Ran across a pre-war M&P Target model. I still need to check the grips to see if they match, but condition is very good. S/N is in the 600000 range. What other things do I need to look for on this pistol and what's it worth/what are the going for?

I would look for mechanical and (original) finish condition. As you know, matching numbered stocks would be a plus. If you can share photos or a detailed description of the finish condition that would be helpful in determining a value.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

From the quick look I got of it condition was very good. Some very very light holster wear at the end of the barrel and front edges of the cylinder. Let's say 80-85% in my mind. I will try and get photos, what's the ballpark for something like this?

The last time I looked at prices, the target .38 M&Ps were going for a premium of 20-25% over a similar fixed-sight revolver. Since there are so many M&Ps the prices are often reasonable because of the available supply. If the gun you are looking at is 99% or better -- unfired or fired very little, with little or no evidence of scuffing or finish wear on the outer surfaces -- it could be a $900-1000 gun. If it has some wear but still looks good and is mechanically sound, maybe half that range. A couple of years ago I made a package deal on a 90-95% target M&P that numbered just under 650000; it shipped in 1935. Stripping out the other parts of the package, the M&P was probably valued at $400-450.

I'd say the gun you are curious about would have to be pretty nice to bring a price above $500.

As for checking it out, just look at the usual stuff -- endplay, excessive rotational play, excessive barrel/cylinder gap, push-off, timing, smooth spinning of the cylinder and ejector rod when the yoke is open -- that kind of thing.

A serial number around 600000 would have shipped in 1929/1930. Show us pics if you get it!

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David Wilson

David beat me to the response, but as usual I agree with his assessment. These don't seem to generate the excitement and prices of other pre-war guns, let alone ones with Target sights, perhaps because they are relatively common.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

Sounds good, I may make him a offer after taking a second look at it, so we will see. Thanks for the input guys

Part of the determing factor with the 4th change M&P targets is finish. Factory satin blue from the teens and 20's brings less of a premium than the high polish blue used through most of the depression. These do bring more pushing toward the $1000 range in high end condition. A nice 90-95% gun should be around $500 +/-. There is a nice example of this finish in the classifieds now.