Just walked in to Turner’s Reseda, I was going to pay off a Taurus 605, when I noticed something in the display case, as soon as I held it I knew I had to get it. 686-3 identical to this one, I feel so lucky to have purchased it.
It's always fantastic to hear about other folks' dream guns and all the facts behind their motivation - the why, where, who, how and all that. Pure passion for the object and the hobby - love it.
Same here. Seeing anyone that excited about something this awesome is wholesome. You can tell he really wanted it for a while and finally got it. Best feeling. As someone who owns multiple s&w revolvers I know the joy 😂❤🇺🇸🦅
I have a 686+ which is a nice one but I have the same feelings you have for my Model 19-2 w/2-1/2 inch barrel, Class of 1973, it is the real deal and accurate.
My son bought a 686 with a 4 inch barrel for a couple hundred bucks a few years ago. It was dark and tarnished and the grips were worn. He is a genius at polishing stainless steel and he bought some grips and it is beautiful. The old grips were stamped 1985. The very first time I shot it I had the best group of my life at that time. By the way, I have the Ruger GP100 Plus and the 7 shot speed loaders are interchangeable with the 686 Plus
My wife bought me a S&W 686-3 with a 4" barrel for my 50th birthday. You're right, a work of art. It is my most accurate handgun. I shoot more accurately with it than my Colt Python. Mine has the target grips but yours is beautiful too.
Got the S&W-586. Same revolver just a blued finish. A bit heavier than my S&W-10. But I can shoot .357 Magnums all day long. Got two holsters, a Galco Phoenix and a Galco FLETCH. THE FLETCH holster is better for concealed carry since it has a good cant, and, it works better with a seated draw when driving. The Phoenix is straight vertical so it works better for competition shooting. Those 686 & 586 are some durable revolvers. I can see why Sheriff Grimes uses a similar revolver, the Colt Python, for Zombie duty. Although, I say just use a .38-special for those dead walkers. They're mostly rotten. Leave the .357-mags for Neegan and the Governor.
I bought the 3 inch about 5 years ago…always been obsessed with the look and feel of this gun! Just a work of art…and so good to shoot! I love it! Nice video!
Thank you John. I plan to hang onto it for a long time. When friends and family come over, it will be my gun to turn them onto guns, if they're not already turned on to them.
Congratulations!!! I know how you fell. I got lucky few years ago and ran into someone that wanted to sell me his guns. I bought from him a near flawless S&W Model 19-3 357mag nickel plated 2.5" barrel revolver. I looked up the serial number and it was made in 1970. If l were to sell it today, l can easily sell it for 4-5 times what l paid for it. Congratulations to you again for finding your dream gun!
Nice score! I recently developed a love affair with the 686 too, 5 weeks ago. Since Dec 7 I have purchased a 2.5 plus model, a 5" plus model, and last Tuesday I scored a 686 no dash with a 4" barrel at a local gun store and it was pure luck that I happened to walk in right when they opened and they were putting it on display. Polished them all up and switched the rubber grips out for nice wood grips and brought that no dash back to life with about 7 hours of work. I can't even look at my plastic pistols anymore lol!
Revolvers are reliable. You pull the trigger, it will shoot. And in actual situation you will not need more than 6 bullets. It will be over before it. Stopping power is excellent
My great regret was in not buying the three inch version built for Border Patrol K9 Officer's. For those of us who grew up with revolvers I can shoot one faster and more accurately then a Glock
Practice, practice, practice. Love that you got the gun of your dreams. I owned that revolver in the '80's. With Federal .357 Magnum 125 JHP, (97 % one shot stops) this wheel-gun kicked a**! Congrats on your acquisition; keep it !
Hey Ben, I can't remember the dash number, but I had one exactly like that in the 80s. I ended up selling it because, at the time, I thought the muzzle blast and flash were horrendous with full-house .357 rounds. I'm kicking myself right now because those S&W Combat grips alone are today worth more than what I got for the entire gun back then! Nice score!
PhilippicPhilodox Hey man. Hey man, kicking myself too. Back in the 80's, bought the 686 with the 8 3/8" barrel and talk about sweet! Could shoot full house 357's with no muzzle jump. Freakin' tack driver. Use to shoot old vegetable cans Creedmoor style in the woods for fun! What a blast (no pun intended)!!! Let it go about 25 years ago and regret it. May look for another one, maybe 4" or so.
If I could travel back in time, I’d tell every owner of a GP100 or 66/686: whatever you, don’t ever sell this gun. There will be a thing called the “internet”, full of people kicking themselves for doing so 😃
@@ted.angell7609 If only...Yeah, I let some true gems go: a West German P226 with an original "Sig Stick" 20-round magazine that was an absolute tack driver, another Sig tack driver in the form of a P220, a beautiful S&W model 25 in .45 Colt with a pinned barrel, a nice little Baby Browing with near perfect bluing that I traded away because I thought it was cute but useless, and the list goes on and on. Never again! I'm keeping everything until they have to pry them from my cold, dead hands.
