Smith & Wesson S&W Model 686 ‘The .357 Distinguished Combat Magnum’, Stainless Steel 8 3/8” 6-Shot Double Action DA/SA Revolver, MFD 1984

SOLD FOR:$1,055
LSB#: 160318AS10

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 686 (No Dash) ‘The .357 Distinguished Combat Magnum’

Serial Number: ADF7566

Year of Manufacture: 1984

Caliber: .357 Magnum & .38 Special Cartridges

Action Type: 6-Shot Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder Revolver.

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the right is marked “S.&W. .357 MAGNUM”, the left side of the frame has S&W’s monogram logo, the right has the four line Marcas Registradas. The yoke cut is marked “ADF7566 / MOD. 686”, the yoke is marked “B8 / S / 77879”. The back of the cylinder is marked “V”. The left side of the grip frame is marked “B8 / 77879 / S (double stamped) / F15”, the butt is marked with the serial number, the right is marked “J” in circle, “S” in a triangle and “07530”. The inside of the right grip panel is marked “N / M10 / S / JAN 20 1984”, the stocks have silver-colored S&W monogram logo medallions. The holster is marked “BIANCHI #5BHL / S&W .44”.

Barrel Length: 8 3/8”, with full underlug and solid rib.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade with an orange insert, integral to a base that is integral to the barrel’s solid rib; the top of the rib is serrated and matte finished for glare reduction. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched, white outlined leaf in a base that is adjustable for windage and elevation.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered Goncalo Alves target stocks with silver-colored S&W monogram logo medallions. The grips have great tone match and fit to one another but have a slight gap in fit on the back strap of the grip frame as photographed. The stocks have only a few light marks; the right panel’s medallion rises above the surface of the wood but is secured in the panel. The grips rate in about Excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish: Matte & Polished Stainless Steel

Finish Originality: Factory 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 98% of its metal finish. The barrel and frame have some scattered scuff marks. The cylinder has a shallow drag line, with some scattered marks and a few shallow compressions. The top of the rear sight base has wear from holster use. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder produces some minor side to side play in full lockup with no measurable back play. The pistol has a serrated target trigger and wide checkered hammer. The double action trigger pull is smooth, 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: Included is a Bianchi #5BHL holster that shows scattered scuffs and a few compression marks; the holster states that it is for a S&W .44 Magnum, but it fits this revolver without qualm; the holster is in Fine condition.

Our Assessment: The Model 686 is Smith & Wesson’s coveted L frame champion of durability and accuracy! This is one nice revolver, rating in Excellent condition with only a few marks on the wood and metal surfaces; the bore is bright with sharp rifling and there is no erosion in the bore. The action has only light play in full lockup, which should pair well with the 8 3/8” under-lugged barrel. The pistol has an orange-insert ramp blade front sight and white outlined square notched rear sight that is micrometer-click adjustable for windage and elevation. Provided is a Bianchi holster which fits well and only has minor marks. Revolver fan or not, anyone would be proud to own this bad boy. Please see our pictures and good luck.