OK, Just bought this and my understanding is some are antiques and some are C&R. Does anyone know what the cut-off serial number would be? Obviously I'm hoping this is an antique for shipping purposes. Yes, I know It's not in collectible condition, but I like 38 S&W and do not have a S&W topbreak. If it seems solid I'll load up some BP loads for it.

Thanks,

Smith & Wesson Model 3 Safety Hammerless 38 : Revolvers at GunBroker.com

I was wondering who I was bidding against?

The cut off date for an antique firearms is generally considered to be 1898. It's nearly impossible to go by serial numbers. This one is definately an antique. The only problem with that rule is depending on where it is being shipped to and or from FFL rules may have to apply. There are some states that require an FFL for transfer even for antiques, especially ones like California and New York. Not all states or sellers will accept C&R..been down that road.

This one can can be shipped directly to you providing your state and where this gun is coming from [Indiana] doesn't require an FFL transfer, even on antiques. Of course they are some sellers that require an FFL regardless. That's just the things are. You will have to contact the seller and find out.

As for loads, you can fire modern .38 S&W out of this gun. Factory loads are fairly mild, usually loaded under specs. That's what I fire out of all of mine. Never had a problem.

Enjoy your gun when you get it.

jsmith

" I am selling this gun for my father, it was given to him by his father." Aarghh!!!!. And the people of the town rejoiced... family history is lost forever. Moron. Mike #283

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Mike Maher #283

I live in Ohio so having it shipped direct is not a problem. If it's an antique I'm pretty sure the USPS will even handle the shipping. What time frame were the 3rd models made? Why do you say this particular revolver is defiantly and antique?

All 3rd models are considered antique by the BATF because they were manufactured before 1898.
Mike,
I agree with you. I would certainly like to have some "family history guns". Oh well, I'll just have to make up for the lack of history by focusing on quality and quantity. The crosses we bear huh.

Mark

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Mark Connot

Looks like a nice old shooter. If it's as good mechanically as the seller said, it'll be a joy for the next 100+ years. Guns in that condition.... well, there you go.
How about your shooting impressions when you get a chance? I don't have a S&W 38 Hammerless, and would
enjoy seeing what you think about it. TACC1

My plan is to do a side by side shooting comparison with a H&R hammerless in almost identical configuration that I also own. Last year I started a 38 S&W reloading experiment using three different loads barrel lengths from 2" to 5" to see how much velocity and point of impact changes. I ran into some technical difficulties with my chronograph, got distracted and did not complete the project. So now I'm ready to start again and if this firearms is functional will include it in the test.