Table of Contents

Decoding Your Smith & Wesson 686: The ‘AJU’ Serial Number Deep Dive

If you’re a proud owner of a Smith & Wesson 686 revolver and have noticed the ‘AJU’ prefix in its serial number, you’ve likely wondered about its significance. Understanding your firearm’s serial number is crucial for various reasons, from determining its manufacturing period to confirming its authenticity and even potentially tracing its history. This comprehensive guide delves into the specifics of the ‘AJU’ serial number prefix found on the Smith & Wesson 686, providing you with the knowledge to understand your revolver better and ensuring you have the information needed for responsible ownership. We aim to provide a definitive resource for understanding the nuances surrounding the smith and wesson 686 serial number aju.

Understanding Smith & Wesson Serial Numbers

Smith & Wesson serial numbers are more than just random identifiers; they’re a coded language providing valuable information about the firearm’s production. Over the years, Smith & Wesson has used various serial number systems, often changing them as production volumes increased or to reflect new model variations. Deciphering these codes can unlock details about when and where your firearm was made, and sometimes even provide clues about its intended market. The specific series of numbers and letters used offers a glimpse into the company’s manufacturing history.

It’s important to note that Smith & Wesson doesn’t publish a complete, universally accessible serial number database. Information is often gathered from collectors, historians, and through direct communication with the company. This makes understanding specific prefixes, like ‘AJU’, a matter of piecing together information from various sources.

The Smith & Wesson 686: A Legacy of Excellence

The Smith & Wesson 686, a stainless steel, medium-frame revolver chambered in .357 Magnum, is renowned for its durability, accuracy, and smooth action. Introduced in the early 1980s, it quickly became a favorite among law enforcement, competitive shooters, and recreational shooters alike. Its robust construction and versatile caliber make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from target practice to personal defense. The 686 has undergone several revisions over the years, denoted by dash numbers (e.g., 686-1, 686-2), each indicating specific engineering changes or improvements.

The enduring popularity of the 686 is a testament to Smith & Wesson’s commitment to quality and innovation. The revolver’s design has proven to be exceptionally reliable and accurate, making it a staple in the firearms community. Understanding the nuances of different 686 variants, including those marked with the ‘AJU’ serial number prefix, is essential for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The Significance of the ‘AJU’ Serial Number Prefix

The ‘AJU’ serial number prefix on a Smith & Wesson 686 generally indicates a production period in the late 1980s to early 1990s. While a definitive date range is difficult to pinpoint without direct factory records, collector consensus and anecdotal evidence suggest this timeframe. This period was a significant one for Smith & Wesson, marked by ongoing refinements to their revolver designs and increasing production volumes. The ‘AJU’ prefix falls within a broader series of letter prefixes used during this era.

It’s important to understand that serial number assignment wasn’t always strictly chronological. Factors such as batch production, inventory management, and even occasional re-use of number blocks could influence the sequence. Therefore, while ‘AJU’ generally points to the late 80s/early 90s, variations are possible. Factors such as the dash number (e.g., 686-2, 686-3) will further refine the exact production timeline.

Locating Your Serial Number

The serial number on a Smith & Wesson 686 is typically found in a few locations: on the frame, beneath the cylinder crane (visible when the cylinder is open), and sometimes on the grip frame. The most reliable location is usually the frame, as this is the primary identifier. When researching your firearm’s history, it’s crucial to record the complete serial number accurately, including any prefix letters and all numerical digits.

Be extremely careful when handling any firearm. Always ensure it is unloaded before inspecting it or recording its serial number. If you are unfamiliar with safe firearm handling practices, seek guidance from a qualified instructor or gunsmith.

Decoding Features of a Smith & Wesson 686 with ‘AJU’ Serial Number

A 686 with an ‘AJU’ serial number typically embodies several key features characteristic of that production era. These features contribute to the revolver’s overall performance, reliability, and collector value.

Stainless Steel Construction: The 686 is primarily constructed from stainless steel, providing excellent corrosion resistance and durability. This makes it suitable for use in various environments and reduces the need for extensive maintenance.
.357 Magnum Chambering: Chambered in the powerful .357 Magnum cartridge, the 686 offers significant stopping power, making it suitable for self-defense, hunting (where legal), and target shooting. It can also safely fire .38 Special cartridges, providing versatility in ammunition selection.
Adjustable Rear Sight: Most 686 models feature an adjustable rear sight, allowing users to fine-tune their point of impact for optimal accuracy. This is particularly beneficial for competitive shooters or those who prefer to use different ammunition types.
Full Lug Barrel: The full lug barrel extends the length of the frame, adding weight to the front of the revolver. This helps to reduce felt recoil and muzzle flip, improving accuracy and control.
Ergonomic Grips: The 686 typically comes with comfortable and ergonomic grips, often made of wood or synthetic materials. These grips provide a secure and comfortable hold, enhancing the shooter’s control and reducing fatigue.
Smooth Double-Action/Single-Action Trigger: The 686 features a smooth double-action/single-action trigger, allowing for both rapid follow-up shots (double-action) and precise, deliberate shots (single-action). The trigger pull is typically well-tuned from the factory, contributing to the revolver’s overall accuracy.
Six-Round Cylinder: The 686 features a six-round cylinder, providing a balance between capacity and concealability. While some revolvers offer higher capacity, the six-round cylinder remains a popular choice for its reliability and ease of reloading.

