66 vs 686

[wproct]

If condition of the two revolvers was equal, I would take the 66-4. It's hard to describe, but there is something about the feel of the K-frame revolvers in the hand, weight and balance is just perfect to me. However, like other posters before me have said, if there is any way that you could possibly swing buying both, that would be the optimal solution.

 

[nipster]

As far as from a shootability factor, I would prefer the 686.

I own both and can honestly say the L frame's are nicer to shoot. The K is nicer to look at, and if you have to carry them, they are a little lighter.

 

[BobR1]

As was said above the 686-4 is considered the Best of the 686's. Last Model change before MIM parts, and a No Loc. My guess is, it isn't all that common a model to locate either. Normally I see 686ND's and 686-1's in Gun Shops and at Gun Shows. The higher dash numbers do not seem to be as common to locate.

At the moment I have a 66ND 2-1/2" and a 66-2 in a 3". I also have a 686-1 in a 4" as well as a 686-5 in a 4". I also have a HB 64-2 in a 4" that I use for Defensive Pistol Matches.
I have also owned 4" 66's over the years.

For a Range Gun I prefer the 686 by a slight margin.
If shooting any quantity of heavy loads were in the plans I would for sure pick the 686 over the 66. The L Frame soaks up recoil better, not to mention being heavier duty.

If I were to pick between a 4" 66-4 and a 4" 686-4 in the same condition for the same money, I would pick the 686.
It should be a heavier duty, more durable revolver.

If we were talking about 66's and 686's in 2-1/2" and 3" Models then weight would figure in the other direction. The 686's added weight is a consideration for concealed carry where you are packing way more than shooting.

Just my 2 cents.

Bob

 

[Redhawk1]

I would have to go with the 686..

 

[buskerpcr]

I have both, the 66 is thought of a part time 357 - the 686 a full time 357
I shoot 158 gr 357 all the time in my 66, easy to shoot no problems .
The 686 I feed all types hot 357 loads no problem
I enjoy shooting the 66 more .
If only buying one I would get the 66

FYI

 

[fyimo]

Actually if it's not a carry gun I would get a Model 28-2 4 or 6 inch and be done with it.

 

[AABEN]

The 686 all the way

 

[Parker357]

Like many before me have said, Model 66 for show and , Model 686 for making lead go. I have both and I like the 686 for the range and the 66 for my CCW. You cannot go wrong with either revolver, both are terrific pieces.

 

[Tap Tap]

Like many before me have said, Model 66 for show and , Model 686 for making lead go. I have both and I like the 686 for the range and the 66 for my CCW. You cannot go wrong with either revolver, both are terrific pieces.

That seems like the consensus so I am going for the 686 for now. You guys convinced me that I definitely need to end up with a 66 at some point. Thanks again.

 

[M3Stuart]

To me the difference in feel between the two comes down to "barrel heaviness" or something like that. The 686-4 that I have is a RB so it seems a little 'barrel heavy'.

I've shot and handled the 66 4" but do not own one now. So in my case, my choice was the 686-4 4" + in RB configuration. Outstanding range gun. I traded my 6" 686-1 6" for it.

 

[C Broad Arrow]

While I realize you have made your choice, the scarcity of the 66 may have you kicking yourself at some point in the future. But I would have to agree with most of the others. If the gun is to be used at the range there are few guns that can compare to the 686.

I have both and I prefer shooting the 686 over the 66 at the range.

 

[CAJUNLAWYER]

Well, I've got a 686-4 and a 66-1 both in 4" and to tell you the truth, if I HAD to give up one it would be the 686. The 66 is such a natural pointing gun and it feels just right in my hand. I also have a 681 which is a much closer call than the 686. As far as snub nose, the 686-4 7 shot vs the SP101-I'd go with the SP on the smaller size-the snubby 686 is a BIG gun.
What the hell, they're all paid for-tell you what-I'll keep them all