Ball detent

[Robert B]

Can anyone tell me why the 686 pc doesn't have one but the normal production model 66 does?

[rbmcmjr]

Originally Posted by Robert B

Can anyone tell me why the 686 pc doesn't have one but the normal production model 66 does?

Since the 66 is no longer being made, I am going to assume you meant the 686. However, neither of them come with a ball detent as standard.

[howiema]

The new 66 has one and I may be shot for saying this but I like it. The lockup is nice and It feels great. I bought one for a range gun a couple weeks ago and it is a great shooter. One wish I thiink they should have made it a square but vs. round.

Pete

[howiema]

[Owly]

686 is an L frame. 66 is a K frame. A more accurate comparison would be the 69 which is an L frame and features the new ball detent and two piece barrel.

[Neumann]

A ball detent takes a lot of strain off the crane, and can be installed on any revolver. The new 66 and 69 are lighter than the 686 and 629 magnum revolvers, and Smith probably thought a ball detent would help their longevity and reliability.

[6 Cylinder]

Originally Posted by Neumann

A ball detent takes a lot of strain off the crane, and can be installed on any revolver. The new 66 and 69 are lighter than the 686 and 629 magnum revolvers, and Smith probably thought a ball detent would help their longevity and reliability.

That does not keep the cylinder on my 629-6 from popping open when shot on a Ransom Rest. I sent it to S&W and pointed out 3 issues. Trigger failing to return if pointed up, internal lock locking up trying to cycle while gun pointed up or upside down, and the cylinder popping open when fired on a Ransom Rest. Got the gun back with no comment whatsoever except for changing the internal lock plate. that did resolve the lock up issue but I still don't trust it. Oh, I did mention the trigger internals were very sharp, rough, and the rebound slide had something like glue on it. cleaned all that up but it did not completely resole the sticking trigger return. A 626 and another 629 do not have those issues. Very disappointing for a gun out of the performance shop at premium price.

[Narragansett]

Originally Posted by 6 Cylinder

That does not keep the cylinder on my 629-6 from popping open when shot on a Ransom Rest. I sent it to S&W and pointed out 3 issues. Trigger failing to return if pointed up, internal lock locking up trying to cycle while gun pointed up or upside down, and the cylinder popping open when fired on a Ransom Rest. Got the gun back with no comment whatsoever except for changing the internal lock plate. that did resolve the lock up issue but I still don't trust it. Oh, I did mention the trigger internals were very sharp, rough, and the rebound slide had something like glue on it. cleaned all that up but it did not completely resole the sticking trigger return. A 626 and another 629 do not have those issues. Very disappointing for a gun out of the performance shop at premium price.

Personally, I would send it back again, and again, till they fix it properly, just because they get tired of seeing it, or give you a new one.

Now, i am sure that they produce a lot of good stuff also that never need repairs. You only hear about the problem ones. What bothers me is the problem guns that come back with problems.

I don't know when these people are going to wake up in Springfield. They have the revolver market, why not be the best? Who is their competition, Ruger? S&W wins just because they look better. They need to retrain a work force, focus on customer service, and drop at least 50% of what they make. The shopping list is too long, and who wants to compete in the world of 450.00 plastic guns? There is no money there.

Their sales are off 25%, and profit down 75%. Time to get rid of the MBA's and put some gun people back in charge!

[fortyshooter]

I would give up some looks for much better performance and function any day!

[Narragansett]

Originally Posted by fortyshooter

I would give up some looks for much better performance and function any day!

If they straighten out, they can have both. IMO they are the best looking. What Ruger looks as good as a 30YO 14,15,18,19,25,27,28,29 etc. etc.?

I say Ruger, only because they are the only real revolver competition. I own Ruger rifles and a super blackhawk. Well, not really, I gave the 30+ YO ( 50 round fired) stainless to my youngest son last Sunday

[fortyshooter]

An old time saying...."If it don't run right...chrome it"