S&W 686: Which Version Is The Best?

I get asked a lot about which S&W 686 version is the best one. I don't really know. But all of them are great guns. Here is my prospective on t he subject and why I like the 686-3 more than the others. I'm not implying that it's the best version; but just merely why I like it the best.
Thanks for watching...

[@danielbohning1633]

You have one of the best ( no- the best ) channels for accurate, and complete descriptions of dash number differences of S&W revolvers. Puts Wikipedia to shame. Thanks, Dan

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Mr. Bohning for the kind words.

[@jameskennedy8329]

2 years later and this is as accurate a description as ever 👏🏼

[@mr2275cur]

@@jameskennedy8329 Thank you Sir.

[@jameskennedy8329]

@@mr2275cur You’re very welcome. Thank you for everything you’ve contributed to the community 🙌🏼

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Sir.@@jameskennedy8329

[@robbiewilliamson357]

thanks for the content, brother. life long gun nut, here, but recently just got my first smith, first 686, hell first revolver i’ve ever owned. i learned more from this video than i have from all my other studies combined 🤙🏻

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Mr. Williamson. Congratulation on your getting your first revolver, S&W, and 686. You could not have chosen a better one. I hope you enjoy it. And I am fairly certain that it will not be your last one.

[@robbiewilliamson357]

@@mr2275cur it’s a ss -4. which i now understood a little better!

[@mr2275cur]

Cool and congrats.@@robbiewilliamson357

[@UTAH_BLANE]

@@robbiewilliamson357 good choice

[@earldelsanto]

New ones have external locks. Yuk.

[@montehibbert3606]

I’m looking to buy my first revolver. After a little research, I quickly decided the S&W 686 was high on my list. I never knew about the different versions of the 686 but this video was very informative. Thanks !

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you, and good choice.

[@anthonyguidas2012]

I have the 686+ 3” it’s easily the best revolver I’ve ever owned. You’re definitely right about them all being great guns 👍 btw love those grips on your gun.

[@mr2275cur]

Oh Yeah...

[@runnerdavid]

First gun I ever purchased for myself was a brand new 686-3 with a six inch barrel. Love it.

[@mr2275cur]

My first S&W revolver was this 686-3 w/ 2.5" barrel.

[@prsearls]

I agree. My 2.5 inch -3 is beautifully proportioned and a joy to shoot. I love those wooden stocks, too.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Mr. Searls.

[@David-uz1qs]

I own the 686 2.5” No dash M, with original box, manual, registration papers, parts list and maintenance kit. The trigger pull is superb! It should be a safe queen, but I can’t help but shoot it occasionally.

[@scottpatterson6863]

Saw your entire collection on a different vid what a beautiful assembly of revolvers

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Sir.

[@ronschuster8575]

You have a beautiful S&W collection. I've been admiring it for awhile. I agree that the older Smiths are more desirable. For me, I prefer to shoot my new Smith's and leave the older ones in the safe.

[@mr2275cur]

Yeah, I know. But those older ones are so sweet, especially when the action gets worn in a bit...

[@southernbuck101georgia2]

It does not hurt the older ones to shoot them from time to time. The problem is the time it takes to clean them up to look new again after you shoot them. I've got a 6" no dash, first handgun I ever purchased when I turned 21, way back in 1984, that the cylinder face has not been silver since I first shot it. It's named "Old Ugly". Named not necessarily after its owner, but what it's capable of in its owners hands , and the powder burns on the cylinder face. I've since built quite a collection of older 686s, and one of the newer 3" guns with a lock. I try to keep those looking as good as new. There's a couple models that I want,that are quite illusive to find at a decent price these days. Mainly a CS1 with a 3" barrel, and a Lew Horton early dash 2-1/2". But I'm a patient man. They will come along, if they are meant to be.

[@electrichellion5946]

I’ve been wanting one since I was in the Marines over in Okinawa. They are a beautiful revolver in any version I think. I like the 2”, 3”, and 4” barrel lengths.

[@mr2275cur]

Most definitely...

[@kermitthefrog5926]

Thank you for your service, sir. I prefer a 3 inch for ccw, and a 6 inch for the range. Those are pretty solid numbers for barrel length, in my humble opinion.

[@tomwashington5646]

Tho

[@michaelshoemake1944]

Great video as always sir. Thank you for the break down on the changes, it helped me make sense of a 686-4 that I recently purchased. It is a 2 1/2” barrel like yours, but it is a 686 Plus, pre-lock with case hardened trigger and hammer with the mounted firing pin. The only change I didn’t like from the -3 is the new style cylinder slide, but that’s an easy enough fix. Thank you again for taking the time explaining the changes and helping me make sense of my new gun that I’ve nicknamed Frankenstein.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you. You have a rare find with a 686-4 7-shot w/ 2.5" barrel.

[@alterego6935]

Those grips are just beautiful. I miss seeing that kind of beautiful woodwork on Smith and Wesson guns. So glad that I also have some of the old ones to enjoy.

