want to buy a 357, new model 686 or new model 66

[southfloridasixshooter]

I'm in the market for a new 357 revolver, I'm looking for factory fresh. I have narrowed it down to the model 686 and the model 66. Any opinions on which would be a better buy. I have past experience with older model 19/66's and own a few different k frames, they feel great in the hand to me. I have held a few 686's and they feel great too, but I've never shot one. If I buy a 686 I would opt for the 7 round version. Ether one would have a 4 inch barrel. These revolvers would serve many roles, from concealed carry, target shooting, swamp gun (Everglades) etc. Please no comments about buying older production guns. I have plenty of those and just want a new one. I have no problem with current production guns, I currently use a 442 that was made in 2013 for pocket carry, and I am quite happy with the quality of this piece.

 

[LoboGunLeather]

If you are planning on feeding the new revolver a steady diet of .357 magnum ammunition the 686 is the logical choice. Significantly stronger and a bit more weight to ease the recoil.

If you plan on using primarily .38 special for practice and general use, with magnums only occasionally, then the slightly smaller profile and weight of the Model 66 will make comfortable and discreet carry somewhat easier.

I've used both for many years. Both are fine sidearms. The comments above reflect my considered opinion based on long use.

 

[Pants]

Well, if you're buying new - I would definitely get the 686 with the 4" barrel. If you can score an older 66, I'd get that. Just my opinion though! I've always been a 686 fan and wish I bought one with a 4".

 

[riverrat38]

I just bought a new 3 in M686 plus, and it is a very nice gun. But, for my needs, I would have bought a new M66, if they made them with 3 in. barrels. Maybe someday. If I used mostly full power magnum, I would stay with the M686. I handload, and use mostly plus P velocity loads, or a little more, loaded in magnum cases. Plus P plus, I guess. I like the magnum revolvers, as they give me a lot of headroom in reloading, and the ability to use heavy magnum loads on the trail. I am not saying that I think the new M66 won't handle the full magnum rounds all the time, its just that the M686 handles the recoil a little better. I handled both the M66 and the M686 at the LGS, and liked the feel of the M66 better, but 4.2 in barrels are too long for my needs, which includes CCW. But, if they come out with the 3 in barrel M66, it will likely be time for a trade.

Best,
Rick

 

[southfloridasixshooter]

Thanks for the feed back so far guys. I was wondering if there is a big difference in the ease of care of each, I know the heavier gun is harder to carry, but we are talking about two guns that weigh 37 plus ounces, is there really a noticeable difference. I also read, though don't know how true this is, that the new model 66 is stronger in the areas where the old model was weak, but the new 66 has not been out long enough to determine this. As far as recoil management, I don't consider myself recoil shy, so does the 686 absorb the recoil dramatically to justify the increase in weight.

 

[Zipdog]

I bought a new 686+ with 3" barrel . No regrets at all. The double action trigger is every bit the equal of any K frame I've ever handled or owned regardless of vintage. There is a weight difference between the 2 frame sizes. For me the only issue with that involves the natural pointability of the gun. I overcame that issue by experimenting with different grips. The ones I settled on were the Hogue rubber Bantam grips. Different owners and barrel lengths will vary. I really like wood grips for the look but am still looking for the right feel in some wood ones. You've got it right about going with the new guns. There is no issue at all.

 

[Bobthegod]

I hate to say it but it sounds like you should look at the Ruger GP100 .357
A tank of a gun. Not a Smith but a great shooter.

 

[rwsmith]

I luv the 686

Just IMHO the 686 is a tad heavy for carry but if you shoot heavier loads a lot you will appreciate the heft and the durability. Since I use mine mostly as a range gun I don't mind the size/weight.

 

[southfloridasixshooter]

I thought about the GP100, shot a few hundred out of a friends personal gun and it performed well and it felt like a quality piece. I just like the fit, finish, and triggers on the Smiths better. They do feel like tanks and don't think a handload filled to the top with Bullseye would blow it up, I won't be the one to try that though. I shoot them well and with time I can probably be just as good with the ruger, I just think I perform better with Smiths.

 

[riverrat38]

The weight difference is just about 1 inch. That is, a 4 inch K frame is about the same weight as a 3 inch L frame. About 37 oz in this example.
As far as I know, the grip and trigger reach are the same for both guns. The 686 feels bigger out of proportion to the weight difference, in my experience.
The barrel of the new M66 is not cut away on the bottom at the forcing cone, so it shouldn't have problems with the forcing cone cracking, as has been reported when using the K frame magnums with hot light bullets.

Best,
Rick

 

[DR505]

Of the two, based on your intended use, it is hard to say. The 66 for concealment, the 686 for swamping and magnum shooting. Either will punch holes in paper. I prefer N frames, so I would opt for the 686 L frame myself. But that is an opinion and worth exactly as much as you paid for it. Good luck with the choice, and post pictures!

 

[Lou_NC]

No question in my mind I would go for the 686 over the "new" 66 with its 2-piece barrel and new style of lockup. I just don't care for the new design that much - I prefer the "traditional" S&W design. I own a 66-1 and see no flaws in its design that would warrant any changes.

I would also buy "the plug" if I were buying a new S&W with the internal lock and install the plug in place of the lock. Again, just my opinion.

Lou

 

[bigfreakinrevolver]

+1 on the 686!

 

[Guy Incognito]

Just solve it the way I did...



Granted, neither were factory fresh, but I think I weaseled my way out of the same dilemma quite well.

 

[JayFramer]

I'd spring for the model 66!

 

[qrachel]

Either piece is a good choice, but for best value and shootability the 686+ 4" is really tough to beat. Mine broke in quickly and smoothly. It's one of the best pistols I own, revolver or semi-auto. Slap some custom grips on it that really do justice to your physical stature and you'll be a better shot than you ever thought possible . . . and have a ton of fun too!!!

Enjoy,

R