S&W 665 & 666 - Why?

[Checkman]

Okay I've been told that S&W is phasing out the 65 and 66 because the K frame isn't appropriate for the .357 magnum. Fine. I don't agree, but it's their company. Now supposedly S&W is going to introduce two new models on the L frame - the 665 and the 666. Why? As far as I can tell the 665 will have fixed sights. If that's the only difference between the 665 and the 686 then why not bring back the 681? And would someone please explain to me what the difference will between the 666 and the 686. They're both L frames, have adjustable sights and are stainless steel. I'm having a hard time seeing the difference.

I like the L frame. I own a 4" 686+ and it's a real pleasure to shoot, but I really think Smith is screwing up by getting rid of the .357 K frames. Yes I know that those models were made primarily for law enforcement, back in the day that most cops carried revolvers and needed a lighter wheel gun - in contrast to the Model 27/28. But have sales on these models dropped into the basement?

Oh well at lest there will be alot of these models on the secondary market for several years. Actually I think I may go hunting for a M13 or 65 in Jan at the local gunshow.

 

[Ala Dan]

Greeting's Checkman My Friend-

You know, as a matter of fact we don't even stock the S&W model 66
in any barrel length. Back in 2001, I was in the market for a 6" model
66 to use in Postal Pistol Matches, with mild .38 Special target type
handloads. When told this by the shop that I now work in, I had to
make the decision to switch to the L-frame 6" 686-5; and I could
not be happier! With the installation of a $15 WOLFF spring kit, this
is one sweet target revolver.

Its ashame that the fine folks at S&W want to discontinue models 65
and 66; as personally I can see a need for both weapons. If they plan
to introduce models 665 and 666 as you stated, that surely will drive
prices even higher. I wonder if the projected sales will out weigh the
cost of production on these two models?

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member

 

[SnWnMe]

I think the 666 and 656 will look just like their K frame predecessors (no underlugs) albeit with L-frame dimensions in the appropriate places. The new 5" 686 with the half lug could very well be the forerunner of the 666.

 

[P. Plainsman]

Gun of the Beast

Hmm . . . I'll have to save for a 2.5" Model 66 soon -- before they phase 'em out. Could be a good "serious" IWB gun. This boy won't be carrying any L-Frames, however numbered.

Can it really be true that S&W is going to produce a Model (shudder) 666?

Me, I'd just find it funny. But some pro-gun evangelicals might see it differently. I don't wish to make too much of this, but why serve up a potential wedge issue to the anti-gun forces, even a goofy one?

 

[Marshall]

I imagine it has something to do with todays .357 Mag ammunition offerings. I am betting S&W is getting tired of complaints and problems with people buying 65's and 66's and blowing them out of time of stretching the guns.

If I go buy a gun that is chamber for 357 Mag, I would expect to be able to shoot 357 Mag ammo through it all day long. I know, I know, don't lambast me on the issue of K Frames and .357's. Point being, there are probably a lot of folks that go buy K Frames with the intent of shooting 357's and S&W is thinking along the lines of making product offering to take care of this situation. Just my guess as to part of the reason.