A Legacy Forged in Steel
The Smith & Wesson name resonates with firearms enthusiasts worldwide. Known for crafting high-quality revolvers that are both reliable and aesthetically pleasing, Smith & Wesson has a long and storied history. Their designs have graced the hands of law enforcement officers, military personnel, and civilians alike, becoming synonymous with dependability and performance. The Model 66 series, a prominent line in the company’s legacy, stands out for its versatility and robust construction. And among this respected family of revolvers, the Smith & Wesson 66-2 holds a special place.
The genesis of the Smith & Wesson Model 66 is rooted in the mid-twentieth century, a time when the demand for powerful and dependable revolvers was high. Smith & Wesson recognized the need for a .357 Magnum revolver built on a lighter, more manageable frame, setting the stage for the development of the Model 66. The project was a direct response to the rising popularity of the .357 Magnum, a cartridge that offered significantly more stopping power than the .38 Special, at the time the standard in many police departments.
The Model 66 was conceived to fill the gap between larger, heavier revolvers like the Model 27 and smaller-framed options. Its introduction provided a perfect balance, allowing for comfortable handling and easier concealment, while still delivering the potent performance of the .357 Magnum cartridge. This innovative approach quickly solidified the Model 66’s place as a favorite, particularly among law enforcement. The Model 66-2, a specific iteration of the Model 66, refined the design even further, integrating improvements that enhanced its reliability and overall shooting experience.
Dissecting the Build and Features
The heart of the Smith & Wesson 66-2 lies in its construction. The revolver features a stainless steel frame, a choice that offers a multitude of advantages. Stainless steel is incredibly durable, allowing the revolver to withstand rigorous use and exposure to the elements. It’s also exceptionally resistant to corrosion, making the gun well-suited for environments with high humidity or exposure to sweat, a crucial attribute for those who carry their firearms regularly.
The Model 66-2 typically comes with barrel lengths in multiple offerings. These varied options offer different benefits, catering to a wide range of user preferences. The shorter-barreled versions, like the two-and-a-half inch barrel, are ideal for concealed carry, allowing for easy concealment under clothing. A longer barrel, such as the four-inch variant, provides a longer sight radius which can assist in more accurate shooting at longer distances. The longer barrel allows for a fuller burn of the propellant within the cartridge, allowing it to reach its maximum velocity.
The revolver is designed with a capacity of six rounds. This is the standard capacity for many revolvers of this size, offering an adequate amount of firepower for both defensive and recreational purposes. The cylinder is a testament to Smith & Wesson’s craftsmanship, rotating smoothly and reliably with each pull of the trigger.
The sights on the Smith & Wesson 66-2 consist of a fixed front sight and an adjustable rear sight. This combination is perfect for many applications, making adjustments for windage and elevation simple. The sights are designed to provide a clear and unobstructed view of the target, contributing to the revolver’s renowned accuracy. Many models feature original grips, often made from wood or hard rubber, providing a comfortable and secure hold, even under recoil. A variety of aftermarket grip options are readily available, allowing owners to customize their revolver to suit their individual hand size and preferences.
The trigger mechanism of the Model 66-2 is a crucial aspect of its functionality. It operates as a double-action/single-action system. In double-action mode, pulling the trigger both cocks the hammer and releases it, firing the round. This is the standard mode of operation for most revolvers and allows for rapid firing. In single-action mode, the hammer is manually cocked and then the trigger pull is greatly reduced which improves accuracy. The trigger pull on the Model 66-2 is generally smooth, which can improve the shooter’s ability to achieve accurate shot placement.
Handling and Performance: A Symphony of Firepower and Control
The Smith & Wesson 66-2 is often celebrated for its user-friendly handling characteristics. The overall balance of the revolver feels great in the hand, contributing to a sense of control when firing. This balance is the result of a careful consideration of the frame design, barrel length, and weight distribution. The stainless-steel construction also adds to the overall heft of the gun, which helps to mitigate recoil.
