Smith & Wesson S&W Model 686 No Dash .357 Mag 4″ DA/SA Revolver 1980-1986
SOLD FOR: $1075.99
LSB#: 220310RA019
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 686, .357 Distinguished Combat Magnum Stainless
Serial Number: AHU6689
Year of Manufacture: 1980-1986
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder
Markings: The right side of the barrel is marked “S.&W. 357 MAGNUM”. The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The yoke cut is marked with the serial number and model number “AHU6689 / MOD. 686”. The left side of the frame has the S&W monogram logo. The right side of the frame, below the cylinder, is marked with the four-line marcas registradas. The butt is marked with the serial number “AHU6689”. The crane and sides of the grip frame are marked with inspection marks. The rear face of the cylinder is marked “V”. The ejector rod cutout of the underlug is marked “S”.
Barrel Length: 4”, with Full Underlug
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade with a red insert and is set on a serrated elevated base that is integral to the rib, which is serrated for glare reduction. The rear sight is a white-outlined S&W micrometer click, flat top, square notched leaf that is adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The installed grip is a checkered black rubber Pachmayr Presentation grip. The grip has some scattered light handling marks and a couple of light scuffs but no rips or tears. The checkering is strong. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Stainless Steel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There are some swirls and draglines visible on the metal. There are a few little scuffs that have caused minor smooth spots. There are a few little nicks, the most noticeable are on the trigger guard. There is a turn line on the cylinder. There are some scattered light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lockup produces light side-to-side movement with the trigger depressed. The double-action is smooth and the single action is crisp. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: As the name implies, the Distinguished Combat Magnum is a remarkable piece of machinery that is tough enough for any application. The revolver is built on Smith & Wesson’s L-Frame which was introduced in 1980. While the .357 Magnum had been in use for a number of years, police officers did not like the weight of the heavy N-Framed models and while the K-Frame was the standard for defensive revolvers, it was realized that problems with the forcing cone arose after high round count. The solution to the problem was the L-Frame, with input from S&W Historian Roy Jinks the new frame was born. The L-Frame was basically K-Frame that was beefed up just a bit allowing for a larger forcing cone and cylinder window, but retained the same grip frame. In 1980 the L-Frame models were introduced and were instantly recognizable by their full underlug. The 686 was well received by law enforcement and sport shooters alike and has been produced by the company to this very day. This example is the 686 No Dash with a 4″ barrel. With its excellent trigger and comfortable grips, this revolver would make a fine home defense handgun, hunting sidearm, or addition to a collection lacking a revolver. Please see our pictures and good luck!