[GuidoTorpedo]

Besides the obvious, what are the differences between the S&W 686 and the S&W 686+. I realize that one is a 6 shot and one is a 7 shot but are there any other differences? Why would someone buy the 6 shot over the 7 shot?

Also, are all newer S&W 686 round butts?

Lastly, does the new lock on S&W revolvers change the trigger pull (negatively) like firing pin blocks do on other handguns?

[jad0110]

Number of shots is basically the only difference. The 7 shot model does have tad shorter trigger pull that the 6 shot model (barely noticeable to me). The cylinder on the 7 shot is also a hair stronger, as the cylinder stop notches are not located directly on top of the chambers.

However, 7 shooters can go out of time sooner, though S&W does have excellent customer service and a lifetime warranty, so that one doesn't bother me much. Another problem is that many competitive venues limit you to only six shots (can't remember which ones right now). Plus, there aren't as many speedloaders availabe for the 7 shooters. For example, Safariland does not make a speedloader for the 686P.

I went with the 7 shooter personally, though I'd be just as happy with a 6 shooter. Either is a sweet wheelgun.

And as far as I know, all new 686s are round butt.

[Rexster]

Why 6? Perhaps tradition, perhaps so it can share speedloaders with other weapons already owned.

[bannockburn]

I've always been partial to six, myself.
http://http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc231/buckeroobanzai/DSC02792.jpghttp://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc231/buckeroobanzai/DSC02792.jpgv

[GUNKWAZY]

The biggest difference I found was shooting 6 shots then dumping brass.
On the 686, this process works out good.
On the 686 plus, I'm constantly dumping 6 empty and 1 live round.
It irked me enough to sell my first one.
If you have shot a 6 shooter for a long time, it takes getting used to that's for sure.

Good luck, Jeff (GUNKWAZY)