Great choice. I have a S&W Model 19 with 2.5" barrel. I bought mine in 1975. The 686 is the more modern version of it, same grip frame so about the same to conceal. I won't give up my Model 19. If I were buying one today, I'd probably go with the 686.
First off, great choice! I have both 2.5” and 3” 686 Plus revolvers, bought used. My 686+ 2.5” has a cylinder gap of 0.007”, which, along with the shorter barrel, sorta cripples it ballistically. Still, with elk stag scales and a Tyler T-Grip Adapter, and polished up a little, it’s about the prettiest handgun I own. Life’s too short to carry an ugly gun.
I have two SW-686 ; 6 hinch and 4 barrel, and the original 586, but I have to the SW- 66 / 4", manucfatured on early 1970...,THE BEST FOR ME ! Finish and Shooting !🇺🇸
Hi Ben. I have recently bought from your company and found it a good experience. That gun is a beautiful gun. There is something about a revolver that is appealing, even though they are less popular now than semi-automatics. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Chris, thanks for sharing. Glad your experience with Gunscom was positive. Yes, revolvers are great. We love the new guns too but there's something very satisfying about slightly older guns.
That's a beauty. I am also a fan of the snub nose 686. Those combat grips are some of the most ergonomic that S&W ever made. And yes they use to make them at the factory back in the day. Don't waste your time with the Altamont version as they just don't feel the same (plus they're laminate). Eagle Grips and Culina are the only ones who come close.
The grips are Goncalo Alves..wood from Brazil..Back in the day I worked with a girl who's father worked at S&W in Springfield...He got me 4 pairs for my revolvers...can't beat 'em...
I bought a 686 with a 6-inch barrel probably 13 years ago. It's a tack driver and my favorite 357/38 revolver in my collection. Last time I had it out, I shot a 1" group at somewhere between 20 and 25 yards using 357 magnum loads. It also likes my 38 wad cutter hand loads. I can not recommend the 686 enough. The 629 (it's 44 mag big brother) is also a wonderfully made gun and highly accurate too.
I have a 686 plus in 3" with Altamont boot rosewood grips. Gun was upgraded with S&W master revolver service package and is simply beautiful and amazing to shoot!. Enjoy your new toy!
Cool gun I've got several smiths. Just got the same gun 686 no dash. With super incredible engraving. A long time friend knew I loved the gun he gave it to me.. (good friend). Been shooting games for years with smith revolvers
I have a 6" 686-3 that I won't trade for the world. Of course, I won't trade any of my other old Smiths, either (how many I own is none of the feds' business). I would never buy one of their new lawyer lock, transfer bar monstrosities. A 4" barrel is the shortest I will go, due to the longer sight radius of the longer barrels. The best thing you can do for an old Smith revolver is to install a new Wolff mainspring and trigger rebound spring. ALL of my Smiths have had the upgrade, and it's like getting a "trigger job" for $20.00. You won't believe how much smoother and lighter the "double action" trigger pull is. I've been shooting and owning S&W revolvers since the 1970's, and they are the best DA revolvers out there. Sorry Colt, although your revolvers are good, too. Tip: Some people overlook the fixed sight Smiths, thinking they NEED the adjustable rear sight. You don't, and you can usually save some money buying the fixed sight models.
You were honest about not shooting revolvers. As someone who owned a 4" 686 and now this exact one you are shooting, the grip on revolvers is a bit different from autos. It helps to wrap your support thumb around the back of your firing hand
I know it's heresy to mention Ruger in this thread, but I have both a 686 4-inch and a Ruger Security Six and they are both a pair of revolvers I'll never sell. After some "smoothing", my Ruger has a trigger almost as nice as my 686. Both are heavy, but I carry them both while hunting and for a hike in the woods with no problems. You just can't beat the feel of a revolver over a semi!
I like those K & L frames with straight upper frame flowing in a massive barrel rib. No shortcuts, no savings, nothing. Just beauty. First time i fell in love with Smiths was with a N frame, a 4 inches model 57 that set forever proportion in my mind, Ps: you just shown the only way i can digest a G19 - with a flashligh. You know, proportions...
I’ve got one just like that I bought new back in the 80s, it’s on my CCW though I very rarely carry it, it’s still in mint condition and like you I love that gun.
Great choice! The Smith grips really make it. Every time I go after a 686, something else comes up, like a J-frame or a 629 Classic. Not complaining, I've never regretted buying a Smith.
I have a pristine Model 66 that I purchased used around 1985. It came with a Mag-na-port job and radioactive night sights, which have long since run out of juice.
About 3yrs ago I bought the newer version of the SW 686, 357, 2 1/2 inch barrel, 7 shot for 750dlrs. with the rubber pakmeyer grip. It is a great conceal weapon. I carry it on my leather shoulder holster at times or in my leather pancake holster!! I plan on purchasing a Henry or Marlin, lever action rifle of the same 357 mag caliber, open sight, for a saddle gun also!! Don't underestimate the knockdown power of the 357 magnum, when loaded with the correct bullets, for what you might encounter!! I have a Henry lever action rifle in 44 mag and a model 629, 44 mag, with a 81/2 inch barrel, stainless, that I pack when hunting in the backwoods of Montana, with 305 grain Bear load bullets!!
