Smith & Wesson S&W Model 686-3 .357 Mag 4″ Stainless DA/SA Revolver 1993
SOLD FOR: $1925.99
LSB#: 211229WB01
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 686-3, .357 Distinguished Combat Magnum Stainless
Serial Number: BPE6803
Year of Manufacture: 1993
Caliber: .357 Magnum or .38 Special
Action Type: Double Action / Single 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 “BPE6803 / 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. The butt is marked with the serial number “BPE6803”. 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 grips are checkered goncalo alves target stocks with a speedloader cut and S&W medallions. There are light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. The stocks are in Excellent overall 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 97% of its metal finish. There are some draglines and minor scuffs from use and storage. There is some minor discoloration on the butt of the grip frame. There is a light turn line on the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lockup produces almost no side-to-side movement. 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 non-matching S&W box to a semi-auto, a Hogue Monogrip, and a cleaning kit
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 686 revolver is from 1993 and rates in Excellent condition, the bore is bright with sharp rifling and the action almost no play in full lockup. The 4″ barrel is a nice medium between a target revolver and a concealed carry revolver allowing for precision while also remaining handy. This revolver would be a great addition to a Smith & Wesson collection, barbecue gun, or a target or defensive revolver. Please see our photos and good luck!