K-Frame experts, can you tell me the differences between a 3- inch Model 66 and the 3-inch Model 65 LadySmith other than the adjustable sights on the 66?
John

Hi, there are a few differences in the 2 revolvers.
66 65
K frame K frame
3" barrel 3" barrel
adjustable sights fixed sights
half lug barrel half lug barrel

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M.J.Hanna

I thought the 66 and the 65LS both had partial lugs?

I think the major differences are the sights and likely the finish. LS is typically a bead blast, and the 66 would normally be a brushed.

The LS will obviously have "Ladysmith" on the sideplate as well.

I also think original grips for the LS are red wood, and the 66 comes with one of several grips, none of which were red...

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Typical 66:



Typical 65LS: (wearing aftermarket grips)

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Pictured above is MY custom built gun and it is NOT an accurate representation of a "typical" model 65 Ladysmith. It is a rebarrelled M65 with a Ladysmith profile 3" barrel. A typical Ladysmith 65 will have a frosted bead blasted finish, and engraved or laser etched Ladysmith markings.

Here is a picture of my m 65 LS.

Robotoid and sureshotbob are correct. I was illustrating the barrel profile, and missed the finish.

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Thanks, fellows, for the information.
John

IMHO,
Whether Frankenstein or factory, you can't do any better!
So it's just economics and availability after that.
(Beautiful combination, a 3" K frame with a shrouded ejector)

robotoid, GREAT frankengun!

I wonder why S&W never offered these fine guns without the "ladylogo" ...I even like the frosted finish.

And why so few 3" M19/M66 were made...

I am doing very similar to what Robotiod did. I have the Model 65, upgraded springs, and a decent set of grips. My cylinder is at TK Custom getting cut for moon clips. I have "feelers" out all over the internet for a LS profile barrel.

Then, I sat a sideplate for a Model 65 on Gunbroker, and figured I went about this the wrong way...

I should have snagged a LS and the new sideplate, had it blasted and gotten used to the soft finish. Once the cylinder was here, I'd be done. As of now, I'm still buffing stainless. When the cylinder gets here, I still have to buff that out...

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I was under the impression that at least until recently, the 65LS barrels were readily available from Brownell's? Of course anymore, everything seems to change in a heartbeat!

Brownells' is one place I'm watching... Nothing in stock right now.

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