Lol, you know what Tony, I figured if it doesnt work out, Id throw some fancy wood grips on it and have my first, official safe queen.
I really want it to work though.
I did notice that you mentioned you had carried a 1911 for years. I don't see any problems with it.
I've really come to like Pachmayr grips, because they're not as "grippy" with clothing, but still provide plenty of grip. I'm not sure of their offerings for the 686, but I bet they have something. Hogues are great, but were WAY TOO GRIPPY on my new Ruger GP100.