The Smith & Wesson Model 586, particularly the coveted 6-inch barrel variant, holds a legendary status among revolver enthusiasts. Its combination of power, accuracy, and elegant design has cemented its place as a classic, sought after by collectors and shooters alike. This article will explore the history, features, performance, and enduring appeal of the S&W 586 6-inch.
A Legacy Forged in Steel: The History of the Model 586
The Model 586 emerged in the late 1970s as Smith & Wesson responded to the growing demand for a robust, high-quality .357 Magnum revolver. Building upon the successful Model 19, the 586 incorporated several key improvements, including a heavier barrel and frame constructed from stainless steel. This design choice not only enhanced durability but also significantly improved the revolver's resistance to corrosion, a crucial factor for shooters in various environments. This move towards stainless steel set it apart from its predecessors and established a new standard for the brand.
Key Features of the S&W 586 6-Inch
The 6-inch barrel is often considered the "sweet spot" for the Model 586. This length provides an ideal balance between accuracy, manageable recoil, and overall balance. Key features contributing to its popularity include:
- 6-Inch Stainless Steel Barrel: Offers superior accuracy and reduced muzzle flash compared to shorter barrel lengths. The stainless steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to the elements.
- Heavy Barrel: The substantial weight reduces felt recoil, allowing for more comfortable shooting and improved follow-up shots, especially crucial with the powerful .357 Magnum cartridge.
- Adjustable Sights: The adjustable rear sight allows for precise windage and elevation adjustments, crucial for optimizing accuracy at various distances.
- Full-Lug Barrel: The full-lug barrel construction adds to the revolver's strength and rigidity, further contributing to its accuracy.
- Double-Action/Single-Action (DA/SA) Mechanism: This versatile action allows for both quick double-action shooting and precise single-action firing, offering flexibility to the shooter.
Performance and Handling: A Shooter's Perspective
The 586 6-inch's performance lives up to its reputation. The longer barrel contributes to increased velocity and flatter trajectory, enhancing accuracy at longer ranges. The heavy barrel effectively mitigates recoil, making it surprisingly comfortable to shoot even with the powerful .357 Magnum rounds. The balanced weight distribution further enhances its handling characteristics, making it equally adept for target shooting and self-defense applications.
While powerful, the .357 Magnum's recoil is manageable due to the revolver's weight and design. This makes it suitable for a wide range of shooters, from experienced marksmen to those new to larger caliber revolvers.
The Enduring Appeal: Why the S&W 586 Remains Popular
The S&W Model 586 6-inch continues to hold its appeal for several reasons:
- Exceptional Accuracy: Its combination of barrel length, heavy barrel, and robust construction translates to exceptional accuracy, fulfilling the needs of target shooters and hunters alike.
- Reliability: Smith & Wesson's reputation for building reliable firearms stands strong. The 586 rarely disappoints, offering consistent performance.
- Collectibility: As a classic firearm, the 586 has gained significant value as a collectible item. Certain variations and condition can command substantial prices in the collectors' market.
- Versatility: The .357 Magnum chambering offers versatility, allowing shooters to use both .38 Special and .357 Magnum ammunition, adapting to different needs and preferences.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic
The Smith & Wesson Model 586 6-inch is more than just a revolver; it's a legacy. Its combination of power, accuracy, reliability, and elegant design has secured its place as a timeless classic among firearms enthusiasts. Whether for target shooting, hunting, or collecting, the 586 6-inch represents a remarkable piece of firearms engineering.