I had a very similar revolver. It was a 629 Horton with the 2.5" barrel and those same style wood grips. A lovely gun. Unfortunately i lost it to the gun ban in the UK.
Hey Ben, I had the same model, although it was a 686-4. Like s dumbass I traded it thinking I'd be able to get another one. However, that never came to pass. Wish I could find another one. Although I can only imagine what they'd be asking for one. I'm a big Smith & Wesson revolver fan! That's a Bute! Good luck with it!!
I am 78 and I still have and often carry my first S&W revolver which I bought new. It is a 38 Chiefs Special (No number designation since it was an early model? I love the weapon and as a young man I carried it all over the Chicago area. I too would love a revolver like yours - I is gorgeous! PS: I would not own a Glock as they are an incomplete weapon since they have NO SAFETY, and don't tell me you don't need one!
Love the 686…had a 6 inch back in 1988, it was a tack driver! Wish I still had it but my model 19-4, 6 inch that I bought in 1982 is still with me. The old S&W’s are just classics, to bad its all gone to plastic now.
Badger makes excellent grips. I called Altamont one day regarding a grip for a different gun and the sales manager they put me in touch with was an arrogant prick, so I took my business elsewhere.
I have one that looks just like this that I bought new back in the early 80's I believe it is the reason Smith & Wesson started making this particular gun it is a special order from Lew Horton and the only difference is the grips which look like the one you own but are made from Goncalo Alves wood there was a recall on them shortly after they issued them and I sent it to a gunsmith that Smith &Wesson told me to send it too and they did the work and stamped an M showing that it had been fixed ,it is a very nice shooting gun , still have the box it came with and the magazine article from guns & ammo that tell abought this model and several others that that Lew Horton ordered specially made ,I don't think they were rare at the time because he ordered them in 5000 gun quantities ,but after reading this I wonder how many are still around considering the effort that you went through to get this one , I also wonder if being a special order adds any value?
My father was a police officer for 30 years. He carried the 686 with a 6" barrel. Loaded with Remington 158 grain SJHP. in full .357. He believed it was the best police weapon ever made. I carried for off duty, the model 66 with a 2.5 inch barrel. the 66 is a K frame instead of the 686 L frame. A little smaller and but easier to carry concealed.
my mom bought me one for my 18th birthday 32 years ago I still hunt with it it has 6 inch barrel. I have over 20 thousand rounds through it with no issues.
For a Home-D night stand gun, your .357 is perfectly fine. Reliable with diverse options: .357, .38SP+, .38 special most gun fights do not go past 4 shots, so six or 7 rounds is fine statistically
I purchased a 586-3 with a 4-in barrel back in 1990. I too love this gun. Is it the 686 you really want it with the short barrel or was it the version 3 you were specifically looking for in the 686?
I was raised on wheel guns. I always felt the gun needed to have some heft and weight to it. I have several 357 Magnum. l enjoyed shooting 38 out of them due to cost factor and recoil Factor. However they were more accurate with 357 loads. When I went to buy an ACP the Glock 17 just came out and I thought that's great 17 rounds but when I handled it just didn't feel right something about a plastic gun, so I gotta 1911 45 ACP.
I owned 3, back in the day. But that short barrel loses so much power and is such a low accuracy barrel. A 4" works well, and the 6" is a tack driver. I owned The Dan Wesson 3 barreled set in Stainless. Incredible weapon. Enjoy your newest find!
I bought a 686+ with a 3“ barrel. I found out (from having the 66 with a 2.5“ barrel) that the 3“ barrel model comes with the ejector rod just long enough to fully kick out full .357 rounds, which are about 1/8“ longer than .38 SPL. The 2.75“ barrel guns will kick out .38‘s, but NOT the .357 cases…then you’re down in the weeds plucking them out one at a time.
Brother just got one. Beautiful guns. Happy you enjoy yours 🇺🇸🦅👍👍 happy 4th of July! With practice many can shoot double action near as well as they do single action. You were drilling it with single action 🎯🎯 nice review. Absolutely beautiful revolver. I LOVE s&w!
Great video! However, like most people, you are a bit confused about the transfer bar issue. Smith and Wesson revolvers do not have a Transfer Bar, they have a Hammer Block. Regardless of where the firing pin is, Smith and Wessons, even current production, have no Transfer Bar. I know what you are thinking, but here are two examples made the same way. 1. All pre 2020 Colt Pythons. 2. All pre 1988(ish) Taurus. They both had the floating frame mounted firing pin but yet no Transfer Bar. Here is the simplest explanation of the difference. A Transfer Bar has to be IN the way for the gun to fire. The Hammer Block has to be OUT of the way for the gun to fire. Hope this helps.
I have a 6" 686 I purchased new back in the 80's for $325. It's not a practical carry weapon and I only pack it when I'm in the woods. I replaced the original grips (original grips were thick and God awful) with some beautiful Altamont finger grooved walnut grips. It's really a stunning looking revolver. I'll never part with it.
