Smith & Wesson Model 66-3

I have always liked K-frame Smith & Wesson revolvers, although it was the opinion of many that the .357 magnum load was a bit much for the design. The S&W Model 19 was a favorite of many lawmen and of many civilian enthusiasts; the S&W Model 66 is the stainless steel version of the Model 19. The 66-3 designation indicates design tweaks to delay development of cylinder end-shake, and of the elimination of the recessed cylinder.

So far, my old revolver is still tight and there is no sign of stress on the forcing-cone or of flame cutting to the top-strap from my occasional use of magnum loads. I usually practice with .38 Special cartridges, and the 158-grain +P semi-wadcutter hollowpoints are my choice for home defense. This long barreled revolver is very fast and accurate with the .38 Special cartridges.

I haven’t cared to research what year my 6’’ S&W Model 66-3 left the factory. When I acquired it, it had gone through more than a couple of previous owners. The trigger may not be what it came with from the factory, and there is a gun-vice gouge on the frame from a bad gunsmith. The Pachmayr grips fit my hand perfectly. I don’t fancy it to be a concealed carry choice, but it sure makes a darn good belt-gun with the Uncle Mike’s holster shown in the photo. The reload wallet contains twelve .357 magnum cartridges, six are Remington 125-grain full power loads (Remington used to sell a 125-grain reduced power load years ago), and six are 110-grain Winchester loads.

Click here for R.K. Campbell’s review; “Smith & Wessons Best Pistol”

Click here for Xavier’s review of the S&W Model 19

Click here for a 2014 shooting range session with this revolver 

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