Thoughts on the S&W 686 4 Inch? Need Your Feedback!

Firearm Reviews & Recommendations
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Overview of the S&W 686 4 Inch

I’ve recently been diving into the details of the Smith & Wesson Model 686, specifically the 4-inch variant, and I’m looking to gather some insights from the community. The 686 is known for its solid build and reliability, but I’m curious about your personal experiences, especially with the 4-inch barrel.

Performance and Specifications

From what I’ve read, the 686 has a robust stainless steel construction which is fantastic for durability. The 4-inch barrel provides a balance between accuracy and concealability. I’ve seen it recommended for various purposes – from target shooting to home defense.

  • Weight: It has a solid heft, which can help with recoil management.
  • Caliber: Typically chambered in .357 Magnum, it can also shoot .38 Special, which adds versatility.
  • Sight Radius: The longer barrel can enhance accuracy, especially for those of us who are still honing our skills.

Pros and Cons to Consider

I’d love to hear from anyone who owns or has shot this model. Here are some points I’d like to discuss:

  • Pros:

    • Reliability and ease of use.
    • Effective for both novice and experienced shooters.
    • Availability of aftermarket accessories.

  • Cons:

    • Weight might be an issue for some shooters.
    • The price point can be a bit high for a revolver.

Comparison with Other Barrel Lengths

I noticed there are options for both shorter and longer barrels. For those who have experience with different configurations, does the 4-inch really strike the best balance? How does it stack up against the 2.5-inch and 6-inch versions in terms of performance on the range or use cases?

Conclusion & Request for Feedback

Overall, I am eager to hear your thoughts and feedback on the S&W 686 4-inch. Whether it’s about shooting experience, care tips, or how it compares with other firearms, please share your insights! Feel free to drop any resources or experiences you’ve found helpful too.

Thanks in advance for your help, fellow enthusiasts!

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I’ve had my S&W 686 4 inch for a couple of years now. The accuracy is impressive, and it feels great in hand. I can consistently hit targets even at longer distances.

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Absolutely! I find the recoil management to be really good too. It absorbs the recoil well, making shooting a breeze for me.

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I’ve mostly used mine for target shooting. I agree with you, gcrawford! The 686 feels balanced, and it’s comfortable to shoot even through a few hundred rounds.

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What’s the felt recoil like compared to other revolvers? I’m considering upgrading from my old model.

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The recoil is definitely manageable! Much lighter than I expected. You’ll likely appreciate the upgrade if you get one.

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I love how the S&W 686 feels when shooting. It has a great grip and the trigger pull is smooth. Makes for an enjoyable experience!

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Has anyone tried it with different types of ammo? I’m curious about how it performs with .357 vs .38 special.

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Yes! The .357 definitely gives a sharper push compared to .38 Special. For range days, I usually stick with .38 for more comfort.

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Those recommendations sound solid. Thanks for sharing! I’m eager to test it out myself.

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I’ve fired my friend’s S&W 686 and dabbled in competition shooting. It’s excellent for accuracy but still requires practice for those tight groups.

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[quote=“terrydaniel, post:10, topic:2726”]It’s excellent for accuracy…[quote] That’s good to hear! I also think it’s a superb choice for newcomers and seasoned shooters alike.

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So true, herbertguerrero! It’s a versatile firearm. Plus, it’s fun to shoot. Can’t go wrong there!

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I seem to have mixed feelings—I found the weight a bit much for extended shooting sessions. But accuracy was top-notch!

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Totally get you! I can relate. It’s a solid revolver, but I prefer lighter models for longer ranges.

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It’s all about personal preference! I’d love to see a showdown between the 686 and other popular revolvers in terms of comfort and performance!

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I recently purchased a S&W 686 4 inch and I’m impressed by its balance and accuracy. It’s definitely a contender in the revolver world. Comparing it with a Ruger GP100, I find the S&W more refined.

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I agree! The 686 is well-loved for its smooth trigger. However, has anyone compared it to the Colt Python? I’ve heard great things about that too!

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The S&W 686 offers exceptional user satisfaction. In terms of price, it’s definitely on the higher end compared to Taurus models, but you get what you pay for in quality.

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That’s true, but I think the Ruger SP101 is also a solid choice at a more affordable price. It really depends on what you’re looking for in a revolver!