I found a 66-3, 2 1/2" NIB at a gun show about 20yrs ago. The seller acquired a stack of them he got from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. GBI was going to semi autos and selling off their remaining revolver inventory. Needless to say, I snapped on up! I will never sell it, a fabulous shooter.
My first and most cherished pistol is my late grandfather's S&W Model 10, M&P .38 Special. There's something special about a grandfather's pistol, without a doubt.
@@bhoward9378 thats a very nice revolver as well i love the model 10 and something definitely special about having your grandfathers guns. My grandpa has been gone for 10 years now and its something that i can definitely remember him by and cherish.
Very nice piece of family history you have there. I have my aunt's 66-2. She bought it brand new in the 80's after some crazy guy shot one of the windows out in her car.
H45. Many years ago, I carried a Smith Model 19, 2 1/2" barrel as a duty gun in Detectives (not stainless). One weekend I entered a 2-course Combat Shoot of 60 rounds each with .357 mag. ammo. Well, there was two groves down the middle of the trigger. At the end, I had two bloody trigger fingers. I used my new Drimel and smoothed the trigger. I also had a gunsmith take a Model 19, 4" and switch barrels. I then had my 4", round butt Model 19. That and Model 66, 4" are my favorite mag carry guns. I carried a Model 19 6" for many years on Patrol but the 4" (or a 3") is the best for a carry AND use revolver. Much later, I got my Smith Model 25JM. I must say that has become my favorite revolver in my current age. Thanks for the memories.
Yes they are. Today when everything is “Tactical “ (which is another way of saying ugly) these old Smith revolvers look more elegant, sophisticated and finely crafted than they did back then.
Have the same gun from my father who bought it in the 70’s for work as a detective. I was with him when he bought it. I was a kid back then. Now it’s mine and it’s a no dash model.
I'm a retired drug agent from a state drug enforcement agency. I was hired in 1982 and was issued a 4" model 66 and the 2½" as my undercover gun. I carried it for a couple of years until I bought the 3" model 65. That was the perfect gun for me. Good for U/C work or as my primary weapon for raids or arrests.
Hickok you are absolutely right, those old pinned barrel recessed chambered firing pin on the hammer no Hillary hole Smiths are absolute pleasures to shoot, super smooth trigger actions, superb fit, finish, and hand fitting. In my opinion even the new Performance Center Smiths can't hold a candle to them
You've got to love S&W, especially their .357 revolvers such as the Model 66 2-1/2", and the Model 586/686 series revolvers in various round capacities a barrel lengths. Thank you for the insight you impart in your videos. I am always glued to your presentations.
As always, another great video. I carried the 66-1 in the 4” and 2 1/2” configurations in my LE career from the late 70’s until the late 80’s when we switched over to the 686’s and then to semi autos. The model 66 was by far my favorite. I have been able to replace the 66-1 in both configurations. They both are great shooters and will never leave my collection. Thanks again for these awesome revolver videos.
When I read your post, it seemed like I wrote it as we went through the exact transition. I bought my Glock 22 when I retired but I also bought my Smith Model 66, 4" when we went to the 686s. Unlike most of my contemporaries, I stuck with the 4" for all uses (well, ALL MOST all uses as I used a Colt Combat adapted 1911 as a raid and SWAT gun).
I had a Model 66-1 with a 4” barrel and a nice trigger. It had the original box, paper work and cleaning kit in the bag. I foolishly traded it off to a friend and always regretted doing so. A year or two later I found a great deal on a 2 1/2” 66-1 and grabbed it but always missed my previous 66. Eventually I got a chance to get my original 66 back and I will never part with it again. They are fantastic guns. I love my revolvers and lever actions. There’s just something special about firearms made out of metal and wood.
I have a 19-4 exactly the same as yours in nickel finish. I kept the original stocks for the looks. Very fun at the range on pins and gongs. It’s quit an attraction for the young shooters. Cheers from FRANCE .
As you mentioned, there were SW Model 19's in 2 1/2 inch. In the mid '70s. I purchased a retired State Troopers off duty gun, and it was perfect in every regard. I had a larger finger groove handle made to my individual hand, and i could shoot it like a lazer. Many times, put 2 full power loads into a shirt pocket size target at 60 yards to prove that point. Passed it on to my daughter; she dislikes recoil, but she can get both hands on that larger grip, and knows it will hit exactly on the point of aim.
