Red Dot and base for a S&W 686

[TargetTerror]

I think its time to put a Red Dot scope on my S&W 686. I've been scouring the archives, and am 99% settled on the Ultradot Matchdot. It seems to have all the features I want at a price I can handle, and should be good enough for me if its good enough for serious bullseye shooters.

I do want it to be able to handle full house .357 loads. From what I have read, this shouldn't be a problem. Am I correct in this assessment?

For rails, I saw this Jack Weigand was recommended as being good: http://www.jackweigand.com/swhpmnt.html Does anyone know of any other bases that would be a good match for an Ultradot? Also, the site says that the base fits most guns made after 1992. I bought my 686 used, so I don't know when it was made. What do I need to look for on the top strap to know if the base will fit? I have the factory adjustable rear sight, so does that have the requisite tapped holes?

 

[tira]

at [email protected] you can get in touch with people selling Weaver alu base at a very low price.

 

[rantingredneck]

If the Weigand will work for your gun I highly recommend them. I've got one on a Ruger Carbine and it is well made and solid as a rock.

 

[JoeHatley]

An UltraDot on a Weigand base is very close to the perfect combination for your 686. Many folks sell Weaver style bases(including S&W), but none are better than Jack's.

The post 1992 reference, means S&W revolvers made since then have been pre-drilled at the factory for bases like the Weigand. Just look at the underside of your top strap, in the central area. If it's already drilled and tapped, the screw hole will be plainly in sight. All D&T models have adjustable sights, but AS doesn't mean it's been D&T.

Good Luck...

Joe

 

[Walkalong]

Ultra Dot scopes are very nice. The Weigand mount is very good as well.

 

[DickM]

I have Ultradot Matchdots on all my Bullseye guns (4 different ones at the moment) and they've never given me the slightest hint of a problem. You'll be very happy with one.

 

[TargetTerror]

Thanks for the feedback. Much appreciated as always.

I'm still leaning very heavily towards the Matchdot, but one of my friends who is an RO at my range and does a lot of action shooting his pushing me to get a C-more holosight-style red dot. Does anyone have any experience with these?