Model 66 or 686 SSR?

ScorpionicSag · Aug 26, 2023

Hi Folks,

I am looking to buy my first firearm. I want to use it for practice at the range and home self defense. I am trying to decide between the Model 66 or the 686 SSR. This will probably be my one and only firearm. I was leaning towards the 66 but heard that the trigger pull for DA can be up to 15 lbs. Then I found the 686 SSR which weighs just a little more than the 66 and has a 10 lb DA trigger pull. I have read that the trigger on the 66 can be changed to be 10 lb DA. The 686 SR is $180 more which is doable for me. So is there any reason not to go with the 686 SSR instead of getting a 66 and switching the trigger? I also looked at the Colt King Cobra Target but read that the rear site on it is problematic.

Thanks in advance for your responses.

s&wchad · Aug 26, 2023

Welcome aboard!
If I were in the market for a new S&W .357 Mag, I'd choose the 686SSR over the 66. The L frame is stronger than the K frame.

UncleEd · Aug 26, 2023

Dito, the 686 SSR over the 66.

Dimensionally not much bigger but oh
so much stronger.

Regarding trigger pull weights, any S&W
or Ruger revolver is easy to change.

The Colt King Cobra Target was mentioned.
That revolver actually is slightly smaller than
the S&W 66 though I'm sure it's fine for magnums
but more on par with the 66.

As to the one and only firearm, we'll see about
that!

reddogs · Aug 26, 2023

I like the ssr better it's just a couple ounces heavier which will help with magnums a little.I like being able to switch out the front sight without tools plus they come with wood and rubber grips.I like the 66 also nothing wrong with that choice.

Lou_the_welder · Aug 26, 2023

The 686 is a great first revolver to have.

Greyman50 · Aug 26, 2023

Also vote for the 686. Perhaps after shooting you may want another revolver and a 66 could be bought. As posted the 686 is much stronger and forcing cone is not that susceptible to cutting if “ hot loads” are shot. Good luck and enjoy.

ScorpionicSag · Aug 26, 2023

Thanks everyone for the advice. OK 686 SSR it is!

Paul105 · Aug 26, 2023

The readily changeable front sight (DX Type?) would be the deciding factor causing me to choose the 686 as my only handgun. Otherwise, for all practical purposes there is no real difference between the new 66-8 v 686 for OPs intended use. I've had several "Performance Center" guns and have not been particularly impressed with their "trigger jobs" - others experience may/probably have differed.

Just wondering if anyone has seen long term tests that prove the new 66-8s are less strong (or significantly less strong) vs the 686s.

Paul

reddogs · Aug 26, 2023

686ssr holds 6 rounds 686 pro plus holds 7 they look a lot alike.

bananaman · Aug 27, 2023

Welcome to the FORUM from Michigan! As already stated, would certainly go with a 686. I have a 686-6 Pro series. It has a 5" barrel and a decent trigger. Similar to SSR. Bob

ScorpionicSag · Aug 27, 2023

Ah I didn't see 686 Performance Center. On the S & W website the specs are almost exactly the same as the SSR. Will have to do more research. Thanks.

ScorpionicSag · Aug 27, 2023

OK I confess I am also thinking about getting a Classic Colt Cobra or a S & W Performance Center 637 for a concealed carry 38.

PHS327 · Aug 27, 2023

I have a 686 SSR and a model 65 which is the same size as the 66 (k frame). IMO, the 686 SSR is much easier to shoot well, especially when shooting 357 mag as it absorbs more recoil than the smaller, lighter k frame.

firefighterjohn · Aug 31, 2023

ScorpionicSag said:
OK I confess I am also thinking about getting a Classic Colt Cobra or a S & W Performance Center 637 for a concealed carry 38.

That's great news...with all the good advice you've been getting it's nice to see you've changed your mind...lol

Cuz....in your initial post you said:

'This will probably be my one and only firearm.'

Well now, that didn't last long...and it shouldn't have. You've been drawn in to multiple guns...all within one thread!

Consider them tools; as my Carbine class instructor said a few weeks ago, different tools for different jobs. So now...go fill up your tool box!

Great job guys!

Glenn54 · Sep 1, 2023

ScorpionicSag said:
OK I confess I am also thinking about getting a Classic Colt Cobra or a S & W Performance Center 637 for a concealed carry 38.

Start with the 686 SSR then buy all the others one by one. There's no way you will end up with just one. I promise.

Magnum_PI · Sep 2, 2023

Of the two original choices, I'd certainly say the 686 SSR.

I have one. Very smooth. Very nice.

Plus side, it comes with wood and Hogue grips if that matters to you.

I prefer all guns 4 inches or less, but my favorite size is snubs. Just really like how short barrels handle for me, but the 686 SSR is good to go.

Model 66 or 686 SSR?

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