Model 66-3

[TKetch]

I just purchased my 1st pistol and am wondering if anyone knows anything about it. The only numbers on it are mod.66-3 it is nickel or stainless (not sure which) and has a wooden grip. Wondering if i got ripped off have no idea the value of this revolver. Anyone know anything about it???

 

[sigp220.45]

Welcome to the forum! You've got a really great gun there. The Model 66 is made of stainless steel and is built on the medium sized K frame. Yours was made between 1986 and 1994, as near as I can tell. If you post the serial number someone can narrow it down to a year. If you prefer you can put XXX for the last three numbers. If you search this forum you will find a ton of information on this very popular revolver, or if you have specific questions, please post them here.

This one here is great: http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-re...ltimate-model-19-66-combat-magnum-thread.html

The Model 66 came in 2 1/2, 3, 4, and 6 inch barrels. Value depends on condition and to some degree barrel length. If you could post pictures it would be very helpful.

Congrats on a great gun.

 

[tocohillsguy]

Post some pictures. Value depends on barrel length and condition. BTW the Model 66 is stainless and they are desirable revolvers. Many fans on this forum.

 

[Scary Gary]

The NAVY'S SEAL TEAM 6 liked them .

 

[roaddog28]

Great revolver you just purchased. The model 66 is the stainless version of the model 19. I feel the K frame magnum like yours is the best handling revolver S&W ever made. Take some pictures so we can see your new toy.

Thanks,
roaddog28

 

[Jason68]

Me too...

Hey TKetch, funny, I purchased my 6th S&W yesterday - it is also a model 66, mine is a 66-1 with the 2" barrel, factory wood grips, in minty condition and marked "Iowa State Patrol" on the right side within a shield shaped outline. (I am told it was probably never issued). I paid $500 here in Iowa, and I am happy with the price. I am having a little polish job done on the interior, then I will post photos. Nice guns, I had a 4" model 19 back in the early 90's, but sold it unfortunately.

 

[jughed440]

welcome, and congrats on choosing a fine revolver.

"Wondering if i got ripped off have no idea the value of this revolver."

hopefully the seller was fair and honest on the pricing...as mentioned, pics are helpful.

 

[TKetch]

Ok I,m back will post pictures asap but until then i can tell you it is in near mint condition, wood grip, with an F.O.P. star and the writing F.O.P. 042 on the side. The seller was an older gentleman i've known my whole life and neither of us knew the value of. He got it as a gift from his daughter, whom he no longer talks too. She got it as some soft of reward from the Nashville P.D. when she was a dispatcher for them. I got it for $250 so i don't think i got hurt. It has the four inch barrel. The only numbers on it are BFS 3XXX

 

[Bert Man]

No, you definitely didn't get hurt on that deal; in fact you stole it. I acquired a 66-1 a while back in a gun shop for $285 and thought I got a great deal. Don't know if the Fraternal Order of Police emblem affects the value one way or the other but in this area a nice M66 in this area usually goes for $350-$475. You have a great revolver there which will give you many years of service. Welcome to the S&W Forum and enjoy.

 

[pogo2]

Good buy!

I love the model 66, especially in the short barrel versions. I have three of them, including a 66-3 like yours. Your mint 4 incher for $250 is a steal - I think the market value for such a gun is at least $450.

 

[Texas Star]

If I could retain just one gun, my M-66-3 would probably be it. You made a fortunate purchase at a VERY good price.

Just avoid hot 125 grain Magnum ammo, as it may crack the barrel throat, especially if any leading is allowed to build up.

The K-frame .357's are intended to be shot primarily with .38 Special ammo, with Magnums reserved for occasional practice and use where that level of power is needed.

I am so sorry that the seller no longer speaks to his daughter. He may have good cause, but I hate to see that in families. At least, I can hope that the gun has found a good home.


T-Star

 

[JohnAC]

Pogo2,

I love the looks of those Ahrend's grips.. Few questions -

Which wood is on the 66-3 and how far beyond the bottom of the frame do the grips hang? It looks from the pics only a fraction of an inch or so which would be perfect. Most of the bantam style grips I've seen are a little too long for my taste.

TKetch,

Great find! Post some pics as soon as you can. Good luck with your new toy.

 

[pogo2]

Answer

Pogo2, I love the looks of those Ahrend's grips.. Few questions -

Which wood is on the 66-3 and how far beyond the bottom of the frame do the grips hang? It looks from the pics only a fraction of an inch or so which would be perfect. Most of the bantam style grips I've seen are a little too long for my taste.

The wood on the Ahrends grips on the model 66-3 is cocobolo. These grips go about 1/2 inch below the bottom of the frame, and just allow enough length for the pinky finger to have a rest.

 

[TKetch]

Heres some pics. of my 66-3. It really needs a good polish job!! I wonder how it would look with black handles? Thanks for all the info guys you've been alot of help, any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[sw44spl]

very nice I like the FOP star on it.