The Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 686 Plus is a 7-shot double/single action revolver chambered in .357 Magnum / .38 S&W Special +P. It has a 5-inch vented ribbed barrel, stainless steel frame and cylinder, and black finger-grooved polymer grips. Weight is 38.4 oz. (2.4 lbs.) and overall length is 10.6 inches. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Smith & Wesson 
• Model: Performance Center Model 686 Plus 
• Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 S&W Special +P 
• Action Type: Double/Single Action (DA/SA) 
• Capacity: 7 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 5 inches 
• Overall Length: 10.6 inches 
• Weight: 38.4 oz (2.4 lbs) 
• Grip Material: Black Finger Grooved Polymer 
• Sights: Interchangeable Front Sight with Orange Blade; Adjustable Rear Sight 
• Finish: Stainless Steel 
   

Detailed Features 

• Performance Center Speed Release Thumbpiece: A modified cylinder release designed for faster cylinder opening during reloads. 
   
• PC Tuned Action: The action is hand-fitted at the Performance Center factory for a smoother DA pull and a crisper SA break compared to standard 686 production revolvers. 
   
• Vented Ribbed Barrel: The vents allow heat to dissipate during extended strings of fire and reduce the visual mirage effect. The rib also provides a flat sight plane. 
   
• Unfluted Cylinder: Retains more steel mass than a fluted cylinder for added strength, while maintaining a smooth aesthetic. 
   
• Chromed Trigger with Stop: The overtravel stop provides a consistent, defined reset point, which aids accuracy in rapid-fire applications. 
   
• Interchangeable Front Sight: Ships with an orange blade; other sight inserts can be swapped depending on lighting or shooter preference. 
   
  The 7-round cylinder gives one additional shot over a standard 6-shot .357 Magnum revolver. The Performance Center action tuning is the meaningful differentiation from the standard Model 686.

The Performance Center 686 Plus gets strong, consistent feedback across build quality, accuracy, and action feel. The stainless steel construction is praised for durability and finish quality -- the PC model receives additional polishing and fitting work that's visible compared to standard production revolvers.

Accuracy is a frequent highlight. Shooters report tight groups at 25 yards and beyond, and the 5-inch barrel gives enough sight radius for meaningful precision. The tuned action contributes -- the DA pull is described as smooth and the SA break as clean.

The 7-round cylinder is appreciated for the additional capacity, particularly by shooters who use it for competition or home defense.

Weight comes up as a practical consideration. At 38.4 oz., the 686 Plus is a substantial revolver, which some buyers find reassuring for recoil management but impractical for concealed carry. The gun is not suited for everyday carry use by most shooters.

Size is the related concern -- the L-frame is notably larger than J-frame snubbies, and buyers looking for a compact defensive revolver should look elsewhere. The 686 Plus is a range, competition, and home defense gun more than a carry gun.

Price draws discussion. The Performance Center premium over a standard 686 is real, and most PC buyers feel the tuned action and added polish justify it. Those who question the price can find used standard 686s for less, though without the PC factory work.