SMITH & WESSON MODEL 686
Posted Jun 12, 2023
For serious handgun enthusiasts, the Smith & Wesson Model 686 is often considered the crown jewel of the Smith & Wesson revolvers. The 686 is the modern offspring of the earlier S&W models such as the 66, 19, and 28. It is a medium-framed, six-shot .357 Magnum revolver that looks and feels like it could last through a zombie apocalypse.
The 686 has been generally well-received and is popular for uses in both hunting and target shooting. With its solid construction, it is a rugged gun that was built for serious minded shooters. This does not mean that someone brand new to guns could not own and use it, as the 686 is relatively straightforward and, with the proper amount of instructions and practice, even a novice could handle and feel safe using this gun.
The 686 is basically the same size as the S&W 66 and shares a classic blued, stainless steel look with a beautiful, checkered rubber grip that has been proven to absorb the blow of recoil. The 686 is slightly larger than the compact Model 60, but its strong construction gives the 686 remarkable durability. The 686 is 8.5 inches long and has a six-round cylinder capable of holding .357 Magnum, 9mm, and .38 Special ammo. The gun has S&W's internal lock system that is essentially an extra step or verification that the gun is unloaded.
In terms of accuracy, the 686 is considered highly reliable and accurate with the right ammo. For hunting, it is a genuine hard hitter, particularly with a heavy bullet, and the .357 Magnum is more than enough for protection against any medium-sized game. For smaller animals, a .38 Special round will give a shooter plenty of reliability.
The 686 is an excellent beginner gun and also a great choice for experienced shooters. There are a few features that make this gun standout from the rest, such as its intense recoil reduction, a generous trigger reset, and a solid frame that offers great handling in both single and double action. A large thumb shield on the right side of the frame helps protect the shooter's hands from a hot chamber and can also be used to rest the thumb.
When firing, the 686 remains exceptionally accurate and comfortable. The single action trigger is light and smooth with a predictable break, while the double action trigger is reasonably heavy but still crisp. This means you can expect the same feel every time, resulting in better accuracy for more precise shots.
In addition, the 686 is equipped with adjustable sights that are regulated to make the gun as accurate as possible. The sights are easy to see and remain in good condition, even after many rounds fired. The weighted 3.5-inch barrel creates a comfortable balance for the user and when combined with the sight, provides a deadly accurate shooting experience.
The 686 is also one of the very few Smith & Wesson revolvers to be shipped with a moon clip. The moon clip is an ammo carrier that ensures quick reloads and helps provide more consistent accuracy and sustained firing power.
Overall, the Smith & Wesson 686 is an ideal choice for shooters looking for a dependable handgun that packs enough punch for protection or hunting small game. With its reliable accuracy and modest price tag, the 686 is a great choice for both novice and experienced shooters alike. The gun is solid, reliable, accurate, and equipped with plenty of features that allow it to stand up to the toughest tests. Those looking for a revolver that packs a serious punch and will last for years to come, the 686 is the right choice.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• Solid design and construction – Smith & Wesson’s Model 686 is a sturdy firearm, built sturdy for a variety of uses.
• High capacity – The Model 686 offers 7 rounds of .357 magnum goodness in the cylinder. This sidearm is a great choice for home defense, as it will provide better hit probability, accuracy, and penetration than smaller calibers.
• High accuracy – The 686 has a pinned barrel, meaning the barrel is machined into a steel frame, thus providing accuracy and stability.
• Versatility – The 686 can chamber both .357 Magnums and .38 special cartridges, making it a great choice for any application.
Cons:
• Potentially heavy – The Smith & Wesson 686 can weigh upwards of two to three pounds, making it a bit heavy for some shooters.
• Prone to jamming – Like many other revolvers, the Model 686 is prone to jamming when dirt, dust, mud, or other debris gets into the action.
• Expensive – Compared to other handguns, the Smith & Wesson Model 686 is quite expensive, with its price ranging between $800 and $1200.
Who Should Buy
The Smith & Wesson Model 686 is a versatile handgun that is suitable for target shooting, self-defense, and hunting. It is a well-made and reliable revolver that can be purchased for a reasonable price at most gun shops.
Any person 21 years of age or older who is legally allowed to own a firearm should be able to purchase the Smith & Wesson Model 686. Potential owners should also be knowledgeable of local, state, and federal gun laws and be familiar with the safe and responsible handling and storage of firearms.
People who do not meet the legal requirements for owning a firearm should not buy the Smith & Wesson Model 686. Additionally, inexperienced gun owners or those who are unfamiliar with how to safely handle and store firearms should refrain from purchasing this gun.
Comparisons
| Specification | SMITH & WESSON 686-4 | SMITH & WESSON MODEL 57 | SMITH & WESSON 360PD AIRLITE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .357 Magnum/.38 Special | .41 Magnum | .357 Magnum |
| Capacity | 6 Rounds | 5 Rounds | 5 Rounds |
| Barrel length | 4" | 6" | 2" |
| Weight | 37.2 oz | 45.0 oz | 12.4 oz |
| Frame | L-Frame | N-Frame | J-Frame |
| Action | Double/Single Action | Single/Double Action | Double Action Only |
Features / Specs
• .357 Magnum/.38 Special
• 6 round cylinder
• Double Action/Single Action
• Stainless steel
• 4" barrel
• 6.5" overall length
• 1.5" width
• 13.5" sight radius
• Target sights
• Rubber grips
Popular Accessories
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- Sight accessories: fiber optic sights, night sights, scope mounts, and optics.
- Grips: rubber, wood, and custom.
- Holsters: leather, nylon, and kydex.
- Barrels: ported and heavy.
- Speedloaders: plastic, aluminum, and titanium.
- Trigger systems: tuned, aftermarket, and competition.
- Accessories: frame and trigger guard weights, lanyards, hammers, and recoils springs.
- Magazine extensions.
- Recoil pads and compensators.
Accuracy
The Smith and Wesson Model 686 is consistently ranked among the most accurate handguns available today. The accuracy of the gun is attributed to its shot-to-shot repeatability and a barrel/cylinder gap that’s designed to reduce corrosion. This 6-shot revolver is chambered for .357 magnum, and is known for its accuracy when firing at long distances. It can keep all six rounds in a group equal to or better than most 3-inch barrels at 25 yards. It’s a top choice both for hunters and competitive target shooters.
