The Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus is a DA/SA revolver chambered in .357 Magnum / .38 Special +P with a 6" barrel. It holds 7 rounds, measures 11.9" overall, and weighs 44.2 oz (1,253 g). The frame and barrel are stainless steel with a satin finish. Grips are synthetic. 
 

Key Specifications 

• SKU: 164198 
• Model Name: Model 686 Plus 
• Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special +P 
• Capacity: 7 Rounds 
• Barrel Length: 6 inches (15.2 cm) 
• Overall Length: 11.9 inches (30.2 cm) 
• Weight: 44.2 oz (1,253 g) 
• Action Type: Single/Double Action 
• Front Sight: Red Ramp 
• Rear Sight: Adjustable White Outline 
• Grip Material: Synthetic 
• Frame Material: Stainless Steel 
• Finish: Satin Stainless 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The red ramp front and adjustable white outline rear sights make a solid combination for long-range revolver accuracy. The DA/SA mechanism gives you a longer, heavier pull for the first shot in double-action and a lighter, shorter pull for deliberate single-action shots. The 44.2 oz weight at this barrel length helps keep the muzzle steady during the follow-through. 
 
The 6" configuration is the longer end of practical revolver barrel lengths. It maximizes velocity for .357 Magnum loads and extends the sight radius for more consistent precision, but it's not a carry gun by any measure. Hunters and competition shooters who want maximum performance from the platform gravitate toward this barrel length. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

• Competitive Shooting: The 6" sight radius, adjustable sights, and smooth S&W action make this a natural choice for revolver competition classes. 
• Hunting: The .357 Magnum from a 6" barrel develops meaningful additional velocity compared to short-barrel configurations, making it viable for small to medium game. 
• Range Training: The DA/SA versatility and manageable recoil at this weight make it a good practice tool for developing revolver fundamentals.

The S&W 686 Plus in 6" .357 Magnum generates consistently strong reviews.

Build quality is the top-line positive. Owners describe the stainless construction as solid and note that S&W's fit and finish on the L-frame has remained consistent. Accuracy is well-regarded. The 6" sight radius and adjustable sights make this one of the more accurate factory revolver setups available at the price. The dual-action capability is valued by shooters who run DA for speed and SA for precision.

Versatility comes up frequently. .357 Magnum and .38 Special running in the same cylinder lets you train on cheaper loads and switch to full-power ammunition as needed. The 7-round cylinder is a genuine advantage over standard 6-shot revolvers.

The main practical concern is size. At 11.9" and 44.2 oz, this is a bench and competition gun, not a carry revolver. Most owners understand that, but it's worth stating clearly. Grip fit for smaller hands gets occasional mention as a consideration. Maintenance is generally described as straightforward, though like any revolver it rewards regular cleaning. Pricing is debated. Some owners consider it fully justified, others feel the cost is high relative to comparable options.