What .357 revolver for a cop in the early 70s

masraum · 09:50 AM

My dad was a cop in the early 70s. He had a S&W .357 (I think it was a 6"). I know it was nickel plated, but just recently my mom told me that he had had it plated. Our house was robbed back in the early 80's and that gun was one of the things that was stolen.

What I'm wondering, is what model would that have been or what would be the closest model available now?

legion · 09-01-2009, 07:34 AM

It was probably a Model 66. I think they are still available.

LakeCleElum · 09-01-2009, 07:53 AM

Yep - Available in 2.5, 4 and 6 inch barrel.....

m21sniper · 09-01-2009, 08:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by masraum

My dad was a cop in the early 70s. He had a S&W .357 (I think it was a 6"). I know it was nickle plated, but just recently my mom told me that he had had it plated. Our house was robbed back in the early 80's and that gun was one of the things that was stolen.

What I'm wondering, is what model would that have been or what would be the closest model available now?

What police department? I can look it up for you.

It was almost certainly a 4", not a 6". The most common size for duty guns was -by far- the 4" length.

masraum · 09-01-2009, 08:57 AM

I think it was Hillsborough (Florida) Sheriff and/or Clearwater PD, but it was when I was a toddler and also, I think he worked for a couple of different departments (I think one was a Sheriff and one was a PD).

dhoward · dhoward's Garage

Model 19.

masraum · 09-01-2009, 09:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dhoward

Model 19.

Thanks, that sounds like a possibility. I did a search online to compare the 19 and 66 since they look the same. Apparently the 19 was blue or nickel, and the 66 is the same gun in stainless. I'm sure my dad's was nickel

LakeCleElum · 09-01-2009, 10:05 AM

Back in those days, most departments issued a 4 inch with holster to match. Many wanted a 6 inch for better accuracy. It was up to them to buy the gun/holster......Not saying all, but if an LEO bought his own, it was usually a 6 inch.....

legion · 09-01-2009, 10:11 AM

I have a Model 67, which is the same revolver in .38 Special/stainless.

Let me tell you, cleaning stainless is a breeze. I can usually do it in three patches--even when shooting straight lead.

Mo_Gearhead · 09-01-2009, 11:50 AM

Or (?)

Top :

Model 28-2 .357 with factory Satin finish and 3" bbl.
Factory Marked on barrel: 'Highway Patrolman"

F.Y.I. Bottom: Model 66-2 Stainless .357 w/ 2" bbl.

masraum · 09-01-2009, 12:00 PM

I'm pretty sure I remember my dad saying S&W Nickel plated 357 mag 6" barrel. At the very least, it was a 4". The gun was big.

I suspect it was a 6".

dhoward · dhoward's Garage

I don't recall satin being a popular finish in the early 70's. Nickel plating was popular for cleaning and wear resistance.
K-Frame combat magnum was a popular LEO choice back then.

m21sniper · 09-01-2009, 12:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LakeCleElum

Back in those days, most departments issued a 4 inch with holster to match. Many wanted a 6 inch for better accuracy. It was up to them to buy the gun/holster......Not saying all, but if an LEO bought his own, it was usually a 6 inch.....

A 6" is generally considered impractical for carrying, but it's also a matter of personal taste i guess.

WilsonTC · 09-01-2009, 02:11 PM

Smith & Wesson Highway Patrolman (Model 28-2)??