SMITH & WESSON MOD .177 586 SET AIR PISTOL REVIEW.

Smith & Wesson Model 586 .177 Air Pistol – The Ultimate Revolver Set

1. Unparalleled Realism and Construction:

• Authentic Replication: The S&W 586 is a near-perfect 1:1 replica of the legendary Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum firearm, specifically the L-frame revolver. This isn’t just about looks; the dimensions, weight, and even the “feel” in hand are remarkably close.
• Full Metal Construction: With the exception of the grips, the entire pistol boasts a robust metal construction, contributing significantly to its realistic weight (approximately 1.2 kg or 45-46 oz, very close to the firearm’s weight of around 46.3 oz unloaded). This solid build gives it a premium, durable feel.
• Grips: The pistol comes standard with solid, two-piece rubber grips that are often compared to high-quality Hogue grips. These provide an excellent, comfortable, and secure purchase, even during extended shooting sessions.
• Finish: Modern versions typically feature a matte black or satin black finish, which is highly durable and resists minor scuffs. Earlier models sometimes had a shinier blued finish. The “686” designation for the silver/nickel finish also mirrors the firearm nomenclature.
• Working Parts: The 10-shot rotary magazine is released by a functional thumb slide lever, just like the real steel. The cylinder swings out, allowing for easy removal and loading of the rotary pellet clips. While the “cylinder” itself is mostly cosmetic and doesn’t rotate, the realism of the clip mechanism is highly impressive.

2. The Versatility of Interchangeable Barrels:

• Three Barrel Lengths: This particular set is highly sought after because it includes three different rifled steel barrels:
  • 4-inch (approx. 102mm): Ideal for a compact feel, quick handling, and close-range plinking. Offers good portability.
  • 6-inch (approx. 152mm): A popular all-around choice, balancing aesthetics, handling, and performance. Often seen as the “standard” barrel length for this model.
  • 8-inch (approx. 203mm): Maximizes velocity and provides a longer sight radius for improved accuracy at greater distances. This barrel often yields the highest performance.
• Easy Barrel Swapping: Changing barrels is a straightforward process, typically requiring only a single screw and a provided barrel wrench. This allows shooters to quickly adapt the pistol to different shooting scenarios or personal preferences.
• Enhanced Shooting Experience: The ability to switch barrels offers a unique level of customization, allowing you to experience different muzzle velocities, sound profiles, and sight pictures, effectively giving you three pistols in one.

3. Performance Specifications and Accuracy:

• Caliber: .177 (4.5mm) pellet. The rifled barrel ensures good accuracy with various pellet types.
• Power Source: Single 12-gram CO2 cartridge, housed within the grip. The right grip panel detaches to access the CO2 compartment, and a lever mechanism at the bottom of the frame facilitates piercing the cartridge.
• Muzzle Velocity (FPS): This varies significantly with barrel length, pellet weight, and ambient temperature (CO2 performs better in warmer conditions).
  • 4-inch barrel: Typically around 300-350 FPS with lead pellets.
  • 6-inch barrel: Generally 350-400 FPS with lead pellets.
  • 8-inch barrel: Can achieve 400-450 FPS with lead pellets, with some reports of over 480 FPS with lighter alloy pellets.
  • Note: Manufacturer claims can be higher (e.g., 425 FPS), but real-world testing (like at 60°F/15.5°C) often shows slightly lower, yet consistent, results.
• Shot Count: Expect around 60-70 consistent shots per 12g CO2 cartridge at room temperature, with some variation depending on shooting speed (rapid fire cools the CO2 faster) and temperature.
• Trigger Action: Offers both single-action (SA) and double-action (DA) modes, mirroring the firearm.
  • Single Action: Known for a remarkably crisp and clean break, often compared favorably to the firearm’s SA pull (typically under 5 lbs). This contributes significantly to its excellent accuracy.
  • Double Action: Smooth and manageable, though heavier than SA (around 9 lbs), still allowing for controlled rapid fire.
• Accuracy: This is a strong suit of the 586. Many users report excellent groupings, often achieving 0.5 to 1-inch groups at 6-10 yards with quality wadcutter pellets from a rested position. The longer barrels naturally enhance this accuracy potential due to the increased sight radius.
• Sights: Features an adjustable rear sight (for both windage and elevation) and comes with three different front sight posts of varying widths, allowing for precise zeroing and catering to individual sight preferences.
• Magazine Capacity: 10-shot rotary pellet clips. The set typically includes at least two clips, and spares are generally available (though sometimes hard to find due to high demand).

4. Additional Features and Considerations:

• Hard Case: The set comes in a sturdy, foam-lined hard plastic blue case, providing excellent protection for the pistol and its accessories during transport and storage.
• Pellet Compatibility: Performs best with standard .177 calibre lead pellets, particularly wadcutters for target shooting, though dome and pointed pellets also perform well.
• Maintenance: Regular lubrication with silicone oil (specifically Pelgun Oil for CO2 seals) is crucial for longevity and consistent performance. A barrel cleaning brush is usually included.
• Sound: While not excessively loud, it produces a noticeable “pop” when fired, similar to a powerful spring-piston air pistol.
• Training Tool: Due to its realistic weight, balance, and trigger characteristics, the 586 is an excellent and affordable training tool for firearm owners of the S&W .357 Magnum, allowing for practice without the cost and restrictions of live ammunition.

Here’s a great Youtube Video from Air Armoury.