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.
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.