Smith & Wesson Performance Center S&W 686-7 .38 Super 4″ 170225 Revolver
SOLD FOR: $2325
LSB#: 211103LG04
Make: Smith & Wesson Performance Center
Model: 686-7, Bangers Distributors Exclusive, No. 170225
Serial Number: LSP0100
Year of Manufacture: 2003
Caliber: .38 Super
Action Type: Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder
Markings: The right side of the barrel is marked “38 SUPER”. The left side of the barrel is marked “PERFORMANCE CENTER”. The yoke cut is marked with the serial number and model number “LSP0100 / 686-7”. The left side of the frame has the S&W Performance Center 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 “LSP0100”. The crane and sides of the grip frame are marked with inspection marks.
Barrel Length: 4″ Tapered Slabside
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated blade with a hole for a fiber-optic insert but there is no insert present, it is pinned to a rise in the rib. The rear sight is a S&W micrometer click, flat top, square notched leaf that is adjustable for windage and elevation. The topstrap is drilled and tapped under the rear sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The installed grip is a one-piece checkered wood Hogue grip with finger grooves. There are a few light handling marks. The checkering is sharp. There is a hairline crack on the back. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Glass Bead Blasted 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 97% of its metal finish. There are a few little scuffs and rubs that have caused smooth spots, the most noticeable are on the cylinder. There are a few light handling marks and draglines. The front sight is missing its insert. There is a turn line on the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lockup produces very 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: Included is a Smith & Wesson soft case and moonclips.
Our Assessment: The 686 has been made in a variety of configurations since 1980 filling just about any role that could be asked of a .357 Magnum revolver. This example is the Performance Center 686-7 with a 4″ tapered slabside barrel, round butt grip frame, unfluted cylinder, bead blast finish, but most notably is chambered for .38 Super instead of .357 Magnum. It was made as a distributor exclusive for Bangers and did not see high production numbers. This one is in nice condition and is a great chance to pick one up if your collection doesn’t have one. Please see our photos and good luck!