[davera]

My employer just deposited my bonus into my checking account today ... WOO HOO! God bless 'em! First I gotta go to the bank and put the bulk of it in a 1 year CD (out of sight, out of hands, out of mind;) ).

Of the rest, my better half (oops, already told her about it) gets a chunk for some home decorating priorities. Curtains? What do we need curtains for?

But, the fun part is I'll have enough to put me over the top for the next gun acquisition. No, this isn't a "what should I buy? thread". I am pretty set on a S&W 686 in .357 to scratch my revolver itch. I was able to shoot a 629 in .44 mag last week and it made me hungry for a wheelgun since there is already a nice autoloader (SIG P228) in the armory.

I know that S&W isn't the most popular right now but they are an American company and it is a high quality product. The objection many have about adding a lock to satisfy the Klintoons is understood but but I am not unalterably opposed to the idea of one, some HKs have them and you can just not use it if so desired.

Having handled a 686 it is one nice hunk 'o steel. I have handled some Rugers but, they just didn't quite do it for me and I just don't care for what I have seen of the Taurus line either.

[10-Ring]

Good choice. The 686 is a fine revolver. You may wanna consider going to the used market. There are many in good condition out there if you're patient enough t search.

[dairycreek]

One has a 4" barrel and one is a "snubby". Have put several hundered rounds through each. Quality performance with both revos. You will enjoy your S&W. Good shooting;)

[Greg L]

I have 2, a 4" & 6". They both function great but I prefer the 4" as it can easily become a carry gun as opposed to primarily a range gun (the 6" would stick out WAY below my shirt :D ).

As was mentioned, check the used market as there are plenty out there and you may be able to get more than one for the price of a new one.

Greg

[Kilgor]

Buy used.

[Kahr carrier]

S&W 686 good choice I would get an older one that way you can get one without the dreaded lock. I prefer the older ones with the firing pin on the hammer.:)

[Dr.Who]

If you have an Auto already that shoots .45 ACP, look for a 625 or Mountian Gun. They use Moon Clips and are great shooters in an N frame. If you plan to carry or shoot IDPA, get a 4 incher... I found my 625 used and love it. Enjoy... :D

[Dave44]

I have a 629 classic(pre-agreement) and a friend of mine just bought a new 629 classic with magna-porting(I think smith calls it
power porting) and the trigger is junk he is very disappointed-wants to send it back-we compared mine and his and there is a noticeable difference
buy used!!

[P95Carry]

Used to have an 80's 6" 686 .. shot the crap outa that thing ... 1,000's of rounds of competitive shooting. Great gun.

I too would suggest keeping a look out for a good used ... well worth the wait, plus save some cash.

[Ala Dan]

an excellent choice! I would opt for the 6" barrel model,
and nothing past the -5 version; as I wouldn't want to
get into the intergal locking system weapons.

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member

[ruger357]

686 is a great gun, good choice.

[VaughnT]

Congrats!! I got my bonus about a month ago...right when my Trooper decided it wanted to visit the mechanics. Thankfully, my pay raise went into effect soon after and I put the first good bit towards some Yost work on my 1991. The rest goes to pay off my credit card.

Somehow it seems like every time I get a bonus, something happens and I need to spend it on unexpected bills. I hate when that happens.

PS) the 686 is a fine revolver and will bring you a lot of happiness over the years. I've carried one for almost 4yr and absolutely love its reliability and craftsmanship. Go for the earlier models without the triggerlock. You won't be sorry.