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S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 All 5-Screw & Vintage 4-Screw SWING-OUT Cylinder REVOLVERS, and the 35 Autos and 32 Autos


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  #1  
Old 10-31-2011, 06:38 PM
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Default Pre 19 Combat .357 Magnum question...

First let me say that I haven't seen this gun yet but....

I was told it's an early pre-19 .357 Magnum, s/n 264,xxx and that there is NO S&W logo on either side of the frame.

The gun shows some wear and was used for quite a few years by a local LEO.

I'm guessing the shipping date is going to be mid 1956. Other than possibly being refinished, is there any reason for the missing S&W logo on the frame?

Thanks!
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Old 10-31-2011, 07:52 PM
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With that serial number it could be a 1955 gun. I don't know about the missing S&W stamp. I guess it could have gotten out of the factory without it but I'd be cautious of that one.
Maybe one of these gents with more knowledge will chime in.
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Old 10-31-2011, 10:08 PM
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If it's original, the side plate will have the same assembly number as the yoke and frame. (of course, the number would be stamped on the inside. of the side plate) That's the only to know if it's the original side plate. I'd think it would have had the S&W trademark on it......

Mark
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Old 11-01-2011, 08:47 AM
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Linda...Combat Magnums in the serial number range you referenced were generally shipped in 57-58. If an unmarked side plate was used to replace the original one by S&W, there should be stampings on the frame indicating a refinish and some type of repair work. If the work was done outside of the factory, there will be no stampings.

It is also possible the side plate "missed" the roll marking step, but I find that hard to believe as it would have been seen during the inspection steps and the revolver sent for "rework".

You can make your own decision, but I would be very skeptical about this revolver.

Bill
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Old 11-01-2011, 08:59 AM
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I agree with Doc. If you are able, please post some detailed pictures of all views.
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Old 11-01-2011, 09:23 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Doc44 View Post
Linda...Combat Magnums in the serial number range you referenced were generally shipped in 57-58. If an unmarked side plate was used to replace the original one by S&W, there should be stampings on the frame indicating a refinish and some type of repair work. If the work was done outside of the factory, there will be no stampings.

It is also possible the side plate "missed" the roll marking step, but I find that hard to believe as it would have been seen during the inspection steps and the revolver sent for "rework".

You can make your own decision, but I would be very skeptical about this revolver.

Bill
Bill, thanks for the feedback!

Since my first posting, I've learned a little more about the gun...

There's a purplish cast on the barrel and frame and the rear sight is dinged. The original box and paperwork is long gone.

The gun was originally bought by a LEO and passed down to anothe LEO. My first thought that maybe the side plate was left blank for engraving (??).

I know these early pre-models are desirable but I going to pass on this one.

Thanks again!
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Old 11-01-2011, 11:30 AM
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Linda...if the revolver was to be engraved, S&W would have roll marked the small logo on the left side of the frame.

The purple color on the frame and barrel "suggests" a refinish done by someone other than S&W.

Bill
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