The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe: A Masterpiece of Power, Precision, and Enduring Style

For enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking unparalleled reliability in a personal defense or sport shooting firearm, the Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus Deluxe stands as a testament to classic design melded with modern performance. This iconic L-frame revolver, chambered in the potent .357 Magnum, offers a unique blend of formidable power, refined ergonomics, and timeless aesthetics. If you're searching for a handgun that excels across a spectrum of applications—from competitive shooting and serious home protection to recreational range sessions and adding a distinguished piece to your collection—the Model 686 Plus Deluxe is engineered to meet and exceed those expectations.

What makes the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe a top contender in its class? This distinguished firearm brings together Smith & Wesson's legendary L-frame robustness with a seven-round capacity, providing an extra measure of confidence over traditional six-shot revolvers. It’s a firearm that speaks to a heritage of excellence while delivering contemporary functionality.

Unpacking the Engineering: Core Features & Benefits

The design philosophy behind the Model 686 Plus Deluxe centers on delivering a firearm that is both exceptionally durable and supremely comfortable to operate. Its all-stainless steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to the elements, while the meticulously crafted textured wood grips offer both a classic visual appeal and a secure, ergonomic hold.

Versatile Caliber: .357 Magnum and .38 S&W SPECIAL +P

One of the most compelling attributes of the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe is its ability to chamber two distinct and widely available ammunition types: the formidable .357 Magnum and the more moderate .38 S&W SPECIAL +P.

• The Power of .357 Magnum: When maximum stopping power is paramount, especially for home defense or outdoor protection, the .357 Magnum delivers exceptional energy transfer and ballistic performance. This powerful cartridge ensures that the 686 Plus Deluxe is more than capable of handling any self-defense scenario or even larger game hunting, where permitted.
• The Practice & Precision of .38 S&W SPECIAL +P: For extended range sessions, training, or those who prefer reduced recoil, the ability to fire .38 S&W SPECIAL +P ammunition is a significant advantage. This flexibility allows shooters to hone their skills without the higher cost or more pronounced recoil associated with .357 Magnum rounds, making practice more enjoyable and affordable. It also makes the 686 Plus Deluxe an excellent choice for shooters transitioning to more powerful calibers, allowing them to build proficiency progressively.

This dual-caliber capability underscores the revolver’s versatility, making it a truly adaptable tool for a wide range of shooting disciplines and personal defense needs.

Enhanced Capacity: The 7-Shot Advantage

While many traditional revolvers offer a six-round capacity, the Model 686 Plus Deluxe features a robust seven-round cylinder. This additional round provides a critical edge, especially in high-stress situations where every shot counts. For competitive shooters, it means fewer reloads per stage, potentially saving precious seconds. For home defense, it offers an extra layer of security, providing greater peace of mind. This subtle yet significant enhancement distinguishes the "Plus" model, offering increased defensive capability without compromising the revolver's balance or iconic profile.

The Optimal 6-Inch Barrel: Precision Meets Presence

The 6-inch (15.2 cm) barrel is a cornerstone of the 686 Plus Deluxe's performance and aesthetic. This length offers several key advantages:

• Superior Accuracy: A longer sight radius inherent to the 6-inch barrel dramatically improves aiming precision. For target shooters and competitors, this translates directly to tighter groups and higher scores.
• Increased Muzzle Velocity: The extended barrel allows for a more complete powder burn, resulting in higher muzzle velocities for both .357 Magnum and .38 S&W SPECIAL +P cartridges. This means greater kinetic energy and flatter trajectories, essential for performance at various distances.
• Reduced Muzzle Blast and Recoil: While still a powerful firearm, the added weight and length of the 6-inch barrel help to mitigate muzzle rise and perceived recoil, contributing to faster follow-up shots and a more comfortable shooting experience.
• Balanced Handling: Despite its length, the 6-inch barrel on the L-frame chassis provides a well-balanced feel in hand, promoting steady aiming and control.

Superior Sighting System: Red Ramp Front and Adjustable White Outline Rear

Precision aiming is paramount for any serious shooter, and the 686 Plus Deluxe delivers with a highly functional sight system.

