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S&W Revolvers: 1961 to 1980 3-Screw PINNED Barrel SWING-OUT Cylinder Hand Ejectors WITH Model Numbers


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  #1  
Old 01-29-2020, 04:56 PM
Blindrider93 Blindrider93 is offline
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Default MODEL 28-2 NEED HELP!!!!

Good afternoon,

I would greatly appreciate any help you guys may be able to provide me. As you may notice, I am new to this forum. I am also quite new to S&W revolvers. Last week I purchased my first Model 28-2 at a local gun show. This isn't my first S&W revolver (I have a 329PD), however it is the oldest one I have purchased or owned. I purchased it from a very nice gentleman who had it advertised at his table for $800. After some back and forth we agreed upon $650 cash. Prior to the purchase I looked the weapon over as thorough as possible. I noted that the serial number on the frame behind the yoke had been defaced and appeared to be re-blued. I also noted that the assembly numbers on the yoke itself had appeared to be re-blued to the point they are partially obscured. At the time I wasn't too concerned with these issues because the rest of the weapon appeared to be in great condition and I asked the gentleman to remove the target stocks so I could see the serial number on the butt of the revolver. After seeing the serial number on the butt I went ahead with the purchase, completed a 4473, exchanged the cash, and made my way home.

Once I got home I contacted a very close friend of mine that I served with in the Army for some length of time. In my opinion he is extremely knowledgeable about S&W revolvers, especially pinned and recessed models. After showing him some pictures and talking with him, he told me I shouldn't be concerned about the value of the weapon and he believes I got a great deal. Initially he was concerned about the legality of the firearm. After explaining to him (to my best knowledge) that the firearm is still legal because the serial number Is still on the butt. Which, as I understand it, is THE serial number that the ATF and S&W consider the most important one on the firearm. Again, from my knowledge and research, S&W began placing serial numbers on the frame behind the yoke in order to display the serial number on models that might have the butt serial number obscured by target stocks. From what I understand S&W did this so the end user did not have to remove the target stocks in order to read the serial number. He then was more at ease with my purchase and has assured me multiple times that the defacement of the serial number under the yoke will not seriously effect the value.

However, because of my OCD and inability to let things go, I decided to contact the seller. He told me that he had purchased the revolver 12 years ago from a pawn shop that is located 2 hours north of me. Since then it has been in his safe and on his books. I questioned him about the serial number under the yoke and he stated he had bought it that way. I told him that had I known more about these revolvers and market I probably wouldn't have purchased it. He then stated he was under the assumption that I was knowledgeable about the firearm and knew exactly what I was purchasing. He said he would be more than happy to give me my money back in exchange for the revolver. He was very polite and apologetic. I told him to let me think about it. Fast-forward to yesterday morning. I receive a call from the seller again, this time on speaker with his wife (who helps him run his business) right next to him, he again apologizes for the miscommunication at the time of sale and is willing to make it right if I'm unhappy. He assured me multiple times that the firearm is 100% legal but if I was unhappy with the condition or felt uncomfortable having a weapon with a defaced serial number he would give me my money back in exchange for the revolver back. I told him to let me do some more research and I would get back to him.

Fast-forward again to today. I contacted another close friend I served with in the Army who now works for a very large company in the firearm industry. I asked him if he could put me in contact with someone at S&W who might be able to repair and re-stamp the damaged area. He sent an email to his contact at S&W and got a reply within an hour or so. S&W stated that they will NOT repair nor re-stamp the damaged area.

So here are my dilemmas/questions. In your humble opinion what is the percentage grade condition of this firearm in its current state? What is its approximate value? Is the defaced serial number going to effect the overall value and possible sale in the future to the point I should just get rid of it now? Should I repair the defacement? Since S&W will not repair the area should I contact a local gunsmith to see if they will repair the area? Should I just return the revolver to the seller and look for a different one? What should I do?

My intentions are to use this revolver often. it is not a safe queen (none of my weapons are) and I do plan on using it to hunt and target shoot. However, I will not keep something in my safe if its not legal or if its value is less than what I paid for it (unless its a family heirloom). My greatest concern with this revolver is that I have been ripped off. Im concerned I paid much more than its actually worth. Please provided any insight, advice, or values/assessment you may possibly have. Please don't be afraid to speak the truth, you will not insult me or hurt my feelings.

