[Samari Jack]

I finally broke down and spent the $$$ for a new 686-7 shot, stainless, 4" barrel today. First .357 I've owned in 20 years. It is a good shooter with manageable recoil, even with .357 rounds. It is really a handful of gun when compared to my plastic guns though. I'm sure the weight helps with the recoil.

My question is under the Serial Number it has "686-6" It is obviously a 7 shot but the "6" raised my curiosity.

Just as a side note, I'm sure it is sturdy enough but there isn't a whole lot of metal between the chambers of the cylinder.

[mesinge2]

The -6 is a version of the 686. Each dash number means something on the weapon is different from other dash numbers such as the 686-4 and 686-5 and so on. IIRC, the -6 indicates the addition of the internal lock, MIM components, and the frame mounted firing pin. I am trying to remember from memory so, some aspects of the specific dash numbers may be off but I believe this is correct.

[Samari Jack]

The -6 is a version of the 686. Each dash number means something on the weapon is different from other dash numbers such as the 686-4 and 686-5 and so on. IIRC, the -6 indicates the addition of the internal lock, MIM components, and the frame mounted firing pin. I am trying to remember from memory so, some aspects of the specific dash numbers may be off but I believe this is correct.
Makes sense. Because the number is six could lead a suspicious mind to thinking negative waves since S&W does make (or did) a 686-6 holer.

So far the lock is a non-issue. I don't see what all the whoop-la is about.

[mesinge2]

I personally dislike the lock but it has not stopped me from buying them. I just ignore it and shoot them like any other revolver.

[ArchAngelCD]

I am a revolver guy and I am a bit of a traditionalist BUT, I do like the seven round .357 Magnum revolver made by S&W. Hey, if 6 rounds of .357 Magnum are good 7 rounds must be better! LOL

IMO you bought a great revolver. I own a M686-2 and I shoot that revolver most at the range. I also carry it in the woods.

[Fishslayer]

My question is under the Serial Number it has "686-6" It is obviously a 7 shot but the "6" raised my curiosity.

Just as a side note, I'm sure it is sturdy enough but there isn't a whole lot of metal between the chambers of the cylinder.

The L frame 586/686 was developed to address the weakness (real or perceived) of the K frame M19/M66. The 686 will gobble up all the full house magnum Big Dogs you care to feed it. ;)

The dash number (-6) is an engineering change number that denotes some significant change from previous dash numbers. The -6 was introduced in 2001 and indicates the Internal Locking System.

The 7 shooter is the 686+ introduced in 1995. It was a production change & doesn't get a dash number.

MIM parts & frame mounted firing pin came with the -5 in 1997.

Source: SCS&W 3rd edition

[sleepyone]

one of my favorite guns I own.

[71Commander]

I am a revolver guy and I am a bit of a traditionalist BUT, I do like the seven round .357 Magnum revolver made by S&W. Hey, if 6 rounds of .357 Magnum are good 7 rounds must be better! LOL

Not if you're shooting it out of my wife's 386PD. After the 5th shot, you wish it were empty.

[pmwizard]

It was the first handgun I bought. Shoots very accurate and is my HD go to gun.

[mesinge2]

Thanks, Fishslayer. I am usually pretty good about the mods but I forget the MIM, ILS on the newer models sometimes. I knew the -6 was the lock but was unsure about the MIM parts and frame mounted firing pin.

[nathan]

I love mine, its my only revolver. I would admit its a bit awkward to handle bec of the heavy barrel at 4 inch. I wish i got a 6 inch version that balances better with the long sight radius.

[Fishslayer]

Thanks, Fishslayer. I am usually pretty good about the mods but I forget the MIM, ILS on the newer models sometimes. I knew the -6 was the lock but was unsure about the MIM parts and frame mounted firing pin.

My SCS&W sits right next to the computer! :D

[sirsloop]

I own a ore and post lock 686... Don't even notice it to be honest

[wlewisiii]

I personally dislike the lock but it has not stopped me from buying them. I just ignore it and shoot them like any other revolver.
This is my feeling as well.

[MachIVshooter]

So far the lock is a non-issue. I don't see what all the whoop-la is about.

It's an eyesore, and a reminder of darker days for S&W.

It wouldn't stop me from buying one, but if I have a choice, I prefer no lock. I also prefer a hammer mounted FP and forged internals, so I tend to buy older models.