Ruger GP100 .357 Mag vs Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus .357 Mag

These two full-size .357 Magnum revolvers are dimensionally close — within 0.06" of overall length, 0.8 oz of weight, and 0.01" of width — but they differ on the two specs that matter most. The 686 Plus holds 7 rounds in the cylinder where the GP100 holds 6, and reviewers consistently rate the S&W L-frame double-action pull as smoother out of the factory than the GP100's. The GP100 answers with its own structural argument: no internal lock above the cylinder release, and a frame and cylinder community consensus rates as the most durable production .357 in continuous full-power use.

Pick the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus if:

• You want 7 rounds instead of 6 in a frame that's actually 0.8 oz lighter than the GP100 — the Plus variant fits the extra chamber in the same L-frame dimensions as the standard 686
• You want the smoother stock DA pull — community consensus across revolver forums is that the L-frame action runs cleaner from the box than the GP100's, which usually needs a spring kit or 500 dry-fire cycles to match it

Pick the Ruger GP100 if:

• You want the most overbuilt .357 Magnum in production — investment-cast frame, triple-locking cylinder, and owner reports past 20,000 rounds with no timing issues. The 686 doesn't have this reputation
• You want no internal lock above the cylinder release — the GP100 uses a transfer bar safety with no internal lock mechanism to debate, remove, or pin shut
• You prefer the Hogue Monogrip that ships as standard equipment to the 686's synthetic grip that most owners replace within the first month

Both are stainless steel DA/SA revolvers with 4"-class barrels, adjustable rear sights, and red ramp fronts. Both handle a lifetime of full-power loads. The decision is round count and factory trigger refinement (686 Plus) versus structural durability ceiling and lock-free design (GP100).