Here is a great Curators Corner episode that I thought I would share. Enjoy

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USAF AMMO

IMHO, they should have used a Colt Python to do that overdone bit of art work. A S&W M 19 is too nice of a handgun to do that to it. IMHO, this is an extreme example of over extravagance in every detail. ......

I think that the grips are too much for the revolver and take away from the engraving on the gun. A nice set of presentation grade smooth target stocks would improve the package. However, Elvis did everything in excess so, it matches his persona.

I'm curious about what you might think of this one.

Personally, I think the 19 looks great...even the grips. If someone is going to create or commission an engraved gun to be primarily a showpiece, why do it halfway?

Speaking of Elvis, though, here's a photo of his engraved Colt Python. It was on display at the NRA show in Nashville in April of last year. I think the Smith was on display at that same show.

I believe both the Colt and the Smith were engraved in Germany, but I don't know the engraver's name.

Now, this is my kind of BBQ gun!!! (Even has verified LEO history--a Tennessee sheriff in Elvis country no less.) Of course finding a suitable holster for it will be a challenge. I cannot imagine who would waste that beautiful work on a Python...

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Randy
Provenance nerd

Agreed.For my taste,you can delete the gold animals as well.

Thanks for sharing the video clip. I found it to be very interesting. Personally, I'm not into engraving at all. However, for Elvis, this model 19 seems just about perfect! He surely wouldn't be seen walkin' around in a jump suit and cape with anything less.

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I'm gonna grow fins.

Elvis Presley. See Post #4.

Link to the Colt Forum where the above is discussed: Elvis is alive and in Nashville:




The artist of the Frederick Wilhelm Heym Company of Germany executed the engraving. Per the write up here:

Elvis Presley's Custom Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum Revolver Up for Sale

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Richard
Engraved S&W fan

WD: I won't own an engraved handgun. But, the Alvin White engraving job is far more to my simple taste than the heavy handed work on the two Elvis handguns. But, what can you expect when the engraver(s) had an unlimited budget to create 'statement' BBQ guns for Elvis. IMHO, Elvis was a terrific over the top showman with a great singing voice. I don't think he had any real world taste or sense of judgement in most other things. Elvis was for all intents and purposes a resident of Las Vegas for quite a period of his life. I have heard reliable stories about his actions and conduct here in LV that I couldn't relate for fear of being banned for life, probably from the internet. Some of the stories are from older LEOs and some are from citizens that he came into serious contact with. It is too bad that his fans lost his singing voice, but IMHO, he had became a not very nice individual. ....

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USAF AMMO

I also enjoyed watching the video and reading the posts, BUT, I also don't get or understand engraving a handgun.

That is just TOO MUCH! And I don't mean that in a good way! Everyone has their own thing though. Bob

A little gaudy for my taste, but very well done.

That gun is being auctioned off by Rock Island Auction May 5,6,7. Also a Python similarly engraved. You could be the next owner!

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244