Smith & Wesson: A Legacy of Quality
To understand the significance of the Smith And Wesson 586 8, we must first appreciate the company behind it. Smith & Wesson, a name synonymous with firearms, has been a cornerstone of American manufacturing for over a century and a half. From their humble beginnings, the company has consistently produced innovative and reliable handguns, revolvers, and rifles. Their commitment to quality has resulted in legendary models that have served law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. They’ve become known for blending classic designs with modern manufacturing techniques, ensuring their firearms remain relevant and highly sought after. The company has a reputation for producing dependable firearms with excellent fit and finish. This reputation is essential to understanding the quality found in the Model 586.
The Birth of the Smith & Wesson Model 586
The Model 586, introduced in the early nineteen eighties, was a pivotal addition to Smith & Wesson’s L-frame series. Designed to bridge the gap between the more compact K-frame revolvers and the larger N-frame models, the L-frame provided a more robust platform for the powerful .357 Magnum cartridge. The Model 586, in its various barrel lengths, quickly gained popularity among law enforcement officers, target shooters, and civilian gun owners. It was built to handle the stresses of the .357 Magnum, a cartridge renowned for its power and versatility. The Model 586, with its solid construction and smooth action, soon became a favorite for its reliability and accuracy.
Delving into the Features of the Eight-Inch Barrel
The Smith And Wesson 586 8 is a statement piece, a testament to the potential of revolver design. The eight-inch barrel is the defining characteristic. This longer barrel dramatically influences the revolver’s performance, handling, and overall presence.
Beyond the extended barrel, this revolver retains all the essential characteristics of the Model 586 series. Constructed primarily from steel, it boasts a sturdy frame that contributes to both durability and weight. The steel frame also helps absorb recoil, making the .357 Magnum cartridge manageable, particularly with the added weight of the eight-inch barrel.
The cylinder, capable of holding six rounds, is a critical feature. Smith & Wesson consistently produces high-quality cylinders known for their strength and reliability. This cylinder is designed to handle the .357 Magnum rounds, providing safe and consistent firing.
The sights are another key element. The Smith And Wesson 586 8 typically comes with adjustable sights, allowing shooters to fine-tune their aim for optimal accuracy. The sights are typically a front blade and a fully adjustable rear sight, allowing for windage and elevation adjustments. This adjustability is crucial for target shooting and maximizing the potential of the longer barrel.
The grips contribute significantly to the overall feel of the revolver. Smith & Wesson often equips the 586 with comfortable and ergonomic grips. These grips can be wood or synthetic, depending on the model. Aftermarket grip options abound, allowing shooters to customize the fit and feel of their firearm.
Benefits of the Extended Barrel
The longer barrel of the Smith And Wesson 586 8 imparts several advantages, elevating its performance across several key areas.
Accuracy is perhaps the most significant benefit. The longer sight radius, the distance between the front and rear sights, provides the shooter with a more precise aiming picture. This allows for tighter groupings and greater accuracy at longer ranges. A longer sight radius magnifies any aiming errors, so the more careful a shooter is, the better the results.
The extended barrel also contributes to increased bullet velocity. The longer the barrel, the longer the bullet remains within the barrel, subject to the forces of the expanding gases. This results in a higher muzzle velocity, giving the bullet more power and a flatter trajectory. This is especially true for the potent .357 Magnum cartridge.
The increased weight of the longer barrel helps to manage recoil. The added mass absorbs some of the recoil energy, making the .357 Magnum cartridge feel more manageable. This allows for faster follow-up shots and more comfortable shooting sessions.
Potential Considerations to be Aware Of
While the Smith And Wesson 586 8 offers compelling advantages, there are also factors to consider.
Size and weight are significant factors. The eight-inch barrel makes this revolver a substantial firearm. It is heavier and bulkier than shorter-barreled revolvers, making it unsuitable for concealed carry. While this can be a hindrance, the balance is quite remarkable.
Practicality must also be considered. The size and weight limit its usefulness in some situations. It’s not the ideal choice for self-defense in close-quarters combat. Its primary role is in target shooting, hunting, and collecting.
Finally, the cost can be a factor. Because of its relative rarity, the Smith And Wesson 586 8 might command a higher price than its shorter-barreled counterparts. Condition and collectibility can impact the price significantly.
A Comparative Perspective
To fully appreciate the Smith And Wesson 586 8, it is helpful to compare it to other revolvers. Comparing it to the shorter barrel variations of the 586 will quickly highlight the benefits and trade-offs of the longer barrel. For those seeking a more compact and concealable .357 Magnum revolver, the shorter barrel options are preferable. However, if accuracy and power are the priorities, the eight-inch barrel shines.
Comparing the Smith And Wesson 586 8 to its competitors, like the Ruger GP100 and Colt Python, is equally enlightening. The Ruger GP100, a robust and reliable revolver, provides another option. However, the Colt Python offers a level of refinement and historical significance. The 586 occupies a unique space, offering a blend of quality, value, and historical relevance.
Potential Applications of the Eight-Inch Barreled Revolver
The extended barrel of the Smith And Wesson 586 8 lends itself to specific applications.
Target shooting is a natural fit. The accuracy and manageable recoil make it an ideal choice for precision shooting. The adjustable sights and longer sight radius contribute to tighter groupings. The robust construction ensures durability for extended range sessions.
Hunting, where legal, is another possibility. The increased velocity and power of the .357 Magnum, combined with the accuracy of the eight-inch barrel, make it suitable for hunting small to medium-sized game. It’s important to be mindful of local regulations regarding barrel length and suitable game.
For some, the Smith And Wesson 586 8 serves a role in home defense. However, its size and weight make it less practical for this role. It’s more likely to be appreciated by those who like to take their time in a shooting situation.
Caring for Your 586
Proper maintenance is crucial to preserving the performance and longevity of the Smith And Wesson 586 8.
Cleaning involves disassembling the revolver and thoroughly cleaning all components. Use appropriate cleaning solutions to remove powder residue and other contaminants. Lubricate the moving parts with a quality gun oil to ensure smooth operation.
Safe storage is essential. The revolver should be stored in a secure location, away from children and unauthorized individuals. Consider using a gun safe or lockbox.
Regular inspection for wear and tear is also recommended. Check for any signs of damage, such as cracks or excessive wear, and address them promptly. Regular inspections allow the owner to know exactly what is happening with their revolver.
Concluding Thoughts
The Smith And Wesson 586 8 is a remarkable revolver. It is a testament to Smith & Wesson’s commitment to quality and their ability to produce exceptional firearms. While not ideal for every shooter or every situation, the eight-inch barrel offers clear advantages for those prioritizing accuracy, power, and historical significance. The Smith And Wesson 586 8 represents a blend of classic design and powerful performance, making it a sought-after firearm for target shooting, hunting (where applicable), and the dedicated firearms enthusiast. It’s a revolver that commands attention and delivers a satisfying shooting experience.
