Introduction
Are you in the market for a revolver that seamlessly blends power, precision, and a timeless, iconic design? Look no further than the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus. A stalwart in the world of firearms, the 686 Plus has garnered a reputation for its robust construction and dependable performance. Within the 686 Plus family, a particular variant stands out, capturing the attention of seasoned shooters and newcomers alike: the 7-inch barrel model.
The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus series is known for its impressive accuracy, and with the longer barrel, this particular model takes the concept of performance to new heights. This article delves into the world of the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus 7 Inch, offering a detailed overview of its unique features, how it performs, the good and the bad of owning one, and who will benefit from it most. This guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge to appreciate this remarkable firearm.
An Overview of the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus
The legacy of Smith & Wesson as a firearms manufacturer spans generations. Founded in the mid-nineteenth century, the company has continually produced high-quality handguns, earning the respect of law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters around the globe. Smith & Wesson’s commitment to innovation and reliability has established the company’s reputation as a leader in the firearms industry.
The “686” designation within the Smith & Wesson family signifies several defining characteristics. The frame is constructed of durable stainless steel, providing inherent resistance to corrosion and wear and tear. The “L-frame” is the size of the frame, designed to balance the power of magnum cartridges with manageable handling and recoil. This gives the 686 Plus a robust feel without being excessively bulky.
The “Plus” in the name is another crucial element. It indicates the cylinder’s capacity—seven rounds. This provides an additional round compared to many other revolvers, giving the user a slight edge in terms of firepower and capacity. This extra round can make a significant difference, whether during target practice or personal defense situations.
Key features that characterize all 686 Plus models include the stainless-steel frame, the seven-round cylinder, and the use of the versatile .357 Magnum/ .38 Special ammunition. These features contribute to the model’s popularity across diverse user groups.
The Seven-Inch Barrel: Specifications and Advantages
The 7-inch barrel is a defining feature of this particular model, setting it apart from its counterparts. Constructed from the same high-quality stainless steel as the frame, the barrel undergoes precise manufacturing processes to ensure consistent accuracy and durability. The barrel is designed to withstand the pressures associated with firing .357 Magnum cartridges, but it is also suitable for the lighter .38 Special rounds.
The longer barrel contributes to the 686 Plus’s impressive capabilities in several key ways. A longer barrel allows the propellant gasses to push the bullet for a greater distance before exiting the muzzle. This leads to a higher muzzle velocity, meaning the bullet leaves the barrel at a faster speed. The increase in velocity results in a flatter trajectory and more energy transfer to the target, which enhances the handgun’s effectiveness at greater distances.
Accuracy is also significantly improved with the 7-inch barrel. The longer sight radius, the distance between the front and rear sights, makes it easier to align the sights properly, resulting in tighter groupings on the target. The weight distribution from the longer barrel also assists in reducing muzzle climb, aiding in follow-up shots.
While revolvers, in general, offer excellent recoil management, the 7-inch barrel adds a considerable amount of weight to the firearm, which helps absorb a portion of the felt recoil. This translates to a more comfortable shooting experience, especially when using potent .357 Magnum ammunition.
With a longer sight radius and increased weight, the 7-inch barrel provides the shooter with a more accurate and comfortable shooting experience, further enhancing its appeal to those who prioritize precision.
Features and Specifications of the 686 Plus 7 Inch
The 686 Plus 7 Inch is chambered in .357 Magnum/.38 Special, two highly versatile and popular rounds. The .357 Magnum offers considerable power, excellent stopping capability, and a flat trajectory at longer ranges, while the .38 Special provides reduced recoil and cost-effectiveness, making it a great choice for practice and self-defense. This chambering also gives the owner the flexibility to pick from a wide variety of ammunition.
As previously mentioned, the frame is manufactured from stainless steel, providing a robust construction, and offering exceptional resistance to corrosion. This is particularly important in environments where exposure to the elements or harsh conditions might be a concern. Stainless steel also offers an attractive appearance, which is a plus for gun enthusiasts who appreciate a well-crafted firearm.
The grip is an essential component that affects comfort and control. The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus often comes with high-quality rubber grips, such as those made by Hogue, that provide a comfortable and secure hold. The grips absorb some of the recoil, and the ergonomic design assists in keeping the weapon firmly in the shooter’s hands.
For sighting, the 686 Plus typically comes with adjustable rear sights, allowing you to fine-tune elevation and windage for optimal accuracy. These sights are usually coupled with a front sight, which can be a ramp or a blade, providing a clear and reliable sight picture in various lighting conditions.
The trigger mechanism on the 686 Plus is Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA). In double-action mode, the shooter pulls the trigger, which cocks the hammer and then releases it to fire the round. In single-action mode, the hammer is manually cocked, and the trigger pull is lighter, resulting in enhanced accuracy.
