Smith & Wesson S&W Model 586-2 .357 Magnum 6″ Nickel DA/SA Revolver
SOLD FOR: $1,001.01
LSB#: LSB260123DG021
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 586-2
Serial Number: AYR8311
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1980s
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder Revolver
Markings: The right side of the barrel is marked “S.&W. 357 MAGNUM”, the left is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The yoke cut is marked with the serial number above “MOD. 586-2”. The yoke cut is also marked with a “M” indicating a factory recall repair. The right side of the frame is marked with the four-line Marcas Registradas, the left is marked with the S&W trademark logo. The butt is marked with the serial number. The yoke and sides of the grip frame and yoke have inspection marks.
Barrel Length: 6″ with full underlug
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade with an orange plastic insert integral to a rise in the solid rib. The rear sight is a flat top square notched leaf in a base that is micrometer-click adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece checkered target stocks with speed loader cut and S&W medallions at their tops. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is crisp. There are just a few small scratches. The grips rate in Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel with Case colored hammer and trigger.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. There is light copper fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. There is a light turn line on the cylinder. There are light scratches and very minor corrosion freckles, mostly on the barrel. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall this revolver is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is minimal play on the chambers in full lockup. The double-action trigger pull is smooth with a crisp single-action break. 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: Factory Box.
Our Assessment: The Smith & Wesson Model 586-2 is a classic L-frame revolver developed during the late 20th century to bridge the gap between the lighter K-frame service revolvers and the heavier N-frame magnums. Introduced in 1980, the Model 586 was specifically engineered to handle sustained use of full-power .357 Magnum ammunition, incorporating a robust frame and full underlug barrel for improved durability and balance. The “-2” engineering revision reflects early refinements to the design, and the presence of the factory “M” stamp indicates that this example received the recall modification addressing primer flow issues, an important historical detail tied to the model’s development. With its 6 inch barrel and target configuration, the 586 quickly became a favored revolver for law enforcement, competition shooters, and enthusiasts seeking a controllable yet powerful magnum platform.
This revolver remains in excellent overall condition, retaining approximately 97 percent of its original nickel finish. The surfaces show only light handling marks, a faint cylinder turn line, and minor freckling primarily along the barrel, all consistent with careful use. The markings are clear and well preserved, and the screw heads remain sharp, indicating minimal disassembly. The bore is a strong point, rating 9.5 out of 10 with bright surfaces and sharp rifling, showing only light copper fouling. Mechanically, the revolver performs as expected, with tight lockup, minimal play, and a smooth double action pull complemented by a crisp single action break, reinforcing the reputation of the L-frame for refined handling characteristics.
The revolver is fitted with factory checkered target stocks featuring speedloader cuts and Smith & Wesson medallions, which remain in excellent condition with crisp checkering and only minor surface marks. The full underlug barrel and solid rib contribute to a steady sight picture, complemented by the orange insert front sight and fully adjustable rear sight, allowing for precise shooting across a range of applications. The inclusion of the factory box adds to the completeness of the package. Altogether, this Model 586-2 exemplifies the balance of strength, accuracy, and refinement that defined Smith & Wesson’s L-frame revolvers during their rise to prominence in the 1980s. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! MF