686-today.jpgAccording to Wikipedia, Smith & Wesson introduced the Model 686 in 1980. It is the stainless steel version of the 586, which was made of what used to be known as blued steel, but is now most often called carbon steel. It was chambered for .357 Magnum and .38 S&W Special +P calibers. They are available ported and unported with a choice of 6 or 7 round cylinders.

The Model 686 is based on S & W’s L (medium-large) revolver frame. During the 1980s, Smith & Wesson developed its L-Frame line of .357 Magnums: the Model 581, Model 586, Model 681 and Model 686. These Magnums had a major effect on both law enforcement and sporting markets. This model line became one of the company’s most popular in its history.

Clickable photo above.