Smith & Wesson Model 686-4 .357 Magnum L-Frame Stainless DA/SA Revolver, 6-Inch, 6-Shot, Adjustable Sights
This Smith & Wesson Model 686-4 stands out as a desirable L-Frame .357 Magnum with a 6-inch full-underlug stainless barrel and classic six-shot fluted cylinder. The dash-4 engineering change is pre-MIM and pre-lock, and this frame is factory drilled and tapped under the rear sight. It features adjustable sights with a pinned red-insert ramp front, a smooth-faced forged trigger, and a checkered hammer spur, all in a satin stainless finish.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The revolver is in great shape overall. There are scratches and blemishes present, including two larger patches of scratches on both sides where the frame and barrel meet. Small deposits of pitting are present. There is minor carbon buildup on the cylinder face and around the forcing cone, consistent with normal use. The action is smooth, and lockup is tight.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson Model 686-4 revolver
The 686-4 is an L-Frame stainless-steel revolver built for .357 Magnum, with the versatility to accept .38 Special ammunition. This example uses a 6-inch full-underlug barrel with a serrated top rib and a fully shrouded ejector rod for balanced handling and a clean sight picture.
Dash-4 production is notable for being pre-MIM and pre-lock, a detail many buyers seek. This variant was not subject to the 1987 "M" recall. The frame is factory drilled and tapped under the rear sight. The yoke cut is marked "MOD 686-4."
Sight regulation is handled by an adjustable rear sight paired with a pinned red-insert ramp front sight. Control surfaces include a checkered cylinder release latch, a smooth-faced forged trigger, and a checkered hammer spur. The six-shot cylinder is fluted, confirming this is not a Plus variant.
Ergonomics are enhanced by a Hogue one-piece rubber Monogrip with finger grooves. The revolver wears a satin stainless finish with SMITH & WESSON barrel rollmark, S&W trademark on the sideplate, and "MADE IN U.S.A. MARCAS REGISTRADAS SMITH & WESSON, SPRINGFIELD, MASS." frame rollmark. Made in the United States.