I have heard several people say that the trigger on their model 85 is second to none. I cannot say the same about my taurus model
I have an older M66 that has a somewhat rough DA especially compared to my M10. My newer gun with the newer transfer bar action is very smooth, almost as good as that old, well broken in early 60s vintage M10. But, my M85UL beats even the M10! It's pretty awesome.
Around this neck of the woods, the Smith and Wesson snobs must be thick, because I can't find a decent deal on an old used Smith. I have found bang up deals on Taurus M66s, though, they seem to be in abundance at every gun show and the best deals in the house. I pick 'em up, I check for end shake, timing, this and that, then I bargain on 'em. My 4" nickel gun was a KILLER deal, newer model lock work, like new, NO end shake or other excessive play, like new with one little blemish of holster wear on the cylinder that's hardly noticeable. I gave $197 for that gun and it's more accurate than my M19 or my Security Six were. I won't ever let that one go!
I got a 3" blued M66 at a gun show the other day. It had a timing issue and some holster wear, fairly tight with a little play compared to the newer one and not as smooth a trigger. I bargained it down to $180. Then, playing with it at home, I took the side plate off and found the cylinder hand/pawl spring was binding. I fixed that and timing is perfect!
I can't seem to find a M10 for under $300 in any condition around here and M19s and 66s, forget it! I can get a new gun for what one in good condition brings. I know, if I had an FFL, I could order one, but I don't. I know a guy I could order one through, but I will NOT buy a used gun without first checking it out. I have no bias one way or the other in handgun brands. I know I can get a Ruger or Taurus that's just as good as a Smith for a lot less money. I've even owned 7 Rossis. I just check 'em out, make sure they're in good mechanical condition before I buy and if there are flaws and I think it'll still be serviceable, I'll use that to bargain the price with. As long as prices on Smiths remain as high as they are around here and Taurus revolvers are as low as they are, I'll continue to buy mostly used Taurus. I would like a titanium Tracker, but that's just more money than I can pony up for a revolver right now. I'm more of a $200 bargain kinda guy.
I continue looking for affordable Smiths. I'd like to find a 2" M10 for under $300 in decent shape, right, dream on. I might even buy another 4" gun (have one already) just so I can buy a 2" barrel to replace on it later, if I could get one of those $200 bargains I always hear about. But, I'm NOT ordering one. I gotta see it first.