Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > Smith & Wesson Revolvers > S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961
o

Notices

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


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 05-16-2018, 01:50 AM
Dr. Marneaus Dr. Marneaus is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Oct 2016
Posts: 208
Likes: 43
Liked 705 Times in 99 Posts
Default What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel

I’m having a hard time figuring this out. It came up locally and I don’t know what the value could be.

- 5 screw
- .38 S&W CTG
- no model number
- Engraved allll over.
- Barrel has what appears to be an after market rib with sight base allowing for pinned sight.
- no serial number or markings on the bottom of the grip frame.


I am not sure what this is. Is it simply a customized pre-model 10 in .38 S&W? Like a ‘pre-model 11’ so to speak? I don’t think it’s a K200 or Victory but it could be?

I thought initially it was a regulation police but it’s a 6 shooter not 5.

I don’t know what it is. I’m curious to know your thoughts on origins as well as value. It’s absolutely beautiful and while I have no real desire for a .38 S&W, it’s just so damn pretty and classic.













Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 05-16-2018, 02:40 AM
k22fan k22fan is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 5,835
Likes: 5,161
Liked 5,242 Times in 2,483 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dr. Marneaus View Post
[...] - no serial number or markings on the bottom of the grip frame. [...] I’m curious to know your thoughts on [...] value.
Zero.

If you already have the misfortune of owning it then keep an eye out over your shoulder for the law while you strip it for parts and destroy the frame.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #3  
Old 05-16-2018, 05:28 AM
moosedog moosedog is offline
SWCA Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Michigan
Posts: 7,851
Likes: 11,782
Liked 13,762 Times in 3,346 Posts
Default

Further research needs to be done on this one. Are there any serial numbers on the cylinder or bottom of the barrel?
Although most manufacturers used them, serial numbers were not required until the 1968 Gun Control Act.
Is there anything stamped on the frame under the grips?

Last edited by moosedog; 05-16-2018 at 05:34 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 05-16-2018, 08:23 AM
2152hq 2152hq is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Sep 2005
Posts: 7,727
Likes: 1,633
Liked 9,099 Times in 3,366 Posts
Default

It looks like many of the commonly upgraded Victory models done after WW2 in Germany for US Service personnel.
The bbl rib and front sight ramp is a commonly seen add-on. The engrving pattern is common to them as is the jeweled trigger and hammer. Many of those revolvers sported ivory grips, but stag and other mat'rl were also common.
I'd suspect the cylinder to be a replacement from since the gun was engraved since it is not engraved. But you never know what a customer may have wanted.

Silver line and figure inlay was a very common feature, gold work not as much but you do see them.
The guns were common and cheap after the War, as was the local German gunsmithing and engraving labor force, or what ws left of it.
Those tradespersons worked for nearly nothing,,sometimes just food, for their trade talent to stay alive at first.
The German civilian population was not allowed to own firearms especially handguns early on, so an industry popped up on the US bases to do this type of work.
One of the largest was Kurt Jaeger. He employed many engravers and gunsmiths, though the work was generally signed with his name on it.

Most of these guns ended up coming 'home' to the USA with the returning GI. They show up for sale here and there as the guns get put up for sale over time. Most any large gunshow will have at least one around if you look long enough.

As to the missing ser#.
It obviously had a ser# on the bottom of the butt when mfg'd. S&W always ser#'d their revolvers.
-Ser#'s were in fact required on firearms before the GCA68. At least since the FederalFirearms Act1938.
The two classes of firearms exempt from ser#'g by their mgf'r were cal22rf long guns, and any smooth bore shotgun (long gun).

These two classes were exempt from ser#'s though many mfg'rs chose to ser# some or all of their production of these anyway.

Centerfire caliber rifles & any handgun were required to be ser#d by their mfg'r right along.
The only thing the GCA68 did was add those last 2 previously exempt catagorys (cal22rf long guns and any shotguns) to the 'must be ser#d' catagory.
This makes the GCA68 responsible for 'all firearms being mf'd after '68 must be ser#'d.

A removed, altered, obliterated mfg'rs ser# is just that and addressed directly in the GCA68 and in all 50 states firearms regulations separately.
It's just plainly a violation to under take that operation or to possess or transfer a firearm with a ser# as such.

Options?

