The Smith & Wesson Performance Center 586 L-Comp: A Masterclass in Revolver Engineering for Discerning Enthusiasts

For those who demand the pinnacle of revolver craftsmanship, precision engineering, and versatile performance, the Smith & Wesson Performance Center 586 L-Comp stands as a testament to enduring quality and cutting-edge design. This exceptional 7-round, 3-inch barrel .357 Magnum revolver, with its distinctive blued carbon steel finish and checkered Altamont Rosewood grip, is meticulously optimized for both personal protection and refined target shooting experiences. Are you searching for a reliable self-defense handgun that combines classic aesthetics with modern recoil management? Do you need a revolver capable of handling potent .357 Magnum loads while offering comfortable handling for extended range sessions? The 586 L-Comp is precisely engineered to meet these demands and exceed expectations.

Why Choose a Smith & Wesson Performance Center Revolver?

The Performance Center at Smith & Wesson is not just a department; it's a dedicated facility where master gunsmiths transform already excellent firearms into masterpieces of precision and reliability. When you select a Performance Center model like the 586 L-Comp, you're investing in a handgun that has received an unparalleled level of attention to detail and custom enhancements. These enhancements are designed to provide a superior shooting experience, often including hand-fitted components, custom trigger jobs, and specialized features not found on standard production models.

For enthusiasts, law enforcement professionals, or individuals prioritizing personal defense, the Performance Center's commitment translates directly into tangible benefits:

• Enhanced Accuracy: Smoother actions and tighter tolerances contribute to more consistent shot placement.
• Improved Ergonomics: Thoughtfully selected grips and balanced designs reduce fatigue and improve control.
• Superior Reliability: Hand-fitting ensures every component functions flawlessly under demanding conditions.
• Unique Features: Specialized additions, like the internal compensator on the L-Comp, address specific performance needs.

Unpacking the Distinctive Features of the 586 L-Comp

The Smith & Wesson 586 L-Comp, SKU 170170, is a highly sought-after firearm for several compelling reasons, each contributing to its reputation as a top-tier revolver.

Caliber Versatility: .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P

One of the most significant advantages of the 586 L-Comp is its ability to chamber both powerful .357 Magnum ammunition and the milder, yet effective, .38 Special and .38 Special +P rounds.

• For Maximum Power: The .357 Magnum cartridge is renowned for its stopping power, making it a formidable choice for personal defense and, in longer barreled firearms, even for hunting small to medium game. Its high velocity and energy delivery are confidence-inspiring.
• For Manageable Practice & Defense: The option to shoot .38 Special rounds significantly reduces recoil, making practice sessions more comfortable and affordable. For self-defense, .38 Special +P offers a good balance of reduced recoil and enhanced terminal ballistics compared to standard .38 Special. This versatility allows shooters to train extensively with less expensive, milder ammunition, then transition to .357 Magnum for defense or specific applications.

The Groundbreaking Internal Compensator (L-Comp)

The "L-Comp" in the name highlights one of this revolver's most innovative features: an internal compensator. Unlike traditional ported barrels that vent gasses externally near the muzzle, the L-Comp design integrates a compensator directly into the barrel. This ingenious system works by redirecting a portion of the propellant gases upwards and outwards from the barrel, counteracting muzzle flip and significantly reducing felt recoil.

• Why is a compensator beneficial? For a powerful cartridge like the .357 Magnum, managing recoil is key to faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy. The L-Comp's design allows for quicker sight reacquisition after each shot, which is critical in self-defense scenarios or competitive shooting. It helps shooters maintain better control, even when firing full-power loads. This feature particularly benefits those who might find the .357 Magnum intimidating in an uncompensated revolver, making it a more accessible and enjoyable firearm for a wider range of users.

Optimal 3-Inch Barrel Length

The 3-inch barrel on the 586 L-Comp strikes a superb balance between several crucial factors:

• Concealability: While not as compact as a small J-frame, the 3-inch barrel enhances the L-Comp's suitability for concealed carry compared to longer-barreled revolvers. It's short enough to maneuver in close quarters and can be comfortably carried in various holsters.
• Muzzle Velocity: Despite its compact length, a 3-inch barrel still provides sufficient length for the .357 Magnum to develop substantial velocity and energy, ensuring effective ballistic performance.
• Sight Radius: It offers a longer sight radius than snub-nosed revolvers, contributing to greater inherent accuracy for precise targeting.