[@mr2275cur]

I agree. I wish they'd go back to doing this, but it's probably a lost craft at this point.

[@notsosilentmajority1]

I just picked up a 686+ 3 inch Deluxe. I hadn't heard of a "Deluxe" but the "Deluxe" version comes with some very nice wood grips that are reminiscent of the older S&W's. The grips just make the revolver look so much better and it didn't cost any more than the other 686+ versions at my local store. It seems like S&W is spending a lot more time on polymer firearms and just yesterday released a fold up 9mm PCC that is direct competition to the KelTec Sub2000. I guess that's where the market is taking them but I wish they went back to the old style revolvers with nice wood grips that they were famous for.

[@alterego6935]

@@notsosilentmajority1 I'm going to have to check into that. I don't have a 3" and that Deluxe version would really be right up my alley.

[@notsosilentmajority1]

@@alterego6935 Yes, check it out. The grips are nothing ornate but overall it looks great and the 3 inch is a nice size for just about everything. Good luck.

[@whomagoose6897]

Love my revolvers, #10 K frame and #586 L frame. The best thing was getting upgraded rosewood wood grips. Made into a combat contour shape with finger grooves. Very similar to the grips on your S&W 686.

[@mr2275cur]

My favorites are L and N frames. Love them.

[@josephmoore5069]

I have owned a few 686 and 586 , I regret selling them all. I recently bought a new 686 6 inch. Now I have more smith and Wesson revolvers and I plan to keep them all. I have a model 60 coal miners special edition,model 57, model 28,and a 460 s and w magnum. I really enjoy your videos. Great information and beautiful guns.thanks.

[@mr2275cur]

Sounds like you're on the right S&W revolver track. Those are all beautiful guns; especially the 57. Thank you Mr. Moore.

[@paolo7237]

I very much enjoy your videos on these fantastic revolvers, and you’ve taught me a great deal about them. I’m very interested in a 686-3 because I just like the look of the hammer-mounted firing pin. Coincidentally I’m looking for one that has the snub nose barrel- just like yours. You do a great job polishing those up and I think I’ll be doing the same with mine. PS: Your very charismatic and easy to understand. Keep up the good work!

[@mr2275cur]

Thank Paolo. Good luck finding one.

[@jasonsmith1375]

I really enjoy your videos. The no frills and intelligent opinions content is great. Thank you Big Swoll58

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Sir.

[@southernbuck101georgia2]

Great explanation of the history of my favorite firearm. The 686. Love those grips as well

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you.

[@JDOGBIGMONEY1]

Thanks for the video. All of your videos are very informative.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Jdogbigmoney....

[@markmartin3221]

I do like you video and presentation of just the facts and or your opinion. I’m a former Marine Combat Engr. That turned Armorer. I only shot what was are issues at the time 1980-1986 so the 1911 Colt. I recently went to inquire about a pistol and after putting them in my hand and feeling the mechanics of many found the balance and smoothness of a 686 Plus 4” barrel to be one of the finest pistols ever in my hands. I bought a Marlin 336/35 rifle but I think I must have the one that felt so nice. Gonna sell two guitars to buy it but so it will be. Your video was well done, would have liked to see the cylinder and sights some but your voice was steadily presenting your thoughts. Well done

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you for the kind words Sir. I personally don't think you can buy a better revolver than a 686; modern or older. But you can buy a more expensive one.

[@jameslohr4943]

Great perspective. I’m more partial to the 586 myself just because I like a blued gun. I enjoyed your restoration videos on these stainless guns quite a bit.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you. I like blued too, especially 19's and 27's and 29's. I just don't own any yet. Looking for a 29-2 though...

[@jameslohr4943]

@@mr2275cur I have a 19-3. It's the pride of my small collection. A 586 will probably be my next purchase.

[@electrichellion5946]

@@mr2275cur - 29-2. That model seems to be the way to go with the N Frames. My friend picked one up (a blued 8 3/4” barrel) about 8 years ago for around $800. She is a beaut. The -1 isn’t with a recessed cylinder where as the -2 is pinned and recessed. It’s like the dash one was mis-named and it should really be the dash 2 not pinned and recessed.

[@mr2275cur]

@@electrichellion5946 Do You have a 29-1 that doesn't a recessed cylinder? That's odd -- I've never seen one. Do you think it's been replaced and may not be the original one?

[@mr2275cur]

@@jameslohr4943 That sound great Mr. Lohr. I'm looking to add a 6.5' 29-2 to my collection, but they're real expensive right now. I may settle for a 29-3 because they're much less.

[@troycrisco7637]

686-3 is my absolute favorite of the Smith and Wesson line. Your video was great and I always appreciate seeing someone else’s opinion, good or bad. Also, on the dash 4 and above they moved away from a circular cylinder case dump to one that was cut square. It just isn’t as aesthetically appealing being a round cylinder with a square cut out. I have had everything from the 2.5”-8 3/8” barrel and it is hard to chose my favorite although I have an affinity for the extreme barrel lengths! Thanks for the great video!