Last edited by 2152hq; 05-16-2018 at 08:28 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #5  
Old 05-16-2018, 09:15 AM
DWalt's Avatar
DWalt DWalt is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: South Texas & San Antonio
Posts: 33,480
Likes: 236
Liked 28,943 Times in 14,013 Posts
Default

Even if the butt SN has been removed, it will also be stamped in several other places, most notably on the bottom of the barrel and the rear face of the cylinder. Unfortunately, the only legally recognized SN location is somewhere on the frame and those other locations don't count. There is no simple way to make yours legal even though there are procedures for doing so in special circumstances. The greatest risk is in being arrested for some reason and having that revolver in your possession.

One thing you should do. Remove the grips and see if whoever did the work may have stamped the SN somewhere on the grip frame under the grips. If it is there you are OK.
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 05-16-2018, 09:16 AM
George_in_SD's Avatar
George_in_SD George_in_SD is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Mar 2014
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Posts: 990
Likes: 86
Liked 1,766 Times in 344 Posts
Default

Was the serial number relocated under the grips?
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 05-16-2018, 09:22 AM
cgt4570's Avatar
cgt4570 cgt4570 is offline
SWCA Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: Mount Carmel, TN USA
Posts: 3,167
Likes: 1,620
Liked 3,176 Times in 932 Posts
Default

There were a couple S&W 1917s in a recent online auction that had ATF-assigned replacement serial numbers. You can petition them to issue you one, then have a licensed gunsmith stamp it. Odds are good that they will accept that the SN was removed before doing so became illegal in 1968.
There is, however, a slight chance that they will confiscate and destroy it.
I would go that route first. If they decide to destroy it, they would still let you strip it and keep all the parts but the frame.
__________________
Chris
SWCA #2243 SWHF #292
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 05-16-2018, 09:52 AM
Dr. Marneaus Dr. Marneaus is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Oct 2016
Posts: 208
Likes: 43
Liked 705 Times in 99 Posts
Default

I do not own this gun. It simply came up for sale locally and I found it intriguing.

I can inquire as to whether there is anything under the grip panels


Thanks for all the info. I was thinking it may be a modified Victory if some sort, but was unfamiliar with these being a somewhat common item after the war. That makes total sense.

Last edited by Dr. Marneaus; 05-16-2018 at 10:06 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 05-16-2018, 10:16 AM
Wiregrassguy's Avatar
Wiregrassguy Wiregrassguy is online now
SWCA Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: AL Wiregrass
Posts: 7,201
Likes: 34,560
Liked 10,739 Times in 3,659 Posts
Default

If you are going to inquire, ask the seller to give you the serial numbers under the barrel, on the cylinder face, on the inside of the yoke arm and behind the extractor star. These should all match and also match any serial number found on the frame. Even if they all match but there is no frame SN, the gun is not legal as stated before. And that would be too bad because it is a well done example of post WWII gun art, IMO.
__________________
Guy
SWHF #474 SWCA LM#2629
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #10  
Old 05-16-2018, 02:22 PM
DWalt's Avatar
DWalt DWalt is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: South Texas & San Antonio
Posts: 33,480
Likes: 236
Liked 28,943 Times in 14,013 Posts
Default

That it is. It's indeed unfortunate that someone removed the butt SN. As I said previously, there are procedures for getting authorization to have a BATFE-assigned SN stamped, but only under special circumstances. It is likely to involve a substantial investment in time and some bureaucratic hassle to get it done, with no assurance of success. Personally, I would not even try unless it was an exceedingly rare and desirable gun of the kind discussed below.

Several years ago one of Bonnie Parker's guns emerged and was going to auction. However, its SN had been ground off. From what I have read, BATFE was less than co-operative in allowing it to receive a new SN so it could be sold and it took considerable perseverance to make it happen. A story about it is here: ATF helps bring Bonnie and Clyde pistol to auction
However, other articles I have read indicate that the problems with the BATFE were somewhat more substantial than the story in the link suggests. PS - Frank Hamer was not a Texas Ranger of any rank at the time of the Bonnie and Clyde ambush despite what the article states.

Last edited by DWalt; 05-16-2018 at 03:38 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 05-16-2018, 03:30 PM
Absalom's Avatar
Absalom Absalom is offline
SWCA Member
Absent Comrade
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Oregon
Posts: 12,834
Likes: 10,103
Liked 27,995 Times in 8,452 Posts
Default

Colts like the Detective Special in the previous post are a bit trickier than a S&W of the same vintage, since they have the full serial number stamped in only one place, in this case the crane/yoke cut-out. If that is gone, the serial is lost.

For the same reason, a lot of the old DA Army Colts which had the five- or six-digit serial only on the butt lost theirs when they were upgraded with the 1901 lanyard swivel at various ordnance depots, and were then just re-stamped with the assembly number which was the last four digits of the serial and all that was available from elsewhere on the gun. Some Colt collectors are still fretting about the legality of those.

