We inherited a S&W revolver: S/N 5565xx, 4" barrel, black (hard rubber?) cross patterned grip, right side of barrel marked 38 S&W special CTG, left side of barrel marked Smith & Wesson, the S&W trademark is on the left side of the frame of the gun; it holds 6 bullets; the metal appears black but may be what I am seeing referred to as "blue", except trigger and hammer are a nickel colored metal. We also have a box of "remanufactured" (that's what's printed on the box) 38 special ammo. Is that appropriate for this gun? Any idea how old this gun might be? Many thanks

If that is the correct serial it sounds like a Military & Police Model from the late 1920s. The hammer and trigger are not right so somebody has "pimped" it a bit. Finish should be blue or nickel so if really dark (black) it sounds like some sort of refinish.

The ammo is the correct caliber and remanufactured means it is a factory reload. These are usually OK if somewhat underpowered and a little dirty.

"Nickel-colored metal" may be this guy's description of faded color case hardening. Photo, please! A sharp one...

That'll also let us tell if black is really blue.

Could be polished bright. Several possibilities. But he said the parts looked like nickel and I comment based on what info is offered.

Wow! Defensive much?