5 Things To Know About S&W Model 66

The Smith & Wesson Model 66 is a stainless steel revolver that has been a favorite among handgun enthusiasts for decades. Known for its durability, accuracy, and reliability, the Model 66 has become a staple in the world of firearms. Here are five things to know about this iconic revolver.

History of the Model 66

The Smith & Wesson Model 66 was first introduced in 1971 as a stainless steel version of the popular Model 19. The Model 19 was a highly regarded revolver, known for its accuracy and reliability, but it had one major drawback: it was made of carbon steel, which could corrode over time. The Model 66 addressed this issue by using stainless steel, which provided increased durability and resistance to corrosion.

Design and Features

The Model 66 is a K-frame revolver, meaning it has a medium-sized frame that is designed to be compact and easy to handle. It has a 2.5-inch or 4-inch barrel and a 6-shot cylinder that can chamber.357 Magnum or.38 Special cartridges. The revolver features a smooth, double-action trigger and a adjustable rear sight.

One of the most distinctive features of the Model 66 is its stainless steel construction. The revolver's frame, cylinder, and barrel are all made of stainless steel, which provides exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. The Model 66 also features a satin finish, which gives it a sleek and attractive appearance.

Performance and Accuracy

The Model 66 is known for its exceptional accuracy and performance. It is capable of firing both.357 Magnum and.38 Special cartridges, making it a versatile choice for a variety of shooting applications. The revolver's smooth, double-action trigger and adjustable rear sight make it easy to aim and fire accurately.

In terms of performance, the Model 66 is a powerhouse. It can fire.357 Magnum cartridges, which are known for their high velocity and stopping power. The revolver's stainless steel construction also ensures that it can withstand the high pressures generated by these cartridges.

Variations and Limited Editions

Over the years, Smith & Wesson has produced a number of variations and limited editions of the Model 66. These include:

• Model 66-1: This is the original Model 66, which was produced from 1971 to 1982.
• Model 66-2: This is an updated version of the Model 66, which was produced from 1982 to 1993.
• Model 66-3: This is a more recent version of the Model 66, which was produced from 1993 to 2005.
• Model 66-8: This is a limited edition version of the Model 66, which was produced in 2005 to commemorate the revolver's 35th anniversary.

Collectibility and Value

The Model 66 is a highly collectible revolver, particularly among Smith & Wesson enthusiasts. The revolver's durability, accuracy, and reliability make it a popular choice among shooters, while its limited production runs and special editions make it a highly sought-after collector's item.

In terms of value, the Model 66 can range in price from a few hundred dollars for a basic model to several thousand dollars for a rare or limited edition version. Some of the most valuable Model 66s include:

• First-year production models: These are highly sought after by collectors and can sell for several thousand dollars.
• Limited edition models: These are also highly valuable, particularly if they are in good condition and come with their original box and paperwork.
• Special edition models: These can include models with special features or engravings, and can sell for several thousand dollars.

Shooting the Model 66

Shooting the Model 66 is a pleasure, thanks to its smooth, double-action trigger and adjustable rear sight. The revolver is accurate and reliable, making it a great choice for a variety of shooting applications.

Range Testing

We took the Model 66 to the range to test its accuracy and performance. We fired a variety of cartridges, including.357 Magnum and.38 Special, and were impressed by the revolver's accuracy and reliability.

Self-Defense

The Model 66 is also a popular choice for self-defense, thanks to its compact size and high stopping power. The revolver's.357 Magnum cartridges are capable of delivering a high amount of kinetic energy, making them effective for stopping an attacker.

Maintenance and Upgrades

Maintaining the Model 66 is relatively easy, thanks to its simple design and stainless steel construction. Here are a few tips for keeping your Model 66 in good working order:

• Clean the revolver regularly: Use a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution to wipe down the revolver's exterior and interior.
• Lubricate the revolver: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the revolver's hinges and other moving parts.
• Check the revolver's timing: Make sure the revolver's cylinder is properly aligned with the barrel.

Upgrading the Model 66 is also possible, although it may require some expertise. Here are a few upgrades you can consider:

• Trigger job: A trigger job can improve the revolver's trigger pull and make it easier to shoot accurately.
• Sights: Upgrading the revolver's sights can improve its accuracy and make it easier to aim.
• Grips: Upgrading the revolver's grips can improve its comfort and make it easier to handle.

Gallery of S&W Model 66

S&W Model 66 Image Gallery

We hope you enjoyed this article about the S&W Model 66. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting out, the Model 66 is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and accurate revolver. Do you have any experience with the Model 66? Share your thoughts and comments below!