Model 60 vs. 65

Triggernosis · #1 02-24-2010, 09:22 AM

What are the differences between the Models 60 and 65?

murphydog · #2 02-24-2010, 09:28 AM

The 60 is a 5-shot J frame .38 or .357 (later versions), the 65 a 6-shot K frame .357. Some 60s have adjustable rear sights, but the 65 only has fixed sights. They are both stainless guns. Thinking about buying one or the other?

Camster · #3 02-24-2010, 09:36 AM

To add upon Alan's comments,I believe that the Model 60 was offered in 2 or 3 inch versions,while the 65 was only a 4 inch offering.

Triggernosis · #4 02-24-2010, 09:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by murphydog

The 60 is a 5-shot J frame .38 or .357 (later versions), the 65 a 6-shot K frame .357. Some 60s have adjustable rear sights, but the 65 only has fixed sights. They are both stainless guns. Thinking about buying one or the other?

Thanks, murphydog.
Yes, well, I've kinda got a hankering for a 60 with a 3" barrel. Trying to decide between a pre-lock 60 and a Ruger SP101.

Messer · #5 02-24-2010, 09:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Camster

To add upon Alan's comments,I believe that the Model 60 was offered in 2 or 3 inch versions,while the 65 was only a 4 inch offering.

They also made 3" model 65's - it's one of my favorite carry guns. Mine is a Lady Smith with the full ejector rod shroud.

Take care,
Bob S.

Triggernosis · #6 02-24-2010, 10:32 AM

Now that's just plain showin' off, Bob! Nice piece, for sure.

CDMead · #7 02-24-2010, 10:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Triggernosis

Thanks, murphydog.
Yes, well, I've kinda got a hankering for a 60 with a 3" barrel. Trying to decide between a pre-lock 60 and a Ruger SP101.

I think you would be well served with either.

The only advantage I would suggest with the Ruger is that you could easily get it in 357 Magnum, not that you'd want to shoot a lot through it though....

Triggernosis · #8 02-24-2010, 11:18 AM

Doesn't the 60 come in .357 also?

CDMead · #9 02-24-2010, 11:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Triggernosis

Doesn't the 60 come in .357 also?

Pre lock model 60s in 357 are few and far between in my experience. There are absoutely zero on Gunbroker as of this writing.

Messer · #10 02-24-2010, 12:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Triggernosis

Doesn't the 60 come in .357 also?

Yes - they still make them. Go to Home Page - Smith & Wesson and click your way through Firearms/Revolvers/Small Frame (J) to see what's listed. All the new guns will have the internal lock. Some folks hate them, some don't care - your call.

My wife uses a model 640 (model 60 with no exposed hammer) in 357 as her daily carry gun and loves it.

(and yes, I brag a little - sometimes)

Take care,
Bob S.

Triggernosis · #11 02-24-2010, 01:08 PM

Hmmm, a 649 with a 3" barrel would be nice. I don't think I've ever seen one, though....

shawn mccarver · #12 02-24-2010, 11:53 PM

60: J frame, 5 shot, coil mainspring.

65: K frame, 6 shot, flat mainspring.

tom turner · #13 02-25-2010, 12:20 AM

The Model 65 indeed came in a 3" version, and they are extremely accurate and easy to shoot well.

Mine has sights that are perfectly regulated and a great trigger that the leaf mainspring S&W revolvers are noted for.

Amazing handguns, those 3" versions. Very desireable, and for good reasons too.

H Richard · #14 02-25-2010, 12:14 PM

A mod 60-4 is a 38 Spec (only), with a 3" full lug barrel, and they are fabulous shooters, and smaller to conceal if used as a carry gun.