M66 with Short Barrel

[ColColt]

I'm looking at a Model 66-4 with 2 1/2" barrel with only 500 rounds through it that comes with the original case. I'd like to hear thoughts on this model as I know little about it other than it being the SS equivalent of the M19.

I wouldn't plan on a steady diet of full bore 357 rounds but probably a lot of +P and 900-1000 fps lead SWC's more than anything else. I may consider it, if bought, a CCW carry.

 

[Ashlander]

A 66 could eat Plus P all day, every day. You're looking at a great gun. Though it might be a bit bulky for concealed carry in the Summer when you're dressing light, I have carried mine in the winter.

 

[snw19_357]

I can't think of anything better than a 2.5" Combat Magnum.

And, if you're not too fond of MIM, the 66-4 was the last dash before MIM.
Well, later -4's had MIM thumbpieces and triggers.

 

[C Islander]

I've got a 2.5 66 no dash. They are great revolvers, and an excellent choice for concealed carry. I carried mine year round with no problems. With a good holster/belt combination, it's doable under an untucked T shirt in summer months. My current EDC is a 3" 65.

 

[jpwhel]

The snub Mod 66 is a great revolver. Most Mod 66s being offered now are on the pricey side. I purchased my 66-1 a few years ago. Buy it with confidence.

 

[ColColt]

Would it be worth $575? I don't know the value.

 

[Badquaker]

got mine for $375, but it has had a lot more rounds fired than yours. I change the grips and cleaned it up. I don't think I would sell it for $575.

If I was in your neighborhood, I would buy it on sight.

 

[ColColt]

With that short barrel, is the ejector rod long enough to clear the spent brass? The shortest barrel I've had was a 3" SP101 and I was unsure about one smaller.

 

[shadow1]

I love my 66. Even though it's a lock model (lock removed) it's a great shooter and not hard to conceal.

 

[Badquaker]

The 2.5 inch does not have a full length ejector rod, but I have not had any issue with dropping brass. I tip it up and thumb the ejector and everything drops out. I do make cleaning/inspecting the cylinder holes part of my cleaning regiment.

 

[C Islander]

I wouldn't sell mine for $575!

 

[ColColt]

I'm actually looking at two right now and hate making these kind of decisions. I've run across a Model 15 that looks inviting as well. I don't know the dash but have inquired about it. All they listed was Model 15 and some pics and I can't tell a no dash from a 15-4 by looks...don't know if it's possible but the Serial number is 91Kxxxx.

 

[mc5aw]

The 15 is a fine revolver as well, but the 66 snub is as perfect a firearm as S&W has ever made.

 

[ColColt]

Maybe I should just get both. I'll have to sleep on this one tonight.

 

[MacA]

Maybe I should just get both.

Now THAT is the right answer!

Everyone that has any kind of S&W revolver collection should have at least one each of the model 15 Combat Masterpieces and model 66 Combat Magnums!

I have a circa 1952 K-38 (designation prior to being called model 15) w/ 4" barrel. First handgun I ever shot as a boy and probably one of the most accurate shooting handguns that I own!

I enjoy shooting all of my S&W revolvers, but my 2 1/2" 66-1 is at the top of the list. Surprisingly accurate for a short barrel revolver. Not too harsh with .357 magnum rounds and a "blast" to shoot with .38 specials! It is one of my two current concealed carry weapons.

Go with your gut....BUY THEM BOTH!!

 

[DETECTIVE1108]

Picked up the exact same gun (no box) for $450 a few weeks ago. Qualified with it last week (98%) and am carrying now. I have the 686 2.5" too and find that the 66 2.5" just feels better. You wont go wrong with getting it.

 

[Cocked & Locked]

2.5" model 66's are great .357's and rate high in cool factor.

66-no dash...I carry it often

 

[Dave T]

I'm going to rain a little on everyone's parade of praise. I've never liked the 2.5" 19s or 66s. As mentioned above the short ejector is less than desirable in my opinion and I've always thought anything shorter than 3" chokes back the performance of Magnums, and even 38+Ps, too much.

If you heart and mind are set on a stainless K-frame I think the 3" M65 or M64 are better choices. YMMV!

Dave

 

[geneboy]

front sight

I have been trying to find a shorter front sight for my 66-7. But can`t locate one any-ware. Any suggestions?

 

[MTKTM]

I agree with those who state that the 66 (or 19) in 2.5" configuration is among the best revolvers ever produced, not just by S&W, but anywhere, anyhow, and by anyone. I've had two 19s and two 66s in that size, and presently have one of each. I carry my 66-1 a great deal. My biggest reason for liking the gun is that I can shoot it with more accuracy than almost any revolver of any barrel length without exception. Something about the balance and "zen" of the gun is uncanny for me.

Here's my 66, pure shooting perfection:



Here's the 19, a nickel version DOB 1980. The box is not original to the gun (nickel guns have grey boxes). This gun is quite probably unfired. Too bad I don't have the box. I don't shoot it as I have the 66 for that purpose, am saving this one for now.....