The Smith & Wesson 586 Classic: A Definitive Guide to an Enduring Revolver

Are you searching for a reliable, powerful, and aesthetically pleasing firearm that combines timeless design with modern performance? Do you want to understand why certain revolvers maintain their legendary status among shooting enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking dependable home defense options? This comprehensive guide delves into the Smith & Wesson 586 Classic, a celebrated revolver chambered in .357 Magnum, and explores why it remains a top choice for a diverse range of users.

Whether you're a seasoned marksman seeking precision, a new gun owner looking for a robust and straightforward firearm, or a collector appreciating historical significance, the Smith & Wesson 586 Classic offers a compelling blend of features. This iconic revolver, known for its superb craftsmanship and robust L-Frame design, addresses the need for powerful handgun performance coupled with user-friendly operation and classic aesthetics.

Why Choose a Revolver for Your Needs?

In an era dominated by semi-automatic pistols, revolvers continue to hold a significant place due to their inherent simplicity, reliability, and timeless appeal. For many, a revolver represents a foundational shooting experience, emphasizing accuracy and deliberate action over rapid fire.

• Unparalleled Reliability: Revolvers are renowned for their mechanical simplicity. With fewer moving parts than semi-automatic pistols, they are less prone to malfunctions caused by ammunition variations or adverse conditions. This makes them incredibly dependable for critical applications like home defense.
• Ease of Use: Operating a revolver is straightforward. There's no magazine to load and insert, no slide to rack (though proper loading and unloading are essential), and typically no complex external safeties to manipulate under stress. Simply load the cylinder, cock the hammer (for single-action), or pull the trigger (for double-action), and fire.
• Versatility in Ammunition: Many revolvers, including the 586 Classic, can fire two different calibers. The .357 Magnum revolver can also safely and effectively chamber and fire the milder .38 Special cartridge, offering flexibility for training and personal preference.
• Classic Aesthetics and Heritage: Revolvers often embody a sense of history and craftsmanship. The Smith & Wesson 586 Classic, with its blued finish and wood grips, is a prime example of a firearm that looks as good as it performs, appealing to those who appreciate traditional gun design.

Deep Dive: The Smith & Wesson 586 Classic .357 Magnum Revolver

The Smith & Wesson 586 Classic, with its distinct blued carbon steel frame, 4-inch barrel, and ergonomic wood grips, is more than just a firearm; it's a testament to enduring design and quality manufacturing.

Core Specifications:

• Caliber: .357 Magnum (also compatible with .38 Special)
• Capacity: 6 rounds
• Barrel Length: 4 inches
• Frame: L-Frame
• Material: Blued Carbon Steel
• Grips: Wood
• Sights: Black blade front, adjustable rear

Performance and Design Features Explained:

The Potent .357 Magnum Caliber and .38 Special Versatility

One of the most compelling features of the Smith & Wesson 586 Classic is its chambering in .357 Magnum. This cartridge is celebrated for its impressive power, making it highly effective for self-defense and hunting applications (where legal and appropriate). It delivers significant muzzle energy and excellent terminal ballistics.

For those concerned about recoil or looking for a more economical training option, the ability to fire .38 Special ammunition is a significant advantage. The .38 Special is a milder round, producing less recoil and muzzle blast, making it ideal for extended range sessions, training new shooters, or for situations where less power is desired. This dual-caliber capability significantly enhances the revolver's utility and broadens its appeal.

The Ideal 4-Inch Barrel Length

The 4-inch barrel on the Smith & Wesson 586 Classic strikes an excellent balance between several critical factors:

• Accuracy: A 4-inch barrel provides a longer sight radius compared to shorter barrels, which inherently aids in achieving greater accuracy, especially at longer distances. It allows for a more precise sight picture and reduces perceived wobble.
• Velocity: While not as long as a 6-inch or 8-inch barrel, a 4-inch barrel still allows the .357 Magnum cartridge to achieve substantial velocity, maximizing its power potential.
• Maneuverability: It's compact enough for relatively easy handling in confined spaces, making it a viable option for home defense scenarios where space might be limited. It avoids the bulk of longer barrels while retaining significant ballistic performance.
• Balance: Many shooters find the 4-inch barrel length provides an optimal balance, making the revolver feel natural and controllable in hand, contributing to better shooting ergonomics and reduced fatigue during practice.