If someone were stuck with a S&W like this one, as long as one can establish the correct serial conclusively from matching numbers in two or more other locations, one could always just re-stamp it on the butt and touch up the finish, and no one would be any wiser. That’s just hypothetical musing, not a recommendation or legal advice, of course
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 05-16-2018, 03:42 PM
DWalt's Avatar
DWalt DWalt is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: South Texas & San Antonio
Posts: 33,480
Likes: 236
Liked 28,943 Times in 14,013 Posts
Default

I always wondered why those who intentionally wanted to "sanitize" a S&W revolver didn't remove every SN. Maybe they weren't aware of all the locations.
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 05-16-2018, 05:51 PM
BC38's Avatar
BC38 BC38 is online now
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Nov 2013
Location: Spokane, WA
Posts: 13,476
Likes: 1,146
Liked 18,402 Times in 7,281 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Absalom View Post
If someone were stuck with a S&W like this one, as long as one can establish the correct serial conclusively from matching numbers in two or more other locations, one could always just re-stamp it on the butt and touch up the finish, and no one would be any wiser. That’s just hypothetical musing, not a recommendation or legal advice, of course
I always wondered about that myself. Particularly if someone were to re-stamp the SN on the side of the grip, as gunsmiths so commonly did "back in the day".

I mean, theoretically, how would anyone be able to say when it was done - yesterday or 50 years ago?
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 05-16-2018, 06:38 PM
BC38's Avatar
BC38 BC38 is online now
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Nov 2013
Location: Spokane, WA
Posts: 13,476
Likes: 1,146
Liked 18,402 Times in 7,281 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by DWalt View Post
I always wondered why those who intentionally wanted to "sanitize" a S&W revolver didn't remove every SN. Maybe they weren't aware of all the locations.
I'm sure that is a factor.
Then again, since the frame SN is the only one that really "counts" in terms of positively identifying and/or tracing the gun, maybe they figured, why bother?
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 05-16-2018, 08:06 PM
Absalom's Avatar
Absalom Absalom is offline
SWCA Member
Absent Comrade
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Oregon
Posts: 12,834
Likes: 10,103
Liked 27,995 Times in 8,452 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by BC38 View Post
....
Then again, since the frame SN is the only one that really "counts" in terms of positively identifying and/or tracing the gun, maybe they figured, why bother?
Although it’s doubtful that a lot of “bad guys” actually know that, considering how many dealers don’t.

Given that a significant percentage of old guns in this country goes through pawn shops where the owner maintains a current FFL so they can do guns, but nobody is into guns for a living, S&W revolvers likely change hands on 4473’s based on their assembly number all the time; even in states where the law requires running the gun through NCIC during an FFL transfer, who would notice in any gun old enough to have a straight numeric serial?
Reply With Quote
  #16  
Old 05-16-2018, 08:25 PM
smithrjd smithrjd is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Jun 2013
Location: CA
Posts: 450
Likes: 22
Liked 270 Times in 126 Posts
Default

It's not just pawn shops.. I have transferred several old S&W where the guy behind the counter had no clue. They always go for the yoke #, looking for the model # as well. A 22/32 HFT was the funniest one, the model # did not come up in the drop down box on the registration computer.. They learned a lot that day. LOL. A K38 was a model 10 on the registration form.. My first deer rifle which I still have is a 1944 BCD code K98. It has no serial number on the receiver... They used the serial number off the barrel. Lots of Waffenmats and other stamps, no serial # No import marks either. That one worries me a bit. I still have the Federal form copy for the early 70's just in case...
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #17  
Old 05-21-2018, 05:45 PM
iskra iskra is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Oct 2011
Location: 'Beachy' SoCal
Posts: 522
Likes: 12
Liked 761 Times in 280 Posts
Default Pick A Serial Number - off forum topic

The whole serial number situation in context of guns tends to be a morass! The most complete, accurate and visually available of such numbers are no better than the expertise/accuracy of the person correctly identifying and recording. The old 'garbage in, garbage out' adage could hardly be more apropos!

Not quite the Forum, but note below a Swiss K31 rifle purchased from "Big Five Sporting Goods store for $99 something over a decade ago. Excellent, all (original) matching, great shooter! But collector value; Squat! Not just that. 'Pick your serial number'...
Not sure what program created situation/logic of two serial numbers present and potentially competing! Presumptively the 'new & improved' importer serial correct', yet... Seeming a dumb idea and only introducing confusion!