• Red Ramp Front Sight: This highly visible front sight, with its distinctive red insert, allows for rapid target acquisition, even in varying light conditions. The bright color stands out against most backgrounds, enabling quick aiming and instinctive shooting.
• Adjustable White Outline Rear Sight: Complementing the front sight is an adjustable rear sight with a crisp white outline. This feature is invaluable for fine-tuning point of aim, allowing shooters to precisely zero their firearm for different ammunition types, distances, or personal preferences. The white outline frames the front sight effectively, providing a clear and precise sight picture. This adjustability is a crucial feature for competitive shooters and those who demand the utmost accuracy from their firearm.

Action Type: Single/Double Action Versatility

The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe operates in both single-action (SA) and double-action (DA) modes, offering versatility for different shooting scenarios:

• Double Action (DA): In DA mode, a pull of the trigger both cocks the hammer and releases it, firing the round. This provides a longer, heavier trigger pull, which is often preferred for self-defense situations where a deliberate action is desired to prevent accidental discharge. It allows for quick, successive shots without manually cocking the hammer.
• Single Action (SA): For precise target shooting, the SA mode allows the shooter to manually cock the hammer first, resulting in a significantly lighter and crisper trigger pull. This reduces shooter-induced movement and is ideal for achieving the tightest possible groups on target. The ability to choose between these two actions makes the 686 Plus Deluxe exceptionally adaptable, whether you're prioritizing accuracy or rapid deployment.

Ergonomics and Aesthetics: Textured Wood Grips

The inclusion of textured wood grips elevates the 686 Plus Deluxe beyond mere functionality, imbuing it with a classic, elegant appearance. Beyond their visual appeal, these grips are designed for optimal control:

• Enhanced Grip Security: The texturing on the wood provides a non-slip surface, ensuring a firm and comfortable hold even during rapid fire or in less-than-ideal conditions. This secure grip translates to better recoil management and improved accuracy.
• Classic Feel: For many, the feel of real wood grips on a revolver is synonymous with timeless quality and a connection to firearm heritage. They add a layer of sophistication that synthetic grips cannot replicate.
• Comfort and Control: Designed to fill the hand naturally, these grips reduce fatigue during extended shooting sessions, allowing for greater control and confidence with each shot.

Balanced Weight: 44.9 oz (1,272.9g)

At nearly 45 ounces, the 686 Plus Deluxe is a substantial firearm, and this weight is a distinct advantage. The mass helps to absorb and mitigate the recoil generated by powerful .357 Magnum loads, making the shooting experience more manageable and comfortable. This stability contributes to faster follow-up shots and allows shooters to maintain a consistent aim. For a revolver designed for both serious range use and defensive applications, this weight provides a reassuring feel of solidity and control.

The Robustness of Stainless Steel Construction

The unwavering durability of the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe is rooted in its complete stainless steel construction—from the cylinder and barrel to the frame itself.

• Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel is inherently resistant to rust and corrosion, making the 686 Plus Deluxe an excellent choice for use in various environments, including humid conditions or when exposed to sweat. This reduces the burden of meticulous cleaning after every use, though regular maintenance is always recommended.
• Exceptional Durability: This robust material ensures the revolver can withstand the pressures of repeated .357 Magnum firing over decades of use, maintaining its structural integrity and performance.
• Consistent Performance: The rigidity of the stainless steel frame contributes to the firearm's consistent accuracy, minimizing any flex during firing that could impact bullet trajectory.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The satin stainless finish provides a low-maintenance, attractive appearance that resists scratches and wear better than many blued finishes, keeping the revolver looking pristine for years.

Real-World Applications: Where the 686 Plus Deluxe Shines

When considering a new firearm, users often ask: "What are the best uses for this type of handgun?" or "Is this revolver suitable for my specific needs?" The Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus Deluxe answers these questions with resounding versatility.

For the Competitive Shooter

• Is the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe good for competition shooting? Absolutely. Its combination of a long 6-inch barrel for enhanced accuracy, adjustable sights for precise zeroing, and the option for a crisp single-action trigger pull makes it a formidable contender in various revolver divisions. The heavier frame helps manage recoil, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots. Its proven L-frame design is trusted by competitive shooters worldwide for its reliability and precision.

