On a new Pawn Stars episode last night, some guy brought a S&W .38 DA 4th model into the shop to sell. Sort of average ****** condition, but it did have what may have been ivory or pearl stocks. As usual, the "Expert" buddy was called in for consultation. He identified it correctly, and gave the SN (which was in the 411,000 range) as being from 1901. He gave value as $50-$150. Of course Rick would not buy it as it was post-1898. I think the "Expert" was probably about right.

The "expert" is an old friend of mine, with great old gun knowledge, so his "opinions" are usually right on the ball, but I've seen some defects in the old guns that he didn't catch. The desire of Harris to shoot all the guns he buys is not such a great idea, although they are tested before the actual shooting is taped. Be aware that this show is Hollywood scripted. Items brought in are usually researched before the "expert" is called in. The scene is rehearsed and then videoed. Sometimes the "sellers" are actors. The store used to be a must "look see" location for old guns before it went "Hollywood" . Now it's so jammed up with tourists the line to get in can be around the block!

It's all for entertainment purposes and would have to be heavily scripted. I've been in Las Vegas many times, but never was interested in visiting the place as a result of bad reports I've heard from those I've known who have been there.

There's also a similar companion program on History Channel called Cajun Pawn Stars that seems to be somewhat more involved with gun-related stuff, but I just don't like the show and have seen maybe two episodes.

I was in the store a couple of months ago. I don't anything about how much Hollywood influence goes into the show, but I can tell you the prices on the antique guns are outrageous. I'm talking 3 or 4 times what I can buy the same guns for at any decent gunshow.

WB