Advice on buying a Model 66

[emrlaw]

There are 2 model 66's on Gunbroker. One is a 66-1 from 1979 and the other is a 66-4 from 1993. The 66-4 is new in the box, while the 66-1 is supposed to be in excellent condition. But the 66-1 is up to $1,000 and the 66-4 is "only" at $800. Why would the used gun be selling for so much more than the brand new one? (My apologies for originally posting this on the wrong forum. I'm new to this forum and am still learning my way around

[grip frame]

The 66-1 has the pinned barrel and recessed cylinder chambers (the rim of the cartridge's are flush with the back of the cylinder). People pay extra for the early guns with these features. Smith eliminated the features on later guns to save manufacturing costs and the features were not needed for strength/reliability. The pinned and recessed magnum guns are more collectable,they represent more value than the more recent guns.

The 66-4 is the better of the two for a shooter and would be my choice. All the strength upgrades of the last model 66's, new extractor system ect. yet still has the forged parts in it and no lock/MIM. It was the last pre MIM/lock 66.

[emrlaw]

Thanks Grip Frame, you answered my question!

[emrlaw]

I sold a my model 66 (made about 1984) a few years ago, which I now terribly regret. It was the first gun I ever bought myself and now I'm obsessed with getting another one. It's hard for me to get to gun shows, so I've been looking on Gunbroker a lot. I see guns similar to the one I had selling anywhere from $500 to $1,000. (Mine was in perfect condition, with only maybe 50 rounds through it.) If I wait long enough, do you think I'll eventually be able to find one in that condition in the $500 - $700 range? That's really all I can afford. Thanks in advance Ethan

[skeezix]

You should be able to find a nice M66 within your price range.

Keep an eye on the "Guns for Sale" classifieds section, or post a WTB ad in that section.

[JCS&W]

You did not say whether you M66 was a 2.5" or a 4". If you had a 4", yes, you should be able to find what you want in your price range, fairly quickly. However, if your gun was a 2.5", you will have to have patience and it may take a while. The 2.5" M66/M19s, seem to be a very hot ticket. The prices being asked for these surprises me. But, at a recent gun show, a M66-1 2.5" sold for $695, no box or docs. If you can, be patient and have the money ready to buy when one in your price range becomes available. Good luck finding what you want!

[emrlaw]

Thanks guys. Mine was a 4"

[gumpys]

Yes,

with patience you will be able to find the 4 inch one with no problem in that price range .

[gumpys]

That seller is known for shilling period. Whoever is paying that much for that 66-1 4" gun is getting screwed over so bad. Not even a 2.5 66-1 New in the box is worth 1,000.00

Eric

[AveragEd]

I recognize the photography - I'll bet the seller of the gun on the right is Fugate Firearms in Kentucky. Matt is not a shiller, he just comes across unusually nice Smith & Wessons and wisely won't give them away. They all seem to attract the bid he wants sooner or later.

I bought a 686-3 PowerPort from him several years ago just because they are discontinued. Yes, I paid maybe $100 more than I could have bought one elsewhere but the gun was brand new in every way and he honors his return policy if the buyer is unhappy with the purchase. Not every seller does that. Matt advertised my gun as "used" but the S&W-trained gunsmith to whom I have my purchases shipped swears it is unfired.

Today, I see used 686s bringing over $100 more than I paid for mine, so did I really overpay?

Ed

[GF]

Matt & John sell only the best condition firearms. Prices are not for the faint of heart.
I've bought guns from and sold guns to the Fugates, if the Mod 66 your looking at is their auction everything will be on the level.

Here's one I got to first ...



GF

[gumpys]

Its not Fugate, and we are talking about 66's here guys not 686's???

Eric

[M3Stuart]

Welcome to the forum!

My vote; wait until you find one at a price you are comfortable with because those seem high to me.

[AveragEd]

Yes but we were also talking about a dealer - who in fact does have the gun on the right listed on GB.

Ed

[emrlaw]

I went ahead and bought it for $800. I know I probably paid too much, but it was exactly what I was looking for and looks just like the one I had. It is from Matt Fugate. I'm hoping it's as nice as the photo. Thanks for everyone's advice.