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S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present All NON-PINNED Barrels, the L-Frames, and the New Era Revolvers


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  #1  
Old 04-10-2017, 12:45 AM
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Default New 2.75" 66 Making an appearance

I was on YouTube checking some gun channels -- Purple Mountain Outdoors had S&W send him the new 2.75" 66-8. Looks great (though he already changed out the grips).
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Old 04-10-2017, 01:33 AM
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Thanks, I wanted to see what the new M66 would look like with the boot grips, as I have a pair of Ahrends Cocobolo boot grips ready. Looks very nice.
I am glad that they are making some of the guns. I was starting to think that the new snub was a myth. Its not like the gun is a new model, just a new barrel length. I understand that it probably takes longer to get a new 2 piece barrel length into production. Its always possible that they are trying to stir up more interest in this model.


Best,
Rick
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Old 04-10-2017, 07:13 AM
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Hopefully the 69 is not far behind.
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Old 04-10-2017, 10:22 AM
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Love the gun, not so much the black accents.
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Old 04-10-2017, 11:22 AM
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Originally Posted by gnystrom View Post
Love the gun, not so much the black accents.
They match the sights. And the IL?

Best,
Rick
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Old 04-10-2017, 11:52 AM
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Originally Posted by gnystrom View Post
Love the gun, not so much the black accents.
Not crazy about them either. Figured when I finally do get to actually purchase (hello? S&W?) a 2.75" barrel 69 if I dislike them bad enough I'll look into having them hard chromed.
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Old 04-10-2017, 11:55 AM
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I kinda like the black accents - makes the gun different from other stainless steel guns, moves it into the wannabe a pinto category.

It would fit nicely into my collection if I decide to add more companions......
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Old 04-10-2017, 02:43 PM
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Those black accents are growing on me. When the 4" model came out a couple years ago I hated the look, but day by day....and now they're kind of interesting. And I like the barrel length so much, a color accent ain't going to nix the deal.
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Old 04-10-2017, 04:40 PM
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If it was a model 65, I would buy one. I just bought a model 60.
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Old 04-10-2017, 07:24 PM
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Originally Posted by KSDeputy View Post
If it was a model 65, I would buy one. I just bought a model 60.
If the rear sight on my M66 is nicely centered for point of impact, I will install a Cylinder & Slide fixed rear sight and turn it into a M65. I don't like red ramp front blades, so that will go in any case.

Best,
Rick
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Old 04-10-2017, 09:03 PM
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This might be my next purchase once they are out for sale and the price comes down a bit. I love my 2.5" 66-2, but hesitate to carry it much due to it being very hard to replace.

I love the K frames and this gun would make into my regular rotation!

The gun looks awesome with those Hogue stocks!

Last edited by Bill In Texas; 04-10-2017 at 09:05 PM.
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Old 04-10-2017, 09:31 PM
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I want one of these bad. Any clue when they are going to be readily available?
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Old 04-10-2017, 09:32 PM
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I can't wait to shoot the tar out of one of those.
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Old 04-10-2017, 10:20 PM
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Could someone explain or reference another thread regarding the 2-piece barrel. I don't understand the construction of it. Thanks.
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Old 04-10-2017, 10:30 PM
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Quote:
Love the gun, not so much the black accents.
Not even a factor! Beautiful gun - I'd love to shoot one - makes the new Kimber look cheap by comparison. (opinions may vary)
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Old 04-11-2017, 01:34 AM
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Originally Posted by L-2 View Post
Could someone explain or reference another thread regarding the 2-piece barrel. I don't understand the construction of it. Thanks.
There's a diagram in this post that may help:
http://smith-wessonforum.com/138527311-post12.html

.
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Old 04-11-2017, 09:26 AM
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Originally Posted by gnystrom View Post
Love the gun, not so much the black accents.
Yeah that's one ugly K frame.
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Old 04-11-2017, 09:01 PM
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Not crazy about them either. Figured when I finally do get to actually purchase (hello? S&W?) a 2.75" barrel 69 if I dislike them bad enough I'll look into having them hard chromed.
I'm hearing that the 69/2.75" is not going to happen. What are you hearing on this. I would like one myself.
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Old 04-11-2017, 09:07 PM
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I'm hearing that the 69/2.75" is not going to happen. What are you hearing on this. I would like one myself.
S&W still catalogs the M69 snub, SKU #10064.

Model 69 Combat Magnum(R) | Smith & Wesson

Not sure why they wouldn't produce the gun. The 4.25 inch model has been popular.

