Smith Wesson Model 66 Review

The Smith & Wesson Model 66 is a revolver that has been a staple in the firearms industry for decades. Its reputation for reliability, accuracy, and durability has made it a popular choice among law enforcement, hunters, and gun enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will delve into the features, benefits, and drawbacks of the Smith & Wesson Model 66, providing an in-depth review of this iconic revolver.

The Smith & Wesson Model 66 has a rich history, dating back to the 1970s. It was designed as a stainless steel version of the Model 19, which was a popular revolver at the time. The Model 66 was intended to provide a more corrosion-resistant alternative to the Model 19, making it ideal for use in harsh environments. Over the years, the Model 66 has undergone several design changes and improvements, resulting in the versatile and reliable revolver we know today.

Design and Features

The Smith & Wesson Model 66 features a stainless steel frame, cylinder, and barrel, making it highly resistant to corrosion. The revolver has a 4-inch or 6-inch barrel, depending on the model, and a 6-shot cylinder. The Model 66 is chambered in .357 Magnum, allowing it to fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges. The revolver's design includes a fixed sight, a smooth trigger pull, and a comfortable grip, making it easy to handle and accurate to shoot.

Benefits of the Smith & Wesson Model 66

The Smith & Wesson Model 66 offers several benefits that make it a popular choice among gun enthusiasts. Some of the key advantages of this revolver include: * Reliability: The Model 66 is known for its reliability and ability to withstand harsh environments. * Accuracy: The revolver's fixed sight and smooth trigger pull make it accurate and easy to shoot. * Durability: The stainless steel construction of the Model 66 makes it highly resistant to corrosion and wear. * Versatility: The Model 66 can fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges, making it a versatile choice for hunting, self-defense, and target shooting.

Performance and Handling

The Smith & Wesson Model 66 is known for its excellent performance and handling. The revolver's smooth trigger pull and fixed sight make it easy to aim and shoot accurately. The Model 66's stainless steel construction also provides a comfortable grip, reducing recoil and making it easier to handle. In terms of performance, the Model 66 is capable of delivering accurate shots at distances of up to 100 yards, making it suitable for hunting and target shooting.

Comparison to Other Revolvers

The Smith & Wesson Model 66 is often compared to other revolvers on the market, such as the Ruger GP100 and the Colt Python. While these revolvers have their own unique features and benefits, the Model 66 stands out for its reliability, accuracy, and durability. Some of the key differences between the Model 66 and other revolvers include: * Stainless steel construction: The Model 66's stainless steel construction makes it more corrosion-resistant than other revolvers. * Fixed sight: The Model 66's fixed sight provides a more accurate aim than adjustable sights found on other revolvers. * Smooth trigger pull: The Model 66's smooth trigger pull makes it easier to shoot accurately than other revolvers with heavier trigger pulls.

Maintenance and Accessories

The Smith & Wesson Model 66 requires regular maintenance to ensure its reliability and accuracy. Some of the key maintenance tasks include: * Cleaning: The Model 66 should be cleaned regularly to remove dirt and debris from the barrel and cylinder. * Lubrication: The Model 66's moving parts should be lubricated regularly to reduce wear and tear. * Inspection: The Model 66 should be inspected regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks in the frame or cylinder.

In terms of accessories, the Smith & Wesson Model 66 can be equipped with a variety of aftermarket accessories, such as:

Holsters: The Model 66 can be fitted with a variety of holsters, including leather and synthetic holsters.
Sights: The Model 66's fixed sight can be replaced with aftermarket sights, such as adjustable sights or night sights.
Grips: The Model 66's grip can be replaced with aftermarket grips, such as rubber or wood grips.

Accessories and Modifications

Some popular accessories and modifications for the Smith & Wesson Model 66 include: * Trigger jobs: The Model 66's trigger pull can be improved with a trigger job, which reduces the weight and smoothness of the trigger pull. * Sight upgrades: The Model 66's fixed sight can be upgraded with aftermarket sights, such as adjustable sights or night sights. * Grip upgrades: The Model 66's grip can be upgraded with aftermarket grips, such as rubber or wood grips.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Smith & Wesson Model 66 is a reliable, accurate, and durable revolver that is suitable for a variety of applications, including hunting, self-defense, and target shooting. Its stainless steel construction, fixed sight, and smooth trigger pull make it a popular choice among gun enthusiasts. While it may have some drawbacks, such as its weight and size, the Model 66 is a versatile and reliable revolver that is sure to provide years of service.

Final Verdict

The Smith & Wesson Model 66 is a highly recommended revolver for anyone looking for a reliable and accurate firearm. Its durability, versatility, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced shooters. Whether you're looking for a revolver for hunting, self-defense, or target shooting, the Model 66 is sure to meet your needs.

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Smith & Wesson Model 66 Review Comparison

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What is the Smith & Wesson Model 66?

The Smith & Wesson Model 66 is a revolver that is known for its reliability, accuracy, and durability. It is a popular choice among law enforcement, hunters, and gun enthusiasts alike.

What are the benefits of the Smith & Wesson Model 66?

The Smith & Wesson Model 66 offers several benefits, including its reliability, accuracy, and durability. It is also versatile and can be used for a variety of applications, including hunting, self-defense, and target shooting.

How do I maintain my Smith & Wesson Model 66?

To maintain your Smith & Wesson Model 66, you should regularly clean and lubricate the revolver. You should also inspect the revolver for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks in the frame or cylinder.

What are some popular accessories for the Smith & Wesson Model 66?

Some popular accessories for the Smith & Wesson Model 66 include holsters, sights, and grips. You can also upgrade the revolver's trigger and action for improved performance.

Is the Smith & Wesson Model 66 a good choice for self-defense?

Yes, the Smith & Wesson Model 66 is a good choice for self-defense. It is a reliable and accurate revolver that is capable of delivering effective stopping power. However, it is always important to consider your personal needs and preferences when choosing a self-defense firearm.

We hope this review of the Smith & Wesson Model 66 has been helpful in providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision about this revolver. Whether you're looking for a reliable and accurate firearm for hunting, self-defense, or target shooting, the Model 66 is sure to meet your needs. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We would love to hear from you and help you in any way we can.