A Legacy Forged in Steel
Smith & Wesson has a rich history, deeply intertwined with the evolution of firearms. Since their inception, they’ve been at the forefront of innovation and craftsmanship. The Model 686, introduced in the mid-seventies, quickly gained a reputation as a workhorse. Built on the robust L-frame, it provided a significant step up in strength and durability compared to the earlier K-frame revolvers, allowing it to handle the potent .357 Magnum cartridge with remarkable ease. The 686’s blend of ruggedness, accuracy, and user-friendliness has cemented its place as a favorite amongst law enforcement, sport shooters, and concealed carry enthusiasts alike. This longevity is a testament to Smith & Wesson’s dedication to quality and their keen understanding of the needs of firearm owners. The stainless steel construction added another layer of value, making the 686 a weather-resistant option capable of withstanding the elements.
Unveiling the Heart of the Beast: Features and Specifications
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and examine the key features that define the S&W 686, particularly in its three-inch barrel configuration. This isn’t just a scaled-down version of the larger 686; it’s a thoughtfully designed firearm optimized for a variety of applications.
The heart of any revolver is its barrel, and the three-inch barrel on this particular model strikes a remarkable balance. It’s long enough to deliver substantial ballistic performance, allowing the .357 Magnum cartridges to reach a respectable velocity, and it’s short enough to make the firearm relatively compact and manageable. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a powerful handgun without the bulk of a longer-barreled model.
The foundation of the revolver is built upon the L-frame, renowned for its robust construction. This frame size offers a comfortable grip and absorbs recoil effectively, making the shooting experience more pleasant, especially when using the powerful .357 Magnum cartridges. This frame size lends itself well to the overall balance of the weapon, helping to tame the recoil of the more potent rounds.
At its core, the S&W 686 is a chambered in .357 Magnum. This versatile cartridge allows the shooter to utilize both .357 Magnum and .38 Special rounds. The .357 Magnum offers impressive power for self-defense or hunting, while .38 Special provides a lighter recoil and is a more economical option for range practice. This dual-cartridge capability increases the appeal of the 686, providing flexibility to adapt to a variety of needs and preferences.
Typically, the cylinder of the 686 holds either six or seven rounds, depending on the specific model. This capacity offers a good balance between firepower and manageability. It provides sufficient rounds for self-defense situations while keeping the overall size and weight of the gun reasonable.
The sights on the 686 are designed for quick and accurate target acquisition. These typically consist of a fully adjustable rear sight, allowing for precise windage and elevation adjustments, and a front sight, which is often a ramped blade. The adjustable rear sight allows the shooter to fine-tune their point of aim, leading to better accuracy.
The grips on the 686 also play a vital role in the shooting experience. The standard grips are often made from comfortable and durable rubber or wood. They provide a secure grip, allowing for better control and recoil management. The texture and shape of the grip are critical in ensuring that the revolver sits comfortably and securely in the hand, even under the stress of recoil.
The weight of the three-inch 686 falls into a sweet spot – it’s heavy enough to absorb recoil but not so heavy as to be overly cumbersome. This balance is key for all-day carry, if that’s your chosen use. The dimensions are equally important, with a compact profile that facilitates concealment and maneuverability.
Another important element is the material of construction. The stainless steel ensures high corrosion resistance. It protects against rust and other environmental factors.
The Advantages of the Shorter Barrel
Why choose the three-inch barrel variant? The advantages are numerous, especially for those seeking a versatile and practical handgun.
One of the primary reasons for choosing this model is its suitability for concealed carry. The shorter barrel reduces the overall length of the firearm, making it easier to conceal under clothing. The slightly reduced length makes it more comfortable to carry. It minimizes the chance of printing, the unintentional outline of the gun showing through clothing.
Beyond concealment, the three-inch barrel provides excellent balance and handling. The shorter barrel makes the revolver feel lively in the hand, allowing for quick target acquisition and efficient maneuverability. The balance of the firearm feels natural.
Despite its shorter barrel, the three-inch 686 is capable of delivering impressive accuracy. The quality of the barrel, the sights, and the overall design of the 686 combine to produce a firearm that is more accurate than most people give it credit for.
