I have to agree with dreadnaught...the Model 66 has an almost sensual "feel" about it...perfect balance, pleasing lines, etc. Having said that, I usually shoot better...especially in DA...with the L-frame 686...probably because of the additional weight AND because most of the additional weight is up-front. I think for carry, especially concealed, the 66 is an easier piece to wear day-in and day-out. IF one is going to shoot a lot of Magnum ammunition, I think that the L-frame will hold up quite a bit better in the long haul...I've got a Model 19[blue version of 66] that I purchased new in mid '70's...it went back to the factory in about '79 or '80 to get "tightened up", after about 2,500 rounds of factory Mags and 10,000 or so .38's. My early '80's 586[blue version of 686] has had several times that amount of ammo thru it and its still going strong...just starting to get "broken in"!!!....mikey357