[@mr2275cur]

The 686-3 is my favorite too, but not by much. I love my 29's, 66's and 629's a lot too. My 686-5 holds it's own in a side-by-side comparison to the 686-3. i may need to relook at my collection for a new Top 5. I prefer the look of the new extractor stars. I think it's a beautiful and sophisticated design. Thanks for watching and your comments.

[@bryanmartin2271]

Very informative and well said the hand check sometimes i like to close my eyes and hold it and feel it blind I call it the Helen Keller method

[@mr2275cur]

Helen Keller! I haven't heard that name since high school. But good technique and concept.

[@redesert_boy8202]

Very nice point that having any 686 is a good thing for a .357 Magnum. I would not turn away a 586 or a 581 either with the blued finish either. Thanks Mr. Big Swoll58!

[@148soldier]

Glad to learn some of those details. I just picked up a 686-3 and wasn't sure what some of the differences were. Great video!

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you and conf=gratulations. I hope you enjoy it.

[@scottzipperer6146]

It's nice to hear from a person who loves the s& w as much as I do thank you

[@mr2275cur]

Yes Sir. What's not to love about them -- Right?!

[@davidburgess937]

That was informative and persuasive for me to now find a Dash 3 with a 2-inch barrel for my new EDC. Great video!

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you and good luck Sir.

[@wcfield]

Thank you for an excellent video. But I have to say I like the the dash 4 is just a little better than the dash 3. I am not saying that the dash 4 is better just that I like it the best. Most important to me is the 7 shot capability of the dash 4. Also the drilled & taped frame is a real benefit for adding an optic which I might do some day. Neither of those changes were done to make the gun less expensive to manufacture. The dash 4 does not include the undesirable engineering changes to the hammer, trigger and the internal lock. The grips are not a big issue because they are so easy to change to what ever a person prefers. All the 686s are great but my choice is the dash 4.

[@mr2275cur]

All valid and great points WC.. I'm sort of and old-schooler when it comes to revolvers. I prefer the 6-shooters. But -4"s were primarily made as 6-shooters. They were offered as 7-shooters later in the production runs. All great though as you stated...

[@LeftyCQB]

Great Content! I am new to wheel guns. Been semi-auto guy. S&W is calling my name. Honing in on which one is right for me. Appreciate the education. Thanks

[@mr2275cur]

Thanks Lefty and Welcome to the club...

[@damianpollman926]

Beautiful gun and informative video. Thank you.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Mr. Pollman.

[@Usercantwelve]

I agree & miss your vids.Hope all is well

[@michaelkclark6981]

Fantastic video, as usual! Great information. Your guns are always so well-kept . And no Gloves 😎

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you. I think i actually forgot to put them on.

[@mattbachman5291]

I enjoyed the no gloves also. More realistic visual impression.!😜👍

[@boricuaarecibo9259]

I really appreciate your knowledge I always learn something. From your videos My next purchase will be a 686-6 in 3 inch

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Sir. that will be one of my future purchases too.

[@WixRanch]

Ran into a gun that I was not shopping for about 6 months ago. Gentleman was in my regular LGS asking them to sell his piece under consignment. They declined. I stepped out and asking him in the parking lot about the item and he struck a deal with me I could not refuse. I am so pleased that I made the transaction. I have a 686-6 7-shot which happens to be the most accurate shooting .357 I own. I am not sure the gun itself is more accurate, but I certainly shoot it better than any of my other 5-6 models. Not that I ever sell any of my guns, but I will certainly add emphasis to this one NEVER being sold. My survivors will hopefully enjoy this as much as I have.

[@mr2275cur]

man that's cool. A lot of deals happen that way. I bought one of my 686's in a similar way at a gun show. Guy was wanting to trade it on an AR, and the dealer was trying to stiff on the price. So I stepped in and offered him $50 more than the best dealer price. Got it !

[@WixRanch]

@@mr2275cur then about 3 weeks or so later another gentleman was in the same LGS looking to sell the his S&W 625-8 .45acp because of the need to use moon clips, even though it was a "sweet shooter". I again offered to make the purchase because the shop did not offer what he wanted. I likely forgot to mention that he could have used .45 Auto Rim...now I have a sweet shooter to join my 25-13 LC Mountain Gun. I doubt I will catch up with you on your collection, but at least I have a dream and a mission!

[@mr2275cur]

Sounds like you're on your way. It's great when you run across deals like that. Right place, right time. I always stress being patient and persistent when collecting. There is always a great deal out there. You just need to be in the right place to get it. Congratulations my friend.@@WixRanch

[@Pumpestok]

3:30 really woke me up 🤣 Thx for some great S&W videoes.

[@WeletcherdCows]

Me too 😂

[@anthonybonomo5670]

Great job! Your passion shines through!

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you....

