4" model 66 no dash, pinned barrel recessed cylinder. I came across this diamond in the rough, no box or papers, it appers to have been a carry gun based on the slight surface scratches on it, and the front of the front sight looks to be highly polished as if it was rubbing in a holster. They want $300 for it, my only concern is the stem on the yoke where the cylinder goes on has a what apears to be a shallow cut on one side just forward of the cylinder. Is this normal? I asked the sales person about it and they indicated they have seen this on other Smith revolvers. Any idea what that cut is for? Is it normal?

4" model 66 no dash, pinned barrel recessed cylinder. I came across this diamond in the rough, no box or papers, it appers to have been a carry gun based on the slight surface scratches on it, and the front of the front sight looks to be highly polished as if it was rubbing in a holster. They want $300 for it, my only concern is the stem on the yoke where the cylinder goes on has a what apears to be a shallow cut on one side just forward of the cylinder. Is this normal? I asked the sales person about it and they indicated they have seen this on other Smith revolvers. Any idea what that cut is for? Is it normal?

The cut you see is designed to divert gasses and debris venting through the B/C gap. This was a cost cutting measure by S&W that didn't work too well. It doesn't work as well as a gas ring and will allow lots of gunk to be deposited on the yoke barrel. Cylinders with this set-up can be modified to the more traditional gas ring and I suppose S&W or a qualified gunsmith can do it. No idea of cost however.

KAC

I recently purchased a 66 no-dash in as new condition and paid $600 for it. I don't feel as if I overpaid for it, it's become my pride and joy. I'm not certain what you mean by a shallow cut on the yoke. On mine, there's a small indentation in the yoke right in front of the hinge where it joins the frame. But that's true also of my other Smiths, ranging from K-frames built in the 1980's and 90's and an L-frame made in 2006. Maybe, I'm looking at something other than what you're referring to. Also, my 66 no-dash has a gas ring and I'm willing to bet that yours does too.

In any event, if the 66 you're looking at locks up tightly, has a nice trigger, and is not battered, $300 is a great price. I'd buy one at that price in a heartbeat even though I've already got one!!

You got it for a good price Padrino. They are going for 5 to 600 around here.