I recently purchased a model 64 with a pinned "skinny" barrel. It is in new condition with the original box. My intention was to use it as my CCW but it is in such good shape I am second guessing that decision. Would I be better off selling it and buying maybe a used S&W to carry? I really can't afford to keep it AND buy another revolver...

If your life was on the line I doubt you would regret carrying a gun
that was in like new condition. The no dash 64 is a nice gun, i've got
one, but it's not a high dollar rare collectable. I say keep it and use it
and take good care of it and it will protect you for the rest of your
life and still look good.

Welcome to the Forum!

I could see maybe selling it then buying a police trade in or other K-frame to use for carry. That being said if you like the one you have now and know that it shoots well and works properly why sell.

Like alwslate said they aren't that rare.

In addition, it's not a requirement that you beat the snot out of a carry gun. The few that I carry don't look that much different from when I bought them. It seems people automatically assume you're supposed to throw them on the asphalt when you take them out of the box to carry. A little honest wear gives a revolver character.

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Because of the metric system?

petepeterson IS ON THE MONEY ! ! ! A CARRY GUN DOESN'T HAVE TO END UP looking LIKE YOU DRAGGED IT BEHIND YOUr TRUCK WITH A ROPE. THE 64 IS A STAINLESS GUN WHICH CAN BE MAINTAINED IN GREAT COSMETIC CONDITION WITH SCOTCH BRITE PADS, MOTHERS MAG WHEEL POLICH, AND A LITTLE ELBOW GREASE. IF THE REVOLVER FULLFILLLS YOUR NEEDS RE CALIBER (IT SHOOTS STANDARD PRESSURE ..38 SPL--BUFFALO BORE MAKES A GOOD ONE) AND YOU CAN SHOOT IT WELL, AND CARRY IT COMFORTABLY, I WOULD KEEP IT. YOU WERE OBVIOUSLY ATTRACTED TO IT, BY ITS GOOD LOOKS AND CONDITION. ITS NOT HIGHLY COLLECTIBLE--BUT ITS PROVEN ITSELF THROUGH YEARS OF GOOD SERVICE. IT WILL MAINTAIN IT'S VALUE IF YOU KEEP IT IN GOOD CONDITION. BELOW IS AN EXAMPLE OF MY CARRY GUNS. THIS NO DASH WAS SCUFFED UP WHEN I BOUGHT IT. I CLEANED IT UP, AND THIS IS HOW I MAINTAIN IT, DESPITE THE FACT THAT I SHOOT IT, AND CARRY IT…..

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'Nam 1968-69.DAV,VFW,NRA Inst.

Welcome to the forum, Cheesemonger.

An as-new tapered barrel 64 with the correct box, while indeed not rare, isn't very commonly found these days. If it's absolutely your ideal carry piece, nothing wrong with letting it take the plunge into used revolver status -- your having the right piece for you is more important, ultimately, than keeping it pristine.

But if there's leeway with what you're happy to carry, consider sitting on this one; by your description it's in collectible condition, and although not a red hot collectible like a pre-27 and such, it's still a desirable piece that will appreciate in value if you maintain its condition.

If you can scrape together a few hundred bucks, there are many used but serviceable 64s out there that can perform guard duty, and then you get along with a defense piece you don't have to worry about, also the fun of having a cool, appreciating in value collectible in your possession.

Just a thought.

But indeed, if money's too tight and a pencil 64 is just right for you, use it, or if a couple different styles can work for your carry, sell it to a collector and get a functioning service piece and pocket the change -- you'll come out ahead, which is a good feeling if you're tight on funds.

Carry it in a top quality holster, maintain it religiously, and it will be a long time before it shows significant wear. SS guns hold up very well under responsible use.

Thank you all for the warm greetings! The problem is, I do not have enough extra income to get another revolver without selling this one. It is in pristine condition and do not want to do a dis-service to this wonderful handgun unless I know that there are others like it. Thank you all, I really appreciate your input! I think that with all of the great suggestions I will go ahead and carry it. Thanks for all of your help!!

Great decision as I carry this one in the summer.

Pete for the win!

Sounds like you only have $$$s for one gun.....then it might as well be a nice one!!!! I'm guessing you deserve it......!!!!!

Good holster,inside the waistband carry, covering garment.....my 3" 65 looks like +95% of what it did when I got it in 1985.

Cops guns get beat up because they are open carried... grips rubbed by seatbelts: banged on car door, walls and maybe the ground.......

Everyone should have a gun they can carry with confidence and be proud of at the range!!!

ATTABOY, Cheesemonger. ENJOY YOUR REVOLVER…………...

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'Nam 1968-69.DAV,VFW,NRA Inst.

Hapworth nailed it. The tapered barrel no dash made for only a short period of time is somewhat collectable. Many folks on this Forum attempt to collect all the variants of the model 64 and frequently state how the hunt continues for the tapered barrel no dash.

Post a WTT with a list of desired guns and see what happens. I think you would enjoy carrying a 2" 64 quite a bit more. If yours is in LNIB condition you might get a better carry gun and put some cash in your pocket.