[@outdoorssmith5454]

I have a 6 inch dash 1, they had a recall that fixed any and all issues and in my experience they are great, nice wheel gun keep up the good videos

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you. My 686-1 too has been Recall Modified (stamped with an "M").

[@johnscott5662]

Great information. Thanks.

[@hwy6163]

I bought the 2-1/2” 686-6. I absolutely love these 686 revolvers.

[@mr2275cur]

Yes they are.

[@biggeorgiaspots]

Love your videos, man. The detail and history is great. Keep up the good work!

[@mus1970]

Thank you for sharing! Your arguments make sense and I agree the 686-3 is a very good series, although each subsequent dash model also has something going for it. I think I've mentioned before I have a 686-1 and indeed the floating hand has been giving me some problems, luckily these are fixed now though. Another thing with my particular gun is that it does not like wadcutters, copper plated nor lead. Possible reasons: the cylinder holes are quite small in diameter (consistently .357" instead of .358") and the cylinder gap is relatively large (0.015"). The crown still seems OK - when I shoot .357" full metal jacket rounds (either 38 Special or 357 Magnum) the accuracy is quite good so the issues with the holes and gap seem to matter less. I'm now at the point where I'm wondering if it still makes sense to invest money into improving the revolver or trading it in for a new(er) one. (I'm not looking forward to all the paperwork that's required here in the Netherlands when swapping guns so I might be holding on to it for some time still...) Keep up the good work, your videos are very much appreciated!

[@mr2275cur]

Yes John, they are all quite good revolvers. I clearly stated that in the video. You can improve your revolver cylinder gap with a thin cylinder bushing kit that you can purchase on Brownell's specially made to address this very problem on S&W revolvers.. Check it out...

[@J0sh92]

Great video and great collection of S&W revolvers! You’re incorrect about 2 things. First, the 686 was actually 1981, which is significant because I believe that’s the year they stopped pinning barrels and recessing chambers. That’s why-to my knowledge-there are no P&R 686’s. Second, the MIM internals began with the dash 5, not the dash 4. I love my 4” dash 4. It’s still has forged internals, hammer mounted firing pin, and grooved backstrap, but it has the newer cylinder release (which I prefer) and it is without the ugly lock. Most importantly mine is a 686+ so I feel as though I have the best of the old and new with the added capacity and old school manufacturing. I bought it used, and it’s nearly as old as I am, so it always gives me a feeling of nostalgia when I shoot it

[@mr2275cur]

Congratulations on your 7-shot "dash 4". Those are hard finds. First let me start by saying you are correct about the MIM parts introduction. I too am aware that the "-5" was the first use of MIM parts, but i may have misspoken during the video. However, S&W did introduce the 686, as well as other L-frame models starting in 1980 in limited numbers. Wide spread distribution began in 1981. S&W was planning to eliminate P&R techniques on other models during the L-frame development, but it would be 1981 before they eventually phased them out completely. In fact some guns were made made with only pinned barrels, and some with only recessed cylinders as they consumed the parts. Thank you for the conversation...

[@miked-up]

I have the exact same gun, 4” -4... it was my first revolver and i still own it today. It started my love of Revolvers and i have collected many since then.

[@khalilabukabeer815]

I think it’s the best revolvers ever made, my self I got the 686 in 6", and I really don’t know the deference between them, thanks for telling us about it , am enjoying my new 686, and I never shot the older models and how it perform

[@mr2275cur]

Congratulations. There's virtually no difference in them shooting wise. IMHO... It's mostly looks and trigger pull.

[@goodingda]

Excellent explanation of my favorite S&W gun. Thank you!

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you.

[@mikeglick3507]

The first time I saw a 686 2 1/2 was in the movie "The Hitcher" back in the late eighties and I knew I wanted one. I was young and poor and by the time I could afford one it had become the -4. It no longer came with the beautiful wood grips but relay good rubber grips. Also, it seems the trigger and hammer were now hardened steel (colored from heat treating). I love mine and have owned for almost 30 years. I still love the wood grips they look awesome. I never fired a -3 and I imaging the rubber grips might work better I don't know. Well anyway I will never sell it. Guns come and go but this will always be one of my favorites. Maybe only second to my Henry .357 carbine.

[@mr2275cur]

I'm glad you did not give up on your dream of owning one of these fine revolvers.. There's very little difference between the -3 and early -4's; only cosmetic differences. Rubber grips absorb recoil impact better than wood, as long as the backstrap is enclosed.

[@teamstucker624]

Great video 👍 The Dash 3 is on my bucket list for sure. I'm like you there are no bad 686 models the best is whatever is in your collection in your gun safe. Thanks for sharing all this knowledge.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you again. I hope get one sooner than later. Merry Christmas.

[@ShellieRMoore]

☺️Thank you for this update always a pleasure. Sadly this hunt want to find the -3 want be easy but it’ll be my honor to find .

[@mr2275cur]

Keep looking young lady. Be patient,; you'll find just what you're looking for.