I have a 2 1/2 inch model 19 and it's a wonderfully accurate revolver. One thing I discovered is that the short barrel means there is a much tighter "fill" between the front post and rear notch, which effectively cancels out the loss in sight radius. I have a local nearby that has a 25 yard Pistol range and a 50 yard Rifle range, both heated and under roof. I like to do my handgun shooting on the Rifle range because there are very few knuckleheads on the Rifle range. In addition I can also shoot at longer distances. When I first got my model 19 I naturally had to test it out. So after shooting a box of ammo at 15 to 25 yards I took the second box and shot most of that at 35 yards. I save the last 12 rounds for 50 yard targets. That was a bit of an eye opener, shooting offhand in single action I was able to place 8 out of 12 shots within a 7 inch circle and 12 out of 12 within an 11 inch circle. To sum it up, head shots at 50 yards are perfect feasible with a 2 1/2 inch model 10. Also found out that basic sight setup is regulated for 158 grain bullets, shoot 130 grain ammo and you will need to crank the rear sight as high as it will go to get it to shoot to the point of aim.
Thank you for another excellent video, Hickok45! In 1976 I bought a Model 19-2 with a 6" barrel then in the '80s a 66-3, 2 1/2". Then last year a 686+ in 4.25". Today I bought a Model 63-5 in 3" because it's so much like my Model 66 but much cheaper to shoot. Gotta love S&W double action revolvers!
Yeah you just can't beat them S&W wheel guns. When I turned 21 in 1981 the very first pistol I purchased was a model 66 with full lug 6 inch barrel. I still have it and it is my all time favorite. Life is good.
I have a model 19-3, nickel plated, 2.5 barrel in prestine condition. According to the serial number, it was manufactured in 1970. I don' t even shoot it. Its a safe queen. Collectors item.
Nice revolver Hickok! Grew up shooting them with a 357 Blackhawk my first handgun when I turned 21. Carried a Mod. 28 for several years on duty when we went to 681’s and then Smith 9mms. Have a 2.5 inch Mod. 19 and still enjoy shooting it. Thanks for the video!
me too but one time, after cleaning, the trigger action didn't seem smooth, took it apart and found a tiny piece of brass thread ( from the cleaning tool ) how it every got in there i do not know!
@@robozstarrr8930 From the cleaning tool .Mystery solved ( just a little humor )!. I have a 21/2 66-3 ,bought it new in 1988 , never fired it , my oldest son (37) wants it. I may just give it to him ,
The model 66-1 is my EDC outfitted with Pachmyer rubber grips. My trigger was done with a silky smooth pull in both single and double action. I’ve got hand cannons I could carry, but love the feel. I did switch the rear sight for a white outline sight. One other addition is a piece of aluminum duct tape on the upper side of the frame just above the barrel to keep the frame from sub sustaining damage from magnum loads. I also have a 6” version that if push comes to shove, I’ll have rebarreled with the 2-3/4” barrel. The downside is it’s a square butt.
My first ever revolver was a S&W model 19, nickel plated with 6” barrel. I bought it new in 1976 and loved it. Sold it to my father-in law. I sure miss it.
Great video! I originally bought the 66 in a 4” when they first came out in the 70s to carry as my duty weapon. Was so pleased with it bought a 21/2” when I went into plainclothes carried that till the 80s and only gave it up for the 5906 when the department switched to 9mm. For hunting I bought a 6” and have nothing but good to say about all three! Still carry them all! Hopefully my grandsons will also enjoy them as much as I did!
Owned and carried the 66 in 4” on duty for about a year. Traded on a 681. When we transitioned to autoloaders I sold the 681. Silly me! Both were wonderful revolvers, as were frankly every other Smith I carried or owned.
The first gun I ever owned was a rattle-trap 1911 I bought from a guy in December of 1965. All of the TV detectives carried .38 snubby revolvers, and I was very glad that I was one step above them.
I have had a 66-2 from new since about 1980. It was my duty gun until the department transitioned to 40 S&W Glocks. It is my go to pistol for annual re-qualification.
You obviously have this compound mistaken for that guy with ADHD over at Demolition Ranch. If you watch enough of Hickock 45s videos, you will see the entire collection, eventually.
I had the three and a half inch version of the S&W Model 27-2 in the 1970s and I was still able to keep all the bullet strikes in the black at 50 yards with a lot of practice and I mean a lot of practice. I got rid of it after a few years because I would go out to the desert and shoot Magnums and after a while the cylinder Gap was stretching and I didn't want to mess with it sending it back to Smith and Wesson for repairs. I traded it in for the steel version of the S&W Model 39 with the internal extractor. This was a wonderful pistol.
