New to me s&w 65-3, first smith

[Scubadoo48]

Hello all, I recently acquired a s&w revolver with 3" barrel and model number 65-3. The serial is 7D84901. Any information on it will be greatly appreciated as I don't want to just own it, I want to know about it as well. Thank you ahead of time.

 

[hannstv]

I am pretty sure that revolver in the picture has a 4" barrel.

 

[berik]

The Model 65 is the stainless steel version of the Model 13. Production started in 1972 and was available with 3", 4", or 6" barrel. I think they are rated for both .38 +P and .357.

 

[Scubadoo48]

Correct, it is a 4", my apologies.

 

[SAFireman]

I am pretty sure that revolver in the picture has a 4" barrel.

hannstv is correct - the revolver shown has a 4" barrel. Nice gun BTW

 

[old bear]

O/P, you've got a Great workhorse revolver, that with minor care should give you a lifetime of service. If you decide to keep the rubber grips on it, do remember to remove them every 6 months or so, as rubber grips will trap and hold moisture which can and will damage your revolver.

Model 65's are chambered for the .357 Magnum round, which means you can SAFELY use and 38 Special around as well as .357 Magnum ammo.

 

[Scubadoo48]

Thanks, here's a pic of it cleaned if y'all can tell. My father in law said I did good for $300. I don't know anything about them. I've been wanting a good revolver and a situation came up where I came out ahead.

 

[Scubadoo48]

Here they are.

 

[shouldazagged]

Scubadoo48, welcome to the best gun forum I've ever found.

That 65-3 is a fine damn-near-all-purpose revolver, with everything you need and nothing you don't. Good home defense or woods-walking gun, and fun at the range.

And speaking of the range, we want to know how it shoots and how you like it.

 

[Scubadoo48]

My wife and I are headed to the range in the morning so we will definitely be taking this along. Also will take it to the lease for this season. When I picked it up the only thought in my head was, " this, this is a REVOLVER!". I have a Taurus, and a Rugers but this one will become part of the family. And I haven't even shot it yet. Put a plastic disc in for dry fire and the trigger is so much smoother and crisp than the the other .357s I have.

 

[Scubadoo48]

Thanks for the tip Old Bear, will remember that.

 

[lhump1961]

Welcome to the forum. When you get to the range you will find out why Smith revolvers are so popular! Look forward to the range report.

 

[Scubadoo48]

No play time. Was offered overtime till Tuesday. I'll post when I do get to the range.

 

[KEN L]

I'm thinking Mar/Apr time frame 1983.

 

[wood714]

Thanks, here's a pic of it cleaned if y'all can tell. My father in law said I did good for $300. I don't know anything about them. I've been wanting a good revolver and a situation came up where I came out ahead.

Great price. I picked up a 65-4 a couple weeks ago and was happy paying $360.