I haven't tried carrying a 686.
I have carried Ruger GP100s, which are very similar in size, in 4" and 3" lengths. (I have a 3" GP100 behind my right hip as I type.)
I have also carried 1911s, in full and Commander lengths.
The 1911 is slimmer, there is no doubt about that. The 1911 may be lighter. However, the cylinder width of an L frame will only really make a difference, IMO, for IWB carry. For OWB, while it is slightly wider, a good holster contour can blend the curve in very well.
What I find more challenging about semi-autos is the grip. I personally find that a round butt revolver grip - assuming the revolver is in a holster that tucks the butt into my body, prints less under shirt fabric that does the angled butt of the typical semi-auto.
If worried about capacity and speed of reloads, in the OP's case, the Kimber would have more capacity, and be capable of faster reloads.
If worried about concealability of spare ammo, .357 or .38 in speed strips are very concealable. Two 6rd speed strips (I don't know if 7rd strips for the 686+ are available) can be hidden in an empty Altoids tin.
I have found almost all the 1911s I have owned have been picky about SD ammo. Gold Dots have had the worst feed reliability, among my normal choices of carry ammo; DPX and Golden Saber have had the best. This will vary from one gun to the next, but if the OP chooses the Kimber he had best ensure it will feed whatever he chooses to load and carry.
(Note: Most of my other auto types are much less picky about ammo. One of my CZs won't feed 147 gr 9mm, but the other CZs will; a Beretta I used to own shot 115 gr ridiculously low, but it would feed anything.)
The 686+ should fire just about anything. Function testing should be for point of aim vs point of impact, tightness of groups, and controllability vs power.