Trying Out Another Revolver | Smith and Wesson 686

Published on December 27, 2025
Duration: 7:00

This guide details the shooting technique for the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus revolver, emphasizing proper grip, trigger control, and safety awareness, particularly concerning the cylinder gap. The video highlights the manageable recoil of this larger-frame revolver compared to smaller models, making it a good option for intermediate shooters looking to improve their handgun skills.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus is a .357 Magnum revolver featuring a 7-round capacity and a 6-inch stainless steel barrel. Its heavier build compared to smaller revolvers like the S&W Airweight results in more manageable recoil, making it a comfortable choice for intermediate shooters. It can also fire .38 Special rounds for reduced recoil practice.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Smith & Wesson 686
  2. 00:37Loading and Capacity
  3. 01:03First Shooting Impressions
  4. 02:15Grip and Caliber Discussion
  5. 04:12Heat and Grip Safety
  6. 05:41Conclusion and Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus?

The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus is a .357 Magnum revolver known for its stainless steel construction, 6-inch barrel, and a 7-round cylinder capacity. It operates in both double-action and single-action modes, offering versatility for shooters.

How does the recoil of the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus compare to smaller revolvers?

The 686 Plus generally has more manageable recoil than smaller, lighter revolvers like the S&W Airweight. This is attributed to its heavier frame, longer barrel, and the ability to absorb more recoil energy, making it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions.

What is the cylinder gap on a revolver and why is it important?

The cylinder gap is the small space between the cylinder and the barrel's forcing cone. Hot gases escape here during firing, so maintaining a proper grip, away from this area, is crucial to prevent burns and ensure safe handling.

Can the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus fire .38 Special ammunition?

Yes, the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus is designed to safely fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition. Using .38 Special will result in significantly less recoil, making it ideal for practice or for shooters sensitive to recoil.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Summer Shoots

View all →