Enhanced 7-Round Capacity

Breaking from the traditional 6-shot revolver capacity, the 586 L-Comp offers an increased 7-round cylinder. This extra round provides an undeniable advantage, offering an additional layer of preparedness in critical self-defense situations or extended range practice without significantly increasing the revolver's size.

The Robust L-Frame Design

The 586 L-Comp is built on Smith & Wesson's durable L-Frame, specifically designed to withstand the rigors of frequent .357 Magnum use. The L-Frame is a medium-large frame size, bridging the gap between the smaller K-Frame (often associated with .38 Special) and the larger N-Frame (used for powerful calibers like .44 Magnum). This robust construction ensures long-term reliability and structural integrity, even under a steady diet of full-power loads. Its sturdy build helps absorb recoil and enhances the overall shooting experience.

Classic Blued Carbon Steel Finish

The revolver features a timeless blued carbon steel finish, which offers a deep, rich luster that gun enthusiasts appreciate for its traditional aesthetic. Beyond its visual appeal, bluing provides a protective layer against corrosion and wear, though it requires diligent care to maintain its pristine condition. This classic finish contributes to the revolver's collectible appeal and evokes a sense of enduring quality.

Checkered Altamont Rosewood Grip

The L-Comp comes equipped with a beautifully crafted, checkered Altamont Rosewood grip. Rosewood is highly regarded for its attractive grain patterns and natural feel. The checkered texture provides a secure, non-slip hold, even with sweaty hands or during rapid firing. This grip is not merely aesthetic; it's designed for practical ergonomics, promoting comfortable handling and improved control, especially when managing the powerful .357 Magnum cartridge.

Precision Tritium Front Night Sight

For low-light or no-light conditions, the 586 L-Comp is fitted with a tritium front night sight. Tritium sights provide a self-illuminating aiming point, allowing for quicker and more accurate target acquisition in challenging lighting environments. This feature is a critical enhancement for a personal defense firearm, ensuring that the user can effectively aim and engage threats regardless of ambient light levels.

Real-World Applications and Ideal User Profiles

The Smith & Wesson Performance Center 586 L-Comp is an exceptionally versatile firearm, making it an excellent choice for a variety of users and scenarios.

Personal and Home Defense

Is the 586 L-Comp a good choice for self-defense? Absolutely. Its blend of .357 Magnum stopping power, 7-round capacity, and the recoil-mitigating internal compensator makes it a formidable tool for personal and home protection. The tritium front sight is a significant asset for defensive situations that often occur in low light. For those seeking a reliable, robust, and intuitive self-defense handgun, the 586 L-Comp delivers. Its simplicity of operation (point and shoot, no safeties to manipulate beyond trigger discipline) is a key advantage under stress.

Target Shooting and Range Use

For the dedicated range enthusiast, the 586 L-Comp offers a rewarding shooting experience. The Performance Center tuned action provides an incredibly smooth trigger pull, allowing for greater precision and reducing shooter fatigue during prolonged sessions. The ability to shoot .38 Special is ideal for economical practice, while the .357 Magnum provides a powerful and satisfying challenge. The compensated barrel means more comfortable shooting, even with hot loads, leading to better accuracy and more enjoyable range time.

Collectors and Enthusiasts

As a Performance Center model, the 586 L-Comp holds significant appeal for firearm collectors. Its limited production, custom features, and the inherent quality of S&W's Performance Center make it a desirable addition to any collection. The classic blued finish and rosewood grips add to its aesthetic value, ensuring it stands out as a true piece of master craftsmanship.

Addressing Common Questions About Revolvers and the 586 L-Comp

How does a compensator truly benefit a revolver?

A compensator on a revolver like the 586 L-Comp significantly reduces both felt recoil and muzzle rise. By redirecting gases upward, it creates a downward force that counteracts the natural tendency of the barrel to climb during recoil. This means the shooter experiences less "kick" and the front sight returns to the target faster, enabling quicker and more accurate follow-up shots. For a powerful cartridge like the .357 Magnum, this is a game-changer, making the gun much more pleasant and controllable to shoot.

