Description
There's a reason the 686 has been a staple behind gun counters for decades. Smith & Wesson built the L-frame specifically to run full-house .357 Magnum without beating itself up, and the 686 Plus takes that proven platform and adds a seventh round to the cylinder. This version wears a 3-inch full underlug barrel, which a lot of revolver folks consider the goldilocks length. You get a meaningful velocity bump over a snub, a longer sight radius for real accuracy, and a package that still rides comfortably on the hip.
Why the 3-Inch 686 Plus Earns Its Keep
At around 36.8 ounces of stainless steel, this gun soaks up magnum recoil far better than the lightweight carry revolvers out there, and the synthetic grip does its part too. The double action pull is smooth through the stroke, and the single action break is crisp when you have time to cock the hammer and take a careful shot. Sights are a red ramp up front with an adjustable white outline rear, so you can dial in your point of impact for whatever load you settle on. And since it chambers .38 Special +P alongside .357 Magnum, you can burn through mild wadcutters at the range and load up the hot stuff when it counts.
A Do-It-All Wheelgun from Smith & Wesson
The 686 Plus fits a lot of roles. It works as a nightstand gun, a woods companion, a trail gun where four-legged threats are a concern, or simply a range revolver you'll never get tired of. The round butt frame accepts a huge range of aftermarket grips if you want to tailor the fit to your hand, and the satin stainless finish holds up to weather and honest wear without much fuss. If you've been thinking about one revolver that can cover defense, outdoor carry, and weekend plinking, this configuration makes a strong case for itself.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer Part Number: 164300
- UPC: 022188643008
- Model: 686 Plus
- Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special +P
- Capacity: 7 Rounds
- Action: Double Action / Single Action
- Barrel Length: 3" Full Underlug
- Overall Length: 8.18"
- Weight: 36.8 oz
- Frame: L-Frame, Stainless Steel
- Front Sight: Red Ramp
- Rear Sight: Adjustable White Outline
- Grip: Synthetic
- Finish: Satin Stainless
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson 686 Plus revolver
- Factory hard case
- Internal lock keys
- Owner's manual
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the 686 Plus shoot .38 Special as well as .357 Magnum?
Yes. Like all .357 Magnum revolvers, the 686 Plus safely fires .38 Special and .38 Special +P in addition to full-power magnums. Most owners practice with affordable .38s and keep magnum loads for defense or the field, which keeps range time cheap and comfortable.
Is the 3-inch barrel a good choice compared to the 4-inch or 2.5-inch 686?
The 3-inch barrel is a favorite for good reason. It gives you noticeably more velocity and sight radius than the 2.5-inch snub while staying shorter and easier to carry than the 4-inch. For a revolver that splits time between carry, home defense, and range work, it is arguably the best all-around length in the lineup.
How does the S&W 686 Plus handle full-power .357 Magnum recoil?
Very well for its size. The all-stainless L-frame weighs about 36.8 ounces, and that heft combined with the full underlug barrel and rubbery synthetic grip tames magnum recoil far better than lightweight small-frame revolvers. Most people find extended magnum sessions entirely manageable.
Can I change the grips on the 686 Plus?
Absolutely. The 686 Plus uses a round butt grip frame, which is one of the most widely supported patterns in the aftermarket. Wood, rubber, and oversized target grips are all readily available, so it is easy to fit the gun to your hand or dress it up to your taste.





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