Eagle and hogue make good grips. Ebay has some nice ones too. My 45, has some ebay grips, that look and feel good great without the expense of an Altamont.
You got very lucky with this Smith. I’ve been lusting after the same gun for years. New ones are a little pricey and the rubber grips are a real turnoff. Altamont grips are the way to go, but they always seem to be out of stock. I wish that they would expand or figure out some way to increase production. I have a few handguns waif or new grips. You also did very well with accuracy as it’s a little bit challenging with a 2.5 inch barrel. Enjoy.
It is beautiful. My question is do they come in three actual inches that's from where it exits the frame? I don't count the forcing cone as barrel length and I'm not a fan of snubbies. And is 4 inch an option?
I carry a 3” 686+ everyday. I also a 2.5” version, but the 3” is more accurate in my hands. I own Glocks, but the 686’s are more comfortable for me to carry: rounded edges.
Just walked in to Turner’s Reseda, I was going to pay off a Taurus 605, when I noticed something in the display case, as soon as I held it I knew I had to get it. 686-3 identical to this one, I feel so lucky to have purchased it.
It's always fantastic to hear about other folks' dream guns and all the facts behind their motivation - the why, where, who, how and all that. Pure passion for the object and the hobby - love it.
Same here. Seeing anyone that excited about something this awesome is wholesome. You can tell he really wanted it for a while and finally got it. Best feeling. As someone who owns multiple s&w revolvers I know the joy 😂❤🇺🇸🦅
A relic from another era, my friend. As the man said, "An elegant weapon, for a more... civilized age." Love it!
Great quote.
I have a 686+ which is a nice one but I have the same feelings you have for my Model 19-2 w/2-1/2 inch barrel, Class of 1973, it is the real deal and accurate.
My son bought a 686 with a 4 inch barrel for a couple hundred bucks a few years ago. It was dark and tarnished and the grips were worn. He is a genius at polishing stainless steel and he bought some grips and it is beautiful. The old grips were stamped 1985. The very first time I shot it I had the best group of my life at that time. By the way, I have the Ruger GP100 Plus and the 7 shot speed loaders are interchangeable with the 686 Plus
Wow, great comment. It's nice when a gun has a story. GP100's are very nice revolvers as well. Interesting about the speed loader.
My wife bought me a S&W 686-3 with a 4" barrel for my 50th birthday. You're right, a work of art. It is my most accurate handgun. I shoot more accurately with it than my Colt Python. Mine has the target grips but yours is beautiful too.
Lucky man. Enjoy. Beautiful gun.
Got the S&W-586. Same revolver just a blued finish. A bit heavier than my S&W-10. But I can shoot .357 Magnums all day long. Got two holsters, a Galco Phoenix and a Galco FLETCH. THE FLETCH holster is better for concealed carry since it has a good cant, and, it works better with a seated draw when driving. The Phoenix is straight vertical so it works better for competition shooting.
Those 686 & 586 are some durable revolvers. I can see why Sheriff Grimes uses a similar revolver, the Colt Python, for Zombie duty. Although, I say just use a .38-special for those dead walkers. They're mostly rotten. Leave the .357-mags for Neegan and the Governor.
mine killed 2 haus intruders!
@@GUNS-GDC that's a real nice gun 🔫
@@greatbritain530 👏👍
I always enjoy revolver videos. I especially enjoy revolver videos when people are able to find their dream guns.
Agreed 💯👍👍🇺🇸🦅❤️💙❤️
I bought the 3 inch about 5 years ago…always been obsessed with the look and feel of this gun! Just a work of art…and so good to shoot! I love it! Nice video!
Glad you enjoyed it Butch.
Just rewatched your video. That is a beautiful example of a great gun. I hope you get many great decades shooting that awesome handgun.
Thank you John. I plan to hang onto it for a long time. When friends and family come over, it will be my gun to turn them onto guns, if they're not already turned on to them.
Congratulations!!! I know how you fell. I got lucky few years ago and ran into someone that wanted to sell me his guns. I bought from him a near flawless S&W Model 19-3 357mag nickel plated 2.5" barrel revolver. I looked up the serial number and it was made in 1970. If l were to sell it today, l can easily sell it for 4-5 times what l paid for it. Congratulations to you again for finding your dream gun!
Thank you. Congrats to you too on your beautiful 19-3. Thanks for the comment S L.
Nice score! I recently developed a love affair with the 686 too, 5 weeks ago. Since Dec 7 I have purchased a 2.5 plus model, a 5" plus model, and last Tuesday I scored a 686 no dash with a 4" barrel at a local gun store and it was pure luck that I happened to walk in right when they opened and they were putting it on display. Polished them all up and switched the rubber grips out for nice wood grips and brought that no dash back to life with about 7 hours of work. I can't even look at my plastic pistols anymore lol!
Wow, lucky you. Nice finds!
