Smith & Wesson 686

[mward58]

Looking to get a DA revolver. Have my eyes on a S &W 686 revolver. If anybody here has one or has shot one let me know what you think about them.

[BigSaucy]

I have money on one now. So I hope no one says don't buy one. lol

[mnshooter]

You can't really go wrong with a 686, assuming it's new or as new and hasn't been messed with.  If it's used, get someone to check it over, as timing, cylinder shake, chamber alignment, and other issues  are not something you will be familiar with.  Not sure which 686 you are looking for, but there are plenty of models.  For a first time shooter, get a 4" or 6" barrel 6 or 7 shot (seven shooters are newer and may bring a higher price).  My favorite 686 is the 7 shot mountain gun, but unfortunately they don't make them anymore.  The six inch barrel is a little front heavy; I would definitely suggest the 4" for general use.
If you're looking for a carry gun they are one heavy sucker to wear all day; you can pack a lot more ammo in a lot lighter gun, but it sounds like you're new to shooting, and carry probably isn't an issue.  If you are getting your first handgun, it should really be a .22 rimfire; ten thousand rounds later you will know a lot more about shooting and with the money you didn't spend on ammo you can buy several centerfire revolvers.  If going to shoot mostly .38 specials, also look at the 66, with a slightly smaller frame. You might find it does all you will ever want. 

[mistere]

I have a 586 (6-shot blued version) with a 4 inch barrel and highly recommend it. Not necessarily a small or lightweight gun but perfect for field use, target shooting, and home defense. Went with a 4 inch barrel because it offers the heft and recoil control while still being long enough for better sight radius. With approximately 3,000 rounds of mixed .38Spl+P and .357 Magnum loads shot through it, it still functions fine and feels very controllable. Both single action and double action mode are very smooth out-of-the-box. Again, it is a large weapon and I agree with the previous poster - if you have small hands or don't have a lot of arm strength - a smaller/lighter model may be more appropriate.

[ericire12]

When God made revolvers, he chambered them in .357!

[Sponsor]

[ericire12]

If you are getting your first handgun, it should really be a .22 rimfire; ten thousand rounds later you will know a lot more about shooting and with the money you didn't spend on ammo you can buy several centerfire revolvers.   

That is good advise.... Ive been shooting for years, but never have owned a 22 pistol - and I'd give my wife for a nice Ruger in .22 LR!

[ellis4538]

I prefer the 586 (Blue vs. Stainless) and have had 2 - 1 4" and 1 6" and am looking for another 4".  Love them.  Handle well, shoot great with the right loads but handles everything.

Go for it

Richard

[jaybet]

The 7 shot 686 was my wife's first pistol and she loves it. I honestly think it's the smoothest, most well made handgun I've ever handled. This thing is really well balanced and accurate, with a nice trigger right out of the box.
You can't go wrong in my book.
Here it is right out of the range bag (before cleaning)

[Jkwas]

Nice piece!  It's hard to beat a S&W K-frame.   

[mward58]

You can't really go wrong with a 686, assuming it's new or as new and hasn't been messed with.  If it's used, get someone to check it over, as timing, cylinder shake, chamber alignment, and other issues  are not something you will be familiar with.  Not sure which 686 you are looking for, but there are plenty of models.  For a first time shooter, get a 4" or 6" barrel 6 or 7 shot (seven shooters are newer and may bring a higher price).  My favorite 686 is the 7 shot mountain gun, but unfortunately they don't make them anymore.  The six inch barrel is a little front heavy; I would definitely suggest the 4" for general use.
If you're looking for a carry gun they are one heavy sucker to wear all day; you can pack a lot more ammo in a lot lighter gun, but it sounds like you're new to shooting, and carry probably isn't an issue.  If you are getting your first handgun, it should really be a .22 rimfire; ten thousand rounds later you will know a lot more about shooting and with the money you didn't spend on ammo you can buy several centerfire revolvers.  If going to shoot mostly .38 specials, also look at the 66, with a slightly smaller frame. You might find it does all you will ever want. 

Thanks for the advice. Not new to shooting and have a safe full of stuff but no DA Revolvers. I started the way you suggested and tell my friends who are getting started to go .22 first and get technique down, then progress up. Also then your trips to the range are longer and/or more economical since you can shoot the .22 for alot less money than the larger calibers.