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06-11-2018, 09:37 AM
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Model 19 or Model 66 with a 2.5" barrel ?
Hi:
Considering a "K" frame .357 magnum w/ 2.5" barrel
What are the "pros" and "cons" of each model ?
Thanks,
Jimmy
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06-11-2018, 09:44 AM
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Well , the biggest consideration is that since you live in FL , I think corrosion would be a problem . So , that said , the 66 (stainless) would be the logical choice . I have had both , still have the 19 . My sister now has the 66 . But , we lived in Az so rust was not a problem . As far as performance shooting , both equal , both have round butt , basically same weight and size . Hope this helps , Regards, Paul
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06-11-2018, 09:55 AM
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Jimmy, the 2 1/2" model 19 is one of the must have classic "cool guy's" revolver. I'm lucky enough to have several and with one exception they will be the last firearms I ever give up.
I also have several 2 1/2" model 66's and one of these will the LAST firearm I give up. The advantages of the stainless steel are just about impossible to beat.
So if you want a working revolver go with the model 66. If you want something to add to the collection that can be used from time to time go with the classic model 19.
Or better yet, buy one each .
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06-11-2018, 10:02 AM
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Absent Comrade
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Quote:
Originally Posted by old bear
Jimmy, the 2 1/2" model 19 is one of the must have classic "cool guy's" revolver. I'm lucky enough to have several and with one exception they will be the last firearms I ever give up.
I also have several 2 1/2" model 66's and one of these will the LAST firearm I give up. The advantages of the stainless steel are just about impossible to beat.
So if you want a working revolver go with the model 66. If you want something to add to the collection that can be used from time to time go with the classic model 19.
Or better yet, buy one each .
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I try to go shooting aleast once a week. Usually carry 3 or 4 handguns. Rest assured there’s alway a 66 in the bag. Only choice is either a 2 1/2 or 4 inch.
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06-11-2018, 10:04 AM
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Model 19 or Model 66 2.5" Barrel
Hi:
I do not have any "Safe Queens" or Collectables. All my firearms are working/shooters.
Having a firearm just to keep in a safe never made any senses to me. This is like having a top hunting dog and never keep it as a house pet or marrying a beauty queen and never touching her. ( I married a beauty queen and we had six children).
My Dad said if you don't used or shoot the firearm, the next owner will.
Quote:
Originally Posted by old bear
Jimmy, the 2 1/2" model 19 is one of the must have classic "cool guy's" revolver. I'm lucky enough to have several and with one exception they will be the last firearms I ever give up.
I also have several 2 1/2" model 66's and one of these will the LAST firearm I give up. The advantages of the stainless steel are just about impossible to beat.
So if you want a working revolver go with the model 66. If you want something to add to the collection that can be used from time to time go with the classic model 19.
Or better yet, buy one each .
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06-11-2018, 10:04 AM
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If you're going to carry it in a Florida summer, go for the 66.
But remember: "stainless" is not "stain no". It won't hurt to pull the grips and wipe it down from time to time. I've seen several stainless revolvers with pits in the metal under the grips.
(OK, "stocks" if you must.)
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06-11-2018, 10:05 AM
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Jimmy, you just answered your own question. Go with the Model 66.
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06-11-2018, 10:29 AM
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I've been lucky to accumulate several...... 2 1/2 and 4 inch 19s and 66s as well as a couple of 3 inch 66s.
I've been using/carrying one of the 3" 66s for almost 30 years.......IMHO the Blue 19s are way cooler for looks ...... but 66s are a lot more practical for concealed carry in wet or humid climates...............
FWIW I'm 5'9" and I've concealed carried a square butt 4" 66 in a Sparks Summer special..... without any difficulty..... the round butt 3 inch is just a bit easier........and way cooler!!!!
I admit to having a couple of "safe queens"......a 2 1/2 and 4 inch 19-4s P&Red..... and a couple of P&Red 66-nuttins with stainless sights........
I would use them if I needed them; but for now they are back ups to my 3 and 4 inch 66-4 and 66-1 and a 4 inch 19-1. Love the classic Pinned and recessed guns!!!!!
By the way IMHO the prefect grips for a 19 or 66 are a set of Spegel Boot grips on a "Snubby" with a barrel less than 4 inches....... and his Extended Boot Grips on 4 or 6 inch guns.
Last edited by BAM-BAM; 06-11-2018 at 10:33 AM.
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06-11-2018, 11:42 AM
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I own several .357's but probably my favorite shooter is my 2.5" M66. I have found that even though I love the looks of a blued pistol my stainless models are the ones that get used the most. The issue I have found with either model (I also own a M19-3) is the front sight. Earlier versions of both pistols have ramp front sights that are integral with the barrel. If your eyes can focus on a ramp then no issues. At my age I have problems focusing on ramp sights so I've had to steer clear of any that do not have a pinned sight (my M19 has a patridge so no issue). If it's strictly for carry it may not matter but I've found these little pistols to be surprisingly accurate at least out to 25 yards and enjoy target shooting a few times a month so for me the front sight is important. I believe the M66 started using a pinned sight on the -5 version but I could be wrong about that.
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06-11-2018, 11:49 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by jimmyj
Hi:
I do not have any "Safe Queens" or Collectables. All my firearms are working/shooters.
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An all-weather, non-safe queen, hard working shooter in Florida = M66.
