S&W model 65 question

A

asleepinTucson

New member
Saw a used 367mag model 65 3" with rubber grips today at the range on consignment.

Number inside was 65-5 and had the firing pin on the hammer (not transfer bar) Lock up was a bit looser than I would expect from a smith but the timing and gap seemed ok.

Price was $275 + tax.


Any idea of approximate age and is 275 a fair price?

Thanx.

Sleepy
 
Model 65-5 was introduced in 1988; synthetic grips were added in 1994; switched to MIM trigger and thumb piece in 1997; model 65-6 with floating firing pin came out in 1998. Prices vary greatly by location, but $275 doesn't seem too bad if it's in good condition. There are currently two NIB on Gunbroker asking $400 and one used in excellent condition asking $335.
 
I recently purchased a revolver exactly as you describe. When I removed the rubber grips to check underneath I found "MASS. STATE POLICE" on the backstrap. Mine had a little wear on the top strap as if someone secured the pistol often with handcuffs. I paid $225 out the door.

I have always loved this revolver and was tickled to find a replacement with character and at a bargain.
 
I have one I puchased about 6 years ago, it has S.C.H.P. on the side plate. South Carolina Highway Patrol. An armorer must of tuned it, it's very smooth. I got it in new condition along with the orginal box and papers. I got it when SCHP changed from revolvers to semi-autos. Very happy with it.:)
 
If it looks and feels in good shape...

BUY IT!

I have two M65's, both 3" barrels, and they are good examples of the k-frame line. K-frames are generally reliable guns and you should be able to find a gunsmith to tighten it up a bit if you want.

I use primarily .38+P's in mine and get good results.
 
If you get it. Suggest keeping a half dozen or so FIRED magnum cases in your range bag. When through shooting and before leaving the range......slip the magnum cases into the chambers before reloading with .38specials. This will cut any crud out of the chambers that might interfere with bullet release of magnums.

If you do it every range session, then if you don't clean it when you get home you have insured that magnums will work properly if needed.

Sam.
 
The 2" M65 is not encountered nearly as much as the 4" model. If you want it then buy it but see if he'll take $250 just to feel better about it. I think a 2.5" M66 is a better gun unless you specifically want fixed sights and these can be found at or near the price being asked for the M65.
 
SP, I'm going to chime in disagreement, politely. I think the 3" M65's are mo' betta than the 2.5 inch M66's. They seem to point better, and the extra half-inch gives you a full-case-length ejector rod stroke. I view short revo's as self-defense guns, so I don't see the lack of adjustable sights as being very important. No flame, y'understand, just a Fords vs. Chevys kinda thing.
 
C. R. Sam...

"Suggest keeping a half dozen or so FIRED magnum cases in your range bag. When through shooting and before leaving the range......slip the magnum cases into the chambers before reloading with .38specials. This will cut any crud out of the chambers that might interfere with bullet release of magnums."

I have recently put a small cleaning kit in my range bag to include a rod and bore brushes. After I have finished shooting each firearm I quickly run the bore brush through the bore and chambers. This seems to help clean a lot of junk out while it's still warm and soft.

Another option is to only fire just one caliber through your .357s, i.e., either .38 Spl or .357 mags and avoid the problem. I generally stick to .38s in my smaller magnums and .357s for my N-frames.
 
Real men carry ladysmiths....

>>>What do you think of the 65 LS "Ladysmith" and any man who would buy one?

<<<

I routinely carry the three inch model 65. It is powerful, and accurate and balances well, better than the 2.5 66 for me.
I am 5'11, 280 lbs. and have yet to get my ass kicked on the street. I used to work as a bouncer too in a poolhall in a redneck #3!!hole in southern West Virginia. Women desire me and sheep fear me. It don't get more macho than that. When I dont pack that, I sometimes pack the three inch model 629 that is my real fun gun.
One thing I like about the ladysmith is that if some creep were to come across it while I was away from it, he might be tempted not to steal it for fears of questions about his masculinity.
 
What do you think of the 65 LS "Ladysmith" and any man who would buy one?
Click to expand...

I absolutely love mine. It used to vie with my 1911 for my favorite gun, now it competes with my CZ 75 for my favorite.

The LS has a much better trigger and action than other newer Smiths. I'm told they use lighter springs. The fit and finish seems better too. And you can't beat the looks of the matte finish and rosewood grips (and for me those grips are among the most comfortable available).

Any man who is afraid of the Ladysmith label is a wimp!
 
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