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

F Class Lead 3
F Class Lead 3

NRA Introduces Three New F-Class Competition Categories for 2026

The NRA adds three new F-Class categories—F-Production, F-Precision/Any Rifle and F-Limited—to expand participation and modernize competition without altering traditional divisions.

NRA AR-Tactical Mid-Range Prone Is No Longer Provisional, Has a New Look

After a decade of testing, NRA approves AR-Tactical Mid-Range Prone as a full High Power discipline, adds two rifle categories and simplifies rules.

Review: Ruger RXM Pistol

Ruger’s RXM blends Glock Gen3 compatibility, Magpul modularity and solid range performance at a price aimed squarely at competitors.

John Moses Browning: Test Your Knowledge of an American Firearms Legend

Test your knowledge of John Moses Browning’s life and lasting impact with this fun 10-question quiz on America’s greatest firearms designer.

New: Taurus TX9

Taurus debuts the TX9, a modular, optics-ready 9 mm pistol family billed to deliver duty-grade reliability for everyday carry and competition.

The Quiet Discipline of Breath and Hold in Rifle Shooting

Explore how breath and hold control work together to reduce movement, reveal natural steadiness and guide the shooter to the perfect moment.

Interests



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