New in the box S&W 66.

RAHatto

New member
I have a question for everyone. I know this is largely based on opinion but tell me what you think any way.
Would you pay $550 for a brand new Model 66 .357 S&W 6 shot revolver with 2.5 in barrel adjustable rear sight? Again new in box with the standard bits.

Or I can order a 686P 2.50 in 357 7 shot from with adjustable rear sight. Basicly the same gun only a slightly different larger frame. I would have to order the 686 either from the internet or at a local store. I am not in a real hurry I am just wondering if it is a deal I should not pass up.

If it makes a difference this is pretty much exactually what I am looking for in a handgun. Home protection, target for fun, carry in the near future.

Is the 66 K frame a better platform for all intensive purposes (except carry obviously).
Thanks for any input.
 
My preference would probably be to go with the 66. I think that the K frame has a little better balance and also carries a little better than the L frame.

S&W is eliminating the K frames in .357 so this might be your last chance to get a brand new one.

If you are looking to pay less you might consider buying a used model 66. There are a lot of nice ones out there and with some luck you could probably find one for about half the price they are asking for a new one.

Bill
 
In recent months I have purchased 2, SW M66's. I paid $350 for the first one. It had action and accuracy to die for. I gave it to my son!

The 2nd one I bought on Auction Arms for $365.00. It also is a great gun. In my area a SW 629, 625, 686, will all cost between $550 - $650.

You seem as though your leaning toward the M66. I think $550 NIB is a good price for the right person. If you really want it, then I guess that makes you the right person. ;)
 
Target and home protection you can use the 686P, I think they are available with barrels shorter than 6". If you are talking CCW now you have to go with a shorter barrel like a 4" or less, depending on your body frame I'm not sure if you can conceal a L frame. I'd say the M66 is a better choice for CCW. I have one with a 2.5" barrel and love it. Mine has the laminate wood finger grooved grips - really not my style I'll probably change to Hogue or Pachmyr. josh
 
I have lots of K frame 2, 3 & 4" guns for carry etc. The problem is I don't have either of the 2 guns you mention. If they were both sitting in front of me with similar price tags I'd have a tough time deciding. :D
 
I would hold out for a good used one there has to be a bunch out there.Me I like the 66 better than the 686, but you may like the heavy barrel more???? Some day when you have nothing better to do hit the Pawn shops and the gun shops sure you will find what you want sooner or later.Most 66 and 686 are going for $300 as high as $400 the 686 seems to go higher than the 66 :)
 
Would you pay $550 for a brand new Model 66 .357 S&W 6 shot revolver with 2.5 in barrel adjustable rear sight? Again new in box with the standard bits.
No way. I would not. I would find the same gun used with a pinned barrel and recessed cylinders in good shape for $350 or so. Then I would take the extra $200 and buy my wife a Model 10.
 
What I did.

Thanks to all for your take on my question.
I went today and placed a deposit on the 66. The 66 had recessed cylinders and the bottom of the barrel is slotted like a tounge & groove so it was never screwed on more of slotted on from the top down. It oddly enough has the hammer lock on the left side of the frame.
I believe I made the right decision and found a real gem with a new 66. I will post pictures when I finish paying it off and bring it home. Then I just have to start customizing it with night sights and the like. Thanks again to everyone.
 
The 66 had recessed cylinders and the bottom of the barrel is slotted like a tounge & groove so it was never screwed on more of slotted on from the top down. It oddly enough has the hammer lock on the left side of the frame.
That sounds like a very interesting gun. Do post pics when you can!
 
Back
Top