Smith & Wesson Model 686 Revolver

[jmart]

What do you want to use it for? If just target/bullseye/hunting I'd look really closely at a 6". I've got a K-frame .38 Spec, 6", that I shoot just WC and 158 LHPs in, it's really nice. Colt Python is the standard in .357s. I'm not sure, but I think all S&W K-frame and up .357s are now 7 shots.

They are pretty bulky to carry concealed. If you are looking for a house/bedside gun, go with a 4" or 2.5".

ETA: S&W no longer makes any K-framed .357's. The L-framed 686 series are 6 shot versions, the 686 Plus is the 7 shot version.

[USMC]

I have a 6" S&W 586 and love it. I would either get 4" or 6" it just depends on what your gonna do with it! I added a reddot and took it hog and deer hunting!

[MAUSER88]

I have the 6". Put over 5000 rounds of my reloads in the 10+ years I've owned it. It's my favorite .357 magnum.

[Hawkeye]

686's are nice, but my favorite is the 4" or 5" 625.

[RyanS]

686's are nice, but my favorite is the 4" or 5" 625.

I have to agree with Hawkeye on this. I've had several 686s over the years and they were at one time my favorite revolvers. However, once I shot the 625, there was no going back. That is one sweet piece.

[S-1]

The 686 is a great gun. They are very solid and have the best triggers I've ever felt on a handgun. I only have experience with the stock 4" model with the Houge rubber grips.