Smith Wesson 66: A Classic Combat Magnum Revolver

The Smith & Wesson Model 66, a classic combat magnum revolver, has been a staple in the firearms world for decades. Its reputation for reliability, accuracy, and durability has made it a favorite among law enforcement, collectors, and shooters alike. In this article, we'll delve into the history, features, and benefits of the Smith & Wesson 66, exploring what makes it a timeless and iconic handgun.

A Brief History of the Smith & Wesson 66

The Smith & Wesson 66 was first introduced in 1970 as a stainless steel version of the Model 19, a popular.357 Magnum revolver. The Model 19 was designed in the 1950s for law enforcement and civilian use, but it had some drawbacks, including a tendency to rust and a fragile finish. To address these issues, Smith & Wesson developed the Model 66, which featured a stainless steel construction that offered improved corrosion resistance and durability.

Key Features of the Smith & Wesson 66

The Smith & Wesson 66 is a double-action revolver chambered in.357 Magnum, with a six-shot capacity. Its stainless steel construction provides exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion, making it an ideal choice for harsh environments. The revolver features a 2.5-inch or 4-inch barrel, depending on the model, and weighs approximately 33 ounces unloaded.

Some notable features of the Smith & Wesson 66 include:

A smooth, double-action trigger pull
A fixed rear sight and adjustable front sight
A stainless steel cylinder and frame
A comfortable, rubber grip
A durable, matte finish

Benefits of the Smith & Wesson 66

The Smith & Wesson 66 offers several benefits that make it a popular choice among shooters:

Reliability: The 66 is known for its reliability and ability to withstand harsh conditions.
Accuracy: The revolver's smooth trigger pull and adjustable sights make it an accurate shooter.
Durability: The stainless steel construction provides exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion.
Versatility: The 66 can chamber both.357 Magnum and.38 Special ammunition, making it a versatile choice for shooters.
Collectibility: The Smith & Wesson 66 is a classic revolver that has become a collector's item, with many limited-edition models and variations available.

Shooting the Smith & Wesson 66

Shooting the Smith & Wesson 66 is a pleasure, thanks to its smooth trigger pull and manageable recoil. The revolver's adjustable sights make it easy to zero in on targets, and the.357 Magnum chambering provides plenty of power for hunting and self-defense applications.

Some tips for shooting the Smith & Wesson 66 include:

Get familiar with the trigger pull: The 66's double-action trigger pull can take some getting used to, so be sure to practice regularly.
Use the right ammunition: The 66 can chamber both.357 Magnum and.38 Special ammunition, so be sure to choose the right load for your needs.
Practice with the adjustable sights: The 66's adjustable sights make it easy to zero in on targets, so be sure to practice with them to get the most out of your revolver.

Smith & Wesson 66 Variations

Over the years, Smith & Wesson has released several variations of the Model 66, including:

Model 66-1: The original Model 66, introduced in 1970.
Model 66-2: A variation with a 3-inch barrel, introduced in 1972.
Model 66-3: A variation with a 2.5-inch barrel, introduced in 1973.
Model 66-4: A variation with a 4-inch barrel, introduced in 1974.
Model 66-5: A variation with a 3-inch barrel and adjustable sights, introduced in 1975.

Collecting the Smith & Wesson 66

The Smith & Wesson 66 has become a collector's item, with many limited-edition models and variations available. Some tips for collecting the 66 include:

Research, research, research: Learn as much as you can about the different variations and models of the 66.
Condition is key: Look for revolvers in good condition, with minimal wear and tear.
Rarity is important: Limited-edition models and variations can be highly valuable, so be sure to research their rarity before making a purchase.

Smith & Wesson 66 Image Gallery

Final Thoughts

The Smith & Wesson 66 is a classic combat magnum revolver that has earned a reputation for reliability, accuracy, and durability. Whether you're a shooter, collector, or simply a firearms enthusiast, the 66 is definitely worth considering. With its smooth trigger pull, adjustable sights, and stainless steel construction, it's an ideal choice for anyone looking for a versatile and powerful handgun.

We hope you've enjoyed this article on the Smith & Wesson 66. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them with us. We'd love to hear from you!