Ran a across a really clean 686-3 4in, prelock of course, the wood grips had been replaced with hogues unfortunately. 450 plus tax...should I do it?

That's cheap. At least around here where it would be $650+.

Whats the problem. Do it and quit over thinking it.

Way overthinking that deal.

No question at that price. Hasbeen

Buy it. Buy it now.

Excellent price.

Killerv: I say get on the stick and buy that 686!
The price seems very pleasing (although you mention nothing about condition or whether you have to "do papers" on it.
IF.... "I" had a chance at that pistol (in good+ condition and NO paper!) I would be out shooting it by now!
Best of luck if you decide to buy it - before someone else does.
The Smith & Wesson Model 686's in both 4" and 6" are right near the top of my all time favorite pistols to own and shoot.
Hold into the wind
VarmintGuy

I don’t really care that much for L frames or stainless guns but I’d probably bite at that price.

That a no-brainer for a pre-lock at that price......

I’ve had a couple over the years. Back in the 1980s I had a factory nickel one with a six inch barrel. In the 1990s I had a four incher in black from the Performance Center. Sold both. Never could warm up to the L Frame.

OP, is that enough nudging??

Yeah, for that I'd buy it.

I know...I just didn't need it. But I went by after work and picked it up. Pretty dang clean.

Ya done good. If you don't like it, you can always move it... probably for more than you paid.

Congratulations!!

I think that's a superb 357.

There's one locally listed at $850. He may or may not get that.

Killerv: Good for you - I like that red ramp front sight!
I hope you are as happy with this pistol as I have been with my 686's! (2 1/2", 4" & 6").
One poster here relayed how he could NOT warm up to the 686?
So be that!
Isn't it noteworthy how different folks have different takes/opinions on different guns.
The minute I first hefted my first Smith & Wesson Model 686 with full lug I fell in love with it!
Then I shot it and my esteem for this pistol and its performance was "cemented"!
I consider the 686 one of the top three 357 Magnum revolvers ever made!
Based on a plethora of reasons.
Again I hope you are as happy with your 686 as I am with mine!
Enjoy.
Hold into the wind
VarmintGuy

I would have been on that like a bum on a baloney sandwich. The 686 is my favorite 357 of all time and I'm not an S&W guy.

Nice score. Can't go wrong at that price. Let us know how she shoots.

Will do, thanks guys. Now i've got the itch for a 4in 617 to go with it.

Shoving OP off the cliff.....

Nice find. Love mine (even with the lock).