What an amazing channel this is. There are very few guns this man hasn't tried. I'm an author, and frequently search details of firearms. Almost every time, this channel comes up.
I've occasionally conceal-carried my S&W Model 65, 3" barrel with boot grips. A lot of power in a medium-sized package. I once took it on a guided tour of the Everglades, walking thru swamp water sometimes up to my hips. I wanted something powerful but discreet, in case an alligator decided to attach itself to my ankle, lol.
Of all my handguns, I have two "favorite" revolvers. One of the two is a S & W model 66-1 with a six-inch barrel that I purchased brand new in 1976. One of my very few guns that I get it out of storage every month or two just to admire both it's feel & beauty. That stainless is gorgeous! Thanks for the video . .
There isn't much out there as lovely as a pre-lock Smith & Wesson wheelgun. And a snub stainless model is pretty darn good for carry too. Great video, and a great piece!
@ii_007 I'm still holding out hope that Ruger brings back the Speed/Service/Security Six series of revolvers someday. I vastly prefer them over the SP-101 and GP100 that replaced them.
@@frankcampbell4144 so just personal preference not anything to do with performance. I have a couple of prelock guns and other than cosmetic I don’t really see a difference.
@@frederickhuicochea46 I read somewhere a while back that the issue ( real or not ) was the possibility of the lock engaging unintentionally. I don’t see how, but once a story like that is out there, it becomes gospel. I just think disabling a firearm is dangerous and unnecessary.
My first duty gun was a 4" 686. I really liked it. I bought the 686 because the gun magazines were really touting it. I later went to work for a department that required me to carry their gun. The issued me a brand, spanking, new model 19 4". It didn't take me long to totally fall in love with the k frame. The weight and the balance were, we'll, just perfect. The detectives and the Sheriff himself carried model 19 2 1/2" guns. I really wanted one. We "modernized" to automatics and I carried several different guns. Sigs, Beretta, Browning, and 1911's. A few years ago I picked up a 66 snub. I really loved it. I know carry as a civilian, and it was perfect. I still don't know why parted with my 66; but I regret it every day. As I get older my 1911 gets heavier, and with a bad back(sustained in the line of duty and it ended my career) it causes sever pain to carry too long. By fall I intend to replace my 66.
My favorite revolvers have always been S&W .357's. I have a 66 with a 4 inch barrel that belonged to my dad. He got it from his best friend who was an Iowa state police officer. It's in its original old blue box, the pistol is stamped on the side with the initials ISP. it would be the last revolver I'd ever sell. When it comes to my favorite carry revolver it's my S&W 649 .357 with crimson trace grips. You'd think it would be kind of heavy, but once secured inside the waistband it goes away. Having the bodyguard frame with the option for single or double action and the weight makes it a very pleasant pistol at the range.
@Andreas Ivanovich Oddly enough, I've never owned an "L" frame. I'm sure they're great too. I also have another police .357, a model 28 Hiway Patrolman which is an "N" frame. That has some heft to it and makes it a dream to shoot with .38 special at the range.
Beautiful Smith & Wesson revolvers ! Back when they were in my opinion better all around especially the blue finish and those p & r models. Have a Blessed Day
I LOVE my 66 (no dash) with 4 inch barrel and fat target grips and wide target trigger. It’s intimidating looking but I love it for the crisp trigger and accuracy.
Bought the same revolver back in '87. It was my first big bore handgun. Actually chose it over a Python because, as I remember, it was about $200 bucks cheaper at the old M.C. Sportings Goods back in the day. Some two dozen pistol and revolver purchases later, and it still holds priority when I carry .357 Magnum. Great firearm in my collection.
There's just something about a Hickok history video - thank you. I've got a 1976 Model 66 4" barrel and now I want a 2.5". I see you're shooting 150 grain 357 on the older cone without any problems. Anyone else have success long term with 357 rounds on these with the older (flat bottom) cone? Thanks again for great videos!
Have one of the first guns I shot w my dad about about age 8. It is a model 66 no dash w a 4 inch barrel and plenty of use Still shoots great and what a trigger!
Thank you very much. But I live in Germany and her we have restrictive firearm laws. Nevertheless I appreciate your channel very much. Here one can learn a lot about firearm technology and firearm history, and even about history in general. It’s actually a very interesting TH-cam channel! 👍
I have my father’s model 66 no dash 2.5” barrel he carried as a homocide detective in Atlanta. I was there when he bought it in the lane 70’s - early 80’s.
