Another 38 special 1905 ID thread

[kenneu]

Ok, I'll post a couple of pics. I *think* it is a 38 M&P 4th change but I keep finding little differences... This was a great grand-dad service gun found in an attic. Time has not been kind to the nickel. Very smooth action and trigger, but it needs some serious TLC. Question is first, what's the real value with so much corrosion. Can it be brought back to very good finish condition by Smith or is it essentially a total loss?

It is serial number 3952XX. There are matching serial numbers on the cylinder and barrel. 5 screws. You can see the mushroom, grips, and logo (left side is throwing me off).

I'm happy to have it cleaned up and shoot it as is, sell it if it's worth something, or, completely ruin it and have the rust addressed and blued. I love old Smith revolvers. Yeah, I know it won't ever bring back the money sunk into it.

Thanks in advance.

[Absalom]

The serial number places it in 1922, first half of the year since it doesn't have the "MADE IN USA" stamp. The stocks are likely not original, because they are 19-teens-style, and while there were transition times, S&W is not likely to have put that style on a gun that late. The nickel job is also not factory, at least judging by your photos, which make the hammer and trigger appear nickeled.

I do not think the factory would accept a gun that old for any reconditionig work. Besides, for a 1922 nickel family heirloom, it doesn't look bad at all. I'd leave it alone and enjoy it as it is. Value is moderate at best anyway, maybe $250.