Model 66. Now what?

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AK357

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I have a Model 66 stamped AK961 72 in near mint condition. I really enjoy looking at and and handling this gun. Should I put it away for my grandkids or should I shoot and carry it? It may sound silly to have a gun that I don't want to shoot but I'm really hooked on this revolver and don't want to damage it. Thanks for the advice and I appreciate this forum.
 
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If I only have one of a firearms, I shoot it if I like it.

If I have more than one of a particular variation, usually only one gets fired.

I would shoot the one you like and start looking for a second to put away as a spare.
 
Either you have to commit to it falling from "mint" grace and you shoot and carry it, or in the safe it goes. Half-measures will probably eat at you.

Are you certain this is the configuration for you? If so, and if it is truly a mint example, put it in the safe and find a well-preserved shooter grade sibling and make that your heavy lifting piece.
 
When you are looking if you run across a model 66-1 Serial # 9K5090 I will gladly pay a reward for it's return and I will try my best to get the thief 3 hots and a cot.
 
I really like what Hapworth said here about your gun. The stamp you mentioned has me wondering though. Where is that mark and are you sure that is what it is? Does it have a - after the MOD 66 on the frame under the barrel? Does it have stainless sights or blue steel? Round butt or square and barrel length? We love pictures here! Regardless, I would load it up, sight it in and carry it with pride and use it as needed.

Your grandkids can do the same.
 
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"Grandkids" makes the decision simple...you must keep buying until you have one to pass down to each. Which one to shoot? Well, I am not one to put away guns in "mint" condition. I prefer to shoot what I buy. Which is why I marvel at the guys who post pics of endless rows of revolvers that they have. Lucky dogs!

Actually, don't forget to try to go shooting somewhere with the kids that are interested. THAT will make any of grandpa's guns special.

Hmmm, and if they are too young or you worry about starting them out with .38 loads in the model 66 I am thinking a fine .22LR might be a good choice too. Hey, as long as I am spending your money....:)

Wow, I just noticed your location AK357. Yea, you have some open areas to shoot I imagine.
 
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Sconnie said:
Actually, don't forget to try to go shooting somewhere with the kids that are interested. THAT will make any of grandpa's guns special.
Click to expand...

Good point. When my dad died, I inherited his guns. Among them was a pristine Browning BL22. Possibly never fired. Also, there was his well cared for, but well used Marlin 30-30 that he carried deer hunting every year. There was not a speck of rust on the rifle, but the bluing on the bottom of the receiver is worn down to smooth, shiny metal from decades of use.

Guess which one means more to me vs to a collector.
 
AK357 said:
I have a Model 66 stamped AK961 72 in near mint condition.
Click to expand...

Hello from the MatSu! I was in Fairbanks for a meeting two weeks ago. It still wasn't very cold, but it has not been cold here, either. Over 30 again today and very little snow. Weird winter so far.

Are you seeing the AK961 72 in the yoke area? If so, it isn't the serial number. Look on the bottom of the grip frame with the stocks off. I'll bet there is a different number there. That one is the serial number on your Model 66.
 
You folks are awesome! I appreciate your comments. This forum is making me into a Smith and Wesson guy as I've never really cared about brands in the past. For those who asked, the gun is stamped:
AK961 72
MOD 66
It has a stainless rear and front sight. I recently bought a M&P so I'll just shoot that or maybe buy a modern 66. It's S&W from now on!
 
I disagree that there is no middle ground. Taking it to the range for a shooting session on a nice day will not lower its value much. Yes, it will no longer be mint, but it will be close enough for the grandkids.

If you carry it, at a minimum it will get banged around some. Worse case, if you have to use it for self-defense, the police may take it and never give it back, even if you are in the right.
 
AK357 said:
...It has a stainless rear and front sight...
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That squares it for me -- put it in a safe. The stainless front and rear sight were early models and quickly changed to black rear sight assemblies. All stainless sight 66s, while not rare, are uncommon approaching scarce.

If yours is in collectible condition, I'd keep it that way. True you could shoot it some without diminishing value if you're careful, but making it a working gun is unnecessary when so many quality shooter 66s can still be had at decent prices.
 
S&W made a LOT of 66's...they aren't rare...or even scarce..they are NICE however!shoot it and have fun...then clean it well
 
kennyb said:
S&W made a LOT of 66's...they aren't rare...or even scarce..they are NICE however!shoot it and have fun...then clean it well
Click to expand...
Note I used those two words -- and only the latter as a descriptive -- in regard to the stainless front and rear sight iterations, not 66s in general. S&W did NOT make a LOT of the all stainless models. ;)
 
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