I have a Smith & Wesson 686 with factory drilled and tapped holes for optics. It has a 6" barrel and is heavy enough that 357 magnum loads do not kick all that much.

I want to mount a scope and try it for whitetail this year, and also am thinking of giving silhouette a try. Looking on line I see everything from Weaver bases that only cost $10 to more costly bases such as Leupold. I don't mind saving money but I don't want something that will not be secure, or will mar the gun.

Recommendations please?

http://www.jackweigand.com/scope.html

Ive used these when mounting optics on Ruger's. Im very pleased with them.

X2 for Jack Weigand S&W bases.

Best of luck with whatever you decide.

DJH

Thanks guys.

Not sure but I think I have a Leupold base rings for an N frame. Not sure if it would fit an L frame. If so, it's yours for the asking.

The Wigand mounts are great. I would suggest them. Additionally, a standard Weaver style mount should work fine on your Smith.

I have three Weigand bases mounted on 629's with no issues so far. I use them with Leupold Rifleman vertical split rings, or Kwik-site vertical split rings. These rings are light weight and low profile. I usually install 3 per scope, not that you would need 3 on a 357 mag, but I like the way it looks. When you go to Jack's website you'll see that the same mount fits L and N frames.

Wow, that is really kind of you magman. I would love those. I will check on the fit.

Let me know.

PM sent magman.

The leupold base should fit your 686... Mine is double dove tailed making extremely strong.....(no windage screws on rear ring)

Another vote for Weigand. I have used his bases and rings on everything up to a 45/70 BFR and a .460 Ruger BFR. Solid equipment.