Best,
Rick
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Old 04-11-2017, 11:28 PM
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Vern nice 66 2.75",thanks for sharing the video!
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Old 04-11-2017, 11:33 PM
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Some old codgers here don't like the black accents just because they're new. Same goes for the 2-piece barrel, matte finish, IL, etc. etc. If it's not 50+ years old, you don't like it!
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Old 04-12-2017, 07:56 AM
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Some old codgers here don't like the black accents just because they're new. Same goes for the 2-piece barrel, matte finish, IL, etc. etc. If it's not 50+ years old, you don't like it!
Nope; because it's ugly!
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Old 04-12-2017, 11:31 AM
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Nope; because it's ugly!
Dash 1 or dash 8; Mary Ann or Ginger, its all opinion.
I prefer the dash 8, and Mary Ann!

Best,
Rick
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Old 04-12-2017, 11:58 AM
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686 and Ginger
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Old 04-12-2017, 01:36 PM
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Dash 1 or dash 8; Mary Ann or Ginger, its all opinion.
I prefer the dash 8, and Mary Ann!

Best,
Rick
exactly. I'm starting to hate these forums filled with old men with nothing but "back in my day...!" comments. As the saying goes, Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
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Old 04-12-2017, 03:18 PM
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Quote:
This 1980 to the Present forum is a place for enthusiasts of S&W revolvers of this era to enjoy discussion of those products.

If you are not fond of these revolvers and prefer the older products, we have three other forums that cover those revolvers. You are invited to discuss them there as much as you want.
If you are one of the people who constantly enters threads ONLY to spew your hatred for the internal lock, MIM parts, or whatever you dislike about modern S&W revolvers, STOP doing it.
Apparently, this is not enforced too strictly. Granted everyone has opinions but the modern revolver bashing is pretty nuts in this sub forum.

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Old 04-12-2017, 03:52 PM
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Originally Posted by riverrat38 View Post
S&W still catalogs the M69 snub, SKU #10064.

Model 69 Combat Magnum(R) | Smith & Wesson

Not sure why they wouldn't produce the gun. The 4.25 inch model has been popular.

Best,
Rick
Yes, I saw that. Hope it's true. My 629 3" needs a playmate. Thanks.
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Old 04-12-2017, 04:04 PM
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You younger guys have to remember that us olde pharts are used to Smith & Wesson revolvers looking like they used to look. A lot of you are not so the new ones look great to you - as they would to me if I were several decades younger. Also remember that many of us have said on this forum that the newer guns likely are just as good mechanically as the older ones so we're not bashing the guns outright. Rather, we're just stating the opinion to which we are all entitled and no offense is intended.

I'm in that "middle" age group where "pinned and recessed" wasn't common when I became interested in S&Ws so I don't mind not having those features. It's all about what you're used to.

Ed
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Old 04-12-2017, 06:31 PM
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Yes we will continue to buy what we want. As time goes on, things change. We younger crowd would like old craftsmanship too but like newer designs too. We don't need people constantly turding up these threads with crying about the good old days.

I mean admins had to put a rule/warning in place because of it. If you don't have anything to add don't post unsolicited advise about pre locks and the back in my day comments.

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Old 04-12-2017, 08:08 PM
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It is good to see the new 66 is slowly starting it's journey into the wild. I can easily see one the the new 2 3/4 barrel specimens in my safe. It may take a little while as I just added a police trade-in Model 65-3 with the 3" barrel.

I may have opened Pandora's box with my first 3" K-frame. It has quickly risen to become one of my favorite shooters. The balance and weight of my 65 is near perfection. Adding one of these new production beauties would give me that feel from about 30 years forward in time.
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Old 04-12-2017, 08:42 PM
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I'm 62 and love my P&R 66s but to be honest I kinda' like that new 2.75" 66 cept' for the lock. It does put the new Kimber revolver to shame not that I'd ever buy a Kimber.
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Old 04-20-2017, 07:22 PM
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A little bump for this thread. I can absolutely confirm that both models, the 66 and the 69, exist in the wild. I was able to hold one of each at my LGS today.

The fit and finish seemed well done. Both gun's cylinder lock up was nothing short of amazing. Each were as tight fitting as any Smith I've tried. Pretty much zero endshake or movement once locked in. Timing seemed to be on in all cylinders of both revolvers. The triggers were not gritty but a bit heavy in DA. SA was quite clean. Neither had any barrel cant noticeable. Overall, I was quite impressed.