What is the difference between S&W L-Frame and K-Frame revolvers?

The primary difference lies in their size and intended robustness for specific calibers. The K-Frame is a medium-sized frame, historically popular for .38 Special and lighter .357 Magnum loads. While capable of handling .357 Magnum, sustained use of full-power loads in a K-Frame can lead to accelerated wear, particularly around the forcing cone. The L-Frame, like the 586, was designed specifically to be more robust and durable for continuous use of magnum cartridges. It has a slightly larger cylinder and a stronger frame, making it better suited for the demands of the .357 Magnum. This means the 586 L-Comp offers enhanced longevity and reliability when firing magnum loads compared to some K-Frame counterparts.

What makes the Smith & Wesson Performance Center so special?

The Performance Center represents the pinnacle of Smith & Wesson's manufacturing and custom gunsmithing capabilities. It's where standard designs are refined, enhanced, and often transformed into high-performance, specialized firearms. This involves:

• Hand-fitting: Components are meticulously fitted by master gunsmiths for optimal function and precision.
• Custom Tuning: Triggers are often polished and tuned for exceptionally smooth and crisp breaks.
• Unique Features: Exclusive designs and specialized components, like the internal compensator, are developed here.
• Attention to Detail: Every aspect, from the finish to the sights, receives an elevated level of scrutiny.

These processes result in firearms with superior accuracy, reliability, and an overall shooting experience that surpasses standard production models.

Is a .357 Magnum too powerful for personal defense?

While the .357 Magnum is a powerful cartridge, the "too powerful" question is subjective and depends on the shooter's ability to control the firearm. The 586 L-Comp, with its L-Frame construction, ergonomic grip, and especially its internal compensator, is designed to mitigate the felt recoil of the .357 Magnum, making it more manageable than many other revolvers in this caliber. Furthermore, the option to load .38 Special or .38 Special +P allows users to select a less powerful, more controllable round for defense if desired, without sacrificing the firearm's core capabilities. For individuals who can comfortably handle the recoil, the .357 Magnum offers exceptional terminal ballistics for self-defense.

Maintaining Your Smith & Wesson 586 L-Comp

Proper maintenance is crucial for any firearm, especially a precision instrument like the 586 L-Comp. Due to its blued carbon steel finish, diligent care is necessary to prevent corrosion and preserve its classic appearance.

• Regular Cleaning: After each shooting session, clean the bore, cylinder chambers, and exterior to remove powder residue and fouling.
• Lubrication: Apply a thin layer of high-quality gun oil to moving parts and blued surfaces to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
• Storage: Store the revolver in a dry, temperature-controlled environment, ideally in a padded case or gun safe to protect its finish. A silicone-treated gun sock can provide an additional layer of protection against moisture.

The Enduring Legacy and Modern Performance

The Smith & Wesson Performance Center 586 L-Comp is more than just a revolver; it's a statement. It embodies a rich history of S&W revolver manufacturing while incorporating modern advancements that elevate its performance. Whether you are a seasoned revolver enthusiast, a collector seeking a unique and high-quality piece, or an individual prioritizing effective and reliable personal protection, the 586 L-Comp delivers on all fronts. Its balance of classic aesthetics, robust construction, and Performance Center enhancements—particularly the innovative internal compensator and smooth trigger—make it an exceptional choice. This revolver stands as a testament to the pursuit of perfection in firearm design, offering a shooting experience that is both powerful and refined.

For those ready to experience the blend of tradition and cutting-edge performance, the Smith & Wesson Performance Center 586 L-Comp, SKU 170170, is available at DEGuns.

Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model	Smith & Wesson Performance Center 586 L-Comp
SKU	170170
Caliber	.357 Magnum / .38 S&W Special +P
Capacity	7 Rounds
Barrel Length	3 Inches
Frame	L-Frame
Material	Blued Carbon Steel
Grip	Checkered Altamont Rosewood
Sights	Tritium Front Night Sight
Action	Double Action / Single Action (DA/SA)
Special Features	Performance Center Tuned Action, Internal Compensator
UPC	022188701708