Hi all. I'm Joda from San Diego area in California. I find myself in a position no woman ever wants to be in. My husband of 46 years is relocating from this life to the next and in hospice care. We were not what you would call good planners for the future. He has a couple of hand guns that I will have to sell for after expenses. This forum could probably advise me on one of them if you would be so kind. I have fired all of these guns but that is about it on my knowledge of them or the resale value.
The one is a S&W 357 Magnum M66 snub nose (short barrel?) in very good condition, he has had this gun for at least 25 years probably closer to 30. It has speed loaders with it and the holster it's been in always. The other gun I'll probably have to hunt down a different forum maybe. It's a Colt 45 pistol. I'm hoping my ignorance won't end up making me a target, could someone give me an idea of resale or who to go to? In advance, thank you Joda Also...where would the serial numbers be? email is fine to use, [email protected]

Sorry to hear of your situation. 2.5 66's are desirable and can be worth anywhere from $400 to $1000+ depending on condition and accessories such as the original box and paperwork. Look inside the crane (where the cylinder swings out) and see what variation it is. You should see a 66-0, 66-1, etc. That makes a difference in value. A serial number would help identify how old it is. Lastly, pictures would be a great help determining it's worth.

Welcome to the Neighborhood Joda! I'm very sorry about your husband and you and your family has my condolences. I know what it's like to lose a loved one.

As far as the guns go we can help with that. Please feel free to PM me on the forum if you wish.

I'm sorry you are in this position. However, you are being smart. Having S&Ws and Colts means he has some quality guns and you shouldn't have to 'give' them away.

Some options, in order of preference:

Sell to friends or locally. (no shipping or transfer fees)
Sell them here on this forum
Sell them on a site like Gunbroker (problem is fees and shipping plus percentage)
Sell them to a gun shop (who won't buy them except at wholesale prices)

My sister in FL has a lot of guns from her EX husband and is afraid to touch them. I'm going down in a few months and help her sort them out

PS CONDITION is important. Many guns sit in sock drawers for years Some are used a lot. Some are abused. There is a percentage scale 1-100% 100% is new. These count cosmetic defects as well as mechanical defects.

You can peruse items for auction on Gunbroker to get an idea of how this works.

IF you can post pictures here or send them to one of our more knowledgeable members they will get a better idea.

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"He was kinda funny lookin'"

Welcome from North Dakota

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John

Welcome from Va.

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Roger

I'm sure you will get great advice here. Welcome to the forum.

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Mike
S&WCA #3065

Sorry to meet under such circumstances. My condolences.

Sorry to hear of your circumstances, but wishing you well from Delaware.

Welcome from Tampa

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NRA Bene Life, SWCA 2372

Welcome from Wisconsin & I'm sorry about your husband.

I can offer no further advice from what you've already received. I haven't sold a gun in my life, LOL. I passed a few down to my son, though. Didn't charge him a penny. LOL.

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Former USN, Retired US Army

Prayers for all . We have alot of folks here that can give you options on your firearms.

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Spin The Wheel

Welcome.....

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Life is short,live it fully.

Welcome from the Pine Barrens of southern New Jersey.

My condolences at your situation. You are receiving excellent advice here.

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Judge control not gun control!

Welcome from the bootheel of Missouri . . .

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Wisdom comes thru fear . . .

Welcome from Texas Joda. Great forum for all things S&W, have fun, learn lots, share what you know.

Please accept my prayer for you and your husband. May this portion of his journey be as smooth as possible.

Lots of good advice so far. I would simply add to make certain you follow California law regarding the transfer of any firearms, as the laws can be quite complex.

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I am a sheep dog!
1601 (ret)

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Keep on Chooglin'