I scored a 4” 66-1 a couple of months ago from a colleague who carried it on duty in the late 80s. Couldn’t believe my luck! I carried the more utilitarian 65 back then. He had Pachmyer Decelerator grips on it. I found my oversized wood target stocks in my basement, cleaned them up with furniture polish, and slapped them on. It’s nice to have both options. I love the older Smiths ❤
The 70’s and 80’s ‘gun shops’ that were substantial, usually carried mostly American made weapons, like Smith & Wesson, Colt, and Sturm & Ruger, then along came ‘right to work’ and NAFTA.
I found a 66-3, 2 1/2" NIB at a gun show about 20yrs ago. The seller acquired a stack of them he got from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. GBI was going to semi autos and selling off their remaining revolver inventory. Needless to say, I snapped on up! I will never sell it, a fabulous shooter.
Need this in my life 🇺🇸
Try out the S&W 327 Performance Center, 8 rounds of .357
Yes Sir you do. I have owned one since 87 and currently own two.
us
Same
The perfect handgun for DM Slyder.
The 19 and 66 are my absolute favorite revolvers. The 2 1/2 inch barrels make these the ultimate “snubby”.
Absolutely i still carry my model 19-4 , never felt safer with that 2 1/2 inch powerhouse
Got a 66-1 in 4 inch. It was my grandpas carry gun for the Arkansas State Police. Has the ASP logo on it and it is by far my most cherished gun.
My first and most cherished pistol is my late grandfather's S&W Model 10, M&P .38 Special. There's something special about a grandfather's pistol, without a doubt.
I just bought a 66-1 from a friend and it’s a thing of beauty. Yours is even better with its background and legacy. 🙏👍
@@bhoward9378 thats a very nice revolver as well i love the model 10 and something definitely special about having your grandfathers guns. My grandpa has been gone for 10 years now and its something that i can definitely remember him by and cherish.
Very nice piece of family history you have there. I have my aunt's 66-2. She bought it brand new in the 80's after some crazy guy shot one of the windows out in her car.
The model 66 in 4 inch is really the only handgun you'll ever need.
H45. Many years ago, I carried a Smith Model 19, 2 1/2" barrel as a duty gun in Detectives (not stainless). One weekend I entered a 2-course Combat Shoot of 60 rounds each with .357 mag. ammo. Well, there was two groves down the middle of the trigger. At the end, I had two bloody trigger fingers. I used my new Drimel and smoothed the trigger. I also had a gunsmith take a Model 19, 4" and switch barrels. I then had my 4", round butt Model 19. That and Model 66, 4" are my favorite mag carry guns. I carried a Model 19 6" for many years on Patrol but the 4" (or a 3") is the best for a carry AND use revolver. Much later, I got my Smith Model 25JM. I must say that has become my favorite revolver in my current age. Thanks for the memories.
An elegant weapon for a more civilized time…
Ahem…”civilized age”
Yes they are.
Today when everything is “Tactical “ (which is another way of saying ugly) these old Smith revolvers look more elegant, sophisticated and finely crafted than they did back then.
Have the same gun from my father who bought it in the 70’s for work as a detective. I was with him when he bought it. I was a kid back then. Now it’s mine and it’s a no dash model.
I'm a retired drug agent from a state drug enforcement agency. I was hired in 1982 and was issued a 4" model 66 and the 2½" as my undercover gun. I carried it for a couple of years until I bought the 3" model 65. That was the perfect gun for me. Good for U/C work or as my primary weapon for raids or arrests.
Hickok you are absolutely right, those old pinned barrel recessed chambered firing pin on the hammer no Hillary hole Smiths are absolute pleasures to shoot, super smooth trigger actions, superb fit, finish, and hand fitting. In my opinion even the new Performance Center Smiths can't hold a candle to them
I fire the 686 Plus 7-round 2 1/2" barrel. I love it. As a cop in Texas I started with the Model 19 and in the 80's it was the 686 with a 4" barrel.
You've got to love S&W, especially their .357 revolvers such as the Model 66 2-1/2", and the Model 586/686 series revolvers in various round capacities a barrel lengths. Thank you for the insight you impart in your videos. I am always glued to your presentations.
Absolutely my favorite guns ever made were most all the models Smith and Wesson manufactured from mid 80s through mid 90s
My first revolver, the S&W model 66 (4”) that I bought in ‘83. Still a favorite of mine.
