I have a dumb question, but I've been searching and cannot find an answer. So here goes...

Almost every serial number I have seen (except one) has a number before the 'K'. But last week I saw a model 66 with just a 'K' followed by 5 numbers. Does that sound right?

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-Roger

Followed by five numbers or six? The 66 started in 1970 in the K946392 sn range according to the S&W Standard Catalog.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

The first run of Model 66s was made in May 1970 and the new model began with serial number K949100. The run consisted of approximately 100 units to test the new tooling. Below is a photo of one of these units with serial number K949140. Click on the photo for a better look

Bill

Interesting that the first ones were in a silver box. Were they not used for nickel guns?

Perhaps because it was not blued? I think the regular production revolvers (1971) were shipped in blue boxes, but I have not owned one. The Parts and Instruction sheet is for a regular Combat Magnum, Model 19, instead of a Model 66.

Bill

K249XX

Blue box.

Red ramp front sight, black rear sight blade(no white outline).

See why I'm confused?

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-Roger

That serial number dates to 1948. So, that can't be right. Got pictures?

Jim

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-Roger

Is the same number on the butt of the grip frame ?

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SWCA #2817

This was a gun for sale, wearing factory target stocks. No picture of the serial number on the grip frame was shown.

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-Roger

There is probably a number before the K that was left off the number stamped in the yoke cut. The serial number on the butt is the official number and is most likely correct.

Bill

Okay, mystery solved. 9K24913 is the serial number. What year would that be?

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-Roger

1976 says the SCSW. 9K10001 thru 9K99999 occupied the year. One of the last of the 66's produced, as the 66-1 was introduced in 1977

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Wisdom comes thru fear . . .

Thanks for all the help guys, I really appreciate it.

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-Roger

Bill is that early run Model 66 one of yours ?

Does it have a black rear site ?
Also appears the hammer trigger have a blueish tint to them in the pic ? Are they flash chromed ?

On a side note its kinda interesting that S&W began forging the Model 19 front site ramp as part of the barrel in the same serial range as the earliest 66's.....wonder if that was just by chance ?

PS would love to see a shot of the barrel rib and right side rollstamps.

I have had the Model 66 in my collection for about sixteen years. Click on the photos for a better look. I have a 19-3 (4-inch) in my collection in the same serial number range that has the ramp base and sight blade pinned to the barrel rib with two pins. It was shipped in 1971.

Bill

I decided to buy this one. I seem to have a thing for no dash stainless 4" magnum S&W.

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-Roger