Colt New Frontier vs Smith & Wesson Model 686

1961–1981

1980–Present

Approximately 20,000

~2,500,000 estimated

279 mm (11 in)

228 mm (9.0 in) with 4" barrel, 191 mm (7.5 in) with 2.5" barrel

140 mm (5.5 in)

101.6 mm (4.0 in) standard, 63.5 mm (2.5 in) compact variant

1.13 kg (40 oz)

1.05 kg (2.3 lb) empty, 1.13 kg (2.5 lb) with 4" barrel; 0.94 kg (2.1 lb) empty with 2.5" barrel

6 rounds

6 rounds (standard), compatible with .38 Special cartridges of the same capacity

Single-action revolver

Double‑action revolver, transfer‑bar safety, internal lockup with a single‑action trigger pull when cocked manually

Single action

Double‑action trigger with a 5‑6 lb pull; single‑action pull approximately 3‑4 lb when hammer is manually cocked

Adjustable rear, ramp front

Adjustable rear sight (windage and elevation) and a fixed front blade; some models equipped with three‑dot tritium night sights