SMITH & WESSON 986 PERFORMANCE CENTER
Posted May 25, 2023
Introduction
Smith & Wesson has long been one of the most respected names in firearms, and the 986 Performance Center is no exception. The 986 Performance Center is a 9mm handgun that combines all the best features of the modern handgun for the demanding shooter. From its ergonomic design and custom trigger work, to its adjustable sight system and superior accuracy, the 986 Performance Center truly stands out from the crowd.
Design
The design of the Smith & Wesson 986 Performance Center is something that really sets it apart from other handguns. The ergonomics are excellent, with an ergonomic grip that fits comfortably into your hand and provides a great platform for shooting. The contours of the gun come together just right, making it a pleasure to hold. The 986 also features a unique thumb rest on the left side of the frame, which provides a resting pad for the shooter’s thumb when not in use. This feature helps ensure that the gun points naturally and doesn’t require excessive movement of the shooter’s hand to be held correctly.
The 986 also comes with a Picatinny rail mounted to the dust cover, which is great for attaching laser sights or lights. This rail also comes standard with Smith & Wesson’s patented “magazine block,” which keeps the magazine in place and prevents accidental ejection. The trigger guard also features an integrated trigger safety, a great feature that helps ensure that the gun won’t fire unless the trigger is pulled properly.
The slide is constructed from stainless steel and features a matte black finish. This finish is not only attractive, but also provides additional corrosion and wear resistance. The slide also features attractive slide serrations and a loaded chamber indicator, which allows the user to easily check if the gun is loaded or not.
The barrel on the Performance Center is constructed from stainless steel and also features a matte black finish. The barrel features a 5.25 inch length and a polygonal rifling to provide superior accuracy and an increase in velocity. This is a great feature for those who want an exceptionally accurate handgun.
In addition to the features already mentioned, the 986 also features a number of Performance Center upgrades. These include a custom hammer, trigger, and sear crafted with superior metals and components, and a match grade chamber for enhanced accuracy. The Performance Center also features an adjustable trigger stop, so the shooter can customize the trigger pull to best suit their needs.
Performance
The performance of the Smith & Wesson 986 Performance Center is what really sets it apart from other handguns. This gun is one of the most accurate handguns on the market, and has been tested to consistently shoot 1 inch groups with match grade ammunition. The adjustable sights allow the shooter to easily and quickly adjust for different shooting conditions, and the match grade chamber ensures that the gun performs consistently shot after shot.
The Performance Center also features an exceptionally smooth trigger pull that has been optimized for competition style shooting. This trigger pull makes it easy to get on and stay on target, which can make the difference when shooting for accuracy. The trigger also has a very short reset, which ensures that the shooter can get back on target quickly and accurately.
The ergonomics of the 986 also help ensure a comfortable, consistent shooting experience. The contours of the gun fit perfectly into the hand, and the thumb rest on the left side of the frame helps reduce fatigue and make shooting a joy.
The 986 also features an incredibly reliable action that is built to last. The stainless steel slide is built to last and can withstand the recoil of 9mm ammunition with no problem. The Performance Center upgrades increase the reliability even further, and this gun should be able to handle any kind of abuse you can throw at it.
Conclusion
The Smith & Wesson 986 Performance Center is simply one of the best handguns on the market. Its accuracy and ergonomics combine to create an exceptionally comfortable and accurate shooting experience, and the job Smith & Wesson did on the Performance Center upgrades really makes this gun stand out from the crowd. This gun is perfect for competition shooting, but can also be used for home defense or simply for recreational shooting. There is absolutely no doubt that the 986 Performance Center is an excellent handgun that you won’t regret owning.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Powerful 9mm semi-automatic that is built for accuracy.
- Performance Center customization options provide the capability to tailor the firearm to its user.
- It has low recoil due to the ported barrel and compensator.
- Excellent ergonomics make it more comfortable and easier to shoot.
- Ergonomic enhancements include a rubber wraparound grip and interchangeable backstrap.
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other handguns.
- Heavy, at over 2.5 pounds unloaded.
- Limited aftermarket accessories for this gun.
- Parts are difficult to find and may require a Performance Center technician for repairs.
- Low magazine capacity of 6 rounds.
Who Should Buy
The Smith & Wesson 986 Performance Center pistol is an ideal choice for experienced shooters or collectors who want a well-crafted, quality revolver. Those who are new to shooting or who are looking for home defense firearms may want to look into other options. The weight and size of the 986 Performance Center can make it difficult to handle if you are not familiar with larger, heavier guns.
Comparisons
| Weapon | Smith & Wesson 986 Performance Center | Alternative 1 | Alternative 2 | Alternative 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 6" | 5" | 4.25" | 6" |
| Caliber | .357 Magnum (9mm compatible) | .45 ACP | .40 S&W | .45 ACP |
| Capacity | 9 rounds | 5 rounds | 13 rounds | 10 rounds |
| Action | Double Action/Single Action | Double Action | Double Action | Double Action |
| Grips | Custom Hogue Overmold | Wood | Polymer | Rubber |
| Sights | Adjustable Orange Fiber Optic | Fixed | Adjustable | Fixed |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Alloy | Steel | Alloy |
Features / Specs
• Capacity: 6 Rounds
• Caliber: .357 MAG
• Barrel Length: 4”
• Overall Length: 9.3”
• Weight Unloaded: 42 oz
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Sights: Adjustable
• Grips: Hogue Bantam
Popular Accessories
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- Pistol Sights
- Triggers
- Grips
- Optics
- Magazines
- Holsters
- Recoil Springs
- Magazine Well
- Muzzle Brakes
- Laser Sights
Accuracy
The Smith & Wesson 986 Performance Center is a great choice for shooters looking for accuracy and reliability. This gun features a 9-round, double-action/single-action, recoil-operated firearm designed to fire rimless .357 Magnum cartridges. The 986 is capable of producing highly accurate shots even from longer distances, thanks to its adjustable barrel/cylinder gap and ability to mount an Optical Sight. Users report consistent accuracy with the 986 Performance Center, even after years of use. Those looking for a dependable, accurate handgun should consider the Smith & Wesson 986 Performance Center.
