Feels awesome in the hand more like an extension of it. Good balance and all around nice shooter.

the 586 4in was my first handgun! i got it when i was 13 and it is still my fav!

Couldn't agree more, I wish they made a 586+ (I just don't like stainless revolvers).

I prefer the Model 19, less barrel heavy.

 I have owned a S&W 686 now for 10 years.  It was the first "legal" handgun I bought.  Previously I was under 21 and had an Uncle who would purchase the pistols and such that I wanted for my collections.
  The S&W was the first non-collector piece that I bought and I have carried it with me with 2 soeed loaders whenever I have ever felt a need to do so.  The only other pistol I would trust my life to is my 1911 model but I am afraid to shoot it becuase it's a Govt model "Singer" manufacture.  One of these days I will buy a Springfield 1911-A1 and I'll be complete for protection.
 My 686 is a 4" mod 3 with Hogue gripper grips.  I bought them when I purchased the pistol before they were common and were not even a factory option.  The only reason I got those was becuase the wholesaler I got it from was out of the Pachmyer grips.  In Hindsight I am glad of the shortage.  The Hogue Grippers fit my hand perfectly and I point naturally every time I grab the pistol without even having to think about it.

Johnny McD.