(New?) S&W Engraved Revolvers!..Why Now & Why So Expensive?

Published on April 10, 2026
Duration: 9:27

The video reviews two new factory-engraved Smith & Wesson revolvers: the 686 Plus and the 629. The presenter, a firearms enthusiast, discusses their aesthetic appeal, moderate engraving coverage, and functional aspects like caliber and barrel length. A significant portion of the review focuses on the high price point, which is approximately double that of standard models, and speculates that this pricing strategy is an attempt by Smith & Wesson to move inventory of models still featuring the internal lock mechanism, which has become less desirable since the introduction of no-lock variants.

Quick Summary

Smith & Wesson has released two new factory-engraved revolvers, the 686 Plus (.357 Magnum) and the 629 (.44 Magnum). These models feature moderate engraving and Tyler Gunworks walnut grips. Their high price, approximately double standard models, is attributed to the engraving and a strategy to sell firearms with internal locks, which are less popular than newer no-lock versions.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to New S&W Engraved Revolvers
  2. 00:21Presenter's Love for Engraved Guns
  3. 01:36Review of the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus
  4. 02:00686 Plus Specifications (.357 Magnum)
  5. 02:25686 Plus Pricing and Value Discussion
  6. 02:53Review of the Smith & Wesson 629
  7. 03:08629 Specifications (.44 Magnum)
  8. 03:15629 Pricing and Value Discussion
  9. 03:46629 Barrel Length and Practicality
  10. 04:32Tyler Gunworks Grips Included
  11. 05:03Why Smith & Wesson is Making These Now
  12. 05:08The Issue with Internal Locks
  13. 05:35S&W Rep's Insight on Locked Models
  14. 05:54Engraving as a Strategy to Move Inventory
  15. 06:22Critique of Engraving and Grip Value
  16. 06:40Price Increase Analysis
  17. 07:00Discussion on Laser Engraving Quality
  18. 07:33Ideal Pricing for Market Success
  19. 07:43Economic Viability of High-Priced Engraved Guns
  20. 08:05Perceived Value vs. Price
  21. 08:31Conclusion on Price and Marketability

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the two new engraved revolvers from Smith & Wesson?

Smith & Wesson has released two new factory-engraved revolvers: the 686 Plus, chambered in seven rounds of .357 Magnum with a 4-inch barrel, and the 629, chambered in six rounds of .44 Magnum with a 6.5-inch barrel. Both are stainless steel models.

Why are these engraved Smith & Wesson revolvers so expensive?

These engraved revolvers are priced significantly higher, approximately double that of standard models, due to the factory engraving and the inclusion of high-quality Tyler Gunworks Bear Hugger walnut grips. This pricing is also seen as a strategy to move inventory of models still featuring internal locks.

What is the likely reason Smith & Wesson is releasing engraved revolvers now?

The release of these engraved models is likely a strategic move by Smith & Wesson to boost sales of firearms that still incorporate the internal lock mechanism. Since the introduction of no-lock variants, demand for locked models has decreased, and engraving offers a way to make them more appealing and justify a higher price.

What are the key specifications of the engraved Smith & Wesson 686 Plus?

The engraved Smith & Wesson 686 Plus features a seven-round cylinder chambered for .357 Magnum ammunition. It has a stainless steel frame and a barrel length just over 4 inches, making it a moderately engraved, functional revolver.

What are the key specifications of the engraved Smith & Wesson 629?

The engraved Smith & Wesson 629 is a stainless steel revolver chambered in six rounds of .44 Magnum. It features a 6.5-inch barrel and is described as having nice engraving on the barrel, frame, and cylinder.

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