What to Do??????

[auguie]

This is a S&W 38 special with the 5 inch barrel, Serial number 5146##
This gun was given to me a few years back, no sentimental value at all.
Someone must have took a wire brush to clean the rust off and removed some(Allot) of the blueing. Gun locks up tight and bore is clean, looks to be shot very little. I dated this gun to the late 1920's ??, Not sure I read the book correctly.
Is there any value to this gun? Would it be worth reblueing or is it just an old shooter as is.
I have several S&W but nothing this old, any suggestion will be helpful.

Thanks

[mikepriwer]

Collects has identified all the pertinent points.

Unless these is something special in its provenance, its just a shooter. Maybe $200.

Mike Priwer

[pace40]

Keep it...things keep going the way they are, it might be the only one you're allowed to own.

[feralmerril]

How much is a reblue today, $250s? How much postage to turn it around? $75s? How much can you get for it as is? $225s? Add it up. $550s? Sounds like that money might pretty much put you into a real nice gun especialy if you add another $100s or so. But then again it might shoot as well as a new whatever for nothing plus it wont brake your heart if you scuff it up.

[Wiregrassguy]

You could use Blue Wonder on it. Seems to get great results. Since the gun was given to you, all you would be out is $50-60 and the cost of your time.

[auguie]

Thanks for the opinion's, I think i will leave it like it is. Maybe shoot it or sell it. It sure is a well built gun.

Thanks Auguie