[@J.R.F.23]

Thanks for your video and clarification of the model differences. The model I own, is the 686+ 5" with the unfitted cylinder in the 3-5-7 series. I love the older ones, but never see them available in the configurations that I desire. I wanted the 5" because I felt out of the longer versions 4", 5", 6", 7" and 8 3/8" ones I felt it balanced the best for me. I like the look of the 6" for target, but love the way the 5" feels in my hand. Admittedly I am not the biggest fan of the Altamont Grips, they look good but the hogue wooden ones fit my hand better. More specifically the checkered, finger groove version either with or without the big butt. I do like the look of the Big Butt on the 5", 6", 7" & 8 3/8" versions.

[@mr2275cur]

The most important thing about buying any gun, is to buy what you like and feels the best in your hand. I like the 3" and 5" barrels too, but don't own either one yet.

[@painmonke2940]

Just picked up a 686-1 the other day, very happy about it

[@mr2275cur]

They're great guns. Nothing to be unhappy about. Congratulations.

[@raywebb7501]

I love my 4 inch 636+ so much that I bought the performance center 4 inch 686 and I picked up 5 inch 629 hands down for me Smith and Wesson makes the finest revolvers in the world

[@mr2275cur]

I agree with you. Sounds like you're off to a good start.

[@rickyramirez3483]

Just subed’! Ny favorite 686 is my 686-6! Air Assault! 🇵🇷🌴

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you. Mine is my 686-3.

[@robspath4203]

A friend just purchased that exact -3 2”. It is a bit scuffed up but we’ll be giving it the Big Swoll treatment soon.

[@mr2275cur]

Just saw your message. Sorry fo not responding sooner. How did it turn out?

[@robspath4203]

@@mr2275cur We still haven’t gotten around to it, hope to soon!

[@mr2275cur]

@@robspath4203 I understand...

[@albertojuarez8324]

This gun has some beautiful grips I’ve always been a fan of wooden grips they’re just a great combination and adds so much character to the gun

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Mr. Juarez. I think wood on steel guns look amazing too.

[@neptune2854]

Great overview. I love my 686. Mine is a later model with 7 shot capability. Not sure which version. Is the version shown in the serial number? Where do I find it?

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you. The version is found stamped on the frame under the crane or yoke usually right below the SN. The 7-shot version are 686-4 and later.

[@weedeater6946]

Wonderful firearm, I have a -3 with 4: barrel. Thanks for sharing.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Sir.

[@AK47andGlocklover]

Just got home from one of my local gun shops with a new S&W model 60-14 and found this video in my subscription box, kinda ironic

[@mr2275cur]

Congratulations on your 60. I hope you enjoy it...

[@charlesezelljr1420]

You have a beautiful collection of guns, and I have learned a bunch from you.. I am now looking for a smith and Wesson, I have a Colt and a couple of Rugers and one Remington. After watching your videos I now want a smith!

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Sir. Which S&W do you want? I want an early Colt Python, but mega-$$$'s might keep me from it.

[@charlesezelljr1420]

I am thinking a new 686 4 “, remodeling my kitchen has set me back, seems like it’s always something.I live here in the foothills of the ozark mountains of Missouri. I fish , hike bow hunt and rifle hunt. And I go no we’re without a sidearm we have bear, mountain Lion, wild hogs and wild dogs.

[@charlesezelljr1420]

@@mr2275cur hope you find your colt python, would like one myself. I have a colt government 1911 45 series 80, I love it!

[@nicklasaurusrex]

Just traded for a 686-3 2.5 inch. Can’t wait to set it up to look like that beauty.

[@mr2275cur]

Congratulations on your trade. I hope it turns out like you want it to.

[@francisgarner1751]

I was on 7mo ago I donot think I made myself clear. December 2022 I bought mine the 686-6 plus Talo edition unfluted cylinder 3INCH barrel black and silver wood grips sweet man sweet CC every day sweet. And these wood grips are very sweet 👍🏿🎯👍🏿

[@markmadsen6828]

Excellent video Sir,. Very well narrated and a wealth of knowledge imparted.. Thank you.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Mr. Madsen.

[@sonnygunz9207]

Talking about 686’s, the no dash to the -3 are the best, but like you said, they are all good guns. That’s a hard to find gun you have there.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you. I friend sold this one to me. It was a nothing like this when I bought it though. A lot of TLC went into this one.

[@sonnygunz9207]

@@mr2275cur I can tell you put a lot into it. It looks really nice. You did a great job. I bought a blued 19-3 2.5” snub (made in 1975) that someone put factory combat grips on. The grips are perfect. I didn’t want to mess them up. They’re to valuable. So they live in a box unfortunately, ha! I love S&W revolvers too. I have some of mine up on KZbin. I’ll get them all up someday soon. Thanks.

[@mr2275cur]

@@sonnygunz9207 I'll be checking them out real some. Thanks Sonny...

