Smith & Wesson 686-4 .357 Magnum 4-inch L-Frame Stainless DA/SA Revolver (1994) — Distinguished Combat Magnum
This Smith & Wesson Model 686-4 is a 1994-produced L-frame .357 Magnum with a 4-inch barrel, stainless steel construction, and the -4 engineering update. It features the yoke cut marking "MOD 686-4," adjustable S&W micrometer rear sight, and a high-visibility red/orange ramp front sight. This variant predates the later MIM lockwork (-5) and internal lock (-6), and it carries the Distinguished Combat Magnum designation.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The stainless surfaces show a few minor, superficial scratches and small handling marks consistent with careful use.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson Model 686-4 .357 Magnum revolver
The 686-4 represents a desirable engineering period for this L-frame series, confirmed by the "MOD 686-4" marking on the yoke cut. Its 1994 manufacture date places it before the transition to MIM lockwork and before the introduction of the internal lock, aligning it with many buyers' preferences for this model line.
The revolver is built on stainless steel throughout, with a satin/brushed presentation. A full-length underlug and a longitudinally serrated rib/topstrap complement the 4-inch barrel, providing a clean sighting plane and the classic L-frame profile. Standard S&W Springfield, Mass. frame markings are present.
Sight regulation and visibility are handled by the adjustable S&W micrometer rear sight paired with a red/orange insert ramp front. Control features include a smooth trigger, an exposed hammer with a wide, checkered spur, a checkered cylinder latch, and a knurled ejector-rod tip.
The six-shot, six-flute cylinder is finished in stainless to match the frame. A black rubber finger-groove grip with exposed backstrap provides a secure, hand-filling interface appropriate for this full-size DA/SA revolver.
Marketed as the Distinguished Combat Magnum, this 686-4 brings together the L-frame’s durability, quality stainless construction, and user-adjustable sighting in a balanced 4-inch configuration.