The best of the early S&W models 66

[legelegel]

I owned a S&W Model 66 (4") for from the late 1970s to late 1980s when I sold it to help my daughter with her college education. I would like to replace it. It was probably a 66-1. I just don't remember. I may be able to buy that one back, but before I attempt to do that I would like to know the pros and cons of the no dash and dashes of that model revolver.

Which one would you buy and why?

66 (1970): Stamping of each model.
66-1 (1977): Changed the gas ring from the yoke to the cylinder.
66-2 (1982): Eliminated pinned and recessed, slightly lengthened cylinder.
66-3 (1986): New yoke retention system/radius stud package/hammer nose bushing/floating hand.
66-4 (1994): Change rear sight leaf, drill and tap frame, introduce Hogue grips, change extractor.
66-5 (1998): Change in frame design: eliminate cylinder stop stud/eliminate serrated tangs/change to MIM hammer with floating firing pin/change internal lockwork.
66-6 (2002): Introduced internal lock.
66-7 (?): Two piece barrel and internal lock,
(2005): Discontinued.
(2014): M66 reintroduced.

 

[Pops]

I have a 66-2, stainless, 4 inch. Sweet shooter. There was an older gentleman that retired from work that knew I had my concealed pistol permit and asked me if i wanted to buy it. I said sure how much do you want, he said two hundred in the original box with 150 rounds of carry .357 ammo. He owned it for almost 20 years and never shot it! My arm still hurts from yanking my wallet out.

 

[TRIGGER_1]

Pops.......I hope your arm is better by now....

 

[Pops]

My arm recovered! The 66 is a wonderful shooter. I carry it deer hunting and it I one of many that stand guard at home loaded in various locations of my home, each encased in quick access handgun safes that the grand kids can't access!