Robust 6-Round Capacity

The 6-round cylinder capacity is standard for many full-size revolvers and is widely considered reliable and sufficient for numerous applications, including target shooting, recreational use, and home defense. Unlike semi-automatic pistols that rely on magazines, the fixed capacity of a revolver ensures simplicity and consistent functionality without magazine-related feeding issues.

The Legendary L-Frame Construction

The Smith & Wesson L-Frame was specifically developed in the early 1980s to provide a robust platform for the powerful .357 Magnum cartridge, bridging the gap between the medium K-Frame and the larger N-Frame.

• Durability and Strength: The L-Frame is engineered to withstand the pressures generated by countless .357 Magnum rounds, offering superior longevity and structural integrity compared to the more slender K-Frame when subjected to a steady diet of full-power loads.
• Recoil Absorption: Its slightly heavier and more substantial design helps to absorb and mitigate recoil, making the powerful .357 Magnum more manageable for shooters, improving comfort, and allowing for faster follow-up shots.
• Ergonomics: Despite its robust nature, the L-Frame maintains a comfortable grip size for most hands, providing a secure hold that contributes to control and accuracy.

Classic Blued Carbon Steel Finish

The blued carbon steel finish of the 586 Classic offers a traditional aesthetic that appeals to purists and collectors alike.

• Timeless Appearance: Bluing is a classic firearm finish, offering a deep, lustrous black appearance that beautifully complements the wood grips, creating an elegant and refined look.
• Corrosion Resistance: While not as resistant to moisture as stainless steel, a properly maintained blued finish provides a good level of protection against rust and corrosion, especially when regularly cleaned and oiled.
• Durability: Carbon steel is a strong and durable material, ensuring the revolver's longevity and ability to withstand rigorous use over many years.

Ergonomic Wood Grips

The wood grips are not merely decorative; they contribute significantly to the revolver's handling and appeal.

• Classic Feel: Wood grips provide a warm, natural feel in hand, a stark contrast to modern synthetic materials. They offer a connection to the heritage of firearms manufacturing.
• Ergonomic Design: Well-designed wood grips, like those on the 586 Classic, are contoured to fit the hand comfortably, providing a secure and confident grip that enhances control and reduces fatigue during prolonged shooting sessions.
• Aesthetics: The rich grain and finish of the wood grips beautifully complement the blued steel, elevating the overall visual appeal of the revolver and making it a true centerpiece in any collection.

Adjustable Sights for Precision

The Smith & Wesson 586 Classic comes equipped with a black blade front sight and an adjustable rear sight. This combination is crucial for maximizing accuracy.

• Precision Targeting: The adjustable rear sight allows shooters to fine-tune the point of impact for different ammunition types and shooting distances, ensuring optimal precision.
• Clear Sight Picture: The contrast between the black front blade and the adjustable rear notch typically provides a crisp and easy-to-acquire sight picture, aiding in rapid target acquisition and precise aim.

Smooth Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) Trigger

The trigger system on the 586 Classic offers both double-action and single-action modes of operation.

• Double Action (DA): A long, deliberate trigger pull both cocks the hammer and releases it, firing the round. This offers a level of safety and is often preferred for self-defense scenarios where speed and simplicity are paramount.
• Single Action (SA): By manually cocking the hammer first, the trigger pull becomes significantly lighter and crisper, allowing for maximum precision and accuracy, ideal for target shooting.

Who is the Smith & Wesson 586 Classic For?

The enduring popularity of the 586 Classic stems from its ability to meet the needs of a diverse user base.

• The Discerning Collector: For those who appreciate firearms history and craftsmanship, the 586 Classic represents an iconic piece that holds its value and stands as a testament to Smith & Wesson's legacy. Its "Classic" designation indicates its faithfulness to original designs.
• The Dedicated Target Shooter: The combination of the L-Frame's stability, the 4-inch barrel's accuracy potential, and the adjustable sights makes it an excellent choice for punching paper at the range. The ability to shoot milder .38 Special loads is also a boon for extended practice.
• The Home Defense Advocate: Its proven reliability, powerful .357 Magnum chambering, and straightforward operation make it a formidable and dependable choice for protecting one's home and family. The robust construction ensures it's always ready when needed.
• The Enthusiastic New Shooter: While powerful, the 586 Classic, when paired with .38 Special ammunition and proper training, can be an excellent foundational firearm. Its simplicity helps new shooters understand basic handgun mechanics without the complexities of magazine changes or multiple safety levers.
• The Individual Seeking a Durable, Long-Term Investment: The build quality and historical significance mean that a well-maintained 586 Classic often retains or even appreciates in value over time, unlike many mass-produced modern firearms.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Smith & Wesson 586 Classic

Is the Smith & Wesson 586 a good revolver for self-defense?

