Speaking simply in money/value, this was probably not my absolute "best" deal of the year, but it made me very happy. I came in to a six-inch Smith & Wesson Model 66-2 in somewhat "rough" condition for $300 out the door.
A gun in this condition is the sort of thing I enjoy chasing down because it adds a utility piece to my cache that can be treated a little more "loosely" than I might handle some of my prized handguns.
It was also fun for me to actually spend the time finding all the "faults" in it and YET, still be able to see that it was absolutely and without any doubt worth buying, owning and having.
--missing original wood stocks (had a Pachmayr grip)
--trigger stop had been removed
--side plate screws all slightly hacked up
--scratches from handling, no big dents or gouges
--actual pitting on two spots on the cylinder (on a stainless gun!)
--springy hammer mounted firing pin not springy
Lock-up was perfect. Ejector rod was perfectly straight as an arrow. Timing is exquisite (and I am a genuine timing snob.) Double action trigger is smooth and exactly what I expect from a 1980s-era double action Smith & Wesson. (dates to July 1987 production)
I have over 800 rounds through this one since I picked it up and it will punch one-hole six shot groups on paper when I do my part. It handles full-boat .357 Magnum but I don't enjoy much magnum from a K-frame. I much prefer a wide array of .38 Special from popgun to the bitter edge of "acceptable" .38 Special and this revolver eats them by the boatload.
No clue what kind of life this revolver had before me, but I am sure that it is now living out it's dream.