My dad just gave me that exact gun with original box an cleaning accessories...love it
We share the same feeling for wheel guns! My heart beats faster every time I pick one up. Thanks for the video.
As always, another great video. I carried the 66-1 in the 4” and 2 1/2” configurations in my LE career from the late 70’s until the late 80’s when we switched over to the 686’s and then to semi autos. The model 66 was by far my favorite. I have been able to replace the 66-1 in both configurations. They both are great shooters and will never leave my collection. Thanks again for these awesome revolver videos.
When I read your post, it seemed like I wrote it as we went through the exact transition. I bought my Glock 22 when I retired but I also bought my Smith Model 66, 4" when we went to the 686s. Unlike most of my contemporaries, I stuck with the 4" for all uses (well, ALL MOST all uses as I used a Colt Combat adapted 1911 as a raid and SWAT gun).
I had a Model 66-1 with a 4” barrel and a nice trigger. It had the original box, paper work and cleaning kit in the bag. I foolishly traded it off to a friend and always regretted doing so. A year or two later I found a great deal on a 2 1/2” 66-1 and grabbed it but always missed my previous 66. Eventually I got a chance to get my original 66 back and I will never part with it again. They are fantastic guns. I love my revolvers and lever actions. There’s just something special about firearms made out of metal and wood.
S&W has always made reliable, dependable revolvers. Very nice revolver you have.
@ii_007 WHOT?
@ii_007 Ruger and reliability..... LoLllllllll
I have a 19-4 exactly the same as yours in nickel finish. I kept the original stocks for the looks. Very fun at the range on pins and gongs. It’s quit an attraction for the young shooters. Cheers from FRANCE .
As you mentioned, there were SW Model 19's in 2 1/2 inch. In the mid '70s. I purchased a retired State Troopers off duty gun, and it was perfect in every regard. I had a larger finger groove handle made to my individual hand, and i could shoot it like a lazer. Many times, put 2 full power loads into a shirt pocket size target at 60 yards to prove that point. Passed it on to my daughter; she dislikes recoil, but she can get both hands on that larger grip, and knows it will hit exactly on the point of aim.
I have a 2 1/2 inch model 19 and it's a wonderfully accurate revolver. One thing I discovered is that the short barrel means there is a much tighter "fill" between the front post and rear notch, which effectively cancels out the loss in sight radius. I have a local nearby that has a 25 yard Pistol range and a 50 yard Rifle range, both heated and under roof. I like to do my handgun shooting on the Rifle range because there are very few knuckleheads on the Rifle range. In addition I can also shoot at longer distances. When I first got my model 19 I naturally had to test it out. So after shooting a box of ammo at 15 to 25 yards I took the second box and shot most of that at 35 yards. I save the last 12 rounds for 50 yard targets. That was a bit of an eye opener, shooting offhand in single action I was able to place 8 out of 12 shots within a 7 inch circle and 12 out of 12 within an 11 inch circle. To sum it up, head shots at 50 yards are perfect feasible with a 2 1/2 inch model 10. Also found out that basic sight setup is regulated for 158 grain bullets, shoot 130 grain ammo and you will need to crank the rear sight as high as it will go to get it to shoot to the point of aim.
I've found Smith and Wesson's guns to have the best ergonomics of any manufacturer. They feel so natural in the hand.
Hickok you're the best as well.
My first pistol is a 4" model 66. Didn't realize the importance of it when I bought it back in the 90's. Glad I got it.
Thank you for another excellent video, Hickok45! In 1976 I bought a Model 19-2 with a 6" barrel then in the '80s a 66-3, 2 1/2". Then last year a 686+ in 4.25". Today I bought a Model 63-5 in 3" because it's so much like my Model 66 but much cheaper to shoot. Gotta love S&W double action revolvers!
Yeah you just can't beat them S&W wheel guns. When I turned 21 in 1981 the very first pistol I purchased was a model 66 with full lug 6 inch barrel. I still have it and it is my all time favorite. Life is good.
got one from my dad. he always talked about it and now I own it. nice piece of family heirloom
My first handgun was an issued model 65. I bought a 686 2 1/2 inch for off duty carry. The 686 is my winter carry gun to this day.
Gotta agree, an S&W K,L, or N frame in stainless 2" to 3" round butt of that era is something to own. That 66 looks like a model 60 in Hickok's hand.
I’ve had my 2.5” 66 for about 25 years. I’ll be happy to have it for another 25.
I have a model 19-3, nickel plated, 2.5 barrel in prestine condition. According to the serial number, it was manufactured in 1970. I don' t even shoot it. Its a safe queen. Collectors item.
