Desert Eagle .50 AE vs Smith & Wesson Model 686

1990–Present

1980–Present

~500,000 estimated

~2,500,000 estimated

228 mm (9.0 in) with standard grip

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

152 mm (6.0 in) standard, 165 mm (6.5 in) optional

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

2.04 kg (4.5 lb) empty, stainless‑steel frame

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

7 rounds standard for .50 AE, 9 rounds for .44 Magnum, 13 rounds for .357 Magnum

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

Short‑stroke gas piston with rotating bolt, locked breech

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

Single‑stage, DA/SA with manual safety/decocker lever

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

Fixed rear notch and front blade; optional aftermarket night sights

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