Smith & Wesson, 686 Performance Center, Double Act 357 Mag

Unveiling the Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 686 Plus: Precision, Power, and Craftsmanship

For discerning shooters, collectors, and those prioritizing ultimate reliability and performance in a handgun, the Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 686 Plus stands as an exceptional choice. This isn't just another revolver; it's a testament to superior engineering, born from the fusion of time-honored gunsmithing traditions and cutting-edge manufacturing techniques. Whether your interest lies in competitive shooting, steadfast home protection, or simply owning a firearm of unparalleled quality, the 686 Plus from the Performance Center delivers.

What Defines the Smith & Wesson Performance Center?

The Smith & Wesson Performance Center represents the pinnacle of the brand's commitment to excellence. It's where master gunsmiths meticulously hand-fit, polish, and tune firearms to extract their maximum potential. This dedication results in revolvers and pistols that offer an elevated shooting experience, characterized by smoother actions, tighter tolerances, and enhanced accuracy. When you choose a Performance Center firearm, you're investing in a product that has undergone an exhaustive process of refinement, setting it apart from standard production models. The Model 686 Plus embodies this philosophy, offering features that directly translate to improved handling, a crisper trigger pull, and superior shot placement.

Why Choose the Smith & Wesson Performance Center 686 Plus Revolver?

The Smith & Wesson Model 686, specifically the "Plus" variant, is built on the robust L-frame, designed to handle the potent .357 Magnum cartridge while remaining controllable and comfortable for extended shooting sessions. The Performance Center version takes this already impressive platform and elevates it with a suite of custom enhancements.

Key enhancements that make the 686 Plus a standout:

• PC Tuned Action: This is arguably the most significant upgrade. The Performance Center's expert tuning delivers an incredibly smooth and consistent double-action pull, along with a crisp, light single-action break. This refined trigger feel is critical for precision shooting, reducing fliers and improving overall accuracy whether you're engaging targets rapidly or meticulously aiming for bullseyes.
• Unfluted Cylinder: A distinctive visual cue, the unfluted cylinder isn't just about aesthetics. It provides increased material strength, which some shooters prefer for perceived durability, though its primary impact is often on balance and appearance. It gives the revolver a unique, solid profile that distinguishes it from standard revolvers.
• Cylinder Cut for Moon Clips: This feature transforms the reloading speed of a revolver. Moon clips are metallic rings that hold multiple cartridges (in this case, seven) together, allowing for incredibly fast, simultaneous loading and ejection. This is a game-changer for competitive shooters where fractions of a second can determine victory. It also offers a significant practical advantage for self-defense, enabling quicker reloads under pressure compared to traditional speed loaders or individual cartridge loading.
• Chromed Custom Teardrop Hammer & Chromed Trigger with Trigger Stop: These components are not merely decorative. The "teardrop" hammer design often provides a more ergonomic thumb purchase for cocking in single-action mode, while the chrome finish ensures durability and a smooth feel. The trigger stop prevents overtravel, further refining the trigger pull and reducing unnecessary movement after the hammer falls, which contributes to greater accuracy.
• Vented, Ribbed 5-inch Barrel: The 5-inch barrel strikes an optimal balance between sight radius (for accuracy), velocity, and maneuverability. The vented rib design contributes to better heat dissipation during rapid firing and adds an aesthetic appeal, while the rib itself provides a solid platform for the interchangeable front sight.

Ideal Applications for the Performance Center 686 Plus

Who is the Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 686 Plus designed for? Its versatile nature and high-performance features make it suitable for several key applications:

1. Competitive Shooting

For revolver enthusiasts participating in competitions such as USPSA, IDPA, or ICORE, the 686 Plus is an exceptionally strong contender.

• Precision: The PC tuned action, adjustable rear sight, and interchangeable front sight allow shooters to fine-tune their aiming system for specific ammunition and distances, leading to tighter groups.
• Speed: The 7-round capacity, combined with moon clip compatibility, drastically reduces reload times, providing a competitive edge where every second counts.
• Reliability: The robust L-frame and Performance Center's attention to detail ensure consistent, dependable performance through thousands of rounds.
• Handling: The balanced 5-inch barrel and synthetic grip offer excellent recoil management, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.

2. Home Protection and Self-Defense

When reliability and stopping power are paramount, a high-quality revolver like the 686 Plus excels.