Enjoy your show. Man, you are a wizard with a handgun. Also with a rifle. You are something to watch.
Amen.
Had one back in the days. Did some combat competition with it and I absolutely loved it. Such a classic gun, you can’t go wrong
I love the 2.5” 19/66. They are timeless.
My first gun, gifted to me by my dad at 18. Still have and love it.
Do shoot schools please
Nice revolver Hickok! Grew up shooting them with a 357 Blackhawk my first handgun when I turned 21. Carried a Mod. 28 for several years on duty when we went to 681’s and then Smith 9mms. Have a 2.5 inch Mod. 19 and still enjoy shooting it. Thanks for the video!
I received one as an award at the NY State Police academy in 1988. Still have it and carry it on occasion. Love that gun.
I have a Model 66-1 with a 4" barrel. I have had it for around 20 years. For several years, it was my only pistol. It's a great, reliable firearm.
I've got a newer m66 "Combat Magnum" with the 2.75" barrel.
Good gun: reliable, accurate and easy to carry.
I have a 66-2 2-1/2", thing is a work of art and works so smooth. Easily my favorite of everything I have.
me too but one time, after cleaning, the trigger action didn't seem smooth, took it apart and found a tiny piece of brass thread ( from the cleaning tool ) how it every got in there i do not know!
@@robozstarrr8930 From the cleaning tool .Mystery solved ( just a little humor )!. I have a 21/2 66-3 ,bought it new in 1988 , never fired it , my oldest son (37) wants it. I may just give it to him ,
The model 66-1 is my EDC outfitted with Pachmyer rubber grips. My trigger was done with a silky smooth pull in both single and double action.
I’ve got hand cannons I could carry, but love the feel. I did switch the rear sight for a white outline sight. One other addition is a piece of aluminum duct tape on the upper side of the frame just above the barrel to keep the frame from sub sustaining damage from magnum loads. I also have a 6” version that if push comes to shove, I’ll have rebarreled with the 2-3/4” barrel. The downside is it’s a square butt.
Thanks for the history lesson. Nothing sweeter than a pinned and recessed model 66 or model 19.
My first ever revolver was a S&W model 19, nickel plated with 6” barrel. I bought it new in 1976 and loved it. Sold it to my father-in law. I sure miss it.
Great video! I originally bought the 66 in a 4” when they first came out in the 70s to carry as my duty weapon. Was so pleased with it bought a 21/2” when I went into plainclothes carried that till the 80s and only gave it up for the 5906 when the department switched to 9mm. For hunting I bought a 6” and have nothing but good to say about all three! Still carry them all! Hopefully my grandsons will also enjoy them as much as I did!
Owned and carried the 66 in 4” on duty for about a year. Traded on a 681. When we transitioned to autoloaders I sold the 681. Silly me! Both were wonderful revolvers, as were frankly every other Smith I carried or owned.
Love them old Smiths. The older I get, the more I like em. 💯
Me too…recently obtained a 629..it’s shoots so well I just want more of them…
The first gun I ever owned was a rattle-trap 1911 I bought from a guy in December of 1965. All of the TV detectives carried .38 snubby revolvers, and I was very glad that I was one step above them.
S&W 66 forse uno dei più bei revoler mai costruiti al mondo...(for me)...S&W 66 perhaps one of the most beautiful revolvers ever built in the world.
I have had a 66-2 from new since about 1980. It was my duty gun until the department transitioned to 40 S&W
Glocks. It is my go to pistol for annual re-qualification.
I’ve got the 4” version. It was my younger brother’s gun. His widow gave it to me.
Best trigger for a revolver I’ve ever shot.
I’m sorry you lost your brother. That’s never easy. May his memory be eternal. 🙏🏻🕯️☦️
I'd love to see a full collection video one day if that was possible. awesome work boys love the content
this. i vote this
You obviously have this compound mistaken for that guy with ADHD over at Demolition Ranch.
If you watch enough of Hickock 45s videos, you will see the entire collection, eventually.
Won’t happen for obvious reasons. I’d love to see it though.
Yeah so that the media can make up a story. 🤣
(fuk the ATF and fuk the FBI)
@@southernbuck101georgia2 Don't know that guy, I only watch Hickock45 for gun content. I'm not from the states and just enjoy his videos.
