What years was a 686-3 made?

[SW MP15]

Looked at a 686-3 snub nose today but didn't get the serial number! What period or time frame was the -3's made. To give me an idea if I want it or not to add to my snubbie collection.

Thanks In advance for any info and help!

 

[Kernel Crittenden]

The -3's were made in the 1988 to 1993 time frame.

It's a great platform for a snubby, because all the -4 really added was a drilled and tapped top strap. Something that's not all that important on a snubby. Plus, the -3 has the flash chromed hammer and trigger. The -4 does not.

 

[grip frame]

Dash 4's s also have the new style extractor and rear sight. To me its close to a toss up but I think I prefer the -3's. Same same for the 629's.

 

[SW MP15]

That's GREAT info guys! I never looked at it up close. It was in a buddy's display case and didn't have time to dissect it today. I just saw the hang tag and it said -2. And he knows I'm a sucker for pre-lock snubbie's

And your correct about the pre drilled top strap! Totally useless on a snub round butt. In my opinion? And besides not putting a scope on it, I also worry about the integrity of holes drilled there. I know they've done it for years and I have several 686 pluses and 629's that are drilled and never had a problem, but not a fan of the holes especially on a snubbie! Kind of useless? And understand the frames are mass produced, but they ought to give the snubbie's a break! LOL

But THANKS again for the info!

 

[Pizza Bob]

And your correct about the pre drilled top strap! Totally useless on a snub round butt.

Not so fast there Bubba, there are many people who would say that adjustable sights have no place on a snubby. For those people, the drilled & tapped top strap give you the option of easily replacing the rear sight with a C&S fixed unit, like S&W did on the Night Guard series.

Also - the old style, square-tang, rear sight (as on the -3) is no longer available from Smith, so if you damage the rear sight you are SOL unless you can find one in nthe secondary market. Right now those prices are all over the board, but seem to be trending toward about $130.

I would prefer a -4, but that's just me.

Adios,

Pizza Bob

 

[SW MP15]

Not so fast there Bubba, there are many people who would say that adjustable sights have no place on a snubby. For those people, the drilled & tapped top strap give you the option of easily replacing the rear sight with a C&S fixed unit, like S&W did on the Night Guard series.

Also - the old style, square-tang, rear sight (as on the -3) is no longer available from Smith, so if you damage the rear sight you are SOL unless you can find one in nthe secondary market. Right now those prices are all over the board, but seem to be trending toward about $130.

I would prefer a -4, but that's just me.

Adios,

Pizza Bob

I love a 66 and 686 pre-lock snubbie. I think even with adjustable rear sight and ramped front. Is the best looking of the S&W snubbie's, it's just well portioned and looks great with factory combats. I love model 60's and have many, but looks wise, I'd pick the K/L frame anytime. I have a 686 plus snubbie with dreaded lock, and had the performance center polish it and do a action job and I put a set of Altamont rosewood scroll, round butt combats with medallions on it, and in my opinion, it's one of the best looking revolvers I own. Including my Pythons!

But no dash or -20, if I like it I buy it.

I'm Not a fan of drilled top straps or transfer bars. I like the hammer mounted firing pin (old school style) And in my 30 plus years (started in 1977) of collecting-buying-trading S&W's I've Never damaged a rear sight or blade, but if it happens, I'll just have to deal with it? Like I said, just my opinions!
Thanks For The Input.

 

[joemoney327]

I have 2 686-3 snubs. I actually acquired the 2nd one today on a trade. Both still wear their factory combats. Of all my 3 inch 29s and k frame snubs, the 686 look the best to me. Just love the proportions. I would definitely scoop it up!