SMITH & WESSON 686 PLUS - 357 MAG - 3" - 7 RD

Smith & Wesson
MPN:
164300
UPC:
022188643008
$1,142.69
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The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus is a legendary L-Frame revolver chambered in .357 Magnum, delivering the rugged reliability and pinpoint accuracy that law enforcement professionals and serious shooters have trusted for decades.

  • 7-round cylinder gives you one extra shot over standard .357 revolvers
  • 3-inch barrel offers a compact, versatile profile for carry or range use
  • Satin stainless steel finish resists corrosion and withstands hard daily use
  • Red ramp front sight and adjustable white outline rear sight for precise targeting
  • Rubber grip absorbs recoil and provides a secure, comfortable hold
  • L-Frame construction engineered for continuous Magnum-caliber firing cycles

Who This Is For

The 686 Plus is an ideal choice for hunters, competitive shooters, and home defenders who demand a full-power Magnum revolver with a capacity edge. Its 3-inch barrel strikes the balance between maneuverability and muzzle velocity, making it equally at home in a hip holster on the trail or locked in a bedside safe. Fans of wheel guns who refuse to compromise on stopping power or build quality will find the 686 Plus hard to beat.

Smith & Wesson 686 Plus 357 Magnum 3-inch revolver – right side profile Smith & Wesson 686 Plus revolver – cylinder open showing 7-round capacity

Specifications

BrandSmith & Wesson
Model686 Plus
Caliber.357 Magnum / .38 S&W Special +P
Capacity7 Rounds
Barrel Length3 inches
FrameL-Frame
ActionDouble / Single Action
FinishSatin Stainless
GripRubber
Front SightRed Ramp
Rear SightAdjustable White Outline
Overall Length7.5 inches (approx.)
Weight34.7 oz. (approx.)
Country of OriginUSA

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the S&W 686 Plus also fire .38 Special ammunition?

Yes. The 686 Plus is fully compatible with .38 S&W Special and .38 Special +P cartridges in addition to .357 Magnum. This makes it an extremely versatile revolver — you can practice economically with .38 Special loads and step up to full-power .357 Magnum rounds for hunting or self-defense without changing firearms.

How does the 3-inch barrel compare to the 4-inch or 6-inch versions of the 686?

The 3-inch barrel 686 Plus offers a more compact overall length than the 4-inch or 6-inch variants, making it easier to carry in a holster while still delivering meaningful muzzle velocity from the .357 Magnum cartridge. Shooters who prioritize portability over maximum ballistic performance or target-range precision often prefer the 3-inch model as the best all-around compromise.

What holsters are compatible with the S&W 686 Plus 3-inch?

The 686 Plus fits holsters designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson L-Frame with a 3-inch barrel. Many leading holster manufacturers — including Safariland, Galco, and DeSantis — produce both OWB and IWB options for this revolver. Always verify the listing specifies L-Frame and 3-inch barrel compatibility before purchasing, as K-Frame or N-Frame holsters will not fit correctly.

Caliber:
357 MAG
Capacity:
7 RD
Night Sights:
No
Barrel Length:
3"
Action Type:
Revolver
Optics Ready:
No
Frame Material:
Steel
Slide Color:
Silver
Frame Color:
Silver