Luger P08 vs Smith & Wesson Model 686

1908–1945

1980–Present

~1,000,000+ units (including military, police, and civilian models)

~2,500,000 estimated

225 mm (8.86 in)

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

100 mm (3.93 in)

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

0.95 kg (2.09 lb) empty

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 (detachable box), optional 8‑round magazine for .30 Luger

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

Toggle‑locked, short‑stroke recoil‑operated, closed bolt

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

Single‑stage military trigger with integrated safety lever

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

Fixed front blade, rear V‑shaped notch with adjustable rear sight leaf

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