• Simplicity of Operation: Revolvers are renowned for their straightforward operation, making them an excellent choice for individuals who may not train extensively or prefer a simpler manual of arms under stress.
• Reliable Functioning: Unlike semi-automatic pistols that can be prone to malfunctions from limp-wristing or bad ammunition, revolvers are generally less sensitive to such issues, offering near-absolute reliability.
• Versatile Caliber: The ability to chamber both powerful .357 Magnum and more controllable .38 S&W SPECIAL +P rounds allows users to choose the appropriate ammunition for training or defensive scenarios, balancing power with recoil management.
• Immediate Readiness: A revolver can often be stored loaded for immediate use without concerns about spring fatigue or magazine issues common with semi-automatics.

3. Recreational Shooting and Target Practice

For those who simply enjoy the art of shooting or wish to hone their marksmanship, the 686 Plus offers a truly rewarding experience.

• Accuracy: The inherent accuracy of the Performance Center tuned revolver makes hitting targets at various distances enjoyable and confidence-building.
• Recoil Management: The L-frame's weight (38.4 oz) and synthetic grip effectively mitigate recoil, even with full-power .357 Magnum loads, ensuring comfortable shooting sessions.
• Durability: Constructed primarily from stainless steel, this revolver is built to last, resisting corrosion and standing up to frequent use at the range.

4. Collector's Item

The Smith & Wesson Performance Center models are often sought after by collectors due to their limited production runs and higher degree of hand-finishing. Owning a Performance Center 686 Plus means possessing a firearm that represents the pinnacle of Smith & Wesson's craftsmanship.

Understanding the Caliber: .357 Magnum and .38 S&W SPECIAL +P

One of the most significant advantages of the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus is its dual-caliber capability.

• .357 Magnum: This powerful cartridge is renowned for its excellent stopping power and flat trajectory, making it suitable for defensive applications, hunting (where legal and appropriate for the game), and long-range handgun shooting. Its energy transfer is significant, making it a formidable choice.
• .38 S&W SPECIAL +P: For training, plinking, or for shooters who desire less recoil, the 686 Plus can also safely chamber and fire .38 S&W SPECIAL +P ammunition. The "+P" designation indicates a higher pressure load than standard .38 Special, offering enhanced performance while still being milder than .357 Magnum. This flexibility allows shooters to adapt the revolver to different needs without changing firearms. The heavy steel frame of the 686 Plus easily handles countless rounds of .38 Special, making practice affordable and enjoyable.

Construction and Durability: Built to Last

The Smith & Wesson Performance Center 686 Plus is engineered for longevity and resilience, a critical factor for any serious firearm owner.

• All Stainless Steel Construction: The frame, barrel, cylinder, and slide are all crafted from high-grade stainless steel. This material choice is superior for its corrosion resistance, especially important in various environments, and its inherent strength, contributing to the revolver's durability and ability to withstand the pressures of powerful magnum cartridges.
• Synthetic Grip: The factory-standard synthetic grip is designed for ergonomic comfort and a secure hold in various conditions. It provides excellent recoil absorption and a non-slip surface, which is vital for maintaining control during rapid fire or in adverse weather.
• Overall Length and Weight: At 10.6 inches long and weighing 38.4 oz, the 686 Plus is substantial enough to absorb recoil effectively while remaining well-balanced for steady aim. This weight also contributes to its robust feel and stability in hand.

Enhancing Your Shooting Experience

Beyond the core features, the Smith & Wesson Performance Center 686 Plus incorporates thoughtful design elements that elevate the user experience.

• Adjustable Rear Sight: Coupled with the interchangeable front sight, the adjustable rear sight allows for precise zeroing of the firearm to a specific load and distance, ensuring optimal accuracy for competitive scenarios or long-range shooting. An orange front sight is included, enhancing visibility in various lighting conditions.
• Performance Center® Speed Release Thumbpiece: This specialized thumbpiece allows for quicker and more intuitive cylinder release, contributing to faster reloads – a small but significant detail for timed events or defensive situations.
• Single/Double Action Versatility: The traditional single action/double action (SA/DA) mechanism provides flexibility. Double action allows for rapid, continuous firing by simply pulling the trigger, while single action offers a lighter, crisper trigger pull for maximum precision, where the hammer is manually cocked before each shot. The PC tuned action makes both modes exceptionally smooth.

Where to Acquire Your Smith & Wesson Performance Center 686 Plus

For those seeking to experience the unparalleled quality and performance of this exceptional revolver, the Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 686 Plus (UPC 022188871449) is available from reputable firearm retailers. These products are all available at DEGuns, a trusted source for high-quality firearms and accessories.

Investing in a Smith & Wesson Performance Center 686 Plus is more than just purchasing a firearm; it's an investment in a legacy of precision, reliability, and master craftsmanship. It's a tool built to perform at the highest level, whether in the intensity of competition, the critical moments of self-defense, or the quiet satisfaction of a perfectly placed shot at the range.

Product Specifications: Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 686 Plus