New Model 66 do or don't?

[Smith&WessonM629C]

With the argument aside, new versus old. I am looking at picking up a New M66 because according to my research, it's the closest you can get to a modern day Model 19. All the 19s that I've seen in 4" run from $650 so/so to $1,500 Depending on age and condition. To me it would be logical to go ahead and get a new Model 66 at the cost of $700 a piece. Once again, do you all know something I don't on the M66?

 

[Hapworth]

Given that you seem to want a Model 19, and you can find well-preserved examples for the same price as a new Model 66, why not get what you want?

That said, advantages to a new 66 include unfired, unhandled condition, modern construction, some design changes that likely improve durability and accuracy, and S&W's lifetime for the original owner warranty.

Some can't abide the MIM or internal lock of the new models. Some prefer the lines and mystique of the old models.

Only you can decide what best suits your needs -- but no, it doesn't seem there's something your missing on the subject.

 

[rbert0005]

I would say to buy the gun you want. Otherwise you will be chasing after one later.
That's what happens to me. Then again, having more guns is not a bad thing.

Bob

 

[Voyager28]

I have not fired the new Model 66 but I do own and have fired a Model 69 which is basically the same gun but in .44 Magnum. All I can tell you is that I really like the 69 and if the 66 shoots as well I say go for it.

That said, personally, if you want a new gun, I would go for the 686-6 with the full under lug. I also own and have fired (a lot) one of these and it is REALLY a fine shooting, very accurate hand gun.

Still, though, my favorite weapon on this planet is the Model 19 and its stainless counter part the older model 66's.

So, here's my recommendation. Ready? Wait for it. Wait for it: BUY ONE OF EACH!

Bob

PS: Both my Model 69 and my Model 686-6+ have MIM parts and IL. to me, personally, they are a total non-issue.

 

[Hopper]

I have a new model 66, and *love* it. As irked as I've been about the overclocked barrel on a brand-new Model 640 that I recently picked up (and sent back for repair), the 66 is spot-on. It's a very accurate/nicely balanced shooter. The only thing I'm not crazy about is the glass bead finish, but otherwise, the new model 66 Combat is a winner. Initial DA pull is heavy, but in SA, it's butter.

I concur with what some others have already said, because I think we've all at some point been guilty of this - don't compromise. If there's something you really have your head/heart set on, wait for the right one to come along.

 

[Electraclyde]

If you are a "collector" get the older model, if you are a shooter, get the new model.
MIM parts and the lock are non issues for some of us.

 

[wheelyfun66]

Waiting to spot one in my local gun shop.....

Or, when S&W announces the arrival of a snub version, I"ll buy one "sight-unseen"!!

 

[Smith61]

Go ahead....Make your day LOL!
Seriously buy it, shoot it, enjoy it!

 

[shawn mccarver]

For shooting, my vote goes to the 2014 Model 66. As near as I can tell, it is everything the original 19/66 should have been, including the troublesome area at 6 o'clock on the barrel shank (except the IL, of course, but that entire assembly is very easily removed if it troubles you).

 

[Sconnie]

I'm with the majority so far.

I am a big fan of the model 66 and 19. And I am not one who would shoot .357 very often. That being said, I watched a Jerry Miculek video on Youtube last night. It is pretty long but at about 14:50 he talks about the new model 66.

I am one who really does not like the IL for appearance only issues (but enuf said). When Miculek started talking about the new model 66 I have to admit that it would be worth considering particularly if you are interested in shooting .38 and .357. You could go with a 686 too of course, new or old. But if the K frame is your cup of tea, the new version of the model 66 is worth a look. I doubt you would regret it over the course of time.

And who knows, maybe you will be one of those lucky son of a guns that stumbles onto a great old model 19 when you aren't really looking for a great price and you can buy that too. It's always fun spending someone else's money.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cbVl3cDMTY

 

[Dan Christopher]

Life is about being happy. If you like the new 66s, and want one...go for it!

I picked up a 69 a couple months back and like it a great deal. One of the new 66s is very tempting and I would get one if not for the hassle of having to stock components for 357 Magnum in addition to what I already reload for.

 

[Kernel Crittenden]

If you want a M19 you must like blued guns. Have you considered one of the new M586's.?

 

[BAM-BAM]

From the OP I'm not sure if what you really want is a 19 or "as close as you can get; new".

If you really want a Model 19 keep searching......the new 66 will always be there!

Or as an alternative look for an older 586...... a 19 grip frame beefed up where the 19 sometimes/rarely proved soft.

Not knocking the new guns ... but if what you really want......is a 19...... nice ones are still out there for $500-700 just need time and a little luck!

 

[crankshaftrsl]

S&W Model 66

I have purchased one and will pick it up Sun. at 10AM. I shot one B4 I ordered and was truly impressed! After reading some of the posts I am 100% sure I got the right gun.

 

[MTKTM]

I have a 66-7 which was the last iteration of the model and was made in '05, then it was discontinued until 2014. The new ones are the 66-8. I bought mine to use dofr IDPA SSR competition, and used it for that for several years, put a lot of rounds through it. Good, utilitarian gun, but ugly IMHO. The new ones look nicer to my eye, and I'm sure they shoot great. Go for it.

 

[Smith&WessonM629C]

Thanks everyone for your imputs. I do believe I will go ahead and get a New Production 66 as stated above, service warranty because I do plan on shooting it a lot. I do my own loading and I enjoy the idea of shooting my own ammunition at a mild load for the 357mag. I think I will wait until I catch a great deal at my LGS for the M19 but I will be looking!

 

[Smith&WessonM629C]

If you want a M19 you must like blued guns. Have you considered one of the new M586's.?

I have looked at the 586 and I am impressed. I like the bluing on the 6" in my LGS and the Altamont stock that was on it. But I think this quarter will be a Model 66.
.

 

[Matt Hooper]

Two piece barrel, Ball detent, Forged Frame… What's not to like! Will likely be picking one up myself this year!