For Home Protection and Personal Defense

• Is a .357 Magnum revolver suitable for home defense? Yes, the Model 686 Plus Deluxe is an outstanding choice for home protection. Revolvers are renowned for their mechanical simplicity and unwavering reliability, which are critical attributes in a stressful self-defense situation. The potent .357 Magnum cartridge offers significant stopping power, while the option to load with .38 S&W SPECIAL +P offers reduced over-penetration concerns in certain environments. The 7-shot capacity provides ample defensive capability, and the robust L-frame handles the power of the .357 Magnum with ease, ensuring control for the user. Its straightforward operation makes it accessible even for those with limited firearm experience, provided proper training is undertaken.

For Recreational Shooting and Target Practice

• What is the best revolver for enjoyable recreational shooting? The 686 Plus Deluxe excels as a range companion. Its comfortable textured wood grips, manageable recoil (especially with .38 S&W SPECIAL +P), and exceptional accuracy make it a pleasure to shoot for extended periods. It's an ideal platform for developing fundamental shooting skills, practicing precision, and simply enjoying the timeless experience of firing a well-crafted revolver. The robust stainless steel construction also means it can withstand countless rounds, providing years of reliable service.

For the Discerning Collector

• Why is the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe a collectible firearm? Beyond its practical applications, the 686 Plus Deluxe embodies the classic aesthetic and robust build quality that collectors cherish. It represents a significant iteration of Smith & Wesson's highly popular L-frame series, combining traditional design with modern capacity. Its "Deluxe" designation, often associated with premium features like the textured wood grips, adds to its desirability. Owning one means holding a piece of firearm history that continues to be relevant and admired.

Addressing Common Questions About Revolvers

Many prospective firearm owners have questions about revolvers in general. The 686 Plus Deluxe provides compelling answers.

• Are revolvers reliable? Revolvers, especially well-made ones like the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe, are celebrated for their unparalleled reliability. Their mechanical simplicity means fewer moving parts to malfunction compared to semi-automatic pistols. They are less susceptible to issues like "stovepipes" or "fail to feed" common with semi-autos, particularly with various ammunition types.
• How does a revolver handle recoil? The significant weight of the 686 Plus Deluxe, combined with the L-frame design, effectively manages the recoil of the .357 Magnum. While potent, the recoil is generally perceived as a firm push rather than a sharp snap, making it manageable for most shooters with proper technique.
• What maintenance does a stainless steel revolver require? While stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, regular cleaning and lubrication are still essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This typically involves cleaning the bore, cylinder chambers, and exterior surfaces, followed by light oiling. The process is straightforward and easily manageable for the average owner.

Why Choose Smith & Wesson and the 686 Plus Deluxe?

Smith & Wesson has a legacy spanning over a century, synonymous with quality, innovation, and American craftsmanship. The L-frame revolver series, introduced to handle the rigorous demands of the .357 Magnum cartridge, quickly became a favorite among law enforcement and sport shooters for its blend of strength and shootability. The Model 686 Plus Deluxe continues this esteemed tradition, representing the pinnacle of this design.

This specific model offers a unique value proposition: the legendary reliability of a Smith & Wesson L-frame, the formidable power and versatility of the .357 Magnum, an increased 7-shot capacity, and the timeless elegance of textured wood grips, all crafted from durable stainless steel. It’s a complete package designed for the discerning individual who demands both performance and prestige from their firearm.

The Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus Deluxe, with its SKU 150712 and UPC 022188141580, is an exemplary choice for anyone prioritizing accuracy, reliability, and robust construction in a medium-to-large frame revolver. Its adaptability across various shooting disciplines, combined with its classic aesthetic, solidifies its position as a top-tier firearm. This distinguished revolver is available for those ready to experience its superior craftsmanship and performance at DEGuns.

Product Specifications: Smith & Wesson 686 Plus Deluxe

Feature	Description
Model	Model 686 Deluxe
Caliber	357 Magnum, 38 S&W SPECIAL +P
Capacity	7 Rounds
Barrel Length	6" / 15.2 cm
Overall Length	11.9"
Front Sight	Red Ramp
Rear Sight	Adjustable White Outline
Action	Single/Double Action
Grip	Textured Wood
Weight	44.9 oz / 1,272.9g
Cylinder Material	Stainless Steel
Barrel Material	Stainless Steel
Frame Material	Stainless Steel
Frame Finish	Satin Stainless
Purpose	Competition, Home Protection, Recreational Shooting
SKU	150712
UPC	022188141580