[@georgejohnson1868]

New to ur videos and now a subscriber , like the way u talked about 686-3 also my favorite. Thanks for sharing.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Sir for watching; and for the kind words and sub.

[@sonniewilliams459]

Great video! I have a 686+ 3”. Been contemplating getting a 686+ 2.5” performance center, but can’t decide if I like or hate the unfluted cylinder. Also been contemplating getting the 686 4” 6 shot. What is your favorite 686 barrel length and why? Also, just curious if you prefer the size of the 686 (6 shot) or 686 + in general. Thanks again for the video.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Mr. Williams, and great commentary. I'm with you on the unfluted cylinder revolvers. They have never really gotten my attention either. It's funny about my favorite barrel length. I prefer the looks and feel of the 2.5" barrel, but rather shoot the 4" barrel guns. I don't have a 3" barrel gun yet, so I really don't have a hands-on opinion of one. The 7-shot guns are great, but I'm more of a traditionalist, so 6-shot guns are my preference.

[@carlosmorris4510]

I have a newer model 6" barrel 686, and it's a real nail-driver with it's barrel length; maximum velocity!... A great range and hunting revolver, while not being too large. A classic 6-shot with the fluted cylinder (I've never understood the appeal of unfluted cylinders; they look kinda ugly to me - missing the distinctive, traditional look).

[@WeletcherdCows]

I just realized I know nothing about My 686-6 plus deluxe. Excellent trigger work and it has taken a hog down..hence the reason I bought it. I instantly knew mine looked nothing like yours but never would’ve realized that without watching this video. Very informative. Do we believe the frames on these newer ones will with stand a steady diet of 357 magnum?

[@mr2275cur]

Any 686 is a great gun. It is build to shoot .357 magnums all day long without issues. It shouldn't be a problem. The newer guns frames aren't as robust as older ones, but they don't need to be due to improved steel metallurgy. I have a 686-6 Plus also. But I still prefer the older ones.

[@henrycruz45cal]

I like that you give your reasons for calling the -3 the best 686. I disagree with your statement that the balance is the same no matter what the barrel length. The length definitely changes the balance. As for the wood grip. My -6 plus 3" (deluxe) has wood grips. Most of the plus versions have wood grips and so does my 686 PC 2.5". I would say the 2.5" PC is the best. The trigger is smoother, the crown is cut, the chambers are chamfered, the wheel is unfluted, front sight is adjustable, the hammer and trigger is chromed, no MIM parts and it is chamber for 7 rnds. All those extras and it can be bought for just $150 more than the regular 686 The PC feels better when shooting than my deluxe (to me). Have you tried one?

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Mr. Cruz, but I think you misunderstood what I said about the *3 balance. My comment is that "I believe the -3 is the most balanced version of the 686; regardless of barrel length." Not that the gun was balanced the same at all barrel lengths. I have not tried a PC 686-6. I respect all of reasons why you believe its the best version of the 686. However, it doesn't sway me for preferring the -3. I like the firing pin placement, the forged hammer and triggers, the Goncalo Alves stocks, and the more robust feel of the gun over the -6's. They're both awesome guns.

[@henrycruz45cal]

@@mr2275cur I see what you meant now, thanks. BUT I'm sad to not have been able to convert you ;)

[@mr2275cur]

@@henrycruz45cal LOL... You almost got me. But I will be seeking one out to look at and fondle now. Thanks for sharing that with me.

[@dickgoesinya9419]

Thank you for the very informative video on the different variations. I bought the same revolver you have pictured about twenty years ago because I love the Combat grips. I had no idea how well a short bbl. like this could. shoot. I also had no idea how much these guns would increase in value. I should have gotten a few more when they were more affordable, but I am happy with the one I have.

[@mr2275cur]

Yeah, if we had a Crystal Ball. i'd have bought 20 of them - right!

[@claytoncarter4071]

Well Said Sir, well said. You are extremely Versed in Smith & Wesson knowledge friend. You are Spot On!

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Mr. Carter...

[@rilloveson8480]

Great review , lots of knowledge there .

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Sir.

[@PopsGunChannel]

Beautifull Gun I just sold my 3 inch no lock with ported barrel That thing was so accurate

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you . I'm looking to buy a 3" model. i prefer a pre-lock model.

[@Damnmad68]

I appreciate your opinion man. I've watched your videos for a good while and agree with you about the 686. I've shot them since they came to my attention in the early 80s. I don't have any newer models than the dash 3 so I can't say for sure that your right, but I respect your opinion. They're all sexy until the addition of the lug that drops below and behind the cylinder and not a fan of the new slide release either, or the lawyer lock. Keep up the videos man. I have a 4", 6", and (2) that are 8 3/8" and a 6" 586. Wonderful sexy guns. I have 36's and 60's as well. Even a 29-3 with 8 3/8" and a model 10. Gotta love the factory S&W factory trigger....sweet shooters

[@hsmith3844]

You Sir, since I’ve found your sight have given me so much info delivered professionally.