I have included several pictures (sorry for the cellphone quality, its all I have) please let me know if you would like more detailed or specific ones.

Thank you all for your help and wisdom!
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  #2  
Old 01-30-2020, 09:43 PM
charlie sherrill charlie sherrill is offline
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I suspect someone not knowledgeable about S&W serial numbers may have rubbed the number off the crane not knowing there was another under the grips. The only reason I see them doing this is if the gun was stolen. See if you can get a local law enforcement officer to run the serial number on the grip and if it comes back clean, which it may anyway as lots of folks don't record their serial numbers, and if it does come back clean and all you want is a shooter then shoot it. If it comes back hot expect the gun to be seized on the spot. Then you have to deal with the seller. I have located hot guns that were reported stolen over 30 years ago. They're still hot, even after a long time and a lot of police agencies still have the original report on them. A few of them I was fortunate enough to get back to the original owners after removing them from the National Crime Information Center as recovered.
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Old 01-30-2020, 09:55 PM
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If you're dissatisfied sir, it is in my humble opinion to have the firearm checked out to see if she is legal.... if so then shoot away
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Old 01-30-2020, 10:29 PM
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After reading your post I’m thinking you’re going to lose sleep over the purchase. Since the seller will take it back I’d go that route, quickly! Too many other fine revolvers out there to fret over this one. JMHO.
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Old 01-30-2020, 10:50 PM
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Jeez, he stated he would take it back and return your $$.
Just do it!!
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Old 01-30-2020, 10:52 PM
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Welcome to the forum..looks to me like it bothers you! if so,, get your money back, if the seller is kind, tip him if you want....you'll be happier in the long run, in my opinion
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Old 01-30-2020, 11:52 PM
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Take it back. If you have a hard time letting go of things that bother you, let it go. Thank the man for his honorable gesture, offer to tip him and keep going to his place of business. He is obviously a person with good integrity.
I don’t want to belittle you, but unless you live in one of the anti 2A states, you can do better for your money than what you described in your post.
Be patient. Deals on nice guns are like catching a bus. If you miss one, another will eventually be along.
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Old 01-31-2020, 09:52 AM
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The numbers under the yoke and their condition are not a legal problem. The one on the butt is the legal serial number. Like the others said if it bothers you so much take it back to the shop and get your money back. Tank the nice man who runs it and next time don't buy a gun with issues that will bother you. $650 for a 4" 28-22 is a decent price. Not a great deal nor a bad deal.

Personally I don't see anything that would bother me.
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Old 01-31-2020, 10:06 AM
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I don't see anything wrong either . I would keep it and shoot it , a lot and enjoy . Regards, Paul
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Old 01-31-2020, 10:09 AM
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Only number that matters legally is on the Butt. I think Charlie has it right. Gun is likely stolen and stupid thief tried removing the only serial he saw. Thieves are too stupid to realize than a removed serial attracts attention much faster than a stolen serial.

If it was stolen it was long ago. May have never been reported. May no longer exist on any lists or maybe owner can't be found. If the scratched out number bothers you take it back. The 28-2 is not rare and you can find another (probably cheaper).
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Old 01-31-2020, 10:16 AM
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I don't see a problem with it, either. The info about what constitutes the "legal" serial number is spot-on. I'd be happy to have such a nice example of the 28 and shoot it.
By the way - if it's been in a pawn shop, it's been run through NCIC to see if it's stolen. There isn't a state in the country where that's not a rule, so I'd feel safe that way as well.
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Old 01-31-2020, 10:21 AM
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Your photos aren't the greatest, but I don't see evidence of a re-blue and the lack of a clear serial number in the yoke cut is certainly not a legal issue.

I enlarged your image and those don't look like file or grind marks to me. The "MOD 28-2" appears to stamped over the top of the occlusions, as does the partial serial number. I suspect those are rough forging marks that have been there since day one.

