S&W models 19, and 66

[BiXLL]

I thought that my next purchase was going to be a model 19. I am new to wheelguns, and currently have a 686 4 inch barrel. I would like a 6 inch barrel for range use. I thought I wanted a model 19, but in researching the auction sites, I find that model 66 is more common, and seem to be cheaper. What are the differences in the 2? Is one better then the other?

 

[RangerGrant]

The M19 & M66 are the same gun, a K frame .357 magnum. The M19 is blued steel, the M66 is the stainless steel version. Many of the M66's were police issue. If the one your considering is a PD trade-in, the lower price may reflect the use/abuse it got as a PD issue weapon.

Your M686 is an L frame. The L frames were introduced when it was discovered that the K frame would not stand up to the constant use of magnum ammo. If you are going to shoot alot of .38, and some .357, the K frame will serve you well (mine has). If you intend to shoot alot of .357 you will want to stick with your L frame, or consider getting an N frame M27 (large frame, the origional .357 magnum).

best, RG

 

[Blueduck]

As RangerGrant pointed out they are basically the same gun except the 66 is stainless steel.

Their are however a lot of knowledgble people (C.R. Sam one of which) who believe S/W's blued guns hold up much better than their stainless guns over the years in the wear department. At one time I was skeptical of this, but experince has me leaning more towards this theory.

Anyway here's a link that contains some more where people make their case for and against this: http://www.thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=70330

Best, Blueduck

 

[gino]

Since noone has mentioned it I will, S&W has also stopped producing the M19. What used to be the most common 357 is now getting pretty scarce (at least for an ANIB).

 

[Gary H]

The trigger on the 19 is wider and textured. The M66 has a thinner smooth trigger.

 

[Dan Morris]

I still have my original M28 and my M19....for full blooded 357 loads, go with the 28...will last a lifetime. M 19, while a fine carry gun will eventually become loose with a heavy diet of 357's.....I usually shoot mine with a mid load.....carry 357's but pop hot 38's
....66's....good but to me just didn't feel right......can't tell ya why....just didn't!Knew a bunch of guys that swapped the 19 and 66 hammers n triggers!

Dan

 

[10-Ring]

The biggest differences for me were:
19: smooth, light, crisp trigger. Cost $275 out the door.
66: a little heavier (IMHO), heavier trigger, and integrated lock. Cost $500 + tax & fees.

I bought the 19

 

[Poohgyrr]

10-Ring's last post brings up a good point: used S&W's can be a great buy. And that's the only way to get some of these fine revolvers today.

Stainless is easier to care for.

Blued, to many, looks better.

Either way, you really can't go wrong.

 

[Kahr carrier]

Used is a good way to go on S&W especially the Police Trade ins like 66 and 686s.

 

[charleym3]

The finish will wear off of a blue gun, but not stainless. I found a 19-3 P&R with a 6" bull barrel installed (300GS) and Bomar sight for $275. It will need to be refinished. I'm still thinking about it.
I haven't seen a decent 66 in a very long time.