Saw a used 3" model 686 today at a dealer for $429.00. Has box and papers. It is a newer gun, with the mim parts and the frame mounted firing pin, so it is not the customs service model. I can't find any information about this gun. Can anybody tell me if they have heard of a 3" 686, and with the odd barrel length if the price is about right.
3" Model 686 ?
- Thread starter MR.G
- Start date
Mr.G,
Several variations of these exist, starting in this order.
The 3" barrel Smith & Wesson 686 is product code 104228,
produced with a round butt originally for the U.S. Customs
Service, with a pinned black ramp and marked "CS-1" above
model marking and with a dull gray bead blast finish.
Also, 350 were produced by the performance center for
Lew Horton Distributing in 1992 with some modifications,
some of which were Uncle Mike's grips, special serial range,
Performance Center logo, contured thumb piece, trigger
over-travel stop, and a full length extractor rod. Also, a
radiused "combat trigger" was used on these weapons.
At times, the 3" S&W 686's can be found compensated
and ported, straight from the factory.
It's worthy of note that some 3" RB 686's were even
made for export. The Standard Catalog Of Smith & Wesson
does not say to whom these were shipped?
Hope this helps some!
Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member
Several variations of these exist, starting in this order.
The 3" barrel Smith & Wesson 686 is product code 104228,
produced with a round butt originally for the U.S. Customs
Service, with a pinned black ramp and marked "CS-1" above
model marking and with a dull gray bead blast finish.
Also, 350 were produced by the performance center for
Lew Horton Distributing in 1992 with some modifications,
some of which were Uncle Mike's grips, special serial range,
Performance Center logo, contured thumb piece, trigger
over-travel stop, and a full length extractor rod. Also, a
radiused "combat trigger" was used on these weapons.
At times, the 3" S&W 686's can be found compensated
and ported, straight from the factory.
It's worthy of note that some 3" RB 686's were even
made for export. The Standard Catalog Of Smith & Wesson
does not say to whom these were shipped?
Hope this helps some!
Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member
Last edited:
Bought the gun today. Paid $425.00 out the door for it. Called S&W with the serial number and asked them about the gun. Was told that it was one of 535 made special in 1999 for RSR Distributors. The finish is also bead blasted. Now I have the 2-1/2", 3", and 4" in the 7 shot 686, and need to find a good used 6".
kahr Carrier
New member
Thats sounds like a good deal congratulations dont forget the 8 3/8.