New guy here. Just picked up this revolver from an old guy I know. He needed $300 so he sold me this smith and I have no clue what it is. All I can see is that it's a 38 spc. In short, what exactly is it and did I overpay?

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It's a pre war M&P to my best of my knowledge and no you didn't over pay. Someone with a bit more info will be along shortly.
After a second look it's probably a 1902 model because it only has 4 screws. If you don't mind post the Ser# and a closer date will be posable.

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SWHF #595

I would also agree with the not an overpay. You should not count on make a huge windfall from the profits should you turn it over but a very fair value for a decent gun.
Removing the grips and looking for a B encircled will let you know if the factory finish started out nickle or blue.

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Front sight and squeeze

Couldn't figure out how to reply with pics so they're in the op. Serial is 182761

You may not have overpaid but I wouldn't have paid any more. It is refinished and not by the factory and has incorrect grips. If it is mechanically tight it will likely be a good shooter. I'm guessing 1920s but as andy52 says, with a serial number someone here can get you close to the likely shipping date.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

If I'm reading the S&W Catalog accurately, 182761 is between 1909 and 1915, maybe 1912. Someone here may have actual ship dates of close SNs so may be able to get nearer. Only a letter will give you the actual ship date. And welcome to the Forum.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

Thanks for the good info. I may just end up selling it since I was just helping the guy out. Don't really need to expand into another caliber right now with the ammo shortages. Also, thanks for welcoming me. I'll stick around, but probably just lurk since I have no smith knowledge to share

Stick around, ask questions, lurk and learn. This is a great place to learn, and not just about S&W.

182761 would put it at or close to 1912. It would be called a Model of 1902, given that it has the rounded butt. I'd bet that it has been nickeled outside the factory. $300 is a reasonable price (today) for a functioning shooter-grade gun with no collectible value.

?

I'm seeing a 5-screw in the photos.

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Where do we go from here?

Welcome to the forums from the Wiregrass, Robman! Yes, it's a 5 screw and was clearly plated outside the factory because the trademark stamp and rebound slide stud have been polished off. Plus, the hammer and trigger are plated. A round butt .38 M&P is probably worth $300 even refinished.

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Guy
SWHF #474 SWCA LM#2629

Don't under estimate the older S&W revolvers. They were made in a time when the quality was top notch. Take the time to shoot it might surprise you

some good info already posted. I would call S&W or e mail with pics.