Just recently, I was in communication with the KHP and, as a result of my inquiry, was sent some information that was taken from a recent KHP yearbook. Following is information for the Model 66 issue weapon, 686 issue weapon and the 586 commemorative only issue.
"In 1979 the Patrol traded its aging and varied inventory of
revolvers, across the board for the Smith & Wesson Model 66 in
.357 Magnum. The finish was stainless steel and the barrel length
was 4 inches. These revolvers were marked “K.H.P.” on the left
side frame above the trigger guard. These were issued
with S&W wood target grips."
"In 1982 the Patrol was able to trade its entire inventory (to good
advantage) for the Smith & Wesson Model 686. This was the
larger “L” frame version. It was stainless steel and had a 4 inch
barrel. These were roll marked on the right side plate with the
“Superintendent’s Badge”. They were issued with S&W
wood target grips."
"For the Patrol’s 50th anniversary, a special
commemorative issue Smith & Wesson Model 586 was
commissioned. This revolver was a blued version of
the 686 model carried by troopers at the time of the
anniversary. It was engraved and embellished with gold
inlay. The trooper who ordered the handgun was able
to have his or her radio number engraved and gold filled
on the side plate, along with a gold trooper badge. The
right side of the barrel was engraved and gold filled with
“Kansas Highway Patrol”. The left side of the barrel was
engraved and gold filled with “1937-1987”. The bottom
of the trigger guard was engraved and gold filled with
the edition number such as “1 of 338, 2 of 338,” etc.).
The guns were supplied with a wood presentation box.
The serial number was not unique."
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SWCA 3297 SWHF 583
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