Model 65 vs Model 13

[Walter Rego]

I had one of each, both 3" versions at one time. The Model 13 was in new condition with the box, paperwork, etc. and I couldn't bring myself to fire it. As others have mentioned, the value had gotten pretty high so I sold the Model 13. It sure was a beauty though.
Both models don't come up for sale that often, especially the popular 3 inch guns. The Model 65 has a slight edge as a carry weapon due to the stainless construction.

 

[lawandorder]

I am also suffering from extreme fondness for 3 inch K frames.

As to the OP's question the decision as to stainless , blue, or nickle, why limit your self? Set your goal as one of each.

Have been very lucky in obtaining some hard to find examples.of the 3 inch Ks. The first was the one that firmly set the hook. A three inch model 10-10 in a version made for a law enforcement order out of Brazil. Various accounts say very few in US. What sets it apart is an enclosed ejector rod. Thanks to a Member here on the forum for letting me be a temporary caretaker of it.

Then a 65 , a 66 , ( let it go, not a fan of adjustable sights on a carry gun), a 13 (catch & release also, too nice ANIB ), 65LS, pert near perfection, then another big break a 13PC, only about 400 made. A 64 and a regular 3 " 10 rounded it out.

The last one is probably the one Smith should have put in regular production as the perfect carry revolver, a Model 19 with fixed sights.

Now to find one.

Beware of 3 " Kitis, it is terribly addictive.

 

[WCCPHD]

That's a nice one.
I believe nickel model 13's are uncommon. I have a 4" nickel model 13 but before I owned it, it was somebody's truck gun because it's ruff. But it shoots to the point of aim. I had a nickel model 13 3" that was very nice, but decided to sell it to fund some other guns, so its been with a new owner for a few years now.

Don't rub it in Paul. I have kicked myself many times for not buying it at the Raleigh Gun Show. I was an idiot for passing on that beautiful gun.

 

[dr. mordo]

I think it entirely comes down to your preference of blued vs stainless. I would opt for the M13 personally.

That said, I carry a 3" M629, so I don't need a M13. The only reason I have the M629 is I couldn't find a 3" M29 for anywhere close to the same price.

 

[opaul]

Ok so it boils down to a few of my wife's sayings:
~ Is it a want or need?
~ Your wants won't hurt you.
I don't need another three inch but I sure want some more
Funny how we all justify our addiction.
Me - I'm compulsive excessive with hoarder tendencies - that's my rational.

 

[gkitch]

I own both. I carry the Model 13 over the 65. It shoots a little better and the action is a little smoother. I prefer the look as well. Yes, the SS is more durable and practical...

So my Model 13 has Craig Speigel Boot Grips and a bobbed hammer. With 125 gr Hornaday CD, a Galco holster, and a couple of Bianchi Speed-strips we are good-to-go.

 

[opaul]

I own both. I carry the Model 13 over the 65. It shoots a little better and the action is a little smoother. I prefer the look as well. Yes, the SS is more durable and practical...

So my Model 13 has Craig Speigel Boot Grips and a bobbed hammer. With 125 gr Hornaday CD, a Galco holster, and a couple of Bianchi Speed-strips we are good-to-go.

Let's see the photos!

 

[31FordA]

Either one is a terrific gun, I'm lucky enough to own both. I picked up a really nice 3" 13-3 twenty years ago, even carried it on the job for a while. When I considered how hard it would be to replace I retired it. A few years ago I picked up a pretty decent 3" 65-3, which I currently carry at work. The 3" K frames are addictive, I've also picked up the 3" 65-5LS and the 3" 64-3.

The 3" Model 13 is certainly the rarer of the pair. I've only personally seen two for sale in twenty years, the 13-3 I bought and a 13-4 that I wish I had bought. The 3" 65 is not quite as rare, I've seen about five in twenty years. Part of the rarity is probably that the 3" 13 was discontinued in 1996, while the 3" 65 stayed in production into the 2000's.

 

[Eddietruett]

I have about 15 K frames in 3". This model 13 is one of my favorites.

 

[gkitch]

I think that one of the reasons these not come up for sale very often as that those who own them would rather have the guns than the money they would realistically bring. Simple really.

 

[jdlii]

I am the current care taker of these S&W "short" barreled models. A Mod. 65-3, 3" with combat grips is in the center and is a favorite. As to whether or not it is the "perfect" carry, considering the company it keeps, I will not debate.

It is one of those that gets one's attention, is easy to carry and gets the job done, day in, day out.

 

[Waldo]

I think that one of the reasons these not come up for sale very often as that those who own them would rather have the guns than the money they would realistically bring. Simple really.

I think that applies to all of my guns. I would rather have the gun than the money it would bring. Now that I think about it, it applies to most anything I own.

 

[Buick]

Which 'dash" -2,-3 or -4 ?

It's a -2 i believe. ANA serial prefix. I think one of the first run for Action Sports Limited.

 

[bananaman]

To me, looks wise you can't top a blued revolver. They are not as forgiving, when it comes to finish. Also in the looks department is a fine nickel example. All that being said, I have both blue & stainless guns. It all comes down to a matter of taste. Bob

 

[The_Truth]

I've got a 13 3" and a 60-10 3" .357. Absolutely love them both. The 13 came first. I doubt I'll ever sell it unless it's to a family member.

Not to derail the thread but the 3" Model 60 .357 is a really sweet little niche gun. So perfect for carry.

 

[Valmet]

Personally I prefer the 13 as I like blue better than stainless but they're both fine revolvers and neither are cheap anymore.

 

[JohnRippert]

It is not a 3inch or blued but sometimes a deal just falls in your lap and you have to jump on it. Nickel 13-1 that I had Culina grips in American holly made for. Pinned and recessed fixed sight .357, what's not to like?

 

[Mehutch]

It is not a 3inch or blued but sometimes a deal just falls in your lap and you have to jump on it. Nickel 13-1 that I had Culina grips in American holly made for. Pinned and recessed fixed sight .357, what's not to like?

I'm with you, … what's not to love?

 

[Groo01]

Groo here
Remenber " A gentileman does not go to town with out his Lady" !!!

 

[shamrocker]

65-5 LS

I'm really partial to 3" Smiths, this one is my favorite. It is just the right size and I shoot it very well. Blue, Stainless, whatever....once you get hooked on 3" it knows no end.