@@GUNS-GDC n
Revolvers are reliable. You pull the trigger, it will shoot. And in actual situation you will not need more than 6 bullets. It will be over before it. Stopping power is excellent
My great regret was in not buying the three inch version built for Border Patrol K9 Officer's. For those of us who grew up with revolvers I can shoot one faster and more accurately then a Glock
Nice. Thanks for the comment.
Practice, practice, practice. Love that you got the gun of your dreams. I owned that revolver in the '80's. With Federal .357 Magnum 125 JHP, (97 % one shot stops) this wheel-gun kicked a**! Congrats on your acquisition; keep it !
Thanks for the comment Steve!
Hey Ben, I can't remember the dash number, but I had one exactly like that in the 80s. I ended up selling it because, at the time, I thought the muzzle blast and flash were horrendous with full-house .357 rounds. I'm kicking myself right now because those S&W Combat grips alone are today worth more than what I got for the entire gun back then! Nice score!
Muzzle flash isn't too bad with 357 mags. These revolvers hold their value and go up for sure. Thanks for the comment PhilippiccPhhilodox.
PhilippicPhilodox
Hey man. Hey man, kicking myself too. Back in the 80's, bought the 686 with the 8 3/8" barrel and talk about sweet! Could shoot full house 357's with no muzzle jump. Freakin' tack driver. Use to shoot old vegetable cans Creedmoor style in the woods for fun! What a blast (no pun intended)!!! Let it go about 25 years ago and regret it. May look for another one, maybe 4" or so.
If I could travel back in time, I’d tell every owner of a GP100 or 66/686: whatever you, don’t ever sell this gun. There will be a thing called the “internet”, full of people kicking themselves for doing so 😃
@@ted.angell7609 If only...Yeah, I let some true gems go: a West German P226 with an original "Sig Stick" 20-round magazine that was an absolute tack driver, another Sig tack driver in the form of a P220, a beautiful S&W model 25 in .45 Colt with a pinned barrel, a nice little Baby Browing with near perfect bluing that I traded away because I thought it was cute but useless, and the list goes on and on. Never again! I'm keeping everything until they have to pry them from my cold, dead hands.
Great choice. I have a S&W Model 19 with 2.5" barrel. I bought mine in 1975. The 686 is the more modern version of it, same grip frame so about the same to conceal. I won't give up my Model 19. If I were buying one today, I'd probably go with the 686.
Very nice. Thanks for sharing Gary.
I have the 2.5 inch nickel 19, pinned barrel and recessed cylinder with original gray box. The 686 is stronger, but heavy for a snub nose.
@@brianklamer3328 Agreed. That's why I keep the Model 19. You have a beauty there.
@@GUNS-GDC You are welcome.
@@garyK.45ACP Thanks Gary. Guys that collect firearms are also collecting a piece of history.
First off, great choice! I have both 2.5” and 3” 686 Plus revolvers, bought used. My 686+ 2.5” has a cylinder gap of 0.007”, which, along with the shorter barrel, sorta cripples it ballistically. Still, with elk stag scales and a Tyler T-Grip Adapter, and polished up a little, it’s about the prettiest handgun I own. Life’s too short to carry an ugly gun.
Beautiful gun. Thanks for sharing Don.
I have two SW-686 ; 6 hinch and 4 barrel, and the original 586, but I have to the SW- 66 / 4", manucfatured on early 1970...,THE BEST FOR ME ! Finish and Shooting !🇺🇸
About 15 years ago I sold. My 686 4 inch combat last week I bought it back it was never fired still in the box lucky me
Hi Ben. I have recently bought from your company and found it a good experience. That gun is a beautiful gun. There is something about a revolver that is appealing, even though they are less popular now than semi-automatics. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Chris, thanks for sharing. Glad your experience with Gunscom was positive. Yes, revolvers are great. We love the new guns too but there's something very satisfying about slightly older guns.
That's a beauty. I am also a fan of the snub nose 686. Those combat grips are some of the most ergonomic that S&W ever made. And yes they use to make them at the factory back in the day. Don't waste your time with the Altamont version as they just don't feel the same (plus they're laminate). Eagle Grips and Culina are the only ones who come close.
Great info about grips. Thanks for sharing Rafael.
The grips are Goncalo Alves..wood from Brazil..Back in the day I worked with a girl who's father worked at S&W in Springfield...He got me 4 pairs for my revolvers...can't beat 'em...
@@4catsnow Man that is awesome. If original and in good condition I have seen these grips sell for almost as much as the cost of the revolver.
@@Mr_Santo5 They really fit the natural contour of the hand,,and that wood is unbelievably hard...
I own a full set, 2-1/2", 4", 6", and 8-3/8". The 2-1/2" is definitely my favorite. I have used it competition and have done well with it.
I have the same except I don't have the 8 and 3/8 will not part with them
What a collection! Thanks for commenting David.
You lack the 3" made for the Customs Service . Thought I'd give you a new reason to live.
@@wheeldog5555 Damn my luck.
There is also a 5 inch version.
