Have experience with the model 66 with a 4 inch barrel. I agree with argo about the speedloaders. About 2 weeks ago, I submitted a post about finding them and several people posted suggestions. Apparently there are S&W loaders that are compatible with it.
Great gun; in fact, one day at the range I was showing it to an acquaintance who had a taurus 9 shot in 22. He asked me what gunsmith had adjusted the trigger on the 66, and I told him that it had come that way from the factory. Don't remember the weight, but it is pretty hefty.
I happen to really love the rubber grips. Have an IWB holster for it.
I have heard that some people have had difficulties with Taurus, but I would highly recommend them.