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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
The Smith & Wesson 686 is a big, dependable revolver. That means you need a holster that holds it steady, keeps it comfortable, and stays in place whether you're walking, driving, or bending over. Make sure it's shaped specifically for the 686, not just a generic large revolver. A loose fit can be annoying, but a too-tight draw is worse. If you plan to carry it often, comfort matters just as much as retention. Some folks prefer leather for the classic feel and how it molds to your body. Others lean toward Kydex for firm clicks and zero flex. It really comes down to what feels right on your body and in your routine.
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
IWB Smith and Wesson 686 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 Smith and Wesson 686 shoulder holster 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 right Smith and Wesson 686 holster comes down to what actually works, matches, and complements how you live and the needs that arise with that. Maybe you're on the move all day, out in the woods where comfort and quick access matter most. Or you sit around in an urban office most of the day, where comfort and discretion are the key. Whether it's a concealed carry setup, a Smith and Wesson 686 shoulder holster for daily wear, or a chest rig for hiking, there's something out there that fits just right. Each carry method has its own vibe. Paddle holsters are no-fuss and easy to grab. Cross draw makes long drives more manageable. Chest and pancake options handle weight better without feeling bulky. It's not about finding "the best" holster in general, it's about finding the best one for you. And yeah, it might take a little trial and error. You’ll try one, maybe hate it, swap it out, and eventually land on the one that just works. When that happens, carrying the big 686 stops feeling like a chore and starts feeling natural, like it’s just part of how you move.
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
Mike D.
Exactly what I needed at a good price point.
06/09/2025
United States
Robert B
Best holster I've ever bought. PERIOD..
09/18/2024
United States
Tracy C.
Excellent holster. Very well-made. Thank you.
06/06/2024
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
