Smith & Wesson Model 686-3 .357 Magnum Revolver, 2.5 in Stainless, 6-Shot L-Frame, DA/SA, Adjustable Sights (1991)
This 1991 Smith & Wesson Model 686-3 is a stainless L-frame, 6-shot .357 Magnum with the sought-after -3 engineering update. It features a 2.5-inch full-underlug barrel, micrometer-click adjustable rear sight, and a ramped front sight with an orange insert. Pre-MIM construction, a hammer-mounted firing pin, and no internal lock make this example especially appealing to those who value classic S&W internals. Aftermarket rubber finger-groove grips are installed.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Light handling marks are present on exterior surfaces, with minor superficial scratches and small blemishes noted.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson Model 686-3 .357 Magnum revolver
- Aftermarket rubber finger-groove grips (installed)
The 686-3 variant incorporates the factory engineering update that improves yoke retention, adding durability to this stainless L-frame design. Its 6-shot fluted cylinder preserves the classic 686 profile and operation.
The 2.5-inch barrel wears a full underlug for balance and recoil management, and the sighting system is set up with a ramped front sight featuring an orange insert and a micrometer-click adjustable rear sight for precise zeroing.
This revolver uses a traditional double-action/single-action system with a smooth-faced trigger and exposed hammer. It retains pre-MIM internal parts, a hammer-mounted firing pin, and has no internal lock.
Chambered in .357 Magnum, it also accepts .38 Special. Markings include "MADE IN U.S.A. MARCAS REGISTRADAS SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD, MASS." along with the S&W trademark, and it is marked "MOD. 686-3" in the yoke recess. Manufactured in 1991 in the United States.