Did early SW 686's come with 2.5-inch barrels?

I have the chance to purchase a used S&W 686 (no dash, no "M") revolver, with a 2.5 inch barrel. I dimly recall reading somewhere that the 2.5 inch barrel wasn't an option until some of the later models, but I don't recall the source. Is this correct?

Or is it possible that the 2.5 inch barrel on this particular item is the result of later gunsmithing?

It it helps, the serial number is ALWxxxx.

Thanks!

According to SCSW looks like '85, 2.5" was introduced in catalog in 90 but there may have been some special runs. It may also be 2.75" which was available from '80 till ?

Maybe measure it (end of barrel to face of cylinder) and check.

A call to S&W will give you a little more info., they should be able to tell you the original config. from the serial number.

ElKabong

the original barrel lenghts were 4" for duty carry and 6" for competition...different front sights

2.5" was introduced later and a 3" was a liminted production run

The 3 inch was made for the customs
service and was marked CS-1.They
also used 4" models maked the same.

All that aside, a 2.5' 686 is a SWEET package. Woudn't trade mine for anything.