S&W Revolvers: Old Build vs. New Build...What's Different & Which is Better? (m66.1 v. m66.8)

Published on August 17, 2025
Duration: 13:07

This video compares an older Smith & Wesson Model 66-1 with a newer Model 66.8, evaluating design differences in areas like trigger stops, sights, firing pins, cylinders, barrels, and overall fit and finish. The analysis concludes that while older models may have superior aesthetic finishing, newer designs offer functional improvements in areas such as reliability and modularity, making them better overall firearms.

Quick Summary

Newer Smith & Wesson Model 66 revolvers offer functional advantages over older models, including removable front sights for customization, more reliable internal firing pins, and improved cylinder lockup for enhanced stability. While older guns may have superior aesthetic fit and finish, modern designs generally provide better performance and durability.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Old vs. New S&W Revolvers
  2. 01:52Trigger Stops: Old vs. New
  3. 02:47Trigger Comparison: Solid Steel vs. Modern
  4. 03:40Sights: Fixed vs. Removable Front Sight
  5. 04:35Hammers and Firing Pins: Design Differences
  6. 06:17Safety Mechanisms: Hammer Block Comparison
  7. 06:43Cylinders: Recessed vs. Flat
  8. 07:33Cylinder Star Mechanism: Robustness
  9. 08:05Cylinder Lockup: Front Stability
  10. 08:43Barrels: One-Piece vs. Two-Piece
  11. 09:11Barrel Fit: Pinned vs. Compression Fit
  12. 10:31Overall Fit and Finish Comparison
  13. 11:31Final Score and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between older and newer Smith & Wesson Model 66 revolvers?

Newer S&W Model 66 revolvers feature improvements like removable front sights for customization, more reliable internal firing pins, and enhanced cylinder lockup for greater stability. Older models often had trigger stops and a more refined aesthetic fit and finish, though newer designs generally offer superior functionality.

Are newer Smith & Wesson revolvers better than older ones?

Based on a functional comparison, newer Smith & Wesson Model 66 revolvers are considered better due to advancements in areas like sight modularity, firing pin reliability, and cylinder lockup stability. While older models may excel in aesthetic fit and finish, the newer designs offer tangible performance advantages.

What functional advantages do newer Smith & Wesson Model 66 revolvers offer?

Newer Model 66s provide functional benefits such as removable front sights for easy sight upgrades, more durable internal firing pins that are less prone to breakage, and improved cylinder lockup for enhanced stability and strength. These features contribute to a more reliable and adaptable firearm.

How does the firing pin mechanism differ between old and new S&W Model 66 revolvers?

Older S&W Model 66 revolvers have firing pins mounted directly on the hammer, making them susceptible to breakage. Newer models incorporate internal firing pins, which are significantly more reliable and have a much lower failure rate, according to experienced users.

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