Smith & Wesson Announces New Performance Center Revolvers

Written by Jacki Billings

Smith & Wesson expands its Performance Center lineup, launching a pair of new competition-ready revolvers — the Model 686 and Model 686 Plus.

Smith & Wesson boosts aesthetics with both models offering a stainless steel frame, cylinder, and barrel with a matte silver finish. Chambered in .357 Magnum as well as .38 Special +P, the revolvers come equipped with an unfluted cylinder, vented rib barrel, and a chromed custom teardrop hammer.

The Model 686 is 6 round piece supporting a 4-inch barrel, while the Model 686 Plus boasts more bullets with a 7 round capacity and 5-inch barrel. Additionally, the Plus provides a cylinder cut for moon clips. Tipping scales at 37.9 ounces, the Model 686 is slightly lighter than its solid sister, with the 686 Plus weighing in at a hearty 38.4-ounces.

The wheel guns are purpose-built for competition, with Smith & Wesson delivering enhancements created for a ready to go out-of-the-box feel. In addition to an interchangeable orange front sight, the Model 686 and 686 Plus feature a Performance Center tuned action and speed release thumbpiece for quicker reloads.

Tony Miele, General Manager of the Performance Center series, said the revolvers provide a complete package for shooters looking to snag a gun off the shelf on the way to a match.

“When we began designing these revolvers, we wanted to develop an out-of-the-box solution for those seeking a revolver for competition 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,” Miele said in a statement. “The new Performance Center Model 686 and 686 Plus feature Performance Center enhancements that provide an excellent foundation for shooters looking to customize and gain a competitive edge in the shooting sports, or for those who are new to the sport and looking for an excellent competition-ready value.”

PERFORMANCE CENTER® MODEL 686 PLUS

Smith & Wesson said its Performance Center lineup blends “old-world craftsmanship” with modern technology, offering enhancements for better performance. The Model 686 and 686 Plus are the latest to hit the series, which already boasts 52 revolvers.

PERFORMANCE CENTER® MODEL 686

Both the Model 686 and 686 Plus feature the same price tag of $966.

For more information on Performance Center offerings, check out http://www.smith-wesson.com/performance-center.

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