I will occasionally see Smith & Wesson revolver models listed as "no dash" but I have no idea what that means. Can someone explain it to me?

Additional note: I have someone offering me a model 66 "no dash" for $650. Is that a fair price?

No dash is the original model. Dash indicates model production lineage.

Updates. They make a change, then up the post dash number.
If they started today they'd be version .something.

(swiped from the net)

66 - no dash - introduced 1970.

66-1 - 1977, changed the gas ring from the yoke to the cylinder.

66-2 - 1982, eliminated pinned and recessed, slightly lengthened cylinder.

66-3 - 1986, new yoke retention system / radius stud package / hammer nose bushing / floating hand

66-4 - 1994, change rear sight leaf, drill and tap frame, introduce Hogue grips, change extractor.

66-5 - 1998, change in frame design: eliminate cylinder stop stud/eliminate serrated tangs/change to MIM hammer with floating firing pin/change internal lockwork.

66-6 - 2002, introduce internal lock.

2005 - discontinued.

2014 - reintroduced.

The price seems high to me but in Texas there is likely a larger supply of old revolvers. The price may depend on the condition, finish, barrel length, hammer, trigger, custom work, etc. Peruse the classifieds on the S&W forum.

OP what condition is the gun in?

A S&W Model 66 no dash in nice shape with original wood grips will easily bring $650 here, especially one with a 4” or shorter barrel. I’ve seen the much less desirable key-hole lock models priced at that amount and they go unsold.

quote:

Originally posted by rpm2010:
OP what condition is the gun in?

It is in used condition, but pictures show it is in good condition. It has a 4-inch barrel.

$650-800 is going rate on a 4” M66. Nice guns. I just sent $650 on a complete 2.5” 66-2 which is about half going rate (snubbies bring $$$).

I also have a rare 3” 66-3

A month ago, I had the opportunity to buy a 66-1 in very nice condition for $500. I knew very little about revolvers, so I held off. I did some research on it and realized it was a great deal on a desireable gun. When I went back for it, of course it was gone. Guy at the store told me someone else who came in a few hours after me that same day I first saw it bought it. I kick myself for passing it up.

I just picked up a very good condition 66-1 two weeks ago for $700. $650 sounds like a reasonable price if it's in good condition.

I think that price is plenty fair.

The dashes were engineering changes.

quote:

Originally posted by Rigby470:

quote:

Originally posted by rpm2010:
OP what condition is the gun in?

It is in used condition, but pictures show it is in good condition. It has a 4-inch barrel.

Take a look on Gun Broker, they have several 66 no dash, your price looks about right for a used pre-lock in good condition. Should have the pinned barrel, and recessed cylinders. So compare your pics to what you see on GB. Good luck!

Thanks for the replies and the explanation about "no dash"! I decided to pass on this one and try to find a 2.75 inch model 66.

I'd jump on it. Where is it for sale at?

quote:

Originally posted by jimmy123x:
I'd jump on it. Where is it for sale at?

Locally.

quote:

Originally posted by Rigby470:
Thanks for the replies and the explanation about "no dash"! I decided to pass on this one and try to find a 2.75 inch model 66.

A newer 2.75" model w/lock is good for shooting, the pre locks 2.5" in excellent condition cost more.

The earliest model 66's (4") had stainless steel rear and front sights. They do bring a premium. Boxes, tools and papers add to the value, but condition rules.

The official parlance is that each dash number represents an engineering change.

Remember: You never pay too much for a S&W revolver, you just buy them too soon.

Adios,

Pizza Bob

my LGS has had a new 66 in his case for probably 6 months, and he is asking $650. new in box. Nobady wants it at that price.