I can easily see one of these 66's in my future. I may even consider a 69 even though I had "decided" to stick with 38/357. Locally, the price was $20 more than the new production 686+ sitting next to it.
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Old 04-21-2017, 02:56 AM
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I'm 62 and love my P&R 66s but to be honest I kinda' like that new 2.75" 66 cept' for the lock. It does put the new Kimber revolver to shame not that I'd ever buy a Kimber.
I bought one of the new Kimbers. It's a 23 ounce 6 shot with a great 10 pound super smooth double action trigger (most S&W J-frames are about 12 pounds from the factory). It fits in a J-frame holster. What's not to like. Oh, and Altamont is making a variety or wood grips for them.
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Old 04-21-2017, 08:12 AM
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I like it and will buy one. My new SW 685 plus has been outstanding!! And the new 66 will be to. Better than the old ones and alot tuffer built than the old one I used in the 1970's,80's. Those shot loose fast and broke down ,should have never been made in 357. Don't believe older is better and that internet bull. As for the Kimber they should not make wheelguns same as Charter Arms. Money is better spent on a new SW 640 pro or new M66.

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Old 04-21-2017, 08:34 AM
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Originally Posted by TeaDub View Post
A little bump for this thread. I can absolutely confirm that both models, the 66 and the 69, exist in the wild. I was able to hold one of each at my LGS today.

The fit and finish seemed well done. Both gun's cylinder lock up was nothing short of amazing. Each were as tight fitting as any Smith I've tried. Pretty much zero endshake or movement once locked in. Timing seemed to be on in all cylinders of both revolvers. The triggers were not gritty but a bit heavy in DA. SA was quite clean. Neither had any barrel cant noticeable. Overall, I was quite impressed.

I can easily see one of these 66's in my future. I may even consider a 69 even though I had "decided" to stick with 38/357. Locally, the price was $20 more than the new production 686+ sitting next to it.
I think with the two piece barrel you can pretty much take for granted that there will be no canted barrel. That's one good thing about the two piece design. Also, there should be no problems with the B/C gap. There is a reason those two piece barrels seem to have an edge in accuracy.
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Old 04-21-2017, 05:28 PM
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I bought my new M66-8 Snub at my LGS today. Traded for my M686. I don't shoot full magnum loads, so I think this will be a better revolver for my old hands. My wrist appreciates the 4 ounces lower wight. I am very happy with the condition of the gun. My only complaint is the usual red ramp front sight. Fortunately. it is pinned on! The sight is square with the World, and the BC gap is .004 to .005 in. on all chambers. Good job! I have installed my Ahrends boot grips that I kept from my trade in 686. Now, I need to load some 125 gr plated flat point Xtreme with 7.0 gr HP-38, in MGN cases, and head for the range. Weight is 33.2 Oz empty with the Ahrends.

Best,
Rick
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Old 04-22-2017, 12:41 AM
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Default Two & Three piece barrel advantages

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Originally Posted by epj View Post
I think with the two piece barrel you can pretty much take for granted that there will be no canted barrel. That's one good thing about the two piece design. Also, there should be no problems with the B/C gap. There is a reason those two piece barrels seem to have an edge in accuracy.
Their shrouds are indexed into the frame with one, usually two large matching key tab/keyslot points. The matching indexing points are formed into the frame, for alignment, when manufactured, not added by hand later.

It's always been my observation that two & three piece barrels have been immune from the one-piece barrel's canting issues.

Another point in favor of the two/three piece barrels is the forcing cones are always better than the one-piece. They're nice and smoothly done with none of the rough & uneveness commonly found on those hand-cut into the one-piece barrels. I suspect that the forcing cone is created as part of the EDM/ECM rifling process as they've be virtually faultless on my (8) multi-piece barreled pistols.

.
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Old 04-22-2017, 09:39 AM
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Originally Posted by riverrat38 View Post
I bought my new M66-8 Snub at my LGS today. Traded for my M686. I don't shoot full magnum loads, so I think this will be a better revolver for my old hands. My wrist appreciates the 4 ounces lower wight. I am very happy with the condition of the gun. My only complaint is the usual red ramp front sight. Fortunately. it is pinned on! The sight is square with the World, and the BC gap is .004 to .005 in. on all chambers. Good job! I have installed my Ahrends boot grips that I kept from my trade in 686. Now, I need to load some 125 gr plated flat point Xtreme with 7.0 gr HP-38, in MGN cases, and head for the range. Weight is 33.2 Oz empty with the Ahrends.


Best,
Rick
You guys are making it awfully hard to step away from one of these. Yes I wandered over to the new S&W's at my LGS yesterday but alas no new 66's. I'm afraid the wallet would of come out if there had been one in the case.
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Old 04-22-2017, 10:59 AM
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CAJUNLAWYER CAJUNLAWYER is offline
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Originally Posted by Chipperxd View Post
exactly. I'm starting to hate these forums filled with old men with nothing but "back in my day...!" comments. As the saying goes, Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Old men Look here you little****..........uh I forgot what I was going to say
Oh yea...us old men have a saying "Eager beats pretty" What this has to do with your post I don't know but it was something I felt was appropriate to say.
Oh... and if you are VERY lucky one day you'll be an old fart too
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  #40  
Old 04-22-2017, 12:05 PM
M29since14 M29since14 is offline
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Not everyone in the "P&R Generation" is off-putted by the newer S&Ws. Even if not so much to look at (in our eyes), quite a few of us acknowledge that they can be pretty fine shooting machines. I probably wouldn't spend $5000 engraving one of them, but I wouldn't hesitate to stop and look at one that had been.

