I saw a 66 that is clearly marked "-2" in the frame/cylinder area, appears to have the correct descriptors but the serial number starts "AYD" which according to the SCSW means 1988. I know S&W has done some weird stuff, just wondering if this makes sense? Please, something more than a "no" or "yes" would help, LOL.

I own two 66-2s and their serial numbers begin with AAU and AJP, if that means anything to you.

I have been told that S&W made (and maybe still makes) frames with serial numbers but doesn't necesarily use them right away, which is why they use shipping dates instead of production dates when you make an inquiry about a gun. I suppose a frame could reside in a bin for a significant amount of time before being made into a finished gun.

Ed

S&W doesn't pull the frames in any order and this one probably stayed in the rack for a while.

I guess that makes sense, do they stamp the model number prior to stamping a serial number? That would explain an earlier frame with a later serial number.

Thank you.

Yes, it makes sense.

Although the -3 change may have been approved in 1988 (or later in '88), it takes awhile for them to get in the system and then out the door.

AYD is a pretty high one but 66-2's ran into at least the BAU's and those are 1988 too.

Some of the lowest 66-3's are 3" in the BBM and BBN's that also shipped in late 1988.

Excellent, thank you very much.