I have a S&W 442 and a 686+. For my next purchase I’m looking for a .357 revolver that is all stainless steel (for weight-want heavier than the 442) but small (for carry-not necessarily pocketable). I’m only interested in S&W due to their availability. Not interested in Taurus based on less than favorable past experiences. I’m guessing my only options are going to be a Model 60, 2” or a 640 if I choose to go the hamerless rout. Is a model 66 closer in size to the 686 or to the 60? Is the 66 even made anymore? Suggestions?
A S&W between the M-686 and 442???
- Thread starter FunYet
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The 2 1/2" 66 is still abundantly available on the used market but I also think you should be looking for a 3" 65 (also used), as these are wonderful guns to shoot. I have the 640 and like it a lot but I only shoot .38's out of it as the ,357's are a little much for me out of such a small gun, wimpy I guess.
A definite "+1" on the 2.5" 66.
I have a 2.5" M19 that is absolutely one of my favorite sidearms. Heavy enough to be quite gentle with .357 and surprisingly accurate. The 66 is pretty much the same thing in stainless, and is more available. The only wheel gun I'd like a bit more for carry would be a 3" simply for the longer ejector, but they're harder to find.
I have a 2.5" M19 that is absolutely one of my favorite sidearms. Heavy enough to be quite gentle with .357 and surprisingly accurate. The 66 is pretty much the same thing in stainless, and is more available. The only wheel gun I'd like a bit more for carry would be a 3" simply for the longer ejector, but they're harder to find.
Shear_stress
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A 2.5" S&W M19 or 66 would be a great choice. Not sure what you mean about only being interested in a S&W due to their availablility--don't forget the Ruger SP101. It bridges the gap between J- and K-frame S&W nicely.
Missed this.FunYet said:
The 66 is closer to the 686 in size. It's (the 66) a K frame where the 686 is an L frame. Very similar in size actually. But with a short barrel and combat grips it's very concealable.
I think they discontinued the 66 recently, but may be wrong. even if they did (crying shame) - there are quite a few of them out there.
Sarge55
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Another option would be the S&W 649 Bodyguard J Frame. Stainless steel, 357 with a shrouded hammer. Not too pretty, but very functional.
1 old 0311
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Hard to beat a 60. They been going strong for years.
Kevin
Kevin
I am weak and pathetic
In the short time since I started this thread I broke down and bought a model 60 with little pressure from the salesman. It was on sale so of course I had to give in. I slapped a set of wooden Spegall grips on it, shined it up a bit and all is well. Will still give a look at the models 65 and 66 as soon as my bank account recover$.
In the short time since I started this thread I broke down and bought a model 60 with little pressure from the salesman. It was on sale so of course I had to give in. I slapped a set of wooden Spegall grips on it, shined it up a bit and all is well. Will still give a look at the models 65 and 66 as soon as my bank account recover$.
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