Advantages and Benefits of Owning a Smith & Wesson 686 ‘AJU’ Series

Owning a Smith & Wesson 686 with an ‘AJU’ serial number prefix offers several distinct advantages and benefits. These revolvers represent a specific era of Smith & Wesson production, known for its quality and reliability. The ‘AJU’ series, like other 686 models, provides a blend of power, accuracy, and durability that appeals to a wide range of shooters.

One key advantage is the revolver’s versatility. As mentioned, the ability to chamber both .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges makes it suitable for various applications, from self-defense to target shooting. The stainless steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to corrosion, making it a worthwhile investment for years to come. Furthermore, the 686’s smooth action and adjustable sights contribute to enhanced accuracy and shooting comfort.

From a collector’s perspective, understanding the ‘AJU’ serial number prefix adds another layer of appreciation for the firearm’s history and provenance. While not necessarily rare, these revolvers represent a specific period of Smith & Wesson production, and their condition and originality can influence their value. Owners often report a sense of pride in owning a well-maintained example of this classic revolver.

Expert Review: The Smith & Wesson 686 ‘AJU’ Series

The Smith & Wesson 686 with the ‘AJU’ serial number prefix stands as a testament to the enduring quality and design of Smith & Wesson revolvers. This review provides an in-depth assessment of its user experience, performance, and overall value.

User Experience & Usability: The 686 is known for its comfortable ergonomics and ease of use. The grips are well-designed, providing a secure and comfortable hold for most hand sizes. The controls are intuitive and easily accessible, even for novice shooters. The smooth double-action trigger pull requires some practice to master, but the single-action trigger is crisp and light, contributing to excellent accuracy. Loading and unloading the cylinder is straightforward, and the adjustable sights allow for precise zeroing.

Performance & Effectiveness: In simulated testing, the 686 consistently delivered excellent accuracy with both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition. Recoil is manageable, especially with .38 Special loads, thanks to the revolver’s weight and ergonomic grips. The stainless steel construction ensures reliable performance in various weather conditions. The revolver’s robust design can withstand thousands of rounds without significant wear or degradation.

Pros:

Exceptional Accuracy: The 686 is renowned for its accuracy, making it suitable for target shooting and competitive shooting.
Durable Construction: The stainless steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to corrosion.
Versatile Caliber: The ability to chamber both .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges provides flexibility in ammunition selection.
Smooth Action: The smooth double-action/single-action trigger contributes to enhanced shooting comfort and accuracy.
Collector Value: The ‘AJU’ series represents a specific period of Smith & Wesson production, potentially adding to its collector value.

Cons/Limitations:

Weight: The 686’s weight can be a drawback for concealed carry, as it can be bulky and uncomfortable to carry for extended periods.
Six-Round Capacity: The six-round capacity may be considered limiting compared to some other revolvers or semi-automatic pistols.
Double-Action Trigger: The double-action trigger requires practice to master, and some shooters may find it challenging to achieve consistent accuracy.
Availability of Parts: While Smith & Wesson parts are generally available, finding specific parts for older models like the ‘AJU’ series can sometimes be more difficult.

Ideal User Profile: The Smith & Wesson 686 ‘AJU’ series is best suited for experienced shooters who appreciate the accuracy, durability, and versatility of a classic revolver. It’s also a good choice for collectors interested in Smith & Wesson history. While it can be used for self-defense, its weight and size may make it less suitable for concealed carry compared to smaller, lighter options.

Key Alternatives:

Alternatives to the 686 include the Ruger GP100, another popular .357 Magnum revolver known for its robust construction, and the Smith & Wesson 627, an eight-shot .357 Magnum revolver offering higher capacity.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation: The Smith & Wesson 686 ‘AJU’ series is a highly recommended revolver for those seeking a reliable, accurate, and versatile firearm. Its stainless steel construction, smooth action, and adjustable sights make it a joy to shoot. While it may not be the best choice for concealed carry due to its weight and size, it excels as a target gun, home defense weapon, and collector’s item. If you can find a well-maintained example at a reasonable price, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Tips for Maintaining Your Smith & Wesson 686 ‘AJU’

Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliable performance of your Smith & Wesson 686. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection can prevent malfunctions and preserve the revolver’s value.

Clean after each use: After each shooting session, thoroughly clean the bore, cylinder, and frame to remove powder residue, lead fouling, and other debris. Use a quality bore cleaner, brushes, and patches.
Lubricate regularly: Apply a light coat of gun oil to all moving parts, including the cylinder crane, trigger mechanism, and hammer. Avoid over-lubrication, as this can attract dirt and grime.
Inspect for wear and damage: Periodically inspect the revolver for signs of wear, such as cracks, chips, or excessive looseness. Pay particular attention to the cylinder stop, hand, and firing pin.
Store properly: Store the revolver in a dry, secure location, away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Use a gun case or safe to protect it from damage and unauthorized access.
Seek professional service: If you encounter any problems with the revolver’s function or performance, consult a qualified gunsmith for repair or maintenance. Avoid attempting repairs yourself unless you have the necessary knowledge and experience.

Preserving a Legacy

Understanding the smith and wesson 686 serial number aju is more than just knowing a code; it’s about appreciating the history and craftsmanship behind a classic firearm. The ‘AJU’ prefix places your 686 within a specific era of Smith & Wesson production, a time of ongoing refinement and innovation. By understanding the features, advantages, and maintenance requirements of your revolver, you can ensure its continued performance and value for years to come. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter, a collector, or simply a responsible gun owner, the knowledge gained from this guide will enhance your appreciation for the Smith & Wesson 686.

Share your experiences with your Smith & Wesson 686 ‘AJU’ series revolver in the comments below. What do you appreciate most about this model? What tips do you have for other owners?