[@TexasToastGuitars]

Great video my friend, thanks for doing this. I got a lead on one of these and was wondering what the differences were.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Sir...

[@christianhardwick6530]

Those 386 night guards are pretty sweet too, if you can get your hands on one. They usually go for $1200+ or so in bid wars on gunbroker !

[@philsimonson4375]

Although the 686 is awesome in any form, the best of the 686 line was the dash four seven shot. Why? It had all of the right revisions to make it more dependable. It had no lock or MIM parts yet, and it was the first revision to offer the seven shot. Your point about the rear sight is noted, but it only makes a difference on the snub. Even the dash three had the frame drop down at the barrel on the four or six inch. That nullifies the front sight change. The dash three in your video is a close second, but the dash four in either the six or seven shot is the best of the best.

[@mr2275cur]

I respect your perspective, but I prefer the dash 3. I have a 6" dash4 and it is a beauty. But my visual preference with square lines over rounded lines is the difference maker for me. They're virtually the same guns aside for the frame / rear sight difference in 6-shot configurations. Both equally excellent and both equally dependable.

[@jamesdavis8351]

I agree. The 686-3 is the best revolver ever made by S&W.

[@mr2275cur]

It's one of my favorites.

[@angryviking4496]

Love your videos... I'm leaning towards finding/buying a pre-lock 686 7 shot with 3" barrel. If I went with 6 shot, it would definitely be the dash 3.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you. Good luck finding that pre-lock 3", 7-shot 686. And be prepared to pay dearly when you do. Ouch... LOL.

[@elihollins1]

Great insight. I hope I can find a dash 3 one day for a good price

[@mr2275cur]

You can. Just look consistently and patiently.

[@tomr3074]

Beautiful 686, I too like the older style cylinder release. Thanks for the video

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you....

[@kentonhammond8938]

I have one, the 686 + 7 shot ! 2 & 1/2" barrel. Put a Houge checkered Cocobolo finger groove combat grip on it and it is my very favorite carry .357 magnum. Although I do carry a Ruger SP101 .357 magnum three inch barrelled revolver sometimes. A tad lighter & smaller, but you lose 2 rounds, but they are a little easier to conceal. The .357 magnum is the all around best cartridge ever invented. Still holds the Law Enforcement 1 shot stop record.

[@mr2275cur]

The SP-101 is a really good conceal revolver. The only drawback ,if there is one, is the 5-shot capacity. The 686 is a good bit larger, but still reasonably concealable with proper grips and clothing.

[@Robert_Sparkman_05]

I like your voice. I am thinking about buying a 686 Plus in 3" or 4". I don't like the grip on the gun in your thumbprint but those can be swapped out. I might go with the Hogue style grips and then find a nice standard wood ones.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Sir. Either one of those would be nice, but I believe I'd try for the 3". I personally prefer Pachmayr over Hogue revolver grips, and use them when shooting or carrying. These S&W originals stocks look and feel great, and offer a secure grip, but I don't want to damage them since they are expensive, scarce and freshly refinished.

[@cerescorubi]

Been looking for a dash 3 version in 3" barrel. Finally found a CS1 and it might be the best one yet. I guess this is a no dash with the 27 tolerances that were tightened up to meet the Customs Service requirements.

[@mr2275cur]

Congratulations.

[@thomaswhite2802]

Very good video, I have had a 686-5 4” bbl for 20 years and it’s my favorite but I agree the hogue mono grip came with it and I would probably prefer a wooden target grip with out fingers grips

[@mr2275cur]

Yeah, S&W dropped the ball big time with the Hogue Monogrips (IMHO). You can find S&W Round Butt Target Stocks (sometimes referred to as "Banana Grips") on ebay at times for $150 - $180.

[@jckeltz]

3" 686+ with Hogue round butt conversion/soft rubber/no finger grooves grips.

[@mr2275cur]

Sounds like a good combination.

[@kylewood8327]

Can’t argue with your reasoning here, great looking revolver!

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you...

[@elevatorguy1841]

What a great video! I'm a lot smarter on the 686 series than I was eleven minutes ago.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you, and i'm glad that you gained some knowledge.

[@MegaDriver007]

That is a beautiful gun. I just started looking for a 686 Plus

[@stuartmarkman769]

I have a 1983 model 686 with the M stamp. I found it at a gun show and payed 295.00 for it. What a steal. I would never sell this gun. It had a miner problem when I bought it , but it was an easy fix and love it.

[@mr2275cur]

You should never sell it. $295.00 for and early 686 -- WOW...! You should have bought a Lottery ticket that day.

[@stuartmarkman769]

@@mr2275cur When I bought the gun it had the factory wood grips but they weren't comfortable so I changed them too Hogue grips and saved the wood ones for their collectability.

[@mr2275cur]

@@stuartmarkman769 That was a smart decision.

[@RickyJr46]

Your subject gun here is a beauty!

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Mr. Juliet. It's one of my favorites.

