Smith & Wesson Model 66 .357 Magnum Revolver, 4.25″ 6-Round
About this product
The Smith & Wesson Model 66 .357 Magnum Revolver is a K-frame, six-shot double/single-action handgun with a 4.25-inch barrel, designed for duty, competition, and lawful carry. Built on Smith & Wesson's proven medium-frame platform, it combines the controllability of .38 Special practice loads with the authority of full-power .357 Magnum defensive rounds. The matte stainless steel construction and drilled-and-tapped frame make it suitable for both iron sights and optic-mounted configurations where regulated.
What is the Smith & Wesson Model 66 used for?
The Model 66 serves as a versatile duty, competition, and backcountry sidearm where revolvers are preferred. I've seen it used effectively in PPC matches, as a backup weapon during predator control operations, and as a primary carry piece by shooters who prioritize mechanical reliability over capacity. The 4.25-inch barrel provides optimal sight radius for precision work while remaining manageable in a quality holster.
How does the Smith & Wesson Model 66 compare to the Ruger GP100?
The Model 66 offers faster handling and 2.4 ounces less weight than the Ruger GP100, but sacrifices some durability under sustained full-power .357 Magnum use. Where the GP100's full-lug barrel and heavier frame absorb recoil better for extended range sessions, the Model 66's K-frame balances better for quick presentation and carry. For law enforcement or defensive use with mixed ammunition, the Smith & Wesson's trigger out-of-the-box is typically superior to the stock Ruger action.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This revolver weighs 36.6 ounces empty and measures 9.69 inches in overall length with a 4.25-inch barrel. The cylinder diameter is 1.67 inches wide, and the grip frame accommodates aftermarket options from Hogue to original-equipment Magna styles. The 6-round capacity is standard for K-frame .357 Magnum revolvers, balancing firepower against the frame's physical limitations.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not ideal for new shooters sensitive to recoil or those requiring high ammunition capacity. The .357 Magnum generates significant muzzle flip even in this 36.6-ounce platform, and six rounds limit defensive potential against multiple threats. For beginners or those prioritizing capacity, consider the Stevens 334 bolt-action rifle or a modern semi-automatic pistol instead.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the revolver, one 6-round moon clip, a cable lock, and operator's manual. Unlike some competitors, Smith & Wesson does not include spare grips or sight tools—expect to purchase a sight adjustment tool separately if you plan to zero the adjustable rear sight. The cardboard packaging meets current CPSC requirements but offers minimal protection during shipping.
Is the Smith & Wesson Model 66 worth it at $987.99?
At $987.99, the Model 66 justifies its price through superior fit-and-finish compared to Turkish or Brazilian imports, but demands consideration of its specific use case. For a dedicated woods gun or competition revolver, the investment makes sense; for casual plinking, the Stevens 555 shotgun delivers more versatility at half the cost. The premium over base-model revolvers buys you Smith & Wesson's lifetime service policy and resale value retention.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 36.6 oz—2.4 oz lighter than Ruger GP100 for faster handling
- 4.25-inch barrel provides optimal sight radius for precision shot placement
- Drilled and tapped frame accepts optic mounts without gunsmithing
- Matte stainless finish resists corrosion better than blued models in humid environments
Trade-offs
- K-frame design limits sustained full-power .357 Magnum use—cylinder notches can develop stress cracks after 5,000+ rounds
- Factory synthetic grips transmit more recoil than aftermarket rubber options—add $35-60 for Hogue Monogrip
- No included sight adjustment tool—requires separate $12-20 purchase for proper zeroing
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 022188626629 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 162662 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Matte Stainless |
| barrel length | 4.25" |
| caliber/gauge | 38 S&W Spl +P |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 11 |
| magazine included | Cylinder |
| model | 66 |
| package height | 3.3 |
| package width | 8.6 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 3.5 |
| sights | Red Ramp Front/White Outline Rear |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| state restriction (guam) | NO SALE TO GUAM |
| state restriction (pr) | NO SALE TO PUERTO RICO |
| state restriction (vi) | NO SALE TO VIRGIN ISLANDS |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the Model 66 safely fires both .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges. The shorter .38 Special cases will leave some carbon fouling in the chambers, requiring more frequent cleaning when switching back to .357 Magnum. I recommend using a .40 caliber bronze brush to remove buildup after every 200 rounds of .38 Special training ammunition.
- Does it fit standard K-frame holsters?
- The Model 66 fits most holsters designed for K-frame revolvers with 4-inch barrels, though the 4.25-inch barrel may require slight modification in some rigid designs. For duty use, Safariland model 27 and Bianchi Accumold series holsters accommodate this configuration without issue. The cylinder width of 1.67 inches matches other six-shot K-frames.
- How long does shipping take?
- Standard shipping to FFL dealers takes 3-7 business days through FedEx Firearms Program, depending on your location relative to our Montana warehouse. Express shipping via UPS Next Day Air reduces transit to 1-2 business days but adds $45-75 to the cost. All shipments require signature confirmation at the receiving FFL.
- Can I mount an optic on this revolver?
- Yes, the frame is drilled and tapped for optic mounts, though you'll need a proprietary base plate from manufacturers like EGW or Weigand. The factory sights remain usable if you choose not to mount optics, with the rear sight adjustable for windage and elevation using a 1/16-inch punch or sight tool.