Local store has a 66-1 for $700... should I jump on it?

[M29since14]

The price is not a bargain, to me, but it's fair - if the revolver is in nice shape. If I didn't have one of those and I wanted one, I'd buy it.

I agree that K-frames are kickers with full-charge magnums, but I also agree with the "use as intended" theory. S&W made the Combat Magnum to be used sparingly with .357s. It's a "magnum-capable .38" and that has always been perfectly fine with me. You already have a Model 27 if you want to shoot a lot of .357s.

 

[AveragEd]

I've been told that S&W used a harder alloy steel for the original 66. This came from an an armorer.

All stainless steel firearms are made with some carbon added to the alloy for increased hardness (which is why your "stainless steel" guns attract a magnet). That grade of stainless has numbers beginning with the numeral 4 - 416 or 4160 in the case of most firearms; pure stainless grades begin with the numeral 3. I suppose S&W could have specified additional carbon for their stainless handguns - it certainly makes sense.

Ed

 

[THE PILGRIM]

I have fired away fairly heavy 357 loads in my K Frames. Factory and Handloads.
Mostly heavier bullets, 150 , 160 and 174s.
That was before I was informed/indoctrinated about the forcing cone situation.
One of our Astute Members says - 'Knowledge comes from fear.'
Since I don't scare that easy, now you know!
The only things that I readily admit being afraid of are Cancer and Women who weigh more than me!