Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe Review

Discover the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe, a .357 Magnum/.38 Special revolver with a 7-round capacity. Featuring barrel options from 3″ to 6″, stainless steel construction, custom wood grips, adjustable rear and red ramp front sights, and DA/SA action. Weight varies with barrel length. This article delves into the various aspects of the 686 Plus Deluxe, offering insights into its design, performance, and applications.

Design and Specifications

The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe is an L-frame revolver, a size that strikes a balance between the heavy N-frame and the smaller K-frame, making it well-suited for a broad range of shooting applications. It is crafted from stainless steel, providing durability and resistance against corrosion and wear. The revolver features a 7-round cylinder, an upgrade from the standard 6-round capacity, thanks to its “Plus” designation. This model is chambered for the .357 Magnum cartridge, but it can also fire .38 Special rounds, including +P variants, offering flexibility in ammunition selection.

One of the hallmark features of the 686 Plus Deluxe is its adjustable rear sight and red ramp front sight, which facilitate accuracy and precision in targeting. The barrel length varies, with options typically ranging from 3 inches to 6 inches, allowing shooters to select a size that best fits their needs and preferences. The longer barrels provide increased accuracy and velocity, making them ideal for competitive shooting and hunting, while the shorter barrels offer convenience and ease of carry for self-defense and law enforcement applications.

The Deluxe version of the 686 Plus distinguishes itself with custom wood grips that not only enhance the revolver’s aesthetics but also improve ergonomics. These grips provide a comfortable and secure hold, which is crucial for managing the powerful recoil of .357 Magnum cartridges.

Performance and Reliability

Smith & Wesson revolvers are renowned for their exceptional build quality and the 686 Plus Deluxe is no exception. Its solid stainless steel construction ensures longevity and reliable performance under various conditions. The choice of .357 Magnum as its primary chambering offers shooters the power needed for self-defense situations, hunting, and sport shooting, while the option to use .38 Special rounds provides a more manageable recoil and cost-effective practice sessions.

The double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger system of the 686 Plus Deluxe offers versatility in firing modes. The smooth DA pull is ideal for rapid, instinctive shooting, while the crisp SA pull allows for precise shot placement. This flexibility makes the revolver suitable for a wide range of shooting disciplines, from defensive scenarios to competitive target shooting.

Applications

The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe is a versatile revolver that excels in various roles. Its robust construction and powerful chambering make it an excellent choice for self-defense, home protection, and law enforcement duties. The revolver’s accuracy and adjustable sights also make it a favorite among competitive shooters and hunters, particularly those pursuing medium-sized game.

For self-defense and concealed carry, the models with shorter barrels are preferred for their ease of carry and rapid deployment. Meanwhile, the longer-barreled variants are often chosen by sports shooters and hunters for their enhanced accuracy and ballistic performance.

Pros and Cons

My Personal Maintenance Routine Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe

• Safety Check Always start by ensuring the revolver is unloaded. Open the cylinder and visually inspect each chamber to confirm they are empty. This step is crucial for safe handling throughout the maintenance process.
• Disassemble for Cleaning Carefully disassemble your revolver according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For the 686 Plus Deluxe, this typically involves removing the cylinder and disassembling other parts that can be cleaned separately. Remember, a detailed disassembly should only be done if you are familiar with the process or have professional guidance.
• Clean the Barrel and Cylinder Use a bore brush and solvent to clean the barrel and each cylinder chamber. Pass the bore brush through the barrel and chambers several times to loosen and remove gunpowder residue and lead deposits. Follow up with a patch soaked in solvent, and then dry patches until they come out clean.
• Inspect and Clean the Action Apply solvent to a brush or cloth and clean the moving parts of the action thoroughly. Inspect for any signs of wear or damage. Use a dry cloth or compressed air to remove any remaining solvent and debris.
• Lubricate Apply a small amount of gun oil or lubricant to the moving parts of the action, focusing on areas of friction. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as excess oil can attract dirt and debris.
• Clean and Check the Ejector Rod Ensure the ejector rod is clean and moves freely. Lubricate it lightly to maintain smooth operation. Check for any signs of bending or damage, which can affect cylinder alignment.
• Inspect the Grips Remove the grips and inspect the frame underneath for dirt and moisture. Clean as needed. Check the condition of the grips for any cracks or wear and ensure they are securely attached when reassembling.
• Wipe Down the Exterior Use a soft cloth lightly coated with gun oil to wipe down the exterior of the revolver, including the barrel, cylinder, and frame. This not only cleans the surface but also provides a protective coat against moisture and corrosion.
• Function Test After reassembling your revolver, perform a function test to ensure everything operates smoothly. Check the action, cylinder rotation, and lockup, and ensure the trigger and hammer move freely without any unusual resistance.
• Storage Store your revolver in a dry, secure location. Use a silicone-treated gun sock or a dehumidifier in your safe to protect against rust and corrosion. Regularly check your firearm, even if it’s stored long-term, to ensure it remains in good condition.

