Smith & Wesson rolled out a number of new wheelguns this year. Two of those are given the revered Combat Magnum name. One is a Model 66; the other is a Model 69.

Model 66 Combat Magnum

The new Model 66 Combat Magnum is a K-frame revolver chambered for the .357 Magnum. As with other K-frames in this caliber, it holds six rounds in the cylinder.

Smith & Wesson fits the gun with a 2.75″ barrel, giving it an overall length of just under 8″. An underlug protects the full-length ejector rod. On top, the company uses a pinned front ramp sight with a red insert. An adjustable rear sight offers a crisp outline when aiming.

The gun has a stainless steel finish and black synthetic grips. The MSRP is $849.

Model 69 Combat Magnum

Matching the 66 is the Model 69 Combat Magnum in the “other” magnum caliber: the .44. This bigger-bore model is an L-frame gun to better handle the cartridge. Only five shots will fit into the cylinder of this revolver.

Like the Model 66, this gun has a 2.75″ barrel and the same sights. Additionally, it has a stainless finish and black grips. Other than the caliber and slight weight difference, the two guns are pretty similar. The Model 69 Combat Magnum shares the same price: $849.

I had a chance to handle both guns at the recent SHOT Show. Both of them seemed well-built, and I look forward to shooting the Model 66 that I have on order.

While the guns are not as flat and compact as a variety of 9mm pistols, they are still concealable should you wish to carry one. I’ve got a Model 64 that I’ve carried for several years. It’s a smooth shooter and the bulk of the cylinder has not been a problem to conceal under a shirt or jacket.