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Craft Holsters - Holsters - Smith & Wesson Holsters - Smith & Wesson 686 Holsters
Holsters for Smith & Wesson 686
How to choose the best holster for your Smith & Wesson 686
A Smith and Wesson 686 holster 4 inch should support the revolver’s solid build and balanced feel while offering dependable retention and everyday comfort. The 4" 686 is a versatile choice for both field use and range work, so the holster needs to keep it secure, protect the stainless frame, and provide a smooth, controlled draw. With the right fit, this classic revolver carries comfortably and stays ready whenever you need it.
Best Smith and Wesson 686 IWB Holster
IWB Holster w Steel Clip – $89. This leather holster can be carried both IWB and appendix style, offering flexibility in how you choose to carry your Smith and Wesson 686. The steel clip design is perfect for those who dislike removing their belt when attaching or detaching the holster. It also features a reinforced thumb break strap, adding extra durability and increasing the holster’s natural retention, making it a highly secure option.
Best Smith and Wesson 686 OWB Holster
Open Top Belt Holster – $89. The Open Top Belt Holster is an excellent choice for those seeking easy access and a quick draw. Its pancake design provides a slim, low-profile fit, ensuring that your Smith and Wesson 686 remains concealed even in an OWB carry position. This holster is not only practical but also extremely comfortable for daily wear.
Best Smith and Wesson 686 Shoulder Holster
Shoulder Holster System – $215. For shoulder holster fans, the Shoulder Holster System is the best option for the Smith and Wesson 686. This leather shoulder system allows you to carry your gun in a horizontal position, secured with a thumb break strap for added safety. The system includes a double ammo holder and tie-down straps that attach to your belt, offering excellent balance and security. As a bonus, the holster can also be used as a regular belt holster, giving you two carry options in one.
Carry Options for Smith & Wesson 686 holsters
Concealed Carry
Carrying a 686 concealed isn’t easy, but it can be done. You’ll want to pay attention to both bulk and ride height. A Smith and Wesson 686 concealed carry holster should hug your body tight enough to stay hidden but still let you reach it fast. Weight distribution is key, otherwise, you'll find yourself adjusting all day.
IWB Holsters
Smith and Wesson 686 4 inch IWB holster setup keeps your revolver out of sight and secure. A good Smith and Wesson 686 holster for inside-the-waistband carry usually rides deep with enough grip exposure to draw cleanly. Make sure it doesn’t jab your hip or tilt forward when you move around. Leather IWB rigs break in well over time, while Kydex ones hold their shape longer.
OWB Holsters
For open carry or casual range use, OWB Smith and Wesson 686 holsters are a great choice to go with. A Smith and Wesson 686 holster worn outside the waistband makes the carry experience very comfortable, especially with a stiff belt, and your revolver is easily accessible. Look for one that rides high and pulls tight to your side; you don’t want it flopping around when you're active.
Shoulder Holsters
If you spend a lot of your day seated, like in a car or at a desk, a shoulder holster Smith and Wesson 686 is a great and versatile choice. It spreads the weight across your shoulders and keeps the gun accessible without digging into your waistband. Making both sitting down as well as moving a lot more comfortable. Make sure the straps are adjustable, and try wearing it with a light jacket to keep things discreet.
Chest Holsters
A Smith and Wesson 686 chest holster works very well for outdoor folks. Like hikers, hunters, or anyone who often finds themselves off the beaten path, leading an active lifestyle. It keeps the revolver front and center, away from backpack straps or waistbands. If you’re climbing, riding, or moving through brush, a good shoulder holster setup won’t get in your way or limit your full range of motion.
Paddle Holsters
Need something quick to put on and take off? A Smith and Wesson 686 paddle holster might be your go-to. The paddle slips inside your waistband but doesn’t require a belt loop. It’s good for short outings or range days, where you want security without threading your whole rig through a belt.
Cross Draw Holsters
Cross draw is underrated, especially if you're sitting or driving a lot. A Smith and Wesson 686 cross draw holster sits on your weak side but angles the grip toward your strong hand. That can make a big difference in comfort and accessibility, especially with a large-frame revolver.
Pancake Holsters
A well-made Smith and Wesson 686 pancake holster hugs your body tighter than you’d expect from an OWB rig. Two wide belt slots help distribute the weight, so it feels more balanced. They're great if you want an OWB feel without printing under a jacket.
Material Option for Smith & Wesson 686 holsters
Smith & Wesson 686 Leather Holsters
Made from high-quality leather, these holsters deliver a glove-like fit and excellent durability. They age beautifully, becoming even more comfortable with time.
Smith & Wesson 686 Kydex Holsters
Designed for durability and speed, Kydex holsters retain their shape and secure your firearm with a distinct click. They're perfect for tactical use and harsh conditions.
Smith & Wesson 686 Nylon Holsters
Affordable and low-maintenance, nylon holsters are perfect for everyday users seeking easy concealment. Their soft construction ensures a comfortable fit all day long.
See Our Holsters in Action
In this demonstration, see how our Smith & Wesson 686 holsters offer a blend of durability and discretion. The video illustrates the holster's ability to stay firmly in place while allowing quick access, making it ideal for daily carry.
Summary
Choosing the best holster for Smith and Wesson 686 4 inch means finding a setup that stabilizes the revolver’s medium frame while still allowing quick, confident access. A well-crafted holster should hold the gun firmly during movement, guard the cylinder and barrel from wear, and deliver a natural, predictable draw in any setting. With the proper fit, the 4" 686 becomes a reliable and comfortable companion for both everyday carry and outdoor use.
Check favorite holster carry styles
About Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4"
Gun Facts
| Barrel length: | 4" |
| Caliber: | . 357 Mag |
| Width: | 1.55" |
| Height: | 6" |
| Length: | 9.56" |
Holsters for Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4" reviews
16 reviews
Latest reviews
Brian
Gun doesn’t fit in the holster, and not in the “it’s leather so it needs to be worked in” way. The holster isn’t tall enough for the gun to fit in it, and even if it was, the holster isn’t long enough to cover the trigger guard. I may have been sent the wrong holster, I’m not sure.
12/28/2025
United States
John
Quality leather. Solid rig. Took a long time to break in. Even with using the break in kit.
12/23/2025
United States
Arnold S.
This is truly the best holster that I've ever purchased. I'm 68 years old, and have been buying holsters since I was 15, most of which are in a box of useless leather. When I received this cross draw, for my 686 4", I put my pistol in it, and not only did it fit perfectly, but the angle on my belt is second to none. It was made, and made right. The retaining snap was perfect from the first try. I also purchased the break in kit, but as of now, I haven't used or needed it. I'll probably purchase three more for my sons. Great Job Craft!
11/24/2025
United States
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Best Gun Holster Accessories
Choose the right accessories below that will enhance your carry. Don't forget that a proper magazine pouch, a belt or a concealed carry bag are always good choices.
MAGAZINE
POUCHES
Get yourself a custom mag pouch or speedloader pouch. Because there is never "enough ammo" right?
See Magazine Pouches
GUN BELTS
A solid and stable gun belt is what you need to prevent your holster and the rest of your EDC from sagging.
See Gun Belts
care kits
Don't forget to get yourself a handy kit that contains everything you need to make sure your holster will last you a lifetime.
See Care Kits