Yes, the Smith & Wesson 586 Classic is considered an excellent choice for self-defense, particularly for home defense. Its .357 Magnum chambering offers significant stopping power, and the revolver's inherent reliability means it's unlikely to malfunction in a high-stress situation. Its straightforward operation and robust construction make it a dependable option.

What's the difference between the Smith & Wesson 586 and 686?

The primary difference lies in the material and finish. The Smith & Wesson 586, including the Classic model, features a blued carbon steel frame, offering a traditional dark finish. The Smith & Wesson 686 is made from stainless steel, which provides superior corrosion resistance and a lighter, more modern aesthetic. Both models share the same robust L-Frame design and are chambered in .357 Magnum.

Can I shoot .38 Special ammunition in my .357 Magnum revolver?

Absolutely. A .357 Magnum revolver like the 586 Classic is designed to safely and effectively fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges. The .38 Special offers a milder shooting experience with less recoil and muzzle blast, making it ideal for practice, training, and situations where less power is required.

How do I maintain the blued finish on my 586 Classic?

Maintaining a blued finish requires regular care to prevent rust. After each use, especially if exposed to moisture or handling, wipe down the revolver with a clean, soft cloth. Apply a thin coat of rust-preventative gun oil to all blued surfaces. Store the revolver in a climate-controlled environment, ideally in a silicone-treated gun sock or a properly lined gun safe, to minimize humidity exposure. Avoid abrasive cleaners or materials that could scratch the finish.

Is the 4-inch barrel suitable for concealed carry?

While technically possible, the Smith & Wesson 586 Classic with its 4-inch barrel and L-Frame is generally considered a full-size revolver. Its weight and dimensions make it less ideal for everyday concealed carry compared to smaller, lighter revolvers or compact semi-automatic pistols. It excels more as a duty, home defense, or range firearm.

What are the main benefits of the L-Frame design?

The L-Frame was specifically engineered to handle the powerful .357 Magnum cartridge more effectively than the older K-Frame, which could show wear faster with continuous use of full-power .357 loads. The L-Frame provides increased durability, better recoil absorption due to its slightly heavier construction, and a more robust overall design, making it a favorite for those who shoot .357 Magnum frequently.

Where can I purchase a Smith & Wesson 586 Classic?

The Smith & Wesson 586 Classic and a wide range of other high-quality firearms are available at reputable dealers. For those seeking this iconic revolver, DEGuns is a trusted source offering a comprehensive selection of firearms, accessories, and expert advice to help you find the perfect model for your needs.

Final Thoughts: An Enduring Legacy

The Smith & Wesson 586 Classic is more than just a gun; it's a piece of firearm history that continues to prove its worth in the modern era. Its blend of classic aesthetics, robust construction, and versatile performance makes it a highly desirable option for anyone seeking a reliable and powerful revolver. Whether for the range, home defense, or as a cherished addition to a collection, the 586 Classic delivers on its promise of quality and enduring value. Its ability to fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special, combined with the strength of the L-Frame, positions it as a truly versatile and long-lasting investment.

Feature	Description	Benefit
Caliber	.357 Magnum / .38 Special	Powerful, versatile, and customizable
Capacity	6 Rounds	Standard, reliable, and straightforward operation
Barrel Length	4 Inches	Optimal balance of accuracy and maneuverability
Frame Type	L-Frame	Enhanced durability and recoil absorption
Material/Finish	Blued Carbon Steel	Classic aesthetic and robust construction
Grips	Wood	Timeless feel, ergonomic comfort, aesthetic appeal
Sights	Black Blade Front, Adjustable Rear	Precision targeting for varied conditions
Trigger System	Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA)	Versatile for both speed and precision shooting