I bought a 686 with a 6-inch barrel probably 13 years ago. It's a tack driver and my favorite 357/38 revolver in my collection. Last time I had it out, I shot a 1" group at somewhere between 20 and 25 yards using 357 magnum loads. It also likes my 38 wad cutter hand loads. I can not recommend the 686 enough. The 629 (it's 44 mag big brother) is also a wonderfully made gun and highly accurate too.
686's and 629's are awesome. Thanks for the comment AH.
Your enthusiasm is great. Congratulations on finding it.
I have a 686 plus in 3" with Altamont boot rosewood grips. Gun was upgraded with S&W master revolver service package and is simply beautiful and amazing to shoot!. Enjoy your new toy!
Cool gun I've got several smiths. Just got the same gun 686 no dash. With super incredible engraving. A long time friend knew I loved the gun he gave it to me.. (good friend). Been shooting games for years with smith revolvers
Awesome. Enjoy. They are beauties.
Just won one on GB and couldn't believe it. Birth year gun no less! So pumped for it to arrive to LGS
Nice, I have the S&W Model 19-3 Nickel finish snubnose. Carried the blue steel version as a deputy Sheriff detective in the late 70's. A nice shooter.
Very nice!
I have 2 686 plus with 3 inch barrels they are tack drivers I carry one everyday . They are the greatest .
4 inch model was my grandfather's favorite gun that he owned.
4" models are beauties. Thanks for the comment Jason.
Extremely beautiful 686. Its hard for me to get some of my dream guns living in Commie California
I have a 6" 686-3 that I won't trade for the world. Of course, I won't trade any of my other old Smiths, either (how many I own is none of the feds' business). I would never buy one of their new lawyer lock, transfer bar monstrosities.
A 4" barrel is the shortest I will go, due to the longer sight radius of the longer barrels.
The best thing you can do for an old Smith revolver is to install a new Wolff mainspring and trigger rebound spring. ALL of my Smiths have had the upgrade, and it's like getting a "trigger job" for $20.00. You won't believe how much smoother and lighter the "double action" trigger pull is.
I've been shooting and owning S&W revolvers since the 1970's, and they are the best DA revolvers out there.
Sorry Colt, although your revolvers are good, too.
Tip: Some people overlook the fixed sight Smiths, thinking they NEED the adjustable rear sight. You don't, and you can usually save some money buying the fixed sight models.
You were honest about not shooting revolvers. As someone who owned a 4" 686 and now this exact one you are shooting, the grip on revolvers is a bit different from autos. It helps to wrap your support thumb around the back of your firing hand
The three inch barrel on an L frame looks perfect.
I know it's heresy to mention Ruger in this thread, but I have both a 686 4-inch and a Ruger Security Six and they are both a pair of revolvers I'll never sell. After some "smoothing", my Ruger has a trigger almost as nice as my 686. Both are heavy, but I carry them both while hunting and for a hike in the woods with no problems. You just can't beat the feel of a revolver over a semi!
Ruger make fine revolvers, and firearms in general.
I like those K & L frames with straight upper frame flowing in a massive barrel rib.
No shortcuts, no savings, nothing. Just beauty. First time i fell in love with Smiths was with a N frame, a 4 inches model 57 that set forever proportion in my mind,
Ps: you just shown the only way i can digest a G19 - with a flashligh.
You know, proportions...
Very nice. Thanks Matteo.
I have a 1982 686 no dash..love it
My 686 + 3” came with the beautiful wood finger grove grips. Love it.
you found a jewel , the action is so smooth on the older revolvers
Yes, it is a beauty.
I’ve got one just like that I bought new back in the 80s, it’s on my CCW though I very rarely carry it, it’s still in mint condition and like you I love that gun.
Right on!
Great choice! The Smith grips really make it. Every time I go after a 686, something else comes up, like a J-frame or a 629 Classic. Not complaining, I've never regretted buying a Smith.
Right on!
I carried a 4 inch as a duty weapon until I got forced to the semi-auto. Best Gun I ever owned.
686's are sweet. Semi autos are nice too. Not as romantic perhaps.
@@GUNS-GDC Mine had the old school S&W Wood Grips… made a great armrest. LOL
I really love this revolver, similar to my 686+ that is 3.5" with non fluted cylinder. Congrats!
Thanks. Hard to beat 686's.
Absolutely beautiful gun. Thanks for sharing
Thanks for the comment Gregory. Glad you enjoyed it.
I have a pristine Model 66 that I purchased used around 1985. It came with a Mag-na-port job and radioactive night sights, which have long since run out of juice.
Beauty always defies logic! Nice find!
Thank you.
About 3yrs ago I bought the newer version of the SW 686, 357, 2 1/2 inch barrel, 7 shot for 750dlrs. with the rubber pakmeyer grip. It is a great conceal weapon. I carry it on my leather shoulder holster at times or in my leather pancake holster!! I plan on purchasing a Henry or Marlin, lever action rifle of the same 357 mag caliber, open sight, for a saddle gun also!! Don't underestimate the knockdown power of the 357 magnum, when loaded with the correct bullets, for what you might encounter!! I have a Henry lever action rifle in 44 mag and a model 629, 44 mag, with a 81/2 inch barrel, stainless, that I pack when hunting in the backwoods of Montana, with 305 grain Bear load bullets!!
