I think the .44 is actually an L Frame.
,,,so is 66 as far as I understand.
Nope. 66 is a K frame.
The old Model 66s were a little beefier (best term I could think of) then most K frames, but I do agree that the 357 Mag is pushing the comfort zone in that frame. The .38 Special is ideal for the S&W K frame revolvers, especially the K-38's like the Model 15 and 67.While I prefer the larger N frame S&W's, it would be great to see a short 4" bbl restricted K frame M66 with bead blast finish. It will be a smooth handling .38 shooting revolver with the possibility to shoot some full house .357 Mag occasionally though recoil will be pretty sharp out of a 4" K frame.
Given those are the same gun just different steel, are you say the problems with the older K frames were only found in some non-stainless editions?You are right, so is 66 as far as I understand. Original 66 never had problems like 19, but it's nice reassurance in terms of durability.
Hopefully all the MIM parts are quality as well...