Hi guys, took my 4th model .38 to a local gunsmith (Western Tactical Gunsmithing, Denton, Texas) for their opinion on the likelihood the short barrel was cut. The answer was a definite no, and the smith found no reason to believe this isn't a legitimate 1.5 inch barrel. Encouraging news while I wait to hear back from the Historical Foundation. Hoping for a definitive answer, one way or the other. In the meantime, do I stash this possibly scarce Smith away like the holy grail, sell it without finding out the true origins, or carry and occasionally shoot it (dying to pull the trigger)? Still looking for a cut, re-plated .38 to buy and enjoy shooting. Opinions please, should I baby this gun for now?

If the revolver is not pristine, another few rounds shouldn't hurt it. However, there is a risk of breaking a part and thus reducing the value of a collectible arm. I'd wait for the letter. If original; sell it and buy a cut-barrel shooter. If cut; shoot it as no collector will care and there are many out there.

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Mike Maher #283

My feelings exactly. Pristine? Hardly, but it is mechanically sound. Hate to take a chance at breakage though, only to find later that it comes back as extremely rare. There currently is a very clean, lettered 1.5 barrel Safety .38 on Gunbroker with a buy it now of $3700. A bit optimistic? Perhaps. But it does get me to second guessing a range work out. On another note, how do I go about posting a want ad for a clean, cut, replated .38 lemon squeezer on this forum? Thanks for the assist.

04gtofan,

First of all...Concerning the authenticity...Having collected these myself for many, many years in the past...I took a good look at all the photos you posted in your earlier inquiry and from what I see...As Mike (mmaher94087) & some others have noted...I also believe the configuration of Your Revolver is correct...Even though Roy's Letter doesn't specifically note the Barrel Length it shipped with!!

Secondly...Concerning how to post a WTB Inquiry on the Forum...Here's the Forum WTB Link...http://smith-wessonforum.com/wanted-buy/...Just click on "New Thread" in the Upper or Lower Left-Hand Corner of the page to post Your Inquiry...Hope this helps!!

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Masterpiece

Choot eet!

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Guy
SWHF #474 SWCA LM#2629

As tempting as it sounds, I may refrain from chooting eet. LOL. Not sure how long the SWHF will take to respond, or if they'll even have any concrete info when they do. Weeks, months, any ideas?
Masterpiece, I appreciate your evaluation that this is most likely a factory barrel length. At this point, someone would need to prove it isn't factory original as far as I'm concerned. I'm convinced. Will keep the forum updated, hopefully with positive results. Thanks everyone.

We are currently looking at a week to 10 days backlog on writing letters.

Don Mundell
Assistant Historian SWHF

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Don Mundell

Sir, much appreciate your reply from the SWHF. Just to clarify, I have sent the completed form and a copy of the factory letter I already received. Great letter by the way, had to frame it. Now awaiting any additional documentation that may exist on this revolver, hopefully with info on original barrel length. Fingers crossed. Thanks again for your effort.