Help me decide: S&W 686+ 2.5" or 3"?

[L-Frame]

IMHO the 3" is a no brainer. The extra 1/2 inch makes no difference in carry. I carry a 3" IWB. But, the 3" does give you a bit more velocity, sight radius, and the ejector rod is longer allowing you to eject spent cartridges easier.

 

[iyn]

3" is my vote. I had a 2" SW-15. Sweet gun, but hard to shoot @ a 25yd. target. +p ammo was not fun to shoot, but a 686 would be.

 

[Old krow]

Cast mine as 3" as well. Not that big of a difference in concealment, little bit longer barrel, little bit longer sight radius. I have a 4" 620 and my next one will be a 3 inch.

 

[roguesam]

I have recently gone with a 2.65", 627PC (8 shot). Never could hit anything 'till I got warmed up...

 

[MrBill120]

I've always liked the look of the 2.5" and the Bantam grips, but based on the poll and the feedback so far, I guess I'll be shopping for the 3" and maybe add the Bantams afterwards.