A Tale of Two Revolvers
The legacy of Smith & Wesson is etched in the annals of firearms history, a testament to the company’s relentless pursuit of quality and innovation. The Model 66 and the Model 686 are cornerstones of that legacy, embodying different design philosophies and serving distinct roles within the Smith & Wesson family. Understanding their stories provides essential context for comparing their performance.
Forged in Stainless Steel: The Model 66’s Origins
The Model 66, born from the K-frame lineage, first graced the market. The K-frame revolvers had already earned a reputation for their comfortable handling and reliability. The introduction of the Model 66 in the early years was a game-changer. The blend of the existing K-frame platform with the stainless steel construction was new at the time. This stainless steel construction, with its exceptional resistance to corrosion and ease of maintenance, quickly made it a favorite among law enforcement and civilian shooters. The Model 66’s chambering in the powerful .357 Magnum gave it added versatility, allowing shooters to utilize both the hard-hitting .357 Magnum rounds and the milder .38 Special. Early versions of the Model 66 experienced some problems, namely from the increased pressures of the .357 rounds on the lighter K-frame. This resulted in a period of tweaking to the design. The Model 66, from its inception, represented a balance of power, handling, and portability.
Building on Strength: The 686’s Ascent
The Model 686 entered the scene, designed on the L-frame. While the K-frame had its merits, the L-frame offered something new – enhanced strength and durability. This beefier frame was designed to withstand the rigors of constant use with potent .357 Magnum ammunition. The Model 686, also crafted from stainless steel, immediately conveyed a sense of robustness. It quickly became a favorite in competition shooting, police service, and for those seeking a durable handgun. The Model 686 built upon the legacy of the Smith & Wesson revolvers. Its L-frame construction addressed some of the limitations of the K-frame, allowing for a handgun better suited to handle frequent and heavy usage.
A Deep Dive: Comparing Features
The true essence of the Smith & Wesson 66 vs 686 debate lies in the details. Comparing features allows a nuanced understanding of each revolver’s characteristics and how they translate to real-world performance.
Frame Size and the Foundation of Performance
The most prominent difference between the Model 66 and the Model 686 lies in their frame size. The Model 66 utilizes the K-frame, a design known for its manageable size and comfortable grip. This contributes to making the Model 66 relatively lighter and potentially more concealable. The Model 686, on the other hand, benefits from the larger L-frame. The L-frame is sturdier and more robust.
The impact on weight is notable. The Model 66 is generally lighter, which can be a significant advantage for those carrying the handgun for extended periods or utilizing it in a concealed carry capacity. The Model 686’s greater weight, while potentially less appealing for concealed carry, assists in managing recoil and creating a feeling of solidity.
Caliber and Ammunition Choices
Both the Model 66 and the Model 686 share the same potent chambering: the .357 Magnum. This cartridge is known for its stopping power and long-range effectiveness. It is a favorite among both self-defense and hunting enthusiasts. The .357 Magnum offers a wide range of ammunition options, from lightweight target loads to powerful self-defense rounds.
Both revolvers can also safely chamber and fire .38 Special rounds. This gives shooters added flexibility, allowing them to practice with less expensive and lighter-recoiling ammunition. The choice between .357 Magnum and .38 Special allows for adaptability, making each revolver useful in diverse situations.
Barrel Length and the Sighting Systems
The availability of different barrel lengths is another key aspect to consider. Both the Model 66 and the Model 686 have been produced with varying barrel lengths, allowing shooters to choose the configuration best suited for their needs. The Model 66 frequently comes with barrel lengths that favor concealability (such as a two-and-a-half-inch or three-inch barrel), and the Model 686 is often seen with longer barrels. The Model 66’s shorter barrels are more suitable for concealed carry, while longer barrels offer increased accuracy and velocity, making them preferable for target shooting or hunting.
The sighting systems of each model typically consist of open sights. These sights generally include a fixed or adjustable rear sight and a front sight. Both models offer a range of options for the sights. Adjustable rear sights are a common feature, allowing shooters to fine-tune their point of impact, which is especially advantageous for competition shooting.
Ergonomics and the Experience of Handling
The way a firearm feels in your hand significantly affects your ability to control and shoot it accurately. The grip design and the overall balance of the Model 66 and the Model 686 are critical considerations. The Model 66, with its smaller K-frame, generally provides a more compact feel. This can be a benefit for those with smaller hands or those prioritizing concealability. The Model 686, with its L-frame, offers a larger grip profile. This larger grip profile allows a more comfortable grip for those with larger hands, which may further contribute to more accurate shooting.
Recoil management is another important facet of ergonomics. The Model 686’s increased weight and larger frame size assist in mitigating felt recoil, particularly when firing .357 Magnum loads. The Model 66, being lighter, can exhibit slightly more felt recoil. This can affect follow-up shots and overall shooting comfort.
Durability and the Measure of Time
The long-term reliability of a firearm is essential for making a good purchase. The Model 686, with its robust L-frame, is often cited as having a superior level of durability. This is particularly true when exposed to consistent use of high-powered .357 Magnum loads. The Model 66, although a robust design, might show signs of wear more quickly under the same conditions.
The stainless steel construction of both revolvers contributes to their resistance to corrosion, especially when compared to blued steel firearms. Both models can last for years with proper care and maintenance.
The Cost Factor: Availability and Pricing
The financial investment is also important in the purchase decision. Both the Model 66 and the Model 686 are widely available in the marketplace, but prices can fluctuate.
The price depends on the condition of the firearm, the barrel length, and the presence of any modifications. The Model 66, particularly older examples, can be slightly more affordable, which may be because it is a more common model.
Evaluating the Strengths and Weaknesses
Each of these revolvers has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. These aspects shape the decision of which model is best for you.
Model 66: Strengths and Drawbacks
The Model 66 benefits from its lighter weight and more compact size, making it a good choice for concealed carry. It can be more comfortable for some shooters because of the size.
However, its lighter K-frame means it can show wear more quickly with constant, heavy use of .357 Magnum ammunition.
Model 686: Advantages and Disadvantages
The Model 686’s L-frame construction makes it durable and suitable for handling constant use. The heavier frame also results in improved recoil management, making it a good option for new shooters.
The Model 686’s weight and bulk may not be ideal for all shooters, and its heavier weight may not be as comfortable for concealed carry.
Choosing the Right Revolver for You
Ultimately, the choice between the Model 66 and the Model 686 hinges on your individual requirements.
The Practical Applications
Consider the intended uses of the revolver. If concealed carry is a priority, the Model 66, with its smaller frame and lighter weight, can be an excellent option. If the priority is frequent range use or hunting, the Model 686 offers the durability and recoil management to excel.
The User Profile
The ideal shooter for each model will vary. The Model 66 is often a good choice for experienced shooters looking for a manageable handgun for a wide range of shooting requirements. The Model 686 might appeal to shooters seeking a sturdy handgun for consistent use and for shooters who prefer the control and recoil mitigation offered by the L-frame.
In Conclusion: The Verdict
The Smith & Wesson Model 66 and Model 686 represent outstanding revolvers. They have earned their place as mainstays in the world of firearms. The Model 66 offers a balance of handling and concealability, while the Model 686 prioritizes strength and recoil management. There is no single “best” revolver.
Ultimately, the “best” revolver comes down to your personal preferences and intended uses. Take the time to handle both models, if possible, and consider which one best fits your specific needs. Whether you choose the Model 66 or the Model 686, you are investing in a piece of firearms history and a dependable, high-quality handgun. Go to your local gun store and experience the handguns for yourself.
