I have a model 28-2 that Letters as a blue gun that is nickel plated (what's left of it) with gold trigger and hammer (what's left of it) in a brown gun that does not seem to have been polished since leaving the factory. It shows only a little wear and is very tight. It went to a police supply house in Texas, my question, did the factory ship unfinished guns to distributers and I assume they were special ordered. What say you!

For once no picture is a plus...

As a great man and friend once said, "Never say never with anything S&W or matters of the heart", Iggy has the intelligence of eons of living and learning. That said, I find it hard to believe anyone here would figure a Model 28-2 would ship unfinished. With the expense of finishing a revolver, a NIB 27-2 would have been easier to accomplish the same results. Unfortunately, there have been too many HPs sent to Esmeralda and Juan's Bumper Refinish and Massage Parlor for plating with less than desirable results. Flaking of a nickel finish can happen, we have all seen that but the peeling you describe,,, tar and feathers for the responsible party please.

Factory shipping of an unfinished gun would require extra rust preventative measures that surely would not have been an option. Next is gold hammer and trigger... no way that came from the factory as 28’s were regular case colored. Of course, the biggest clue is a factory letter that states the gun was shipped blue as were all but a very few 28’s which have been discussed here numerous times. Sounds like a good shooter for a blasting and satin blue or maybe even creakote.

That gold plated hammer and trigger on a nickle/chrome gun must have been a "thing" at one time. I've probably seen a half dozen or so like that. Usually K-frame 38's though.

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John 3:16 .

Probably carried by the type of guy who liked to wave his diamond rings under everybody's nose.

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You're shy a few manners.

And a razor in his shoe.....

Someone, some where was very proud of that revolver. Speaking southern I think that is special and would just say bless his heart. I bet he also had a powder blue leisure suit.

And a diamond in one of his front teeth.