Stopped in at a LGS (not too local, about two towns over) to look for a few things. Spotted an older, well-worn S&W revolver marked "M10" (maybe Model 10, I forget) on the tag. Asked to see it and it turned out to be a genuine .38/200, marked .38 S&W on the barrel. Curiously the tag also said (IIRC) "5-shot". It showed a lot of honest wear, no abuse which I could see, and sported diamond checkered grips which looked original and as worn as the finish. Serial number was (no prefix) 882xxx . Also had a hole for the lanyard ring, at the end of the SN if I remember.

Asking price was $250. IF it had been a .38 S&W Special I probably would have it home now but I just can't see buying something which is not in a common caliber.

I'd tried to check a few more things on it (such as lock-up) but the guy behind the counter was hovering over me. Besides, I really wasn't that interested after seeing the caliber.

The same shop has both a roughly 1948 K22 and an early Model 18, both at $800. No boxes as I recall. They also had a flat latch Chief's Special but I think that went (at $500).

SOMEONE in the area seems to be dumping older S&Ws.

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Frosty
S&WCA # 2816

"Someone in the area seems to be dumping older S&Ws" That would be "Dumpster Don" Mundell. He resides in the S&W dumpster and recycles his culls to the area LGSs ! Ed.

The serial number is in the right neighborhood for a pre-Victory from late 1941 that shipped to Britain on a late BPC contract or under early Lend-lease. We would need more info about other markings. It sounds like it is still in original condition externally. If it has not been converted to .38 Special post-war and the stocks number to the gun, I'd snap it up for $250 for its collector value; but that's me due to my specific interest.

I really wish I had taken a closer look. I was looking for some supplies and just happened to see this. I do not recall seeing any external markings but that doesn't mean there weren't any. I may go back and try to take another look by Saturday.

As far as "Dumpster Don"...I have to be nice to him, at least until I qualify for LM in the SWCA. He was the guy who sponsored me in the first place.

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Frosty
S&WCA # 2816