Safety Tips

• Even if you believe a firearm is unloaded, always handle it with the caution you would afford a loaded weapon. This mindset helps prevent accidental discharges.
• The safest direction is often towards the ground or a designated safe area where an accidental discharge would not cause injury or damage. This rule is fundamental to firearm safety and must be observed at all times.
• Keep your finger outside the trigger guard and off the trigger until you are actually ready to fire. This practice prevents unintentional firing, which can occur from sudden movements or when startled.
• Always be sure of your target, and equally important, be aware of what is beyond it. Bullets can travel significant distances, so ensure that no people, property, or animals are at risk in your line of fire.
• Only use ammunition that is specifically designed for your firearm’s make and model. Using incorrect or substandard ammunition can lead to dangerous malfunctions. For the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe, this means using .357 Magnum or .38 Special cartridges from reputable manufacturers.

Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe: My Expert Ratings and Insights

Aspect	Review Summary	Score
Cleaning Frequency	Regular cleaning post-use ensures optimal performance and longevity. Adherence to this routine is strict.	9/10
Lubrication	Proper lubrication of moving parts to prevent wear and ensure smooth operation. Consistently applied.	9/10
Inspection	Detailed inspection for wear and tear or damage after each use, maintaining high safety standards.	9/10
Storage Conditions	Firearms are stored in a controlled environment to prevent rust and damage. Care is taken for ideal conditions.	7/10
Ammunition Check	Regular checking and rotation of ammunition to ensure reliability and prevent aging issues.	8/10
Parts Replacement	Timely replacement of worn-out parts to maintain functionality and safety. Proactive approach.	8/10
Professional Servicing	Annual check-up by a professional to ensure deep maintenance and functionality.	9/10
Accessory Care	Care and maintenance of accessories (holsters, sights) to ensure they remain functional and effective.	9/10
Training Regularity	Consistent training to maintain proficiency and identify potential issues with handling or operation.	8/10
Safety Gear Maintenance	Regular checking and maintenance of safety gear (gloves, glasses) to ensure they provide proper protection.	8/10

Conclusion

The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe is a testament to the enduring legacy and craftsmanship of one of America’s oldest firearms manufacturers. With its blend of aesthetic appeal, ergonomic design, and versatile performance, it continues to be a favored choice among revolver aficionados. Whether for personal defense, law enforcement, hunting, or competitive shooting, the 686 Plus Deluxe stands out as a reliable and prestigious firearm that promises to deliver exceptional performance for generations to come.

FAQs about Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe

• What makes the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe different from other revolvers?
  The 686 Plus Deluxe stands out due to its 7-round capacity (one more than the standard 686), stainless steel construction, adjustable sights, and custom wood grips, offering a blend of aesthetic appeal and functional enhancements.
• Can the 686 Plus Deluxe fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition?
  Yes, it is designed to safely fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special rounds, providing versatility in ammunition choice for different shooting needs.
• How often should the 686 Plus Deluxe be cleaned?
  Regular cleaning is recommended after each use to maintain optimal performance and longevity, especially if you’re firing .357 Magnum rounds, which can leave more residue.
• What is the best way to store the 686 Plus Deluxe to prevent rust?
  Store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in a gun safe with moisture control. Using a silicone-treated gun sock can also help protect against rust and corrosion.
• Is professional servicing necessary for the 686 Plus Deluxe?
  Annual professional servicing is recommended to ensure deep cleaning, lubrication, and the proper functioning of all parts, although good personal maintenance routines can keep service needs minimal.
• What are the ideal conditions for storing ammunition for the 686 Plus Deluxe?
  Ammunition should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture, to prevent degradation and ensure reliability.
• Can I replace the grips on the 686 Plus Deluxe for a custom fit?
  Yes, the revolver is designed to allow for grip replacement, enabling users to customize the fit and feel according to their personal preference.
• How does the adjustable rear sight improve shooting accuracy?
  The adjustable rear sight allows shooters to fine-tune the sight alignment for various distances and lighting conditions, enhancing accuracy for both target shooting and hunting.
• What is the recommended lubrication process for the 686 Plus Deluxe?
  A light application of gun oil on moving parts and friction points after cleaning is recommended. It’s important to avoid over-lubrication, which can attract dirt and debris.
• How can I ensure my 686 Plus Deluxe stays reliable for self-defense?
  Regular maintenance, including cleaning, lubrication, and ammunition rotation, combined with consistent training and proficiency practice, will ensure the revolver remains reliable for self-defense situations.

We’re eager to connect with fellow enthusiasts! Do you own or have you ever used a Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe? Share your personal experiences and insights in the comments section below. Whether it’s about performance, maintenance, or your favorite features, your input can help others make well-informed decisions about this iconic revolver. Let’s build a community of informed and passionate Smith & Wesson fans together!