So I encourage your pursuit of this fine pistol and hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

 

[Vulcan Bob]

I think there is a strong argument to say the L frame is the best frame size for the .357 Magnum. I have a four inch 586 plus (seven shooter) and a six inch 586 no dash and really like both of them. Whatever one you choose new or old I think you will like it.

 

[old bear]

I'm thinking of buying a 586

As Tsgt. Luther Heaton, M.T.I. mentioned to me more than once, years ago, "do it now, quickly quickly.

 

[mchech]

I picked up a new 586 4" a week ago. The bad news is......I haven't any time to get it to the range and do some banging. The good news is......I can't find a single problem with it beyond a heavy double action pull and that is fixable if it doesnt loosen up. My 625 and 629 have a much lighter double action but I've pounded a few rounds out of them. Bottom line is....I'm happy

 

[Titegroups]

Hammer mounted firing pin, look for it.

 

[sodacan]

The "L" frames are nice guns. Buy a -2 or earlier and you should be well satisfied. You might want to consider an early model 27 or 28 as well. They're even better. Good luck.

 

[AC5SM]

What is wrong with a 586-3?

 

[one eye joe]

THE BLUED 586 IS A THING OF BEAUTY, BUT IF YOU INTEND TO CARRY IT OR SUBJECT TO HARD FIELD, OR ACTION SHOOTING USE, YOU MAY WISH TO CONSIDER THE FACT THAT THE STAINLESS 686 FINISH IS MUCH MORE DURABLE. ANY SCRATCHES OR ABRASIONS CAN USUALLY BE POLISHED OUT WITH EASE. I LOVE THE NO-DASH GUNS ……..