Other than barrel length, how do you tell one S&W revolver from another? I have a 586, I think, but it is so similar to other models, Model 19 for example. Thanks.
I have been collecting S&W wheel guns for many years and I am nowhere near all knowing about them. Just a few quick tips though. If the model number begins with a “6”, it is a Stainless gun. You can normally find the model number on the crane of the firearm. When you open the cylinder, that flat area just under the barrel should contain the model number and possibly a model variation ie Mod 60-3. The 60 is the model and the -3 is the 3rd engineering change. Some have fully lugged barrel like your 586 and some like the model 19 don’t go to the end of the barrel. Way too many variations to list.