Smith & Wesson Model 686-3 .357 Magnum 4 inch Stainless DA/SA Revolver, L-Frame, 6-Shot, Adjustable Sights
This Smith & Wesson Model 686-3 is a classic L-frame "Distinguished Combat Magnum Stainless" from the 1988–1993 production era. The dash-3 engineering update brought an improved yoke-retention system and this example retains pre-MIM forged hammer and trigger construction. It pairs a 4 inch stainless barrel with adjustable sights and checkered service/Magna-style wood stocks, delivering a well-balanced, proven .357 Magnum revolver configuration.
The 686-3 designation also places it outside the scope of the 1987 L-frame recall, adding clarity for buyers who track that distinction. Overall, this is a clean, stainless six-shot with the features enthusiasts look for in a mid-era 686.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This revolver is in great shape overall. Scratches and blemishes are present, with small deposits of pitting noted. The bore is clean and shiny. There is minor carbon buildup on the cylinder face and around the forcing cone. The action is very smooth, and lockup is tight.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson factory cardboard revolver box (blue, with end label)
The 686-3 is the stainless L-frame "Distinguished Combat Magnum" variant, configured here with a 4 inch barrel and a six-shot fluted cylinder. The L-frame design provides added durability in a medium-frame footprint, and this example is chambered in .357 Magnum with non-recessed chambers.
The barrel features a full underlug and serrated top rib that complement the revolver’s sighting system. Sights are adjustable iron: a pinned ramp front with orange insert and a black, square-notch adjustable rear, a setup valued for practical, precise alignment.
This revolver operates in double action/single action with a smooth-faced trigger. It retains an exposed hammer with a hammer-mounted firing pin and pre-MIM forged hammer and trigger components. The dash-3 engineering update incorporates the improved yoke-retention system while remaining outside the 1987 L-frame recall.
Construction is stainless steel throughout the frame, cylinder, and receiver with a satin/brushed stainless finish. Checkered, service/Magna-style wood stocks with inset S&W medallions; they expose the backstrap; panels are full-profile without speedloader relief cuts. Model and dash markings are present on the yoke cut. Made in the USA.