The Model 686 eventually appeared in a slew of variants. There was the base 686 of 1988 followed by the 686 Classic Hunter with its unfluted cylinder, all in 1988. The 686 Midnight Black appeared in all its black finish glory come 1989. 1992 brought about the 686 National Security models in black finish as well as the 686 Target Champion with its full lugs. In 1994, the 686 Power Port appeared with its 6" ported barrel assembly. 1996 produced the 686P series with its key-lockable nature. In 2004, the 686P was released followed by the 686PP and its compensator. The 686 Performance Center was unveiled in 2007 and included improvements such as a weighted barrel, Picatinny Rail support, forged hammer and trigger units among other changes.
Militarily, the Model 686 was utilized by the United States Customs Service (the 686 CS-1) as well as US Navy SEAL elements. Security-wise, the Model 686 proved popular with some law enforcement arms as well. Beyond the United States, the Model 686 found popularity in France and Norway - the former being utilized by the National Gendarmerie Intervention Group special force and the latter operated by immigration police.
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