I had a very similar revolver. It was a 629 Horton with the 2.5" barrel and those same style wood grips. A lovely gun. Unfortunately i lost it to the gun ban in the UK.
Love my 586 distinguished combat magnum.
Very nice indeed.
Hey Ben, I had the same model, although it was a 686-4. Like s dumbass I traded it thinking I'd be able to get another one. However, that never came to pass. Wish I could find another one. Although I can only imagine what they'd be asking for one. I'm a big Smith & Wesson revolver fan! That's a Bute! Good luck with it!!
I had one of these and it's the most beautiful revolver they ever made, wish I still had it
We have them on our site often!
Also known as a Lew Horton Custom. I have 1, straight up 686, no dash. My buddy has one in a mod 29.
Thanks for the comment. Nice guns.
I am 78 and I still have and often carry my first S&W revolver which I bought new. It is a 38 Chiefs Special (No number designation since it was an early model? I love the weapon and as a young man I carried it all over the Chicago area. I too would love a revolver like yours - I is gorgeous! PS: I would not own a Glock as they are an incomplete weapon since they have NO SAFETY, and don't tell me you don't need one!
Love the 686…had a 6 inch back in 1988, it was a tack driver! Wish I still had it but my model 19-4, 6 inch that I bought in 1982 is still with me.
The old S&W’s are just classics, to bad its all gone to plastic now.
They are beauties.
Beautiful gun. Congrats. (Altamont can't be the only company that makes compatible wood grips..?)
There are others but I stopped researching when I found the gun of my dreams on the Gunscom site.
Badger makes excellent grips. I called Altamont one day regarding a grip for a different gun and the sales manager they put me in touch with was an arrogant prick, so I took my business elsewhere.
My dream gun, which I own, is the somewhat rare S&W 625-7 .45ACP “Mountain Gun” 3” stainless. Bought it for cheap before I realized what it was.
Seeing that grip made me instantly want to hold it.
I LOVE Smith and Wesson revolvers! I know I'm biased but they are the best revolvers. No jam here!
Love the 686. I bought the 686-6, 7 shot but I also need the 3” and yes it’s on my list!
Very nice. Thanks for the comment Ricky.
Great gun and most importantly it's pre-lock. Congratulations on your acquisition!
Thank you Roy! Yes, she's a beauty.
Every S&W is pre-lock if you know which linkage to remove and set aside in case you ever need to send it in to the factory… I didn’t say that 🥸
Had the exact same model in the early 90's. Loved it. Grips are Goncalo Alves wood.
Beauty.
Yes it is. Thanks for the comment John.
Very nice find sir. There’s just something special about a nice revolver.
Gorgeous weapon. I had a 686 six shot 4" i loved it.
I feel the same way about the Ruger GP 100 stainless steel model with the black hogue grips.
The Ruger GP100 is a sweet gun.
I have one that looks just like this that I bought new back in the early 80's I believe it is the reason Smith & Wesson started making this particular gun it is a special order from Lew Horton and the only difference is the grips which look like the one you own but are made from Goncalo Alves wood there was a recall on them shortly after they issued them and I sent it to a gunsmith that Smith &Wesson told me to send it too and they did the work and stamped an M showing that it had been fixed ,it is a very nice shooting gun , still have the box it came with and the magazine article from guns & ammo that tell abought this model and several others that that Lew Horton ordered specially made ,I don't think they were rare at the time because he ordered them in 5000 gun quantities ,but after reading this I wonder how many are still around considering the effort that you went through to get this one , I also wonder if being a special order adds any value?
Grabbing popcorn & KY jelly and hitting the replay button.
My father was a police officer for 30 years. He carried the 686 with a 6" barrel. Loaded with Remington 158 grain SJHP. in full .357. He believed it was the best police weapon ever made. I carried for off duty, the model 66 with a 2.5 inch barrel. the 66 is a K frame instead of the 686 L frame. A little smaller and but easier to carry concealed.
Excellent comment. Thanks for sharing James.
I was issued a 6" 686 in '01
Excellent choice! Beautiful
Glad I found your video. My dad has the same model. Do you know what the serial number can tell you about the year it was made?
my mom bought me one for my 18th birthday 32 years ago I still hunt with it it has 6 inch barrel. I have over 20 thousand rounds through it with no issues.
Very nice! Thanks for the comment Ross.
That is a fine revolver! My 686 has the 4 inch barrel.
4" are nice too. More accurate. Thanks for the comment Alan.
I have the 4” and 6” versions from the 80’s. Both beautiful pistols. I will buy a 2-1/2” one if I run across one.
For a Home-D night stand gun, your .357 is perfectly fine.
Reliable with diverse options: .357, .38SP+, .38 special
most gun fights do not go past 4 shots, so six or 7 rounds is fine statistically
Very nice gun! Beautiful.
Yes it is. Thanks for the comment Rocket Launcher.
