M-66 vs M-686 Opinions Needed

[texasjarhead]

Thinking of trading a 4" M686-3 to get a 2.5" M-66-1. I prefer K-frame Smiths (have a M-10-4", M-19-4", M-64-4"), and I think I'll probably end up using a 2.5" M-66 more than a 4" M-686, but I'm wondering if I'll regret getting rid of the M-686. I'd appreciate opinions on trading the M-686 "even" to get the M-66, assuming they are both in equal condition.

 

[18DAI]

If a carry gun is your primary purpose in trading, I think you are doing very well.

A 2.5" K-frame is a superb carry gun. I find them to be faster handling than the L-frame 686 and easier to conceal/carry.

My 2.5" 66 shoots like a laser and I've used it in IDPA games.

I've traded guns many times. I miss the K-frames I've traded. The L-frames? Not so much. Good luck with your decision! Regards 18DAI

 

[jpwhel]

You will like the K frame Mod 66, it is a great cc gun.

Maybe it is because I like the older guns, my preference goes to the K frame over the L frame.

 

[Ashlander]

There are plenty of 4" 686s out there, but only a limited number of 2 1/2" 66s. Given that you have plenty of 4" guns, I'd jump at the trade.

 

[MacGuffin]

Thinking of trading a 4" M686-3 to get a 2.5" M-66-1. I prefer K-frame Smiths (have a M-10-4", M-19-4", M-64-4"), and I think I'll probably end up using a 2.5" M-66 more than a 4" M-686, but I'm wondering if I'll regret getting rid of the M-686. I'd appreciate opinions on trading the M-686 "even" to get the M-66, assuming they are both in equal condition.

Semper Fi, Texas!

My 2.5" M66 is one of my absolute favorite pieces. I have to admit, there's a little sentimental value in play as well, as it was my first duty gun when I began my career.

My opinion - you'll likely get more use out of the M66 than you will the M686.

Good luck!

 

[AveragEd]

I'm with Ashlander. Although the L-frames look "cool" with their full underlug barrel, my favorite is the Model 66. For casual target shooting with target loads, they are lighter and easier to hold offhand for long periods of time.

But I guess you wouldn't be doing much bullseye shooting with a snubbie. I have a 2-1/2" 66-4 I recently bought because the price was right and I didn't already have one. It could pass for unfired and I have no plans to dirty it, as my interest lies in the 4" and 6" guns.

Ed

 

[old bear]

The 2 1/2" M -19/66 is the quintessential carry a lot shoot a little revolver, so if carry is your main goal go with the M-66. If you want to shoot a lot of Magnum ammo keep the 686.
Enjoy whatever revolver you get.

 

[mg357]

I would do the trade and at some point in the future you want another 4 inch 686 you can buy one since that specific model is still being produced by S&W.

 

[JCS&W]

Add me to the growing list of those who would do the trade for the M66. In my opinion, the M66/M19 2.5 inch gives you more options than the 4" 686. Great carry piece! I vote for the M66.

 

[TAROMAN]

Yet another thumbs up for the 2-1/2" Model 66. I don't have one, but if it handles anything like my 3" Model 65, it should be a winner.

 

[Bearcat]

Add me to the growing list of those who would do the trade for the M66. In my opinion, the M66/M19 2.5 inch gives you more options than the 4" 686. Great carry piece! I vote for the M66.

+1 The only thing better would be a 3-inch Model 66 if you can find one at an affordable price.

 

[AveragEd]

Ditto. Even 2-1/2" 66s are bringing nutso dollars right now, as we seem to be in a snub-nose craze. I watched nice 2.5" 66s do nearly $700 several times so when I saw this one on GunBroker with a minimum bid of $416, it captured my interest. I have no need for a gun like that but for that price, why not?

When the auction had about a day to run, I placed that minimum bid, fully expecting to see the bidding take off. But it didn't and that's what I paid for the gun. I can only guess that the seller's description stating the gun was in "average" condition and that the original grips weren't on it made it less desirable to some people. But the thing is as new as a used gun gets and a pair of Ahrends dressed it up nicely.

Below are the seller's photos; the gun with its new grips is in the other photo I posted to this thread.

Ed

 

[wheelyfun66]

I might be biased..since I own a 66-5 snub..

But you can find 686's all day long...

I would scoop up a 66 or 19 snub..and when you can afford it, get another 686.

(I will have a 686+...4"...someday!)

 

[C Islander]

I gotta go with the 66 too. My 2.5 66 is at the top of my favorites list.

 

[lhump1961]

Only give up the 686 if you must trade at this time for financial concerns...otherwise keep the 686 and pick up the 66 anyway. Either way I would scoop up the 66!