Smith & Wesson Model 686

Smith & Wesson Model 686
A Smith & Wesson Model 686, with a 100 mm (4 in) barrel.
TypeRevolver
Place of originUnited States
Service history
Used bySee Users
Production history
Designed1980
Produced1981–present
Variants
  • 686-(1 through 7)
  • 686P (Plus)
  • 686PP (PowerPort)
Specifications
Mass1.25 kg (2.8 lb)
Length305 mm (12.0 in)
Barrel length
  • 64 mm (2.5 in)
  • 76 mm (3 in)
  • 100 mm (4 in)
  • 150 mm (6 in)
  • 211.5 mm (8.325 in)

Cartridge
Caliber.38/.357
ActionDouble action and single action
Feed system6-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.