Two M&P .38sp

[revho]

Hi all, these older Smiths are little outside my knowledge area. These are estate consignments in a local shop. They have been put up awhile with no care. Top one has visible rust on it in multiple spots, poor finish and well worn. Cylinder has rust on the front 1/4 of each hole, but looks like they might clean up. Bottom one is better finish with worse grips. Both have surprisingly clean barrels with no rust and clean bores.

For some reason I feel like I need to rescue them to clean them and give them a good home.

Asking $329 for the top and $449 for the bottom. Possibly negotiable, need to call back and talk to the shop owner on Monday as he was out today. Obviously I want them as cheap as possible if it’s worthwhile. Are they priced too high for condition? Whats a fair offer leave them?

Thanks!






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[hkcavalier]

I think they're both about $250 guns.

This is what a $500-$600 pre-WWII M&P looks like:

[Muley Gil]

They look like pre Victory models & are probably chambered in .38 S&W, which is not the same as .38 special.

I would pass. If you just have to have them, I would offer $400 for both of them.

[hkcavalier]

Originally Posted by Muley Gil

They look like pre Victory models & are probably chambered in .38 S&W, which is not the same as .38 special.

I would pass. If you just have to have them, I would offer $400 for both of them.

The pics aren't telling the story, but yes --- likely the top gun is a 4" .38 Special and the bottom is a 5" .38 S&W.

[Absalom]

Originally Posted by hkcavalier

The pics aren't telling the story, but yes --- likely the top gun is a 4" .38 Special and the bottom is a 5" .38 S&W.

Actually, if you look at the second photo, it appears they are both 5-inchers. Upon enlargement, I cannot make out the barrel inscriptions with sufficient clarity. But .38 S&W would be more likely given barrel length, lanyard swivel, and serial range.

In any case, they are quite overpriced for the condition.

[revho]

Thanks all for the responses so far. 38 S&W would make sense. Really dont need another caliber either....


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[Texas Star]

One has 1920's grips, but they may be replacements.

Yes, both are much overpriced especially if they aren't .38 Specials.

[Jtown]

I recently passed on one for 200 in better shape than the OPs. Changed my mind and went back the next morning it was gone.
Walt

[chiefdave]

Neither would win a beauty contest but as collectables from WWII there is still some value there. Provided the mechanics are good I would give $600 for the pair without hesitation. To me a somewhat worn revolver with military or law enforcement history is far more desirable than a mint example that came out of a sock drawer.

To all my fellow veterans on the forum thank you for your service on this Veterans Day.

[jmace57]

I believe the top one has been refinished as well.

[Wiregrassguy]

The upper gun with the '20s stocks does not have a Made in USA or trademark stamp. I believe its SN starts with a 3. The ejector rod knob appears to be almost worn away and resembles the later barrel end knobs. The other stamps on the butt indicate they were used by an organization, perhaps military or agency. These guns are pretty beat up. I don't think I would touch them.

[hkcavalier]

Originally Posted by Absalom

Actually, if you look at the second photo, it appears they are both 5-inchers. Upon enlargement, I cannot make out the barrel inscriptions with sufficient clarity. But .38 S&W would be more likely given barrel length, lanyard swivel, and serial range.

In any case, they are quite overpriced for the condition.

I think you're right on the barrel length, on second glance.

[Waveski]

Originally Posted by jmace57

I believe the top one has been refinished as well.

The picture is not clear , but there may be a telltale side plate seam rounding... If was refinished it would have been a very long time ago judging by the patina on the right side. I concur - overpriced.