Another Heavy Duty question

tgfang · #1 08-08-2009, 08:05 PM

I have an opportunity to buy what I believe to be a Heavy Duty. The front sight is more or less half-moon in shape but is serrated; it doesn't look like the sights in the photos on the 38/44 website. I'm not sure if that indicates a barrel replacement, but the same number appears on the barrel, cylinder and grip frame. From memory the serial number is in the 740xx range.

The finish is well worn and the trigger binds in double action pull. Local gunsmith thinks that repairs probably will not cost much.

Is the serrated sight a reason to be wary of the revolver? I am thinking of it as a shooter.

Tom

gjamison · #2 08-08-2009, 08:26 PM

it sounds like it would be a great shooter with a little work. if the barrel has been cut down and the front site modified then it not much of a collecter piece.

smith17 · #3 08-08-2009, 08:43 PM

tg:
Does it look anything like this one?
Ed

tgfang · #4 08-09-2009, 11:28 AM

Ed,

I believe the sight does look like the one in the photo that you posted. The gun is still at the store so I am relying on memory.

I don't think that the barrel has been cut down because it has a nice rounded crown like that on my M&P.

Tom

1Aspenhill · #5 08-09-2009, 10:37 PM

Tom,
You should have a "S" in front of the serial number. Also, it should have the pre war style hammer and trigger too. If it is in the S74000 range, and has the trigger and hammer as above, it is a transition gun. I have several with the serated front sight. I have seen where the factory would to it, but can't find it among my records/catalogs. The action could be binding due to dirt/dried grease or oil. It should be a good shooter.
Hope this helps,
Bill
PS-IF you get the full serial number, I'd like to have it for my data base.

tgfang · #6 08-10-2009, 07:53 PM

Bill:

Thank you for the information. I looked at the photos on your website but did not see any revolvers with serrated front sights, but the sight on the revolver that I am looking at does not appear to be to have been added to the gun. I don't recall an "S" in front of the serial numbers but my eyes are old. If I can figure out how to send a PM i will send the digits that I recall.

Tom

1Aspenhill · #7 08-11-2009, 11:29 PM

Tom,
When I get home, I'll send you some pics for you to look at. I see this more on pre war guns than post war.
Thanks,
Bill

1Aspenhill · #8 08-12-2009, 11:20 PM

Tom,
Pic not too good, but gun went to Denver PD:

Here's another:

And another:

I hope this helps,
Bill