This is what the typical British Victory Model looks like in its original form (save the checkered stocks which are post war). Some had 4" barrels but the vast majority had 5" barrels. Measure from muzzle to cylinder face. They were in 38 S&W which is not the same as the longer 38 Special.
After the war many of these guns were haphazardly "converted" or as I call it, "butchered." Often the barrels were cut down, often they were reamed for the 38 Special cartridge. All of this is bad. Some of these are better than others, but none are great shooters unless the proper 38 S&W ammo is used. This ammo is hard to find and pricey (which is why many were "converted").
A converted Victory Model is a good keepsake if a family member carried it. But they are usually not good shooters.
