Stronger, more durable, S&W 586 or 686?

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m3bullet

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Another thread currently running, "Steel Used in Ruger Revolvers" spawned another question: Which is stronger and more durable, the S&W carbon steel 586 or the stainless steel 686, or 29 versus 629, etc.?

Not interested in discussing the pros-cons of the finishes, as that discussion is mostly scratch & rust resistance, with a large dose of personal appearance preferences. I'm interested in which versions, carbon steel or stainless steel, better resist the effects of magnum pressures and high stress on timing, alignment, action wear, etc.

Also, was there a material strength consideration behind there being a 686 Plus and no 586 Plus, given the thinner cylinder walls of the Plus?

Full disclosure: I own a 586 and 686 and have yet to see a difference.
 
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