Smith & Wesson Model 66-2 Combat Magnum .357 Magnum, 3.25-Inch Stainless K-Frame, Limited Ashland Distributor Special (1985)
This Smith & Wesson Model 66-2 is a stainless K-frame "Combat Magnum" chambered in .357 Magnum with the scarce 3.25-inch heavy barrel. Built as a 1985 distributor special run for Ashland Shooting Supplies, it combines the short-barrel configuration with adjustable sights and a fluted six-shot cylinder. Marked "MOD. 66-2" on the yoke cut and finished in stainless steel on the frame, barrel, and cylinder with a black adjustable rear sight assembly, this limited-production variant stands out for its configuration and factory details.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
What’s Included
- Gun Guard hard pistol case
Factory features include a 3.25-inch heavy-profile stainless barrel with a serrated top rib and a shrouded ejector rod. The fluted swing-out cylinder holds six rounds of .357 Magnum. Adjustable sights pair an adjustable rear with a ramped front sight featuring a red insert for a clear sight picture.
This example is a limited distributor run for Ashland Shooting Supplies in 1985, highlighting the short-barrel configuration on the stainless K-frame. The 66-2 engineering change is correct for the era, without a pinned barrel or recessed chambers, and it has no internal key lock.
Controls and operating features include double-action/single-action operation, a smooth combat-style trigger, and an exposed hammer with a checkered spur. A hammer block safety is factory standard on this variant.
Markings are consistent throughout: the yoke cut is stamped "MOD. 66-2"; the barrel carries "SMITH & WESSON" and "S.&W. 357 MAGNUM" rollmarks; and the right frame is marked "MADE IN U.S.A. MARCAS REGISTRADAS SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD, MASS." Assembly/inspection stamps "B16", "S", and "X4157" appear on the yoke arm. The revolver is fitted with black rubber finger-groove Pachmayr grips bearing Pachmayr medallions.
Made in the United States during the 1980s.