I picked up this little gun a couple days ago. Serial number 4270xx, so I'm guessing it was made around 1904. All matching numbers. I overpaid at $190, but I wanted to liberate it from the pawn shop shelf it was on. Also, it had a couple small issues, and correcting them made for a fun project. The action, latch and hinge are very tight, and the bore shines like a mirror.

I chose harsh lighting to really bring out the "character" of the gun. It looks nice in the hand under normal lighting.







Now to find some 38 S&W ammo so I can try it out before putting it away.

Thanks for looking.

Dan

An original example in better than average condition - I don't think you overpaid at all, and will never regret the purchase.

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SWCA #590
"Colligo ergo sum"

You absolutely did NOT overpay for that gun. You don't see them in blue very often and I've never seen case colors on the hammer and trigger that brilliant. The blue is in pretty decent shape too. $190 was a steal! Congrats!!

Does the stamping on top of the barrel rib say "Model of 91?" I have a 4th Model .38DA, ser.# 3457XX, that has the Model of 91 barrel stamping, and all numbers match on the gun, including the barrel & barrel latch, so that's the way the gun left the factory. According to SCSW, the gun doesn't exist, so I've watched for another 4th model with an original Model of 91 barrel, for years, w/o results. Another example of S&W never discarding any parts they could use someday, I think. Ed.

I also noticed how nice the case coloring was, and agree that that alone bumps up the gun's overall condition significantly.

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SWCA #590
"Colligo ergo sum"

The barrel rib just has the standard roll marks unfortunately.

Yeah, the case coloring was one of the things I first noticed about the gun as well. It looks really nice in person.

Well, I'm glad I didn't do too bad on the price. My knowledge on the antiques is sorely lacking, so I've been picking up a couple pieces lately to try and correct that. What would you guys value the gun at?

I bet it would pull over $300 easily on Gunbroker with decent pictures.

Christmas came early for you! What a great little gun. I, too, have to remark on those lovely and lively case colors. Could probably sell just the hammer and trigger for $190.

Thanks guys. I'm not really concerned about value though, I've grown to really like this little gun and it ain't going anywhere. I'm still trying to find ammo to shoot it though, apparently finding 38 S&W is harder than finding the WMD.

Try gun shows, larger sporting goods stores (Cabela's, Bass Pro, etc.) or dealers can special order it. Also, check the internet. It's still loaded.

You certainly didn't overpay for that. 100+ years of well kept character. 38 S&W ammo is available from Midway normally, I have used the Magtec and it is fine for the older guns. Nice find.

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

I have a 38 S&W fourth model Serial # 3762XX that belonged to my dad. Have shot it many times with no problems. It has the 4" barrel and in very good condition.

I have one of those. It's the gun I discuss in this WTB ad:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/wanted-...bcat-22lr.html

I'll have to post pictures - I promise I will!. It seems to be in better shape than yours and I paid $250 I think but I'm happy to have it; they don't just pop up everywhere.

Now I have to look at it in good light to see the color cased hammer and trigger - I never even noticed (maybe because they're not?).

We'll see....

Sweet deal. I'm envious.

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Oh well, what the hell.