The 686’s versatility is another major selling point. It can be used for home defense, range practice, target shooting, and even certain types of hunting. The .357 Magnum cartridge provides ample power for self-defense, while the .38 Special offers a more affordable option for target practice.
The L-frame’s construction plays a key role in managing the recoil. This combined with the weight of the revolver, helps to tame the recoil of the .357 Magnum cartridges, making them more manageable for follow-up shots. This recoil management is crucial for maintaining accuracy and control, particularly in a high-stress situation.
Experiencing the Power: Performance and Shooting
Shooting the S&W 686 three-inch barrel is a rewarding experience. The recoil of the .357 Magnum is substantial, but the weight of the revolver and the design of the L-frame do an excellent job of mitigating it. The .38 Special, on the other hand, is very manageable, making it a great option for new shooters.
While I don’t have official testing figures, this revolver has a well-earned reputation for accuracy. It’s easy to achieve impressive groupings at typical self-defense distances.
The trigger on the 686 is a critical part of the shooting experience. It can be fired in single-action mode, where the hammer is manually cocked for a lighter, crisper trigger pull, or in double-action mode, where pulling the trigger both cocks and releases the hammer. The double-action pull is smooth and relatively manageable, while the single-action pull is clean and precise, allowing for greater accuracy.
The experience of using this gun is one of confidence and reliability. The 686 feels solid in the hand. It functions smoothly. It’s a tool that inspires confidence and a sense of preparedness.
Regarding ammunition, for the .357 Magnum, I’d recommend exploring a range of self-defense loads. For range practice or plinking, .38 Special target rounds offer an enjoyable and economical shooting experience.
Contrasting with the Competition
When comparing the three-inch 686 to other revolvers, it’s helpful to understand its strengths and weaknesses.
Compared to the larger-barreled versions of the 686, the three-inch model sacrifices a small amount of ballistic performance in exchange for increased concealability and maneuverability. It is perfect for a conceal carry option or just more convenient to carry in general. Compared to other revolvers, the 686 stands out for its robust construction, excellent trigger, and reputation for reliability.
Comparing it to the Ruger GP100, the 686 often is seen with a smoother trigger pull out of the box. The GP100, on the other hand, can be known for its ruggedness.
Maintaining Your Investment
Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the long-term performance and reliability of your S&W 686. Regular cleaning is crucial. Disassemble the firearm according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Thoroughly clean the bore and cylinder with a brush. Lubricate the moving parts with a high-quality gun oil.
Storage is also important. Always store your 686 in a secure location, away from children and unauthorized users. Consider using a gun safe or lockbox.
If you experience any issues, such as failure to fire, consult the owner’s manual or a qualified gunsmith.
Customization and Accessories
There are several options for customizing your 686 to suit your individual needs.
Changing the grips can greatly impact the comfort and feel of the revolver. You can find grips made from a variety of materials, including wood, rubber, and synthetic polymers. Find a grip that fits your hand comfortably and provides a secure grip.
A good holster is critical for concealed carry or range use. Choose a holster that is made from high-quality materials, such as leather or Kydex, and that provides a secure and comfortable fit.
Aftermarket sights can also enhance accuracy.
Speed loaders can make reloading faster and easier.
The Ups and Downs
Let’s weigh the advantages and disadvantages:
The pros are many: excellent build quality, robust L-frame design, versatile .357 Magnum/.38 Special compatibility, good balance, easy concealed carry, and strong performance.
The cons are few, but could include the heavier weight compared to some smaller-frame options, the recoil of the .357 Magnum (although it’s manageable), and the inherent limitations of a revolver compared to semi-automatic pistols in terms of magazine capacity.
Wrapping Up
The S&W 686 three-inch is an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful, reliable, and versatile handgun. Its combination of compact size, impressive firepower, and superb build quality makes it a standout in the world of revolvers. Whether you’re looking for a self-defense weapon, a range gun, or simply a beautifully crafted firearm, the 686 three-inch is well worth considering. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the revolver, a true classic that continues to deliver performance and satisfaction.
Ultimately, whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a newcomer to the world of firearms, the S&W 686 three-inch barrel revolver offers a compelling blend of power, precision, and classic design. If you’re looking for a handgun that balances stopping power with practicality, this is an excellent choice.
