Need help with value of old M & P Target Model

[bedbugbilly]

I need some help in determining what a “fair value” or “sale price” would be on the revolver that I will post photos of. I am at a point in my life that I really need to downsize and I am considering selling this revolver but need some advice from educated “Smith people” as to what it is worth. I know that will depend on the geographical locations many times and I just need a ball park figure. I am not trying to make a “silk purse out of a sow’s ear” – it is what it is.

I bought this about 8 or 9 years ago when I stopped at a gun shop some distance from where I live – they were more in to the semi-autos and Zpmbie types – not revolvers. Actually, they had no idea of what it was – it was just and old
S & W revolver.

So here goes. When I first got it and posted it on this site, I was told Smith & Wesson M & P, 1st Model $th Change – Target Model. It was estimated that it was probably made in the early to mid 1920’s. I was also told that the stocks were not original to the pistol. All sounds right to me and unless someone has more info on the serial number and mfg. date – that sounds about right as well.

Condition

The revolver locks up tight and is in good mechanical condition – nice trigger pull in SA/DA, in time, etc. It shoots very well. I have taken it out a few times and put some WC loads and some 158 RN loads through it – mild as I reload and can adjust that. It is definitely not “pristine” or “like new”. This revolver was definitely used and loved by someone. It presents what I would call “authentic holster wear”. From the muzzle back on both sides of the barrel, the bluing is worn as well as on other high spots – front edges of the cylinder, etc. which would show holster wear. I am not an expert at “grading” but my guess would be that it was about 75% - 80% as far as the blueing – good honest wear and not abuse. I can’t speak for sure but it looks like there has not been any filing or adjusting to the front sight or any alterations to the adjustable rear sight. Needless to say, all I have is the revolver and not the original box or related items that would have come with it originally.

Serial Number: 5334XX – see photo of bottom of grip frame.

Chambered in 38 special – 6” barrel.

My wife and I moved into town into a condo last year from the farm and I no longer have access to the 50 yard range I had. I have other 38s to shoot including my 1952 M & P 5” 38 Special. When something happens to me, we don’t have kids and my wife will not know a whole lot about the things I have so it’s time to see they go to someone who will enjoy them as much as I have.

As I said, this is not “pristine” or “like new” – hopefully I’ve given a good enough description and the pictures will help show what wear it has. If some of you who are familiar with these Target Models could give me an idea of the value of it, I’d greatly appreciate it. Also, if someone could educate me on the grips it has would be appreciated. What would they date to?

Many thanks for any help you can give.

[bedbugbilly]

more photos

[bedbugbilly]

pictures of S & W M & P Target

[bedbugbilly]

the rest of the photos I have of the M & P

Thanks for any info or help on the value - greatly appreciate it.

[murphydog]

The gun's production dates to the latter part of the 1920 decade, perhaps 1926 or '27; the stocks are from the 1910 decade.

I think a fair value would be in the $600 range but others here will chime in. Cool gun.

[jmace57]

My first reaction was just like Alan's - $600 given its condition.

[shouldazagged]

I just wish I had the money to make you an offer. Nice gun.

[model3sw]

I have a soft spot for all pre-war M&P Targets. In this instance the most quantity of Target versions were manufactured in the 1904 / 4th change serial number range. All are pretty to look at and sweet to shoot but don't bring more seious money unless the condition is in the high 90s (97-99%) condition, and better with box, papers, tools.

In short, what you have there a serious pre-war collector / shooter would put up between $600-$800 for yours if it is mechanically excellent.

[Targets Guy]

If the s/n is 533442 then the gun shipped between 2/26 and 4/26.

This one (s/n 535896) shipped 4/26



stocks are not original

[reddog81]

I'd snap it up at $500. $600 is probably reasonable. You might be able to get $700 or more if you want to sit on it for a little while.

[glowe]

Originally Posted by bedbugbilly

I need some help in determining what a “fair value” or “sale price” would be on the revolver that I will post photos of . . .

Many thanks for any help you can give.

I just picked up a 38 M&P, 4th in the 482,XXX serial number range for $400 online. It's only problem was that it had a set of post-factory pearls. I had the correct stocks for a 1920s revolver and it is not ready for a trip to the range. I think a good range is $400 to maybe $550 at auction. There were a lot of 4th Model M&Ps made and a good number of target guns as well.

Here is what I bought. It was shipped in 1925 and cleaned up quite nicely.

[29aholic]

I have a target in similar condition I paid $525.00 shipped for with original grips.