Model 66....... 2.5" or 4"?

[robertwhite]

Have to scratch a model 66 itch, but can't decide on a RB 2.5" or a SB 4".

Will absolutely be either a 66 no-dash or a 66-1.

This will be an occasional shooter and will never be carried. Also will see mostly .38 rds, so the shorter barrel will not be a huge concern.

Pro/Cons of each?

 

[66Park]

If it is going to be just a range gun, I'd prefer the longer sight radius and square butt of the four inch. For home defense, either would work great, but I'd prefer the 2.5. I also prefer the look of the 2.5. Honestly, I don't think you could go wrong with either.

 

[TDC]

A picture to help you decide?

 

[gruntdeputy]

They both are way sexy and both are great shooters at the range. To be truthful, I think your itch needs to be scratched by both. Find one that satisfies you for price & condition, and get it. And then start the hunt for its mate.

Sorry, I know that is of little help.
Frank

 

[Stirling]

I would consider a 3" mod 66.

 

[66Park]

A picture to help you decide?

That picture would just make me want all of them! I don't think you're helping.

 

[robertwhite]

That picture would just make me want all of them! I don't think you're helping.

No kidding! That just made it even harder.

Gonna have to figure this one out at some point.

 

[Florida Guy]

A tough decision indeed...
When in doubt, buy both.

 

[66Park]

A tough decision indeed...
When in doubt, buy both.

Ultimately, that is probably the best advice.

 

[loc n load]

66 quandry

I used to have the same quandary....solved it by buying both...next problem.

 

[Snake Plissken]

IMHO the snubby ( 2.5 ) would be the 1st choice but if I could do both BONUS

 

[cddanjr]

I have a 66 4", I love it. I can only imagine what the 2.5" is like when you squeeze off a .357 round!

Chuck

 

[ColbyBruce]

I was faced with this same problem two years ago. I bought both S&W #66-2's.

The 4" gun had RR, WO, TH, TT so NATURALLY my son wanted it. I bought a set of combat stocks for it and gave it to him.

 

[got2hav1]

I just bought the 19 2.5" and I feel it is better balanced than the 4". Just my opinion. I know I shoot the 2.5" better than I did the 4" one I had. Can't make a bad choice either way though.

 

[681ismyfavorite]

the short bbl gun commands a higher price and is a little harder to find deals on. the 4" seems plentiful and less costly. that said, for your purposes id go with the 4" bbl, thats what i did.

 

[John P.]

I would buy whichever I found in good to excellent condition first. If you are not carrying it, you can't go wrong with either. I have both, and shoot them equally well. Both a great guns.

 

[lhump1961]

I'm with John P.

Since you can't pick between the two then go with the one that comes along first. It is likely that you won't be able to shake the desire for the other so don't be surprised when the day comes that you have both!

 

[Malpasowildlifer]

You should look for both 2.5'' are really cool, but a 4'' is probably more practical. But, still get both

 

[452x6]

I have a 66 4", I love it. I can only imagine what the 2.5" is like when you squeeze off a .357 round!

Chuck

The 2.5" K frame is not really that bad in terms of recoil but there is plenty of flame shooting out

 

[Joe in SC]

If a person has no preference and no need for the shorter barrel he/she should get the one with the most appeal to him/her. Still undecided and going to shoot the revolver? Always go with the longer barrel up to 6 inches. The longer sight radius will allow more precise aiming and hitting, all other things being equal.