The Model 66-2 delivers excellent accuracy, thanks to a combination of factors, including the quality of the barrel, the sights, and the trigger mechanism. At reasonable distances, it is capable of producing tight groupings, making it a favorite for target shooting. The adjustable rear sight gives shooters the ability to make fine adjustments to improve accuracy.
When firing .357 Magnum rounds, the recoil is noticeable, but the weight and the grip design of the Model 66-2 effectively absorb a significant amount of the energy. This makes it manageable for extended shooting sessions. When using .38 Special ammunition, recoil is even more manageable, making the revolver comfortable for novice shooters to use.
The smooth trigger pull is another factor contributing to the overall shooting experience. This smooth trigger, in both single-action and double-action modes, allows for precise shot placement.
A Versatile Choice for the Modern Shooter
The Smith & Wesson 66-2 is a versatile firearm that shines in a variety of situations.
Its compact size and effective firepower have made it a reliable option for self-defense. The ability to use both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition allows users to select the appropriate cartridge depending on the specific threat or situation. The stainless-steel construction gives it protection from the environment, a key consideration for anyone who carries a firearm for personal protection.
During its time, the Model 66-2 was frequently used by law enforcement agencies. It was prized for its reliability, accuracy, and power, all critical features for police officers working in dangerous conditions. The adoption of the .357 Magnum round provided a significant advantage in terms of stopping power.
Beyond self-defense, the Model 66-2 is very popular among target shooters and recreational shooters. The combination of accuracy, the comfortable handling, and the manageable recoil make it a very enjoyable gun to shoot. The Model 66-2 has a very satisfying shooting experience.
The revolver is also suited for some hunting applications, particularly for small to medium-sized game. The power of the .357 Magnum cartridge provides sufficient energy for a humane kill.
Owning and Caring for Your Piece of History
Maintaining a Smith & Wesson 66-2 is a straightforward process. Regular cleaning and proper lubrication are essential to preserving its functionality and ensuring its longevity. After each shooting session, the revolver should be field stripped, the cylinder cleaned, and any fouling removed from the barrel and other parts.
The stainless steel of the Model 66-2 is inherently resistant to rust. It is still important to pay attention to storage conditions, as a humid environment can still lead to corrosion. Storing the revolver in a secure case or gun safe is advisable.
Replacement parts and accessories are generally easy to find, as the Smith & Wesson Model 66 enjoys a widespread popularity. Aftermarket grips, holsters, and other accessories are available from many manufacturers.
The Model 66-2 holds value as a collectible. Its quality construction, enduring design, and the popularity of the .357 Magnum cartridge contribute to its enduring appeal among firearms collectors. The price of the Model 66-2 varies depending on its condition, barrel length, and whether it comes with its original box.
Comparing the Competition: A Timeless Classic
The Smith & Wesson 66-2 can be directly compared to other K-frame revolvers from Smith & Wesson. Other models like the Model 19, which shares many design features, are very comparable, but the stainless-steel construction of the Model 66-2 is a key advantage. The Model 66-2 is typically considered more durable and requires less maintenance in humid or adverse conditions.
The Model 66-2 also stacks up very well against other .357 Magnum revolvers from competing manufacturers, such as the Colt Python and the Ruger GP100. The Colt Python is known for its exceptional accuracy and elegant design, but the Model 66-2 is often preferred due to its lower price and easier maintenance. The Ruger GP100 is known for its ruggedness, but many shooters consider the K-frame design of the Model 66-2 to be more balanced and easier to handle.
A Lasting Legacy
The Smith & Wesson 66-2 remains a testament to Smith & Wesson’s dedication to craftsmanship and its ability to combine power, precision, and durability in a single package. Its blend of classic design, robust construction, and the versatile power of the .357 Magnum has secured its place in firearms history. For anyone searching for a reliable, accurate, and aesthetically pleasing revolver, the Model 66-2 is a worthy choice. It stands as a reminder of a time when guns were built to last, and the legacy of the classic K-frame continues to resonate with shooters of all experience levels. The Smith & Wesson 66-2 is more than just a firearm; it is a symbol of quality and a celebration of a design that has stood the test of time. Its enduring popularity proves that some things just keep getting better with time.
