Gun Report

Smith & Wesson 686 Plus .357 Magnum 164194, $790

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GUN TESTS GRADE: A
Higher priced than its competitors, but not prohibitively so, the 686 Plus nonetheless covered all the bases. Consistent, accurate, and packed with seven rounds of either .38 Special or .357 Magnum, this gun is a top revolver choice.

Smith & Wesson 686 Plus .357 Magnum 164194, $790

Gun Details

Manufacturer
Model Name
Model Number
Home Defense
Concealed Carry
Recreational
Price
Caliber/Gauge
Caliber Plus Cartridge
Capacity
Weight Unloaded
Warranty
Overall Length
Barrel Length
Sight Radius
Overall Height
Front Strap Height
Back Strap Height
Maximum Width
Grip Thickness Max
Grip Circumference Max
Frame Material
Barrel Material
Grip Material
Trigger Pull Single
Trigger Pull Double
Trigger Span Single
Trigger Span Double

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Note the ratchets on the star. They were machined to mesh smoothly in and out of contact with the hand. The cylinder latch was contoured and checkered for sure grip. The finish was not flashy but it was appealing and durable. Seven shots are better than six.

The rear sight provided an excellent sight picture, but we do not think the white outline was necessary. Only one screwdriver was needed to adjust both windage and elevation. The hammer tang was short, sturdy and checkered for a sure grip.

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Firearms Prices

Gun Tests has been independently reviewing firearms since 1989. This website contains many older reviews. Unless otherwise noted, these reviews carry the guns' prices at the time of the original review