The overall dimensions of the 686 Plus 7 Inch are slightly larger than shorter-barreled variants. This model typically has a length of around 12.5 inches and weighs approximately 44.5 ounces. The additional barrel length and weight contribute to the firearm’s overall stability and recoil mitigation.
The cylinder capacity of seven rounds provides ample firepower, allowing for more rounds compared to the standard six-round revolvers. This enhanced capacity offers a degree of reassurance for various applications, from target shooting to personal defense.
Performance and Shooting Characteristics
The accuracy of the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus 7 Inch is one of its primary selling points. The combination of a long barrel, adjustable sights, and a solid construction all contribute to its exceptional performance. With the correct ammunition, the 686 Plus can produce tight groups at various distances, making it an excellent choice for target shooting and hunting.
Recoil management is something this firearm does extremely well. Although .357 Magnum rounds can generate a significant amount of recoil, the 7-inch barrel, the stainless-steel frame, and the quality grips all help mitigate this effect. The result is a manageable recoil, allowing for quicker follow-up shots and a more enjoyable shooting experience.
The ergonomics and handling of the 686 Plus are praised by many shooters. The grips offer a comfortable hold, and the balanced design of the revolver makes it easy to point and control. The trigger pull is smooth in single-action mode, which further enhances accuracy. The overall design of the revolver makes it easy to get a good grip and acquire your target.
The range experience with the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus 7 Inch is typically positive. The smooth trigger, coupled with the accurate sights, contributes to a satisfying shooting experience. The longer barrel allows you to maintain a more consistent sight picture, helping to increase the accuracy and control. Shooters can enjoy the accuracy and the power of the .357 Magnum cartridge, while also taking advantage of the increased stability of the longer barrel.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The 686 Plus 7 Inch offers numerous advantages. Firstly, its impressive accuracy makes it suitable for various applications, including target shooting and hunting. The inherent reliability and durability of Smith & Wesson revolvers are also very advantageous. The robust stainless-steel construction can withstand the rigors of continuous use. The firearm is capable of utilizing the powerful .357 Magnum, while also providing the option to use .38 Special rounds. The smooth trigger pull enhances both accuracy and shooting enjoyment, making it a pleasure to use at the range. The classic, timeless appearance of the revolver will undoubtedly attract many shooters.
It is important to consider some disadvantages. The size and weight, while beneficial for recoil management, can make it challenging to carry concealed. The cost of the 686 Plus may be higher compared to other handguns.
Target Audience and Use Cases
The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus 7 Inch appeals to a range of shooters with a variety of interests. Its high level of accuracy makes it an excellent choice for target shooters of any experience level. The firearm’s power and accuracy also make it suitable for hunting medium-sized game in jurisdictions where the use of handguns is allowed.
For home defense, the 686 Plus 7 Inch has its strengths. The .357 Magnum round offers considerable stopping power, and the 7-inch barrel provides increased accuracy at longer distances. However, the size and weight could present some challenges in confined spaces.
The 686 Plus is also a favorite among gun collectors. Its reputation for quality, the seven-round capacity, and the stainless-steel finish, make it a highly collectible firearm.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure your Smith & Wesson 686 Plus 7 Inch remains in top working condition and provides years of reliable service. After each shooting session, cleaning is vital. Remove any powder residue, dirt, and other debris from the barrel, cylinder, and all other components. Lubricate moving parts with high-quality gun oil to reduce friction and prevent corrosion.
When storing your 686 Plus 7 Inch, make sure it is in a secure and dry location. Avoid storing it in a case, as this can trap moisture and lead to rust. Consider using a gun safe or a lockbox for added security.
Comparisons
The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus 7 Inch stands out in its class for many reasons. The Ruger GP100 is another well-regarded revolver, but the Smith & Wesson offers slightly better ergonomics and a refined trigger pull.
In comparison to other barrel lengths in the 686 Plus series, the 7-inch model offers superior ballistics and greater accuracy than the shorter barreled versions. Although the shorter barrels might be more convenient for concealed carry, the 7-inch version is designed for maximum performance and precision.
Conclusion
In summary, the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus 7 Inch is a remarkable revolver that stands out for its performance, durability, and classic design. Its combination of power, accuracy, and reliability makes it a versatile firearm, suitable for target shooting, hunting, and even home defense. The 7-inch barrel provides a significant advantage in terms of velocity, accuracy, and recoil management.
The 686 Plus 7 Inch is a testament to Smith & Wesson’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. If you are looking for a revolver that delivers exceptional performance, the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus 7 Inch is a worthy option to consider.
This is an excellent firearm for shooters of all levels.
