What model S&W is this?

zahnz · #1 08-05-2017, 07:21 PM

Inherited this revolver and have no idea what it is or if it is worth anything. Serial number is 410638. Appreciate any help!

Inusuit · #2 08-05-2017, 07:46 PM

I'm going to hazard a guess. The experts will be along shortly to correct my misconceptions, but I think you have a .38 Double Action 4th Model. Caliber is .38 S&W, not .38 S&W Special. The 4th Model was manufactured circa 1895-1909 with a serial number range of 322701-539000. So if it's a 4th, your revolver falls somewhere in the middle of that range.

Given its condition, the value is primarily in whom you inherited it from and any stories that accompany that person. I'd put the market value at $100-125 if it locks up and a competent gunsmith declares it safe to shoot.

zahnz · #3 08-05-2017, 08:20 PM

Thanks for the info on the revolver - agree that the fun part of it may be trying to trace the ownership trail within the family. Always a mystery to solve!

JSR III · #4 08-06-2017, 07:14 PM

Welcome to the forum.

Unfortunately with these older S&W's, condition is everything because so many were made. High condition guns will bring top dollar but guns in poor condition are worth little.

As stated, the real value of this gun is its family history but that value only means something in your family.

If you decide to clean it up a little use copper wool gently with lots of oil. Remove the stocks and spray some brake clean or similar degunking product into the innards. Blow it out with a compressor or a can of air and wipe dry. Insert a few drops of oil and work the action gently. It should work fairly well unless parts are broken inside.

Enjoy and write down whatever family history you can uncover so future generations of yours won't have to guess.