Model 66 no dash.

[smithnut357]

I have a question about a Smith & Wesson of mine. It's a .357 mag model 66 with a 2.5" barrel length. When I bought it, the gentleman made a big deal about " it's a model 66 no dash!" What does the absence of a dash in the model numbers on a Smith & Wesson mean? Any info will be greatly appreciated!

 

[Slamfire]

Some one will know the date, but the dashes in the S&W model numbers refer to revisions/upgrades.

Not all revisions/upgrades are good one, I consider it unfortunately the loss of the hammer mounted firing pin and the pinning of the barrel. I consider the elimination of the countersinking in the extractor star to be a good decision.

So your no dash revolver is a very early revolver. There are people to whom first editions are the best editions.

 

[dprice3844444]

1st production run

 

[BYJO4]

As stated, you have a first production run of that revolver and some will pay extra to have that distinction.

 

[Walkalong]

Great pick up. Very nice defensive revolvers.

 

[Radagast]

1970: Model 66 introduced.
1974: 2.5 inch barrel introduced.
1977: 66-1 design change. gas ring moved from yoke to cylinder, reportedly to prevent heat expansion binding the gun.
1982: 66-2 design change, delete barrel pin, delete recessing of cylinder to enclose cartridge rims.

I've a 1972 made 66 no dash. Accurate to 100m, no problems to date.

One word of caution, the 125 grain .357 loads are hard on these guns. They can crack forcing cones, so stick to the 158 grain .357 lods or any .38 special load. If you want to shoot 125 grain loads get a Model 686. These have a thicker forcing cone to solve the problem.

 

[Cocked & Locked]

need some pics in the thread

2.5" model 66-no dash from 1974. North Carolina SBI issued back in the day.



As I'm carrying it today.

 

[Viper225]

The Big Deal is the No Dash 66 is still Pined and Recessed.

The Barrel is Pined.
The Chambers are cut to recess the case heads.

These features went away with Dash Numbers.

Bob