Smith & Wesson 686 Plus 4″ .357 Magnum 7-Round Revolver

The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus 4″ .357 Magnum 7-Round Revolver is a seven-shot L-frame built to take the heat of heavy .357 loads and keep coming back for more. Chambered in .357 Magnum (and fully compatible with .38 Special +P), this satin stainless sixgun gives you one extra round over the classic Model 686 without adding bulk. It’s the revolver I grab when I want a balance of power and practical versatility for the range, the deer woods, or just showing off at the next gun show.

Manufacturer	Smith & Wesson
Model	686 Plus
Material	Stainless steel frame and cylinder (per manufacturer specs)
Compatibility	.357 Magnum / .38 Special +P
Finish	Satin stainless
Weight	38.5 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New production

Key Features

• Seven-Round Cylinder — Why it matters: That extra round over the standard 686 gives you a critical edge in a defensive scenario or one more shot before reloading at the range.
• 4″ Barrel with Full Underlug — Why it matters: The underlug adds weight forward to tame muzzle rise from hot .357 loads, keeping your sights on target for fast follow-ups.
• Adjustable Rear Sight — Why it matters: You can dial in windage and elevation for different loads, making this revolver accurate with everything from light .38 wadcutters to heavy magnum hunting rounds.
• Drilled-and-Tapped Frame — Why it matters: If you want to mount a red dot or reflex sight, the holes are already there — no gunsmith needed.
• Single- and Double-Action Trigger — Why it matters: The double-action pull is smooth and heavy enough for carry, while the single-action breaks crisp and light for precision shots.

Who It’s For

This 686 Plus is for the revolver collector who appreciates the L-frame’s legendary durability. It’s also for the hunter who wants a .357 that can drop a whitetail at reasonable ranges, the shooter who competes in revolver matches, and the guy who just wants a stainless wheelgun that will outlast his grandkids.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: Seven-shot capacity in a proven L-frame design — more firepower without the weight of an N-frame.
• Pro: Satin stainless finish resists rust and hides holster wear better than polished stainless.
• Con: The internal lock (Smith & Wesson’s key lock) is a cosmetic eyesore for purists, though it doesn’t affect function.

Comparison: Smith & Wesson 686 Plus vs. Ruger GP100 vs. Colt Python

Feature	Smith & Wesson 686 Plus (4″)	Ruger GP100 (4″)	Colt Python (4.25″)
Capacity	7 rounds	6 rounds	6 rounds
Weight (unloaded)	38.5 oz	40 oz	42 oz
Frame Material	Stainless steel	Stainless steel	Stainless steel
Trigger (DA/SA)	DA/SA, smooth	DA/SA, heavy DA	DA/SA, superb DA
MSRP (approx.)	$987.50	$919	$1,499
Best For	Duty, hunting, collector	Hard-use, budget	Collector, shooter

FAQ

Is the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus 4″ .357 Magnum 7-Round Revolver compatible with .38 Special +P?

Yes, it is rated for .38 Special +P and will shoot standard .38 Special as well. The L-frame handles the pressure of +P loads without issue.

What is the weight of the 686 Plus 4″?

Per manufacturer specs, the unloaded weight is 38.5 ounces. Loaded with seven .357 rounds, expect about 42 ounces.

Can I mount a red dot sight on this revolver?

Yes, the frame is drilled and tapped for optics. You will need a mounting plate designed for the 686’s pre-drilled holes.

Does the 686 Plus have an internal lock?

Yes, it includes Smith & Wesson’s key-operated internal lock. Some collectors remove it, but it does not affect reliability.

What is the barrel twist rate on the 4″ 686 Plus?

Per manufacturer specs, the twist rate is 1:18.75″ right-hand twist, optimized for .357 Magnum bullets.

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Revolvers | Smith & Wesson | .357 Magnum

Last updated: April 2026