Smith & Wesson Model 686
| Smith & Wesson Model 686 | |
|---|---|
| A Smith & Wesson Model 686, with a 100 mm (4 in) barrel. | |
| Type | Revolver | 
| Place of origin | United States | 
| Service history | |
| Used by | See Users | 
| Production history | |
| Designed | 1980 | 
| Produced | 1981–present | 
| Variants | 
 | 
| Specifications | |
| Mass | 1.25 kg (2.8 lb) | 
| Length | 305 mm (12.0 in) | 
| Barrel length | 
 | 
| Cartridge | |
| Caliber | .38/.357 | 
| Action | Double action and single action | 
| Feed system | 6-round (686) or 7-round (686 Plus) cylinder | 
The Smith & Wesson Model 686 is a six- or seven-shot double-action revolver manufactured by Smith & Wesson and chambered for the .357 Magnum cartridge; it will also chamber and fire .38 Special cartridges. Smith & Wesson introduced the Model 686 in 1981. It is the stainless steel version of the Model 586, which featured a blued steel finish. They are available ported and unported with a choice of 6- or 7-round cylinders.
The Model 686 is based on S&W's L (medium) revolver frame. During the 1980s, Smith & Wesson developed its L-Frame line of .357 Magnums: the Model 581, Model 586, Model 681 and Model 686. The Models 581 and 681 have fixed sights, whereas the 586 and 686 use adjustable sights.