Any aftermarket sights available for a 686?

[swenis]

A good buddy of mine has a S&W 686 and is wondering if there are any good alternative sights available for it. He just wants something very robust but doesn't care about them being adjustable or not.

I like his 686 personally except that the orange marker on the front sight is near gone. I'm debating between buying a 686 and a 686 Plus. Is there any reason why it seems the 686 is more common than the alternative 7-shot cousin?

 

[Rover 'n Rugers]

There are several sights available:

(1) Cylinder & Slide makes a fixed sight replacement

(2) Bowen offers Rugged Country replacement sights in several configurations

(3) Millett makes a replacement rear sight

(4) Don't know if it still is offered but Weigand makes (made) a target rear sight

 

[swenis]

Thanks a lot for the great response! Where would you recommend buying these sights at?

 

[gudel]

I was wondering about this. I sometimes have he 686 under my pillow. The rear sight snags! and really pulls the thread on a blanket.
I have the 6shot one. probably easier to find speed loader.

 

[sarhog]

Is there any reason why it seems the 686 is more common than the alternative 7-shot cousin?

If you ever plan to use a revolver in IDPA matches, you can only load 6 rounds. If you use the 7 shot model, having to index the cylinder as you close it would be awkward.
Good luck.

 

[Z_Infidel]

I have the Bowen Rough Country rear sight on one of my revolvers and I highly recommend it.

 

[Confederate]

Sounds like he's looking for a close-in combat sight. Millett sights are mostly target styled, not well suited for combat. Ones that would emphasize the front sight are the best, naturally.

The 686 is very accurate, though. One of the most accurate .357s out of the box -- certainly on a par with the Colt Python. The balance and trigger pull on those can be unbelievable.