I am considering the purchase of a S&W Model 19-5 4" with what appears to be a nickel finish. I have not seen or inspected the gun yet but have a couple of questions about the finish and the value of this gun.

In these older guns is there any problem or issue with rust or corrosion forming on or under the nickel finish? What should I look for or be careful of in a nickel finish gun?

What would be the approximate good value range for this gun?

Thanks, Dave

Welcome to the Forum. These are fairly common in factory bright nickel finish. If the finish is intact (not scratched or gouged/missing) you have little to worry about regarding it breaking down. Be careful to use cleaning solvents and methods that are safe for nickel; no heavy abrasives or prolonged exposure to ammonia-based solvents.

I would guess its value (depending upon condition, original box/contents) between $350 and $500. You're going to get a lot of comments about calling a 25 year old revolver "older"! . Hope this is helpful.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

Thanks for the warm welcome.

The seller is third owner, has no box or paperwork. The gun was originally owned by a LEO, probably his service weapon, and could/may have significant round count thru it or not. Price offered to me is $350. I am guessing that is about an average price if the gun is good, tight lock up, no blemishes, etc.

Still thinking about it, but I probably shouldn't wait too long.

Dave

Welcome to the forum. Sounds like a nice one at a good price. As already said if the finish is good you have no worrys. You can clean it with any sovent you want, just dont leave any on the finish, I wipe mine dry and put a thin layer of break free on em, some folk here wipe em dry and then wax em up. The only problem I have is that I like a nice clean gun and those nickel guns are a bit of a pain to get that way!

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Stay safe people!

For what is is worth, I have not had great luck with Nickel finished guns. They always seem to peel, develop cracked spots, or just don't hold up to a lot of shooting. Years ago, I got rid of all (but 2 Colt SAA revolvers) of my Nickel guns and replaced them with either Blue or Stainless. The Stainless being only for CCW.

That said, there are Guys that have not had my luck. My father has a Nickel Chief's Special that started life off as a blue gun, and when he wore the bluing off in the late 50's he sent it back to the Factory to have it Nickeled. He still has it and while it has a bunch of scratches, nicks and dents, the actual Nickel has held up fairly well. I guess it's the luck of the draw!

Chief38