I purchased a 586-3 with a 4-in barrel back in 1990. I too love this gun. Is it the 686 you really want it with the short barrel or was it the version 3 you were specifically looking for in the 686?
I was raised on wheel guns. I always felt the gun needed to have some heft and weight to it. I have several 357 Magnum. l enjoyed shooting 38 out of them due to cost factor and recoil Factor. However they were more accurate with 357 loads. When I went to buy an ACP the Glock 17 just came out and I thought that's great 17 rounds but when I handled it just didn't feel right something about a plastic gun, so I gotta 1911 45 ACP.
I owned 3, back in the day. But that short barrel loses so much power and is such a low accuracy barrel.
A 4" works well, and the 6" is a tack driver.
I owned The Dan Wesson 3 barreled set in Stainless. Incredible weapon.
Enjoy your newest find!
Great comment. Thanks for sharing I, Michael.
I bought a 686+ with a 3“ barrel. I found out (from having the 66 with a 2.5“ barrel) that the 3“ barrel model comes with the ejector rod just long enough to fully kick out full .357 rounds, which are about 1/8“ longer than .38 SPL. The 2.75“ barrel guns will kick out .38‘s, but NOT the .357 cases…then you’re down in the weeds plucking them out one at a time.
I just bought one myself about a month ago. Love it!
Congratulations!. I really enjoy mine, though mine in the internal lock version.
Very nice. Thanks for the comment John.
Beautiful always wanted one
Sweet guns for sure. Thanks for the comment Ivan.
That's one of my Top 10 guns. Great video. I love revolvers. 44 mags is what I have. No 357s. Reliable....
Brother just got one. Beautiful guns. Happy you enjoy yours 🇺🇸🦅👍👍 happy 4th of July! With practice many can shoot double action near as well as they do single action. You were drilling it with single action 🎯🎯 nice review. Absolutely beautiful revolver. I LOVE s&w!
Congratulations this is really a beauty!
Thank you Wouty!
Great video! However, like most people, you are a bit confused about the transfer bar issue. Smith and Wesson revolvers do not have a Transfer Bar, they have a Hammer Block. Regardless of where the firing pin is, Smith and Wessons, even current production, have no Transfer Bar.
I know what you are thinking, but here are two examples made the same way.
1. All pre 2020 Colt Pythons.
2. All pre 1988(ish) Taurus.
They both had the floating frame mounted firing pin but yet no Transfer Bar.
Here is the simplest explanation of the difference. A Transfer Bar has to be IN the way for the gun to fire. The Hammer Block has to be OUT of the way for the gun to fire.
Hope this helps.
Beautiful gun! ❤ My dream revolver is Ruger Super RedHawk Alaskan .480 Ruger or .454 Casull/.45 Long Colt.
Those Rugers are sweet. Check out our site. Thanks for the comment John.
Nice Revolver, my fav of all time is the 623-3, which is very similar form-wise, except its a .44 Special.
I love those revolvers.
We do too!
I HAVE THE 686-4 ALMOST IDENTICAL, PURCHASED IT BRAND NEW WAY BACK WHEN FOR $400 & LOVE IT. I WILL NEVER SELL IT...
I have a 6" 686 I purchased new back in the 80's for $325. It's not a practical carry weapon and I only pack it when I'm in the woods. I replaced the original grips (original grips were thick and God awful) with some beautiful Altamont finger grooved walnut grips. It's really a stunning looking revolver. I'll never part with it.
I have that same pistol. I inherited it. A little bit heavy, but I may make it my EDC. I'll have to get a holster for my shoulder rig.
Jeeeez! I Had on BRAND New! Exactly the Same Outta the box in 1988 in Florida! Wonder if its My old one?? Realy NICE!
Very nice. Thanks for the comment H D.
very interesting, a really nice gun & ur graphics in the vid were excellent!👍🇺🇸
A fine weapon.
Indeed. Thanks for the comment TW.
The 586 in Blue is Gorgeous. Mine is S&W 27 is Tops
Very nice.
I like the new 3” colt python. This guns a beauty as well.
Colts are very nice. Thanks for the comment William.
Eagle and hogue make good grips. Ebay has some nice ones too. My 45, has some ebay grips, that look and feel good great without the expense of an Altamont.
You got very lucky with this Smith. I’ve been lusting after the same gun for years. New ones are a little pricey and the rubber grips are a real turnoff. Altamont grips are the way to go, but they always seem to be out of stock. I wish that they would expand or figure out some way to increase production. I have a few handguns waif or new grips. You also did very well with accuracy as it’s a little bit challenging with a 2.5 inch barrel. Enjoy.
Thanks for the comment Old Mike!
It is beautiful. My question is do they come in three actual inches that's from where it exits the frame? I don't count the forcing cone as barrel length and I'm not a fan of snubbies. And is 4 inch an option?
I carry a 3” 686+ everyday. I also a 2.5” version, but the 3” is more accurate in my hands. I own Glocks, but the 686’s are more comfortable for me to carry: rounded edges.
Respect to anyone that carries a 686 : )