[Min]

Will be a Smith and Wesson 686 with a 2.5" barrel.

I think they are just so cool, for lack of a more sensible reason. I already have a Smith 27-2, 29-2, 360 PD, and about to buy a 642.

But at the bottom of my heart lies a place for the 686 with snub barrel. Not looking to get any answers really. Maybe a note of "Hell yeah, they're cool!"

Well, anybody like the short barrel over the 4" or 6", ballistics aside.

[chaim]

Well, anybody like the short barrel over the 4" or 6", ballistics aside My only L-frame is a 6" 586, but in K-frames I do strongly prefer the 3" barrel. Also, the 2.5" K-frames are starting to look interesting as well. Now, I have seen a 2.5" 686 and I do have to agree that it looks pretty good, but it isn't for me (if I go that small I think I'd prefer the weight advantage of the lighter K-frame).

[Jim March]

Well...the thing that I'm not sure I like about that combo is that the 686 can be used with VERY serious loads, but you won't get the performance out of a 2.5" tube for those "heavies".

If what you want is practice with nothing but the hottest self-defense fodder, in which case ya, it's a good answer. But, the more I hear about people screwing up their wrists, about how John Taffin has basically crippled himself with a lifetime of heavy loads, the more I think the "practice with full power only" school leaves something to be desired.

If you're going to "practice mostly light, carry hotter", a K-frame or similar makes more sense in terms of street defense/carry.

If you're not buying for street carry, that's another matter but...what else is a short barrel really for?

[caz223]

A 2.5" 686 is just heavy enough for full throttle loads, full power practice, and shooting for hours and hours.
And just light enough to carry without being a burden.
There are lighter and easier to carry snubbys, but they tend to get left home on range day.
The 686 is as accurate as a snubby gets, adjustable sights and all.
My Lew Horton 686 snubby from the 80's will be a gun that I'll never sell.
Try to find a good used smith with firing pin in hammer, better yet an older Lew Horton special.
Mine has the best factory DA trigger pull I've ever felt.

[DennisE]

I perfer short barrels. To me they balance better, they come on target quicker, they point more naturally, they carry easier and with adjustable sights and a good DA trigger they are very accurate out to at least 25 yards. My 2 favorite shooters are my S&W 66 with a 2.5" barrel and my new F-Comp with its 3" barrel. Dennis

[MikeJ]

I really like the shorter barrels. I was out shooting on Friday with my 2 1/2" 66 and had a great time. I was shooting at 15 yards, double action, and was quite pleased with the way my targets looked afterwards. I don't fine the shorter barrel to be a hinderance when it comes to accuracy. I also shot my friends 4" 66 with the same results. I prefer the 66 over the 686 in the shorter version but I stick pretty much to .38's anyway. I use my 4" 586 for the magnums. I say if you like it then get it and enjoy. Mike

[MR.G]

I got the 686 plus with the 2-1/2" barrel. Like having seven rounds in my defense revolvers. Put Wolf reduced power springs in it, polished the internals, and put on Uncle Mikes boot grips. Makes a powerful, durable, accurate, and compact carry gun.
Also have the same gun with a 3" barrel. The 3" doesn't pocket carry as well.