I went today to look at a .44 Double Action First Model. Nice gun, with nickel finish, 5" barrel, and pearl grips with no S&W medallion. Problem is, the latch, hammer, trigger, and trigger guard were also nickel. I tried to explain to the guy that the gun was probably re-nickeled, but he insisted that maybe S&W had lots of variations and just because the picture in Standard Catalog of S&W showed that the above parts were blued or case hardened, that didn't mean that his wasn't finished at the factory that way. Other issues were that it didn't want to stay cocked in single action and when the barrel and cylinder were opened, the ejector wouldn't always pop out. I'm pretty sure the serial number was 4452, but it might have been 5442, with no factory star, indicating factory work had been done. Please tell me that I was right and that his revolver was more than likely re-nickeled. I have a number of nickel top-breaks, including a New Model #3, and none of them have these parts nickeled. He wasn't really sure what he wanted for it, but Scheel's said it was worth $1500 and he figures it's definitely worth more than $1000. He kept telling me how rare it was and that I would never find another like it. What does anyone think? Did I do the right thing walking away or do I need to go back. Any opinions or comments are welcome.

Sounds like you are being scammed, to me. S&W didn't make .44DAs with nickel triggers & hammers - it'a refinish job that has mechanical problems. Wouldn't be worth any where close to $1,000 in my book - more like $400 as a wall hanger.

If its really a first model its a triple lock and even in porr shape it could be worth some cash, it really just depends on how bad. The hammer and trigger should not be nickled so it probably has been redone. Its probably not worth $1500 but to be honest if it was a nice renickle without all the edges and lettering buffed off I would still spend a pretty big chunk od cash on it because its a triple lock and I like 5 inch barrel's. I would have to see it in hand if I was personally going to spend money on it. Did it have adjustable sights? If its a first model triple lock with adjustable sights I would not be completely surprised to see it sell for $1500. They are just getting really hard to find and everybody seems to want one...Just my .02
Matt

I just thought if you dont mean first model hand ejector its probably a top break? In that case its probably not worth anywhere close to $1500, my mind is on the triple lock lately:~)

Yeah, I was sure it was a re-nickel, but some guys just don't want to hear it. Thanks for the comments. Any more???

Matt,
It is a 44 Double Action top-break, not a Triple Lock.

Randy

I sold one: 50% original nickel, good mechanical condition (2 holes late carry up), & minor light pitting in the bore, cracked but original grips - it was worth $1150 6 months ago. I personally wouldn't give $200 for the one you looked at. Smile, nod, & run away. They aren't rare, and aren't searched for by collectors; they are antiques, and are .44 which still makes them interesting if in shootable condition.

I'm with opoefc. You were right not to buy. Seller is full of baloney. (Or is that "bologna"? )

A local shop had a similarly refinished early .32 hand ejector. He swore to me it was the original finish. I tried to point out the obvious signs. (nickel hammer/trigger/extractor, weakened stamps, dished screw holes, etc.) He wouldn't hear any of it. I even came back with one of my 98% originals that was very close in serial number. He still couldn't be fully convinced. Some people just can't see the obvious.

As for value of the .44 DA, sounds like no more than $500. I've got a 5-inch in blue. It's a great shooter and a lot of fun.

Chris

Here is what one (shipped in 1881) should look like:




IMHO, you did the right thing by walking away. Don't look back!

Regards,

SRT