Two New Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 686 Revolvers Purpose-Built For Competition

by
posted on November 13, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
model686-2.jpg

Smith & Wesson recently announced two new Performance Center revolvers in their competition lineup, the Model 686 and Model 686 Plus. Both revolvers feature Performance Center enhancements for an out-of-the-box, competition-ready package―including a speed release thumbpiece for quick reloads, interchangeable sights, and a Performance Center-tuned action. These new enhancements should prove to be an excellent foundation for those looking to gain a competitive edge in the shooting sports.

Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 686 and Model 686 Plus
The two new revolvers feature a stainless steel frame, cylinder, and barrel with a matte silver finish. The orange front sight is interchangeable. Both also sport a unique visual design, including an unfluted cylinder, vented ribbed barrel, and a chromed custom teardrop hammer.


Chambered in .357 Magnum and .38 S&W Special +P, the new Performance Center Model 686 revolver comes with a 6-round cylinder and 4-inch barrel. The Performance Center Model 686 Plus revolver features a 7-round cylinder, 5-inch barrel and has a cylinder cut for moon clips. MSRP: $966 for both models, backed by a limited lifetime warranty and lifetime service policy.

Tony Miele, general manager of the Performance Center, said, “We wanted to develop an out-of-the-box solution for those seeking a revolver for [competitive] shooting. Equipped with a speed release thumbpiece, tuned action, and unique visual appearance, these new revolvers have attractive features for both new and seasoned competitive shooters.”

For more information about the new Performance Center Model 686 and 686 Plus revolvers, go to www.smith-wesson.com/performance-center.

Read part one and part two of this series on becoming a better competitive revolver shooter, by Smith & Wesson pro shooter Josh Lentz.

Latest

1 Lede SW Mandp Acro Cut
1 Lede SW Mandp Acro Cut

Smith & Wesson’s M&P9 M2.0 Metal Gets a Direct-Mount Aimpoint ACRO Slide Cut

Smith & Wesson’s newest M&P9 M2.0 Metal aluminum-frame 9 mm handgun sports a direct-mount Aimpoint ACRO slide cut and ClearSight gas-diversion system.

Range USA to Expand Footprint with Three New Locations in 2026

Range USA will open three new stores in Smyrna, Monroeville and Lenexa in 2026, expanding its presence in Nashville, Pittsburgh and Kansas City markets.

Previewing the 2026 NCAA Rifle Championship

A season of perfect air rifle scores and razor-thin margins sets the stage for the 2026 NCAA Rifle Championship, where any of the top seeds could take the title in March.

Best Of SHOT Show 2026: Top Gear and Accessories

Ten standout gear and accessory picks from SHOT Show 2026, featuring products from Garmin, Streamlight, Mantis, Caldwell, Magna Lens and more.

2026 NCAA Rifle Championship Field Is Set: Eight Teams Heading to Columbus

Eight teams and individual qualifiers in smallbore and air rifle will compete at the 2026 NCAA Rifle Championship hosted by Ohio State on March 13-14.

Results: 2026 Pennsylvania Interscholastic Rifle State Championships

Everett High School wins both smallbore and air rifle at 2026 Pennsylvania Sate Championships, setting a new smallbore team record of 2293-97X.



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.