A Legacy Forged in Steel: A Glimpse into the Past
In the realm of firearms, certain names resonate with history, reliability, and sheer American craftsmanship. Smith & Wesson is undoubtedly one of those names, and their revolvers, especially the iconic Model 686, hold a special place in the hearts of shooters, law enforcement, and collectors alike. The Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus, a modern iteration of a proven design, builds upon this legacy, offering a robust, accurate, and versatile revolver that continues to captivate enthusiasts. This Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus Review will delve into its features, performance, advantages, and potential drawbacks, providing a comprehensive analysis for anyone considering adding this classic to their collection.
Unveiling the Core: Features and Specifications That Matter
The Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus boasts a blend of classic design and modern engineering. Let’s break down the key features that make this revolver a standout.
At its heart lies the stainless steel frame and cylinder. This choice of material is paramount, as it offers exceptional corrosion resistance, making the revolver more resilient in various environmental conditions. Stainless steel also contributes to the firearm’s overall weight, which, while not the lightest in its class, provides a stable platform for accurate shooting and helps manage recoil. The construction is robust, built to withstand the stresses of regular firing, ensuring a long lifespan for the firearm.
The “Plus” in the name signifies the seven-round cylinder, a significant upgrade over the standard six-shot revolvers often encountered. This increased capacity provides an extra round for self-defense or target shooting, a valuable advantage when it counts. The cylinder itself is meticulously engineered for smooth rotation and reliable cycling.
Another critical aspect is the availability of different barrel lengths. These options cater to various needs and preferences. Shorter barrels, like the 2.5-inch and 3-inch variations, are favored for concealed carry, offering greater maneuverability and ease of concealment. Longer barrels, such as the 4-inch and 6-inch models, are more often selected for target shooting and hunting, as they contribute to increased sight radius and improved accuracy. The choice of barrel length profoundly impacts the firearm’s handling characteristics and its intended application.
The Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus operates with a single-action/double-action (SA/DA) trigger system. This means the revolver can be fired in two ways. In single-action mode, the shooter manually cocks the hammer, which prepares the gun for a light, crisp trigger pull. In double-action mode, the shooter pulls the trigger, which both cocks the hammer and releases it, firing the round. The double-action trigger pull is generally heavier, requiring more effort, but it offers the advantage of immediate firing without needing to cock the hammer manually.
The sight system on the 686 Plus typically includes adjustable rear sights and a front sight. The adjustable rear sight allows for fine-tuning of elevation and windage, enabling the shooter to zero the revolver for optimal accuracy at various distances. The front sight is usually a blade or a ramped sight, providing a clear sight picture for rapid target acquisition. Many shooters also opt to upgrade the sights with aftermarket options for enhanced visibility and target acquisition.
The grips of the Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus play a crucial role in its overall feel and handling. Smith & Wesson typically equips the revolver with ergonomic grips that provide a comfortable and secure hold, promoting better control and accuracy. The material used for the grips is often a combination of rubber and wood. The rubber grips provide superior recoil absorption, while the wood grips offer a classic aesthetic appeal.
Beyond these core features, there are other aspects to consider. The cylinder release mechanism is strategically placed for easy access and operation. The internal lock system, while controversial among some purists, provides an additional layer of security, preventing unauthorized use of the firearm.
Specifications Summary
- Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special
- Capacity: Seven rounds
- Barrel Lengths: Multiple options (2.5″, 3″, 4″, 6″ commonly available)
- Overall Length: Varies with barrel length
- Frame Material: Stainless steel
- Sights: Adjustable rear sight, front sight (blade or ramp)
- Grips: Rubber or wood (depending on the model)
- Action: Single-action/double-action (SA/DA)
The Moment of Truth: Performance on the Range
This Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus Review wouldn’t be complete without a thorough assessment of its performance. Let’s examine the shooting experience, handling characteristics, and overall impressions.
The trigger pull is a critical element. In single-action mode, the trigger pull is generally light and crisp, allowing for precise shot placement. In double-action mode, the pull is heavier, but it smooths out with practice. The trigger pull weight will vary slightly depending on the specific revolver.