I had the three and a half inch version of the S&W Model 27-2 in the 1970s and I was still able to keep all the bullet strikes in the black at 50 yards with a lot of practice and I mean a lot of practice. I got rid of it after a few years because I would go out to the desert and shoot Magnums and after a while the cylinder Gap was stretching and I didn't want to mess with it sending it back to Smith and Wesson for repairs. I traded it in for the steel version of the S&W Model 39 with the internal extractor. This was a wonderful pistol.
Wow how I miss my 66. I lost it and my 629/4 inch mountain gun in a fire a few years ago.
I love watching gong shots. Seeing that bullet in flight just before it hits..."BING" then seeing it bounce off is just COOL.
What an amazing channel this is. There are very few guns this man hasn't tried. I'm an author, and frequently search details of firearms. Almost every time, this channel comes up.
After watching your 1st video on the 66 eight years ago, I went a bought a 1993 Smith 66-2 & LOVE IT!
I've occasionally conceal-carried my S&W Model 65, 3" barrel with boot grips. A lot of power in a medium-sized package. I once took it on a guided tour of the Everglades, walking thru swamp water sometimes up to my hips. I wanted something powerful but discreet, in case an alligator decided to attach itself to my ankle, lol.
Of all my handguns, I have two "favorite" revolvers. One of the two is a S & W model 66-1 with a six-inch barrel that I purchased brand new in 1976. One of my very few guns that I get it out of storage every month or two just to admire both it's feel & beauty. That stainless is gorgeous! Thanks for the video . .
I own an old 5 screw model. It's from the thirties. Very accurate sub half inch groups, with the right reloads.
There isn't much out there as lovely as a pre-lock Smith & Wesson wheelgun. And a snub stainless model is pretty darn good for carry too. Great video, and a great piece!
And it has a round butt😅.
@ii_007 I'm still holding out hope that Ruger brings back the Speed/Service/Security Six series of revolvers someday. I vastly prefer them over the SP-101 and GP100 that replaced them.
What's the deal with the lock? How does it affect the functioning of the gun or the looks?
@@frankcampbell4144 so just personal preference not anything to do with performance. I have a couple of prelock guns and other than cosmetic I don’t really see a difference.
@@frederickhuicochea46 I read somewhere a while back that the issue ( real or not ) was the possibility of the lock engaging unintentionally. I don’t see how, but once a story like that is out there, it becomes gospel. I just think disabling a firearm is dangerous and unnecessary.
My first duty gun was a 4" 686. I really liked it. I bought the 686 because the gun magazines were really touting it.
I later went to work for a department that required me to carry their gun. The issued me a brand, spanking, new model 19 4". It didn't take me long to totally fall in love with the k frame. The weight and the balance were, we'll, just perfect. The detectives and the Sheriff himself carried model 19 2 1/2" guns. I really wanted one. We "modernized" to automatics and I carried several different guns. Sigs, Beretta, Browning, and 1911's. A few years ago I picked up a 66 snub. I really loved it. I know carry as a civilian, and it was perfect. I still don't know why parted with my 66; but I regret it every day. As I get older my 1911 gets heavier, and with a bad back(sustained in the line of duty and it ended my career) it causes sever pain to carry too long. By fall I intend to replace my 66.
My second gun was a 66-8. I absolutely love it!
Very nice s & w 66 and nice seeing you're other revolvers thanks for sharing Hickok45
This was my first pistol! Best gift ever, great memories too
I used to have one I bought used about 1990. I put Wolf springs in it. It was an amazingly accurate revolver. Wish I still had it.
loved my old 66... wish i would never have sold it. had the 4" stainless and used it when working in law enforcement. cheers
My favorite revolvers have always been S&W .357's. I have a 66 with a 4 inch barrel that belonged to my dad. He got it from his best friend who was an Iowa state police officer. It's in its original old blue box, the pistol is stamped on the side with the initials ISP. it would be the last revolver I'd ever sell. When it comes to my favorite carry revolver it's my S&W 649 .357 with crimson trace grips. You'd think it would be kind of heavy, but once secured inside the waistband it goes away. Having the bodyguard frame with the option for single or double action and the weight makes it a very pleasant pistol at the range.
@Andreas Ivanovich Oddly enough, I've never owned an "L" frame. I'm sure they're great too. I also have another police .357, a model 28 Hiway Patrolman which is an "N" frame. That has some heft to it and makes it a dream to shoot with .38 special at the range.
Thanks for the history of this iconic firearm.
I always get something new from your videos.
My model 66-2 2 1/2” bbl is my very favorite of my revolvers. Just a sweet shooter.