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06-11-2018, 11:58 AM
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Easy answer. Get both!
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06-11-2018, 12:10 PM
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I am prejudiced, I like blue steel. Where you live practicality may overrule esthetics, plus some people like SS guns.
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06-11-2018, 12:11 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 1sailor
The issue I have found with either model (I also own a M19-3) is the front sight. Earlier versions of both pistols have ramp front sights that are integral with the barrel. If your eyes can focus on a ramp then no issues. At my age I have problems focusing on ramp sights so I've had to steer clear of any that do not have a pinned sight (my M19 has a patridge so no issue).
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FYI and Jimmyj's too.... for my "self-defense/concealed carry/utility stainless (and blue guns)..... where fast "accurate" shots inside 15 yds are more important than small groups out to 50..... I've painted the whole ramp..... with (first a white base coat and) florescent red Testers model paint..... for a fast flash sight picture.
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06-11-2018, 12:15 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by old bear
Jimmy, you just answered your own question. Go with the Model 66.
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Or find a 19 with holster wear cheap.
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06-11-2018, 12:30 PM
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I also live in Florida and my favorite .357 for CCW is a 2.5" 66-1.
The other favorite is a three inch 65 ladysmith.
My buddy has a pre lock model 60 with 3" full underlug barrel thats pretty neat but in comparing it to my
snub 66 it really doesnt look or feel any smaller and only holds 5 rounds vs 6 on the K frame.
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06-11-2018, 12:34 PM
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Satin Stainless IMO is much easier to care for and clean after range sessions.
The blue on pre 1976 S&Ws is beautiful but I prefer a 2 1/2" or 3" satin stainless.I don't like the bead blasted finish.
Oh BTW,I'm a fanboy of the 2 1/2" 686-4....sold all my Ks
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06-11-2018, 05:34 PM
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What old bear said.
A choice made all the better since Smith is making a 2 3/4” Model 66 now.
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06-11-2018, 05:49 PM
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Being a Florida guy like yourself, suggest stainless if available. Ref barrel length, short extractor rod moved me from a 2 1/2 to a 3. But they are as rare as chickens’ teeth. A good open hand punch on the 2 1/2 extractor rod will eject all but the most stubborn casings. Good luck.
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06-11-2018, 06:22 PM
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Stainless pits and rusts if you do not care for it,also action not as smooth as carbon blue guns.I would get a used tight action M-19 and have it nitrite finnished black. The compelete tuff package.
Last edited by jeeps; 06-11-2018 at 06:40 PM.
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06-11-2018, 06:25 PM
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In my opinion, the 19, (blue or nickel) wearing the right wood stocks looks better than a 66. From a practicality standpoint, the 66. I have a 66-2 with Herrett stocks. I have era correct magna stocks also. Bob
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06-11-2018, 06:36 PM
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The S&W model 19 2 1/2" in blue is the best looking revolver out there. That being said I sold mine and have a model 66 in 2 1/2" as I shoot the snot out of my guns. It looks like the day I bought it. I live in Arizona where rust isn't much of an issue, but bluing loss and holster wear due to dusty conditions is. As you can't go wrong either way, my vote is for the model 66.
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06-11-2018, 07:45 PM
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Here’s a thought. My nickel 19 goes to dress events and barbecues. My stainless 66 is good as an everyday carry tool. A blue 19 is jewelry to be fondled and appreciated. Am I really the first guy to bring up nickel?
If you are a serious carrier, just remember that any weapon you use to actually shoot someone will become evidence and will not be treated lovingly by the cops. So maybe the right idea is to carry an easily replaceable gun like a new 66 or well used but mechanically solid 19 or 66. Not the one with a box and tools.
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06-11-2018, 08:27 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Eddietruett
Easy answer. Get both!
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Wholeheartedly agree!!
Last edited by MetalMan; 06-11-2018 at 08:28 PM.
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06-11-2018, 09:57 PM
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I have very few blued revolvers because I carry them. I prefer stainless steel. I still have to take care of them but stainless is easier. I'm also hard on finishes because of my body chemistry. Your mileage may vary.
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06-12-2018, 10:46 PM
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I like the 66s, the new model would not break my heart to subject it to abuse or impoundment.
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06-13-2018, 12:11 AM
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I strongly prefer blued guns...but carrying them and doing realistic training with them (shooting from strange positions, etc), definitely takes a toll on the finish. So all my carry guns are stainless.
I sure do like my 3" M66...but I think you pay a big premium for them now.
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06-13-2018, 10:26 AM
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Either is a good choice. They both need to be taken care of in your climate. I have seen my share of stainless guns that looked great on the outside and were rusted and in terrible shape on the inside. Which ever one you get, part of the routine needs to be a good clean and light lube often. I'm sure you are already a where of this. Just throwing it out there. Some think stainless means no worries. They rust. usually from the inside out.
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06-13-2018, 10:37 AM
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I say dump em both! Too many worries about forcing cone cracks, light weight bullets, sleepless nights wondering what to carry tomorrow, what if your cone cracks at the range AND you a confronted with a "personal defense situation" on the way home.
Whew!..........way too much for me to worry about, so your best choice is pictured below.
Model 27-2, P&R, 3T's all the goodies.
No worries, no buyers remorse on a 19 or 66.
All above in 100% pure jest...of course.
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