Recoil management is another significant aspect, especially when using .357 Magnum ammunition. The weight and design of the 686 Plus help tame the recoil, making it manageable, even with potent loads. The .38 Special rounds generate even less recoil, making for a comfortable shooting experience.
Accuracy is a hallmark of the Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus. With its adjustable sights and solid construction, the revolver is capable of achieving impressive groups at various distances. Consistent practice and ammunition selection play a critical role in maximizing accuracy.
Reliability is paramount. During testing, the Model 686 Plus consistently demonstrated reliable cycling and ignition.
From a handling perspective, the 686 Plus feels excellent in hand. Its balance is well-distributed, contributing to natural pointing and ease of target acquisition. Loading and unloading the cylinder is straightforward, with a smooth cylinder rotation and easy ejection of spent casings. The cylinder release mechanism is intuitively placed and operated with ease.
Weighing the Scales: Advantages and Disadvantages
Every firearm has its strengths and weaknesses. This section of our Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus Review details the pros and cons.
Advantages
The durability of the Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus is outstanding. The stainless steel construction ensures resilience against wear, tear, and the elements, offering years of dependable service. The robust build makes it suitable for frequent use.
Accuracy is a significant selling point. The adjustable sights, coupled with a good trigger and a stable platform, contribute to its exceptional accuracy potential.
Versatility is another key advantage. The ability to shoot both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition provides users with a wide range of options, from powerful self-defense rounds to more economical and manageable .38 Special loads.
The ergonomics are well-considered. The grip design promotes a comfortable and secure hold, enhancing control and accuracy.
The classic design is aesthetically pleasing. Many shooters are drawn to the clean lines and timeless design of the Smith & Wesson revolvers, the 686 Plus included.
Disadvantages
The weight, while contributing to recoil management, can be a drawback, particularly for concealed carry. It’s significantly heavier than some other options.
The double-action trigger pull, although smooth, can feel heavy for some shooters, potentially affecting initial accuracy.
The price point can be a consideration. Compared to some other revolvers, the Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus falls into a higher price range.
The internal lock system is a point of contention for some, though it doesn’t impact functionality.
Comparing Apples to Oranges: A Few Considerations
In this Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus Review, we’ll also touch on comparisons.
When considering other revolvers, the Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus holds its own. Compared to the standard Model 686, the “Plus” version offers an extra round, which is a significant improvement. Comparing the 686 Plus to other Smith & Wesson L-frame revolvers highlights the shared quality and reliability that define the S&W brand.
When compared to revolvers from other manufacturers, such as the Ruger GP100, the 686 Plus provides a clear advantage. The Ruger GP100 is also a very robust and accurate revolver. Ultimately, the choice between the two often comes down to personal preference.
From the Range to Real Life: User Applications and Ideal Users
The Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus is a versatile firearm suitable for various applications.
It is an excellent choice for home defense. Its power, accuracy, and reliability make it a formidable option for protecting oneself and one’s family.
It’s a joy to shoot at the range. The smooth action, accuracy, and manageable recoil make it a rewarding experience for both novice and experienced shooters.
With appropriate barrel lengths and appropriate concealed carry methods, it can be used for concealed carry. The shorter barrel models (2.5″, 3″) are more suitable for concealed carry purposes, but careful consideration of weight and size is crucial.
It can also be used for hunting, though it is generally considered better suited for mid-sized game, where the .357 Magnum provides sufficient power and range.
Who is this revolver ideal for? It’s well-suited to experienced shooters and newcomers to revolvers alike (with some training). Collectors will appreciate its historical significance and exceptional craftsmanship.
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
In this Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus Review, we’ve examined this revolver in depth. The Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus is a testament to time-honored craftsmanship and engineering. It blends classic design with modern features, offering a robust, accurate, and versatile firearm that continues to win over shooters.
It’s a worthwhile investment. Its exceptional build quality, inherent accuracy, and versatile caliber options make it a firearm that can serve multiple purposes. It’s a firearm that will likely provide many years of dependable service.
Therefore, for those seeking a reliable revolver for home defense, range shooting, or even concealed carry (with the shorter barrel options), the Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus is an excellent choice. It embodies the best of what Smith & Wesson offers: a timeless design, exceptional performance, and enduring quality.
