S&W Model 65-3 Opinions?

[Clockit29]

I got my 65-6 3" RB with a cracked forcing cone and original Uncle Mikes in nice shape for $100 at my LGS. A week later found a 3" barrel on EB for $85. Installed it a week later, went to range loaded with 158 +P and shot first two rounds dead center. Enough said

 

[Narragansett]

Hey folks, I have a chance to purchase a mint 65-3. It was built in 89, and is flawless. Does anyone have an opinion on the durability, accuracy, and good/bad reputation of this gun? I know it's a K frame with only a front site and notched rear, 6 shot, looks to be stainless, but thats all I know. Any help would be really appreciated.
Thanks in advance
Lou

When they first came out, at least in my neck of the woods the LEO's had first dibs on them. According to the distributor, I got the first privately owned one he sold. 65-1 I think
135.00 new. Now to answer your question, that is going to be the next gun I look for. I answered the ad the other day about " your opinion of what a combat magnum is", and I answered the 65. I did LEO combat qualifying with it and it was just a perfect gun to shoot.4" bbl. Just buy it, or please tell me how I can get my hands on it. You will not be disappointed

 

[Narragansett]

A mint 4" M-65 is worth about $425, with a three inch barrel about 75 bucks more.

I wish I lived where you do. You will never get a mint 65 for 425 here

 

[barbsaurus]

This sold on GB over the weekend...$595 with shipping.

https://www.gunbroker.com/item/780479567

 

[ctxcummins]

I wish I lived where you do. You will never get a mint 65 for 425 here

That was also almost 10 years ago....

 

[Mehutch]

I've had mine for 41 years, cost me $200 bucks. My best friend kept borrowing mine until I bought one for him as a gift. Years later his Feminist Progressive wife made him get rid of it, I still got mine and a wife. My friend got rid of the gun, his man card and went bald.

 

[cmansguns]

Hello Forum;

Sometimes opening a 10 year old post has benefits for other newbies. This one was resurrected in 2016, then later in 2017, and now again. Could it be that the Model 65 is a "favorite of several generations"?

My 65-3 (1974) is a 4" and definitely one of my favorites and preferred over my Model 28-2 if wanting to CC the 357 Magnum round.

On the other hand the Model 36-1 (1976) is a 3" HB with J Frame Targets and is really super for me as CC. Better accuracy than the snubbies, but limited to 38 Special.

Can't discount the Model 15-3 (1969) Combat Magnum for superb accuracy, excellent grip but again limited to 38 Special.

Probably could run + P through the 15 or 36, but current EDC is a Model 637-2 (1-7/8") with + P, while the current truck gun is for sure the Model 65 with 158 grain Federal lawman JHP aboard.

I remember reading somewhere (SCSW 4th?) that the 65-3 was the standard FBI issue weapon for a couple years, 1986/1987 IIRC.

Love em all!

 

[Kframerbluvr]

Finally found one about two months ago at a LGS.
I now understand the attraction these 3" K Smiths have...best handling revolver I own...

 

[TheWaterboy]

At the cabelas (no more bargain cave) I head over to check out the used guns and I see this 65 - 3 now its mine and I get to show it off
Need help with grip and holster recommendations.

 

[KEN L]

You'll get a lot of opinions on holsters, just need to find what's best for you. Either IWB, pancake or paddle. The stocks on the gun are smooth round butt targets. Worth about $140. I personally like these for a round butt K frame. Hogue Bantams

 

[sgc]

I've got a 65-6 3" Lady Smith with original box, etc. It has less than 100 rounds through it. From what I've seen on the auction sites, I believe it's valued at, at least $1,000 in today's market, maybe more.