My take
Attached Images
File Type: jpg R31-7U.jpg (90.2 KB, 66 views)
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #18  
Old 05-21-2018, 06:07 PM
Absalom's Avatar
Absalom Absalom is offline
SWCA Member
Absent Comrade
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Oregon
Posts: 12,834
Likes: 10,103
Liked 27,995 Times in 8,452 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by iskra View Post
.....
Not quite the Forum, but note below a Swiss K31 rifle purchased from "Big Five Sporting Goods store for $99 something over a decade ago. Excellent, all (original) matching, great shooter! But collector value; Squat! Not just that. 'Pick your serial number'...
Not sure what program created situation/logic of two serial numbers present and potentially competing! Presumptively the 'new & improved' importer serial correct', yet... Seeming a dumb idea and only introducing confusion!
Well, I guess there’s nothing in the law about adding as many serial numbers as you want, as long as you don’t alter or obliterate the original one. Recognizing which is which isn’t your worry either ...
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 05-21-2018, 06:21 PM
raljr1 raljr1 is online now
SWCA Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Northeast FL
Posts: 5,749
Likes: 7,411
Liked 15,075 Times in 3,596 Posts
Default

A local pawn shop I frequent had a 1903 colt with the serial number polished off. He applied to ATF for a serial number assignment and had one within a couple weeks. I was surprised at how simple it seemed to be. If I were truly interested in that gun and it was for sale by a dealer, I would consider that route. And I too have at least one revolver in my collection that was run thru NICS with the assembly number in the crane area.
__________________
Robert
SWCA #2906, SWHF #760
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 05-21-2018, 06:44 PM
2152hq 2152hq is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Sep 2005
Posts: 7,727
Likes: 1,633
Liked 9,099 Times in 3,366 Posts
Default

The importer added ser# as on the K31 is in responce to the BATF importation rules that state:
The imported firearms ser# cannot duplicate the ser# of ANY firearm the importer has previously imported.

Never,,ever,,duplicate a ser# of any firearm that the importer ever imported before in the past,,,ever.

That's pretty high bar when you think about it with the multiple hundreds of thousands of firearms imported over the years, different types, countrys of origin, ect.
Think CAI ever got a gun or two with the same ser# even though they're two different types of firearms

So as not to be caught in that 1 in a million trap (maybe it's less than that!),,the importers decided to, and with the blessings of the BATF, add their own Importer Ser# to many of their wares.

This is a ser# unique to their company and import business, usually unique within their record keeping to quickly ID the type and usually the yr of import of the arm as well as a unique ser#.
It's usually computer applied, dot matrix, quickly and effortlessly and computerized recorded.
No sloppy hand stamping and handling of arms or hand written records when the compliance agents come calling or a Gun Trace arrives looking for a back track.

So that's the why of the Importer Applied Ser#.
Collectors don't like it,,they didn't like the BigBillBoard Import markings,,they didn't like the original tiny Import Markings on the bbl,,they didn't like that the GCA68 stopping Milsurp imports for just short of 20yrs either.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #21  
Old 05-22-2018, 02:10 PM
raljr1 raljr1 is online now
SWCA Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Northeast FL
Posts: 5,749
Likes: 7,411
Liked 15,075 Times in 3,596 Posts
Default

I wonder if any of these types of guns (with S/Ns removed) that we discuss here online are ever pursued by the ATF in order to prosecute the felony of possessing a handgun, with the S/N removed. This forum might actually be the mechanism by which ATF learns of some such guns.[/QUOTE]

Considering how few NICS denials for felonies that they follow up on, I highly doubt it


Robert
__________________
Robert
SWCA #2906, SWHF #760
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #22  
Old 05-22-2018, 02:48 PM
Absalom's Avatar
Absalom Absalom is offline
SWCA Member
Absent Comrade
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Oregon
Posts: 12,834
Likes: 10,103
Liked 27,995 Times in 8,452 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Collects View Post
....
I wonder if any of these types of guns (with S/Ns removed) that we discuss here online are ever pursued by the ATF in order to prosecute the felony of possessing a handgun, with the S/N removed. This forum might actually be the mechanism by which ATF learns of some such guns.
Personally, I don’t think they are the least bit interested. But I have no evidence.

Which is the whole problem with this discussion. We know the law, but are unable to evaluate its practical implications because there is no evidence of any enforcement.

Every member cop who has spoken up here about the people he busted with guns that had obliterated serial numbers has had to admit that it happened ancillary to other crimes; obviously, if you shoot someone or rob a bank with such a gun, this will be an additional charge. But nobody has come up with any cases where collectors or other citizens were prosecuted or targeted just for possession.