[@stephanieroberts1394]

Extremely informative. I learned so much. Thank you.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you for watching; and I'm glad it was helpful.

[@offshorequest]

Thanks for another informative video. I also prefer the firing pin on the hammer and the forged hammer and trigger. My "no dash" 6" is the perfect revolver for me. I have a 66-2 6" which is nearly identical but the fully lugged barrel on the 686 adds a bit of visual appeal.

[@mr2275cur]

Yes sir.

[@mattbachman5291]

What a good collective video. Well executed! Spoken clean, nice show piece. Good voice, well thought to defuse negative critics right at the beginning. Lol

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Sir.

[@pychen1969]

Even though you said it's your opinion only, this video is actually full of informative facts and history. Well delivered! BTW I also agree that dash 3 is the best dash. I have a 4" 586-3 from 1990~91, love it! What's your opinion on 586 vs. 686? I think functionally they should be the same other than cosmetics. Mine's a square butt but lately I think round butts look nicer.

[@mr2275cur]

They're the exact same gun manufactured in different metals. The 686 is all SS; whereas the 586 is carbon steel. They're same size, shoot and feel the same. I must admit though that I believe the 586 triggers wear in a little better than the 686's.

[@shawncampbell3191]

Fantastic information and thank you for the great video!

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you for watching.

[@saigawesnovember]

I have a no dash 6” my dad gave me in the late 1990’s. I told him I wanted something for home defense, after about 10 minutes of him saying nope,not that one. I ended up with this one. It came with the original box,tools still sealed in plastic and his LEO business card. Also he used it in competition, it has a very light trigger. He told me I should have it brought back to stock. I’m used to it now so why bother.

[@mr2275cur]

Congratulations and I agree with you...

[@roberta.6399]

Solid review. Thanks

[@Saladon89]

I like the new lock feature for conceal carry folks like me and the 7 boolets cylinder instead of the 6

[@mr2275cur]

Understood. But you know that 7-shot versions were made before the locks were introduced. You can find them on 686-4 and 686-5 versions.

[@connormartin4787]

"I don't know what the scales say...but the hand is the best judge."

[@mr2275cur]

I agree 100% on that. Specs don't mean much if you don't like it.

[@jamesbarry6979]

Thanks , Great Knowledge of the 686s God Bless ya...

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you Sir. God Bless you too.

[@miked-up]

100% agree the -3 is the best

[@heavydutyreviews1303]

Yes!! You made another great video!! I have got to get me a Smith and Wesson model 686-3! Do those 686-3's come in a 686 plus 7 shot version at all? I know you said they didn't start until the dash 4's but that would be the perfect gun. A Smith and Wesson 686-3 plus

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you HDR. I hate to disappoint you, but I don't think so. I've never seen one. Even a 7-shot "-4's" is hard to find.

[@heavydutyreviews1303]

@@mr2275cur well I really like the look of the 3 or 5 inch 3-5-7 686's plus with the unfluted cylinders. Then again all of yours are real gems especially that -3 2.5 incher! Love that snubby and those grips are a masterpiece

[@mr2275cur]

@@heavydutyreviews1303 Thanks....

[@MDpolo]

I know this is an older video but I just purchased a 686-6 seven round version and absolutely love it. The polish is not mirror finish anymore like yours is and I would love to find somebody to polish it again. Like you said, it came with a rubber grip and I’m looking for a set of nice wood grips for it thank you very much for the video.

[@mr2275cur]

Thank you for watching. I purchase my S&W factory stocks on eBay and Gunbroker. Gungrips.com also sells BEAUTIFUL S&W reproduction stocks that look and feel identical or better than S&W originals. You can polish it yourself if you're not looking for a "true mirror" finish. I hand polished mine to a bright clear finish, but is is not mirrored.

[@MDpolo]

@@mr2275cur thank you very much for the info. Much appreciated.

[@mr2275cur]

@@MDpolo 👍

[@charlesharper7292]

I just inherited a 686 almost identical to the one in the video. The grip on mine is a darker wood, the s&w medallions are metal. My frame isn't satin but is not mirror polished. Did you polish yours or did they come that way? I'm learning. Never had a s&w before. I lost my wife a few days ago and this was hers. Thanks for the video.

[@mr2275cur]

Mr. Harper, I am so sorry about you losing your wife. My thoughts and prayers to you. As far as the gun, the 686 is a great gun.. The gun in this video had a brushed finish when I bought it. I polished it and refinished the stocks.

[@charlesharper7292]

@@mr2275cur looks great, good job! I do a lot of polishing on internal parts. The innards in my Glocks look like you could hang em on a Christmas tree 🌲.

[@mr2275cur]

@@charlesharper7292 That would be a interesting tree ornament. LOL... You think Santa would approve...?

[@sofakinggood5829]

I just bought a no dash on gun broker. Should be here tomorrow. I'm so excited.

[@mr2275cur]

Congratulations Sofa King. Like a kid waiting on Christmas.