May be hard to believe, but I still have my Model 66, the box and the wax paper that I purchased new in 1984. It has never been shot!
I have a 66 no dash it is one of my favorites. Stainless with the 2 1/2 barrel.
Smith & Wesson Model 66, and Model 36, are good carry weapons and good backup weapons.
Beautiful Smith & Wesson revolvers ! Back when they were in my opinion better all around especially the blue finish and those p & r models. Have a Blessed Day
Some things just never grow old, whether its .357 magnum or Hickok45. 👍
Undisputed king of gun channels. My dream is to one day live life as good as Hickok45.
I LOVE my 66 (no dash) with 4 inch barrel and fat target grips and wide target trigger. It’s intimidating looking but I love it for the crisp trigger and accuracy.
My Dads first duty gun in 72. S&W model 66. Beautiful
So much nicer than the stuff Smith & Wesson makes today.
Bought the same revolver back in '87. It was my first big bore handgun. Actually chose it over a Python because, as I remember, it was about $200 bucks cheaper at the old M.C. Sportings Goods back in the day.
Some two dozen pistol and revolver purchases later, and it still holds priority when I carry .357 Magnum. Great firearm in my collection.
For everyone with a 2-1/2” barrel remember this: it’s not the size of the boat, it’s the motion of the ocean.
That's what everyone with a little weiner tells themselves.
Nothing beats revolvers in regard to the "cool factor." Those Smiths are all beautiful guns.
There's just something about a Hickok history video - thank you. I've got a 1976 Model 66 4" barrel and now I want a 2.5". I see you're shooting 150 grain 357 on the older cone without any problems. Anyone else have success long term with 357 rounds on these with the older (flat bottom) cone? Thanks again for great videos!
When he finally hit the gong, it almost looked like he hit a sub moa group! Amazing!
I bought a 4” stainless model 66 with walnut grips from a local pawn shop last December. I love it,it’s a very accurate revolver.
I feel your passion for the old Smith wheel guns have had a few over the years some I regret ever getting rid of
Have one of the first guns I shot w my dad about about age 8. It is a model 66 no dash w a 4 inch barrel and plenty of use
Still shoots great and what a trigger!
Thank you very much. But I live in Germany and her we have restrictive firearm laws.
Nevertheless I appreciate your channel very much. Here one can learn a lot about firearm technology and firearm history, and even about history in general. It’s actually a very interesting TH-cam channel! 👍
my grandpa has a police issue colt .38, he was never a police officer but did serve in Vietnam, its a beautiful handgun i hope to inherit it
That's really cool, so did he carry it in Vietnam?
@@adamcuneo7189 no, it was gifted to him by his police buddy.
I have my father’s model 66 no dash 2.5” barrel he carried as a homocide detective in Atlanta. I was there when he bought it in the lane 70’s - early 80’s.
I scored a 4” 66-1 a couple of months ago from a colleague who carried it on duty in the late 80s. Couldn’t believe my luck! I carried the more utilitarian 65 back then.
He had Pachmyer Decelerator grips on it. I found my oversized wood target stocks in my basement, cleaned them up with furniture polish, and slapped them on. It’s nice to have both options.
I love the older Smiths ❤
They're all beuts
Great revolver. I own a model 66 with a 3 ¼” barrel (3.2 actually). Only 2500 made. I love these pre-lock Smiths.
I have one of the MD 66 with the 3" barrel...it's my daily carry. It's the perfect EDC
The 66 snub was the duty issue gun for me at Louisiana Probation & Parole until replaced by the Glock 19.
Wonderful video, as always, Hickok. I'm blessed to have a 66-1 with the 6 inch barrel... one of my favorite revolvers, for sure!
The 70’s and 80’s ‘gun shops’ that were substantial, usually carried mostly American made weapons, like Smith & Wesson, Colt, and Sturm & Ruger, then along came ‘right to work’ and NAFTA.
Putting two shots touching each other on the gong with that is wizard level - wow!
Thank you for the wonderful trip down memory lane with S&W.
Great video! I love S & W as well as Dan Wesson .357 revolvers. You are spot on as they were the hottest ticket in the 1970s. So awesome.
I just realized this channel has 7 million subscribers. well done.
My first firearm, a model 13,4 inch nickel plated. 47 years ago, still have it.
Love S&W....I have a 586,686,69,and 60 and a MP2.0 40 S&W performance center ...Thank you again,hickok45
I forgot the 38 special my daughter stole lol
I looked for several years before scoring a nice 66 - 3 and haven’t seen one since.