If my eyes were a little sharper I might have a small fleet of these new models. S&W is making revolvers in configurations us "more experienced" shooters only could have dreamed about when we were young whippersnappers. I think that's great, and I like them all - old and new. "Classical music" was once "pop music", right?
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Old 04-24-2017, 03:42 PM
Chipperxd Chipperxd is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by CAJUNLAWYER View Post
Old men Look here you little****..........uh I forgot what I was going to say
Oh yea...us old men have a saying "Eager beats pretty" What this has to do with your post I don't know but it was something I felt was appropriate to say.
Oh... and if you are VERY lucky one day you'll be an old fart too
Lol I understand what some of you guys are saying. I really do. You can't beat the quality that SW used to put out. Just don't want to hear about it every other post.

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  #42  
Old 04-24-2017, 04:14 PM
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Keep an eye on how this plays out: Issue with New 66-8 2.75"...Spitting Lead

I'm picking up my 69 today and will be checking it very closely.
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Old 04-24-2017, 06:13 PM
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I'm not too enthralled with the black thumb latch myself, but that is something that can easily be fixed. I rather the old style thumb latches anyways, so when I buy a 69 snubby I will simply buy myself the old style stainless latch thumbpiece to put on the pistol. And I don't have a problem with a 2 piece barrel either. Dan Wesson has done them for decades and they have a reputation for accuracy. As for the IL, it's ugly but a non-issue for me. I already have 2 guns that have them, so another won't be any bother.

I'm also an old codger and I love my old N frames, but I also like my 627 Pro 8 shot 357 too. It doesn't look as good to me as the older guns with it's slab sided barrel, but it is immensely functional, accurate and fun to shoot. And the 44 mag 5 shot 69 looks like something I would like also. The only reason I'm not buying one right away is due to the fact that I just spent all my ready pistol money on buying another 27-2 so that I could complete my collection of 27's with the commonly available barrel lengths.
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Old 04-24-2017, 06:57 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Shark Bait View Post
Keep an eye on how this plays out: Issue with New 66-8 2.75"...Spitting Lead

I'm picking up my 69 today and will be checking it very closely.
MUST HAVE PIC'S!
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  #45  
Old 04-25-2017, 07:29 AM
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Just ordered my M66 2.75", can not WAIT to get my hands on it! Finally, my patience (which has never been one of my stronger virtues) has paid off. And likewise, I'm cringing at the other "spitting lead" thread, so crossing fingers that mine is a jewel.
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Old 04-25-2017, 08:58 AM
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Hmm. The new 2.75" Model 66 intrigues me. I don't have an issue with the lock, since I don't use it on my Model 642-2 or my issue Model 686-6 anyway. I do have a blue 3" Model 13 RB, a blue 4" Model 10-5 SB, a 4" Model 681 SB (actually my wife's gun), and my primary concealed carry gun, a blue 2" Model 12-2. This close to retirement, I'd have to sell something to buy the 66, and I'd have tough time picking the ones to go.

Now, if S&W were to bring out a Model 312 based on the 12-4 snubnosed guns with a 2", 2.5", 2.75", or 3" barrel, I'd have a problem NOT finding something to go.
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  #47  
Old 04-25-2017, 02:13 PM
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Well, I was briefly excited this morning. I woke up to find my inbod filled with alerts from gun.deals with multiple dealers showing the 66 in stock.

I immediately successfully placed my order with Grab A Gun. They processed the order and the payment. And then 5 hours later cancelled my order due to an "inventory error."

Of course, by then all of the other dealers were already sold out.

Oh well....there will surely be a new batch of 66's available soon.
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  #48  
Old 04-25-2017, 06:00 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Chipperxd View Post
exactly. I'm starting to hate these forums filled with old men with nothing but "back in my day...!" comments. As the saying goes, Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Guilty of being an old man, but I guess there is something wrong with me. I like what S&W has to offer, the two piece barrel is a proven design with DW. I consider my PC 625 a work of art.
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Old 04-25-2017, 06:58 PM
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And......(for those who are interested) They're back in stock again at Grab A Gun.

I've got my second order of the day placed with them. Hopefully this one won't get cancelled -- fingers crossed
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