Learning about 66-1

[gehlsurf]

Hi guys,

I just picked up a 4 inch 66-1 the other day, great shooting gun!!! I was reading a bit here and there about them, but can't seem to find it now. My gun says SD Sheriff, which I think read, meant San Diego Sheriff. It also has a striped back strap, which was a government order or something?

Any body know where I could read up on some more history of this gun? If it helps, the serial is 67k7XXX

Thank you in advance for any help on this!

 

[19leben]

Don't know about the LEO markings, but the grooves along the back strap are normal for S&Ws with target sights. The fixed sight guns have a smooth back (if this is what you aren't referring to).
You should look for a copy of either S&WCA 3rd or 4th editions.
The 3rd is available for free on Amazon if you're a Prime Member. I have the Kindle app on my phone, and it downloaded in less than a minute.
You can also ask many questions on this forum. Lots of great people with passion for Smith and Wessons here with a wealth of knowledge and willing to share.

Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk

 

[g-dad]

The 3rd is available for free on Amazon if you're a Prime Member.

Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk

Thanks for the heads up on this. I have both the 3rd & 4th books but the kindle is easier to carry at gun shows.

 

[g-dad]

gehlsurf, enjoy that 66-1. See if you can wear it out!

 

[S&W Fan]

You guys are absolutely killing me! I'm on the hunt for a 66-1, ideally from 1978 but don't think it'll ever happen. I'd be happy to find a nice one that's pinned and recessed from just about any year of the -1.

Yours should be from 1980. Oh and to make me feel even worse put up some photos.

 

[gehlsurf]

Thanks!! I'll get a copy of that book. Yeah, it has adjustable sights, I love the ribbed strap, the front is ribbed, too. Came with a Hogue grip, but I ordered some S&W factory grips (real ones, about $75) from Midway. I'm a younger guy, and love the look of old guns, haha. Plus they're more comfortable for me.

I don't think I can wear it out, but I'll try, haha. I actually bought it for an all around plinking and hunting gun. In SA, the trigger is AMAZING, never felt a trigger like this on a revolver!! Makes it very accurate.

 

[gehlsurf]

Yeah, mine's recessed and pinned, haha, sorry man. I probably paid too much, so don't feel too bad. I'll take some pics tomorrow

 

[S&W Fan]

Sounds good thanks! By the way the -1 was introduced in 1977 and was around until 1982.

 

[Johnwye60]

Very nice. I'm sure you'll enjoy it. I have had a 66-1 6" that sat in the safe for years. Two years ago my wife finally started shooting. Right off the bat she loved the way the 66 felt in her hand. She had no desire to shoot one of the plastic guns (her words) - so the 66 is her toy shooting .38 specials.
Good luck with your 66-1.

 

[Gripgrabber]

Hay, my 2 1/2 is 27k509x, it might be close. Made me think, had to look and mine is ribbed front and back.

 

[pharmer]

A little closer 67K13XX. First gun I bought when I hit Florida. Couldn't get a 4" in 1980, very high LE demand at the time here in the swamp. Joe

 

[lawdog530]

I've got 4 Model 66-1's. 2 are 4" and 2 are 2.5" barrels. Here is pic of my snubbies.