3" Model 65

apd148

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Would love to see the 3" Model 65 reintroduced. Kicking myself for not buying one when they were out, although, truthfully, quality at that time wasn't that great. The 686 3" available now is nice, but a bit heavy.
 
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As stated previously, keep looking as they do pop up now and again. Wish I had a companion to mine.
 
M-65

IMO the 3" RB 65 is the ideal carry revolver. I bought a 4" Sq Bt back in the mid 70's and carried that gun for over 20 years, I shot IPSC and PPC with it. I began carrying the 3" version w/ RB around 10 years ago.....I trimmed the hammer spur off mine and carry it IWB in a blade tech holster with 125gr. JHP's, which Houge finger groove synthetic grips.....I have also carried N frames for years, but the M-65 is compact, conceals very well and has plenty of horsepower in the ballistics department. I like the fixed sight set up for a carry gun. I worked in hot humid climates my entire career and never worried about the finish on the M-65 as I would have with a blued gun, particularly with a leather IWB holster.
"Best of breed" in my book.
 
I also would like to see the 3" K frame RB, HB return. I've owned a few 3 inchers. Models 13, 64 (NY-1) and several 65s. Loved the frosted matte finish and DAO of the 64.


CD
 
I bought a 3" M65 (NIB) back in the day over the more "sexy" M66 2 1/2"RB. Most thought I was wrong in doing so, but after they have seen the shooting results and Chrono. test results they are sorry they did not follow suite. I know in most instances a 1/2" longer barrel makes little difference, but with the .357 magnum it not only makes a big difference in MV, but makes it a bit more manageable to shoot. I also like the fact that the M65 has Fixed Service Sights that won't snag on anything. My 3" M65 is my go-to gun when in the woods. I'll usually stoke it with 180 grain Buffalo Bore .357 Mag's (LSWC-Hard Cast) which I would consider using only in an emergency against Yogi if push came to shove. The bottom line here is that because the M65 is so damned convenient and handy I ALWAYS have it with me while walking in the woods.
 
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Mine was sent to Smith and converted to a bobbed hammer DAO after I sold it to my buddy. He got the itch for something else and I wound up buying it back. In my opinion, it's about the best all around package for any kind of serious social situations, and yes, walking in the woods!
 
These things can still be found. I've had several over the years and for whatever reason trade in or out of them. The one I have now is marked BRPD (Baton Rouge Police Dept.) I've had it for 3-4 years and it ain't going anywhere. It's loaded with silvertips with two speedloaders close by and lives in a secret location in my house. Others live in other secret locations. I carry the 65 frequently and shoot it often with .38 specials even though my carry ammo is .357 Silvertips. I have some really freaky ex-con child molester neighbors and it doesn't bother me a bit when they see me carrying it while working in the yard.
 
attn: charlie sherrill

Hi Charlie, I'm glad you can find 65s, I sure can't. Since I moved out West 3 years ago, I have yet to see ONE. Would have bought it if I had and the condition were OK. Hate to buy guns that look and handle like they were rolled around in a cement mixer.
 
APD,
If you keep a watch out they can still be had. Considering a new gun costs in the area of 700 you can get a quality used one for less money. Also wouldn't have the hole in the side.

I totally agree with KLYDE, why buy new when slightly used will do? There's still nice examples to be had if you are patient. This 3" was found right here in the S&W Forum for sale section..

65-3.jpg
 
I have two myself. While I do like and carry them, I believe my Sig P228 weighs the same as either S&W 65, and carries easier.
Random_handguns_027.JPG
 
My 3" 13 I picked up for $300 several yrs ago. I gave it the haircut. It does carry nicely.
Enough of the butt sticks out of the hip pocket to keep it handy, but not obtrusive.



Charlie
 
My 3" 65 cost me a 3954 in trade.

Here it is wearing an all-but-forgotten set of Bear Hug grips I found at an LGS.

IMG_0327.jpg
 
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