The .357 Magnum Smith & Wesson 686 revolver was introduced to the international market in 1981 and was an immediate success. It was the first model built on the new L-frame specifically designed to easily handle the stress of .357 Magnum loads and in the 6-inch barrel version it became an "instant classic" for target and dynamic shooting enthusiasts. Initially equipped with a six-shot cylinder, in 1996 it was also offered with a seven-shot cylinder and lockable action, but this model was not as successful as the classic model. The Smith & Wesson 686 is an efficient, simple and extremely accurate revolver, and in the course of more than forty years of its life it has been chosen as a basis for an infinite number of refinements and special versions by American and European gunsmiths. What we present here is one of its latest iterations, the result of a collaboration between German importer Waimex and Smith & Wesson itself.
Smith & Wesson 686 Demon Special Edition: features
Made in only 150 examples, the Demon version of the Smith & Wesson 686 revolver captured the curiosity of enthusiasts who had the chance to see a preview at the past edition of IWA 2024. Based on the very popular .357 Magnum 686 model with a six-inch barrel, probably the American company's best-selling sporting revolver, the Demon is distinguished by its "satanic" aesthetics that are more than just aesthetic. The most important modifications, such as the careful fine-tuning of timing and single action / double action trigger, can't be seen from the photos, while the red and black DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coating of some components – which makes the revolver particularly resistant to abrasion and weather – is evident. Although it is a model dedicated above all to collectors, its features are not those of a "showcase" gun; on the contrary, every detail has been meticulously thought out to make this revolver extremely enjoyable on the shooting range.
The cylinder is the classic six-round type in .357 Magnum and has a semi-matte black finish. The barrel, with its classic six inches (152 mm) length, is red colored instead and is completely encased in a shroud with lightening windows that, thanks to the Picatinny/Weaver interface, allows for easy mounting of a red dot sight. The muzzle features a centering bushing that ensures perfect coaxiality. The LPA rear sight allows for precise target acquisition and is adjustable in both elevation and windage. The cylinder opening latch has been replaced with an oversized type that allows it to be operated with the thumb of the strong hand, without releasing the hold. Grips come from German specialist Nill Target and are made of red-grey-black laminated wood, aesthetically pleasing, but also very effective in terms of grip and comfort.
The Smith & Wesson Demon comes in a luxury hard case, accompanied by a challnge coin. The price has not been officially disclosed, but is expected to be around 3,300 euros.
To find out more about Waimex visit the company's website (German language only).