Post a couple pictures if you get a chance.
Regards

Fyimo and one eye joe, those are beautiful snubbies! Looks like I'm going to be throwing change in a jar for awhile! Would love to have either of those!! I will post a few pictures as soon as I can borrow a decent camera. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge!

THANKS FOR THE KIND WORDS, CHEESEMONGER. MINE IS A 2 1/2" 686 --A FAIRLY COMMON GUN. I WOULD TRY TO KEEP YOURS, IF I COULD. IT APPEARS THAT IT IS SCARCE, AND FAIRLY COLLECTABLE. IT IS SURE TO APPRECIATE IN VALUE, PRETTY QUICKLY, I WOULD IMAGINE...…..

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'Nam 1968-69.DAV,VFW,NRA Inst.

I apologize for the quality of the photos...

They do that mostly in Hollywood!

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Monger,
That is a beauty and appears like new. Do the grips number to the gun? They will have a s/n of gun on back of panel. They are exceptional looking. I would think they would number as the gun appears unmolested. You have a very nice specimen.

I have all the variants of the 64 including the no dash tapered model. The tapered barrels carry and point very nice. They are excellent guns. I would think you could fetch north of $500 for your gun to the right seller looking specifically for a beautiful no dash. I paid $550 shipped for one similar to yours a couple years ago simply because I wanted a nice model to complete my collection.

Your decision on sell or keep. If I traded I would demand a top condition gun in trade. No beaters. If you decide to keep it, you have a solid gun.

FISHMONNGER, THAT IS A BEAUTIFUL REVOLVER ! ! ! I WOULD TAKE THE GRIPS OFF IT--ESPECIALLY IF THEY ARE NUMBERED TO THE GUN--WRAP THEM CAREFULLY AND KEEP THEM IN THE BOX. KEEP THE BOX IN A DRY PLACE--NOT IN A DAMP CELLAR OR GARAGE. BUY A PAIR OF PACHMAYR PRESENTATION GRIPS (INEXPENSIVE) TO KEEP ON THE GUN. THEY ARE SHOWN ON THE LONG 686 NO-DASH BELOW. IMHO, THEY ARE ATTRACTIVE, PROTECT THE GUN WELL, CUSHION THE BLOW IF YOU DROP IT, GIVE A GOOD GRIP AND CONTROL OF THE WEAPON, AND DAMPEN RECOIL. THAT'S A LOT OF BANG FOR AROUND $4O. BUY YOURSELF A ZIPPERED GUN RUG TO KEEP AND TRANSPORT THE GUN TO THE RANGE, ETC. YOU'LL BE ALL SET. GOOD LUCK WITH IT………..…..

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'Nam 1968-69.DAV,VFW,NRA Inst.

A fixed sight S&W K frame with the proper stocks, holster, and ammo is quite capable of protecting the one carrying it. Such a gun will easily last and serve for 100+ years if it is properly cared for. I have a few S&W 64 revolvers myself.


Take your time, look around for a carry gun. There are deals out there. I recently purchased this Ruger P94 .40 S&W for $202.00 plus tax. Lots of LE trade-in guns on the market to choose from too.

A holster cut like this Galco will fully protect and conceal your S&W and carry it high enough to make it less noticeable under clothing. Not a fast draw rig by any means, and you will need a sturdy belt. Most of the custom leather makers on this forum offer similar models at competitive prices.


DeSantis makes a comparable holster. I have two of these I use with my 3" barrel S&W 64 and 65's.

A 3 or 4 inch K frame is about the best 38 Special for carry/home defense.

If you like the revolver, I would say keep it. You can pass it on to your kids and they can pass it on to theirs.

Wow, that is a very clean one!

Now I know what you mean about being hesitant on carrying it.

I know you said tapered barrel but in my head I was thinking a 2" barrel. (I guess cause I love K snubs so. )

I might change my vote to post it in the classifieds, but it's your gun and you should do what YOU think is right.

I apologize for leaving barrel length out of the description. Taking the grips off, the revolvers serial number is stamped into the wood on the right grip only. Is this what I am looking for? Thanks KLYDE and one eye joe for the grip info! Colby Bruce, I really like those holsters... The way they cover the whole revolver except for the grips is exactly what I need! Along with those Pachmyar grips (thanks one eye joe!) I am really gaining confidence with putting this revolver into use. I do like your Ruger pistol Colby Bruce, but I REALLY like those grips on that middle K frame in your photo. If I would trade or sell the 64 it would definitely be for a S&W J or K frame!! I don't mind a gently used revolver,like petepeterson stated, " A little honest wear gives a revolver character". I couldn't agree more!! Thank you all for your time and consideration. I will be looking foward to more interactions and conversations with all of you discerning and insightful folks!

The elk stag stocks are by Patrick Grashorn. Here are some more on my S&W 65-3 and 65-5.


My S&W 57.


Not a fan of Grashorn stocks.

