Need some advice here. I would like to get a pinned and recessed short barrel revolver for my collection. I have been looking at the model 60 and 66. Recently perused a Model 60 pinned barrel with a serial # R247xxx which dates it 1980? Priced at $750 with box and papers. Saw another one with serial #R172xxx unsure of this date "mint condition" with box and papers. Seems like there a lot of the Chiefs out there. Is this a model worth collecting and are these prices too high? Would I be better off holding out for a pinned & recessed model 66? All opinions welcomed.

I have a Model 60 no dash and love it, but the Model 66 is probably more desirable, but harder to find with the snub barrel. You know the pat answer is always, "get them both." Start with the one you find first. I'm not sure that's the best price for a Model 60, but then again I got mine in the 1980's.

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I've a pair of snub 66's, great shooters and I love them but I bought them to shoot not as collectibles. I haven't seen a 60 for sale local to me in some time.


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FYI/reminder.... there are no recessed Model 60s they are/were all .38s and only .357s and .22s are/were recessed.

I'd do which ever you see first..... if you have to choose I'd go with a P&Red 2 1/2 inch 66.

Both are desirable revolvers. Neither is rare, so you don't have be in a hurry. The hunt is half the fun.The only 66's that are P&R are the no dash and dash one. That $750 price sounds high on that 60. Good luck.

Model 60s are ubiquitous. Everyone I hang with has one. Many times (like me) more than one. The price round here for one in decent condition can be had for about $500. That price has been stable for the last several years. For one in superior condition with a box in very good condition would go for about $650 max.

Model 66s are rare around here in any barrel length. Condition being equal, the M66 would probably be more desirable, although more costly.

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That's more then I'd pay for a Model 60.

I wish you luck!

I just bought a new model 60, to replace the original one I sold. The new model 60 can handle .357 magnum ammo. As for the model 66, I would much rather have a model 65. I read that the new model 66 has some problems. I do not like adjustable sights on a self defense firearm.

Thank you all for the replies and info. I think I am going to search for a 66 P&R. Should a model 60 cross my path at a better price I may bite. My gut feeling was the pricing on the 60's was high but wanted to get some feedback from more knowledgeable folks. Thanks again. Bob

Somehow find a way to shoot both. Easier said than done. Try a range, gun club or shop with a range. Personally, I find a K snub much EASIER to shoot than a J. Therefor I have no J's. My K's. Bob

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Yeah I think I need to exert some patience here and find a nice condition model 66 snub. I'm still kicking myself for selling my 4 inch 66-2. Saw a nice 2.5 inch 19-4 nickel finish no box/papers for 8 bills. Just not a fan of nickel finishes.

Never had a nickel gun. Some are stunning. Have not stumbled on the right thing yet. Good luck with your HUNT! Bob

One of those situations where you should acquire both, since IMHO they are not really comparable. Completely different machines.

The J-snubs for most are the 'carry a lot, shoot little', where K-snubs are the more 'do near-about everything' piece.

(Never ask enablers to help you dial back... )

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If you are looking for increase in value... then you need to find not only a nice example but also one with rarer features. Older 3" M66's command higher prices & will only increase. I've always covetted a Chief's target with adjustable sights. I don't know if the M60 was ever made like that.
I wouldn't exclude a blue steel or nickle gun in the right shape.

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Never liked nickle.
Carried a 1965 Colt DS for 20 years and had a Model 36 that was in the safe most of the time.
I didn't really like both of them but the DS did it's job each time it was called upon.
So,what's the primary use of the weapon going to be?
A 3" 65 is a bit heavier but a little added weight,longer barrel and larger frame often is a good thing.
Adjustable sights on carry guns never bothered me or interfered with clothing getting it out but if it's between your ears that it will then stay with fixed sight for carry.
The 66 up to the dash 4 are finely made weapons but have a flawed forcing cone so be careful what you shoot out of it if you opt for one.

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They did in fact make a Model 60 target I think it was a 60-1,I had a NIB example some time back.

Already have several Smith's for range toys & a 640 Pro for EDC. I'm just looking to have one really nice condition pinned Smith revolver in my collection. Like the looks of the Model 60 & 66 snub and stupidly sold a great shooter grade 66-2 4 inch. Just having a tough time at the moment finding stuff that is not way overpriced. Open to suggestions and ideas.

I read there were approx. 500 made. IDK if that's correct but I have one and know of at least one other that belongs to another member here.

1 down.

If you just want ONE really nice vintage S&W for you stable, then I wouldn't even be considering a model 60 or 66, let alone any other stainless model.

What you need to do is find a nice old blue steel and walnut piece. After all, that is mainly what the vintage guns are renowned for. Nickel too, but pretty sure you said not interested in nickel, and you know what, I'm not a nickel guy either.

So why buy a newer stainless one when you want vintage classic? Some may consider stainless classic, but not me. I look at it as cheaper to make and produce. To each their own though.

That's a really nice model 60; if the stocks are original I'd bet it has a mid-six digit serial number without the R prefix, so from between 1966 and '68. Enjoy, and now on to the model 66!

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Model 66's are very desireable right now. They seem to be the highest valued K Frames out there. I know this because I want one, and I a model always outbid on GunPoker.

I have seen 60-4's with 3" barrel and adjustable sights. Also, while a later gun, the 60-10 has a 3" barrel and will handle 357 mag.
I have just bought a 60-10 from a forum member and I love it. They are also hard to find and going up in price.
I have a 66-1 snub and I like it, but would prefer to carry the little J frame if I am going to be out all day.

I do plan on getting an older blued specimen. I've always liked the Chief's Special and Model 66 though so those will be obtained too. This Chief was too good of a deal to pass up on.

You got it. No "R" prefix and mid-six digit serial number.