I have a shooter-grade model 17 (no dash - four screw) revolver and I am considering selling it to buy a higher condition 17 with 3 T's (which the current revolver doesn't have).

My current revolver is a pawn shop rescue that is well worn, with a few pits, scratches and typical bluing wear from being kept in a holster (that is where the pits likely developed, as well). I would rate the finish at 80-85% and it wears a pair of period correct diamond targets (with the football) that I bought for it. The grips are worn too, so the whole package looks well loved and together (except maybe for the pits). The gun is a straight shooter and has the typical butter-smooth action, with a excellent bore and crown. Mechanically, it is in excellent shape. No box or papers/tools.

Without seeing it, (don't have a photo account of any type) how much do you guys think it would bring?

Thanks!
kas

It sounds to be about a $500 gun.

__________________
Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

Thanks murphydog. I was hoping for at least $600, because that is about what I have in it. Guess it doesn't pay to put any money into an old gun (the stocks were about $115 off e-bay).

On a sad note, I lost my "Murphy" dog about 4 years ago at the age of 15. Best dog ever!

Thanks again,
kas

The SCSW (Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson) 4th edition is roughly a year old so fairly up to date and my impression is it is a pretty good reference for values.
My gestalt for value on what you describe is $400 - $500. I'd guess closer to $500.
The SCSW 4th edition cites for the Model 17:
Fair - $325
Good - $500
Very Good - $625

__________________
Scoundrel & Ne'er-Do-Well

Sadly, me too at the same time, almost 14

__________________
Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

I am sorry for your loss, murphydog. The only bad thing about living with dogs is that they just don't live long enough...

In Northern VA where I live, everything is expensive, even guns. There are many time when I wish I lived in a less urban area. So, maybe, my location translates into a $600 gun.

That's what I will initially ask for it if I do decided to sell it. But maybe I'll just hold onto it - it shoots great and has a lot of "character"!

kas

I feel you guys pain. I am a cat lover and when one dies it is like losing a member of the family. At 74 years, I have lost all my inclination as to hunting animals. I love them all. Big Larry

We need pictures.........to really be of help; IMO
I paid just under $500 for a shooter grade pre-18 (1957) last month......

You might be able to get some extra $$$$s for the target grips...... sell it with the original Magna's....... and keep the targets for the next one.

Thanks guys for all your comments. Yes, I would guess in most areas of the country it is a $500 revolver. I would rate it as good condition.

Like you Big Larry, I have had cats too, and have loved them all. Back when I was in high school, my father tried to teach me how to deer hunt. My heart was isn't it - but I couldn't wait until later in the day when hunting time was over and it was time to do some plinking.

I inherited the first handgun I ever shot from my father - a Colt Match Target (it is the only Colt I own - all the rest of my handguns are S&W ). I know for certain that he bought that pistol to teach me how to shoot, and here I am, some 50 years later, still shooting!

kas

That sounds about right. But without pictures it is difficult to say.

My Dad was no hunter and loved animals, but he was top shooter on the US Marine Pistol Team. I still have his 1949 vintage Woodsman Target 22. My Dad started me off at Camp Matthews Marine base when I was 9. I got to fire an M1 Garand on the firing line. Later years I revisited Camp Matthews when I did USMC Boot Camp in 1961. Shot more Garands. Big Larry