Smith & Wesson Model 686-3 .357 Magnum 2.5″ Stainless DA/SA Revolver 1990

More Sold Revolvers

SOLD FOR: $1,005.00

LSB#: LSB251203DE053

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 686-3, .357 Combat Magnum Stainless

Serial Number: BEN9676

Year of Manufacture: 1990 / Modern Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson 5th Edition

Caliber: .357 Magnum

Action Type: Double Action Revolver with 6-Shot Swing-Out Smooth 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 crane cut is marked with the serial number and model number “BEN9676 / MOD 686-3”. 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 address. The butt is marked with the serial number “BEN9676”.

Barrel Length: 2.5″ with Full Underlug

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a black Patridge blade pinned to a serrated elevated ramp base that is integral to the rib, which is serrated for glare reduction. The rear sight is a black S&W micrometer click that is adjustable for windage and elevation.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a walnut checkered combat grip with finger grooves. The grips have limited wear and minor handling marks. The checkering is sharp and well defined. There are no chips or cracks. The grip rates in Fine overall condition.

Type of Finish: Stainless Steel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and shiny and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 95% of its metal finish.There is a thin turn line on the cylinder. There is some finish loss at the muzzle and leading edges of the cylinder. There are some surface scratches and draglines visible on the frame from cylinder operation. There are a few nicks and scratches on the front sight, barrel and trigger guard. The screw heads are sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good to Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lockup produces very little 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: Smith & Wesson introduced the Model 686 in 1980 as part of its L-frame revolver series, a platform developed to handle prolonged use of full power .357 Magnum ammunition while maintaining the handling characteristics shooters appreciated in the earlier K-frame revolvers. Built from stainless steel and fitted with a full underlug barrel, the Model 686 quickly became known for its durability, balance, and accuracy. The L-frame design provided additional strength around the forcing cone and top strap, making it well suited for the heavy training and qualification schedules required by law enforcement agencies and shooters during the late twentieth century.

Chambered for the .357 Magnum cartridge, the revolver can also fire .38 Special ammunition, giving shooters flexibility for both practice and full power use. Introduced in 1935, the .357 Magnum quickly established itself as one of the most successful revolver cartridges ever developed due to its excellent combination of power, accuracy, and versatility. Over time the stainless steel Model 686 became one of Smith & Wesson’s most widely respected revolvers, appreciated for its durability and balanced handling characteristics.

This Model 686-3 example was manufactured in 1990 and features the compact 2.5 inch barrel configuration with full underlug, offering a shorter and more maneuverable version of the classic L-frame revolver. The revolver retains most of its original stainless finish with light handling marks, a thin cylinder turn line, and minor wear at the muzzle and leading edges consistent with use. The walnut combat grips remain in Fine condition with sharp checkering and minimal wear, complementing the revolver’s compact configuration. With its desirable short barrel configuration and strong overall condition, this Smith & Wesson Model 686-3 represents a well balanced example of the classic stainless .357 Magnum revolver. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!