So we’re lacking data. It’s all guesswork. And if you ask ATF, they will tell you the law, and not “Are you kidding? Who has time for this chicken**** stuff?” which is more likely the reality.

Last edited by handejector; 05-22-2018 at 04:05 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #23  
Old 05-22-2018, 04:06 PM
handejector's Avatar
handejector handejector is offline
Administrator
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Mar 2005
Posts: 27,011
Likes: 7,106
Liked 48,563 Times in 9,217 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Collects View Post

I wonder if any of these types of guns (with S/Ns removed) that we discuss here online are ever pursued by the ATF in order to prosecute the felony of possessing a handgun, with the S/N removed. This forum might actually be the mechanism by which ATF learns of some such guns.

Of course they do.
They have internet filters set up to alert them every time the word 'serial' is posted so they can look at the post.
Just to be thorough and cover all levels of spelling skill, the filter also catches 'cereal'.



There is a black helicopter hovering overhead as I type.
Listen---

Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap-Wap............


There was a black SUV out front all night, but they left when you posted your alert. Now, an ice cream truck keeps stopping down the block, but never sells any popsicles!


I've been told they check every serial number posted on the net, and also try to ID the poster. They have calculated that by doing that for 232 years, 5 months, 19 days, 2 hours, 38 minutes, and 42 seconds, they can have every gun in the US registered!
__________________
Regards,
Lee Jarrett
Reply With Quote
The Following 8 Users Like Post:
  #24  
Old 05-22-2018, 04:37 PM
k22fan k22fan is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 5,835
Likes: 5,161
Liked 5,242 Times in 2,483 Posts
Default

If the original poster was still considering buying this turkey I'd suggest he read his local laws and consider the political views of those who appoint or reward his state and local police. Like every one else, on most visits to most of the ranges I use I shoot beside LEOs. One of those ranges is in a big city that is in such a solidly liberal area that during some elections the Republicans did not even bother running a candidate for US Congress. With thousands of unquestionably legal guns for sale every hour, would you really recommend selecting the rare one that would be a felony to possess?
Reply With Quote
  #25  
Old 05-22-2018, 05:14 PM
moosedog moosedog is offline
SWCA Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Michigan
Posts: 7,851
Likes: 11,782
Liked 13,762 Times in 3,346 Posts
Default

To the original poster, why not give your local ATF a call and ask about it. I bought a Victory from a very famous distributor years ago that had the serial on the butt ground off. I asked ATF when they came to do my FFL check and they took care of it. They assigned it a serial number and there was no problem.
This post is interesting. I never knew how many paranoid members we have.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #26  
Old 05-22-2018, 05:31 PM
Jim Watson Jim Watson is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: Florence, Alabama, USA
Posts: 2,333
Likes: 40
Liked 1,381 Times in 766 Posts
Default

I think asking BATF is worth a shot.
The engraving may legitimize it to where they will assign a number.
Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 05-22-2018, 05:41 PM
rgm36 rgm36 is offline
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: Fond du Lac WI
Posts: 893
Likes: 21
Liked 1,348 Times in 283 Posts
Default

That thing is cool!
From the engraving, to the jeweled hammer and trigger and to the high horn stags - its cool.
DO-NOT destroy that gun.
Figure out a way to make it legal.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #28  
Old 05-22-2018, 06:02 PM
Eddie Southgate's Avatar
Eddie Southgate Eddie Southgate is online now
Member
What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel What am I looking at? 5 screw .38 S&W engraved with ribbed barrel  
Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: Tennessee and Alabama
Posts: 1,218
Likes: 2,757
Liked 1,607 Times in 660 Posts
Default

If the price was right I would buy it and restamp the number under the grips .

Eddie
__________________
Grumpy Old Man With a Gun
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
29 4 screw Engraved Chris Humphries S&W Revolvers: 1961 to 1980 4 12-31-2016 05:19 PM
Remington 870 Simmons Ribbed Barrel JordonC2 Accessories/Misc - For Sale or Trade 1 10-25-2015 11:51 AM
WTB: 5 screw narrow ribbed K-22 tight for shooting YeshuaIsa53 WANTED to Buy 2 10-29-2010 11:44 PM
WTB: 8 3/8ths barrel Mdl 57 ribbed blue MadBadger WANTED to Buy 2 02-16-2010 10:08 AM
WTB: 4" .45 barrel, tapered, ribbed *FOUND* rhodnett WANTED to Buy 0 08-27-2009 08:38 PM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 06:40 PM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)