I have a rough time selling my smith revolvers. I save and search for the next one that strikes my interest. My 4 inch m64 is so reliable it's a fixture

ColbyBruce, you own some pretty spiffy revolvers!! I would have a hard time picking one out of the bunch I like them so much! How well do those grips hold up to use?

Elks tend to treat their antlers pretty rough, I am kinder to the four sets of Grashorn stocks I own. I wear one of the S&W 65's around our home in the mountains and the stocks do get banged into trees and car door frames occasionally but have not been damaged, so far.

CM, IF you end up deciding to sell your pristine 64, please get another one. They are a joy to own/shoot/carry. I bought this one from a forum member for my 64th birthday. I carry it often. I also take it to the shooting range every time I go.

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Bill - SWCA #2327

Being unfamiliar with revolver values, do you think it would be appropriate to ask for a trade for a snubby version of this model? I have no experience with buy/sell/trade but I really am fond of the short barrels in any configuration and model. I have no problem trading for one in less condition if needed. I just think the short barrel versions are amazing!

Nothing wrong with seeking a trade. Bear in mind, I'd argue that what you have on hand is worth a little more than a snubby version in same condition with original box, but only a little.

But if you're considering trade for a used snubby, gun alone, make sure you get some cash, too, to keep things square.

A well-maintained used snubby 64 is probably more suited to your carry needs than an as-new 64 tapered barrel.

I have a similar conundrum with a NIB M58 that is unfired with everything it came from the factory with in 1971. It even has the reciept from when the previous owner bought it that year...I want to use it but with the escalation in prices for such things, it's stayed a safe queen in case I decide to sell or trade for something else I might want...On the other hand, I carry a 640-1 most days and it's still in excellent condition. I check it and wipe it off each night, especially in hot weather. I remove the stocks and check and rub a little Froglube on the frame under them...No reason not to carry that one. But, it was used when I got it and had been fired and had no box and etc...In the case of your 64, I would probably shoot and carry that.

4" isn't really the ideal carry length, but it's doable I guess, especially in seasons where a jacket is worn.

The tapered barrel K frames were never my thing. I prefer heavy barrel. But the tapered 64's weren't around all that long, so yours isn't exactly 'rare", but it is not often seen, especially with matching box and grips numbered to the gun.

Buy it and carry it for now, and pick up a used k frame that is not so nice down the road when money frees up. BUT, I would remove the stocks and keep them in the box, and just get a pair of aftermarket stocks for carry. While the holster will protect the GUN, it won't protect the stocks, and those get banged up pretty easily as you get in and out of cars, etc. Yours are numbered to the gun so I would not want them messed up.

Well, I was looking for a shorter barrel revolver when I walked in to my LGS. I only had so much money for a "gun" for self defense.I Had every cent of extra cash in my pocket hoping for a "slightly used" revolver. I have a difficult time with semi-auto slides (Arthritis) but except for dexterity, have no physical issues otherwise. when I presented at my LGS, All the revolvers were more than I brought with me. I talked to the salesperson concerning my situation and explaining that I lived in a high crime area and that myself or wife may need to use this handgun, I believe he took pity on me and brought this out of his safe in the back room! Coincidentally, it was the exact price I had available. He said that it was appropriate for home or carry use. I think he sold me the revolver for less than he was intending to get. I am just astounded by how everyone here and in the firearms convocation has been so helpful and informative. I thank you all for your learned input, this was more than I ever expected...

I really like the snubby versions, (wearing a used but not abused 2" 64-6 trade in right now. ) but most like the 3" best. There are quite a few 2" 64's on the used market going high $300's to low $400's so like Hapworth said you should get $100 plus out of it.

I carried this almost daily for twenty years, still looks this good.

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I would keep it and use it in good health. You only live once, and that gun deserves a chance to do what it was meant to do, and sold to you to do.

That is a very nice gun and a grail gun for me. But, it is just a service revolver. If I were you I would carry and use it. Who cares if it gets a little holster wear? You were very fortunate to end up with that gun. I think that is a sign.

Short Story: use it, carry it, and shoot it. Enjoy it !
If you don't the next owner will.
To me, having a weapon and not using it,is like being married to a beautiful sexy woman and never touching her.

Fine logic all! I am growing fond of it even though it may be a little hard to carry. I do really like the snubby versions you all have posted too!!! Either way, You can betcha I'll be using it! What a great decision to have!!!!

I would offer it in trade for a high-condition 2" Model 64. Seems like that's what you wanted all along and since the tapered barrel M64 is in high demand, you should be able to find a trading partner.

Thanks Lobster Picnic! I will seriously consider it! I really am fond of the 2" version of the 64...

I still suggest that you keep the 4" gun. It's permissable to
own more than one S&W. Money issues are often temporary
even though it doesn't seem so while you're having them. If
you look you can probably find a way to start putting back a
little at a time. Reasonably priced 2" 64s are out there as
trade ins from various agencys. If you let your nice 4" 64
get away you WILL regret it at some point in the future and
then where will you ever find another like the one you have
now?