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Old 01-31-2020, 10:23 AM
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Nothing wrong with the gun other then IMO, you paid about 200 too much. The area in question was possibly filed to allow the yoke to make a better seat. I have seen many with similar marks in that area - no big deal. Just return the gun as the seller offered and get over it.
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Old 01-31-2020, 10:29 AM
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To me, if you had to fill out a 4473 you bought from a FFL. The gun would be on the dealer’s book, and the Serial Number would be on the 4473 when transferred. Which I would presume would protect you in some ways.
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Old 01-31-2020, 11:29 AM
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Legally, I think you are just fine as the real serial number is on the butt of the frame and is intact and unaltered. The finish looks legit and original. It seems pretty obvious that someone tried to remove the serial number from the crane recess. Typically this is done to stolen firearms. As long as a stolen firearm is recovered by law enforcement and returned to the lawful owner, it is legal to possess. If it is still listed as stolen, then you would be in possession of stolen property.

I would presume that since it has been purchased from a pawn shop that it is a legal firearm as the pawn shop would have a form 4473 as well as whatever state forms and checks were required in order to transfer it to the person from which you purchased this handgun.

Since the seller has agreed to refund your money and if it bothers you this much, you might want to return this Model 28 and search for another. $650 for a shooter grade Model 28 is a fair price, but not a stellar deal. I do understand your concerns and I would also be hesitant to own a firearm that has had a serial number defaced. It just instills a queasiness into one's soul.
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Old 01-31-2020, 11:48 AM
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The butt SN is the main SN. That's intact. The question remains about why the number in the yoke cut was obscured. I can't think of a reason except that it was believed too be stolen. You could ask the Police to run it. They just need the number, not the actual gun. But it's bothers you this much, I think I'd just return it.
I think you've learned a lesson here. In the future, you'll not buy a gun with similar signs of tampering.
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Old 01-31-2020, 01:37 PM
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First off welcome!!!

The pics are poor, and my eyes are just as poorer, so I cannot tell if the serial number was reblued. It is possible that is a factory correction for a mislabeling.

If you have a paper trail from the seller, I would not worry about it.

The gun looks to be in nice shape with light use from what I can see, and contrary to stated opinion, if it is in the condition it looks to be in, 650.00 is fine. Keep in mind the target grips are 85-100 dollars. I will take a dozen in that condition with those grips for 450.00

If you have a very clear unaltered butt frame stamped serial number, I would not be worried in the least. Now for the rest of us, what did you get? What is the serial number? A partial of the prefix ( S or N )plus the first 3 numbers would help us date it for you, if you want.

My suggestion, is shoot and enjoy your new gun!!
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Old 02-02-2020, 04:00 PM
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I have to agree with s&wchad. It looks righteous to me.
I’d think that if the serial number had been ground off the model number would have been removed too or thinned, or there would be a divot where it was.
I think those marks are tool marks on what was sold as a utilitarian weapon.
Either get over it and enjoy it or take the seller up on his generous offer.
A lot of guys wouldn’t do so.
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Old 02-02-2020, 07:28 PM
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NO BIG DEAL............
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Old 02-04-2020, 06:11 PM
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Thank you to everyone for your help!

I will include more pictures for interpretation. Again, I do not have a digital camera so I'm using my phone. Its not the best pictures, but its the best I can do. Also, as previously stated, I'm looking for an approximate value for the firearm.

Thanks again and let me know what you guys think.
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Old 02-04-2020, 06:13 PM
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Old 02-04-2020, 06:15 PM
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Old 02-04-2020, 06:16 PM
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Looks great. Enjoy it!!
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Old 02-04-2020, 06:17 PM
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Old 02-04-2020, 06:18 PM
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Looks like a nice shooter. I gave 600 for one about a month ago. I’d shoot it and be happy with it.
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Old 02-04-2020, 06:54 PM
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That defaced serial number under the crane would bother me. And since the seller offered to refund it I would give it back. To be honest, I wouldn’t have bought it in the first place.
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Old 02-04-2020, 07:03 PM
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That defaced serial number under the crane would bother me. And since the seller offered to refund it I would give it back. To be honest, I wouldn’t have bought it in the first place.
The s/n on the bottom of the frame is the only one that MATTERS.
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Old 02-04-2020, 07:43 PM
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The s/n on the bottom of the frame is the only one that MATTERS.


I UNDERSTOOD that part, and I am not talking about the legality. It would bother me COSMETICALLY, and the gun does not seem to be in a great shape anyway. I wouldn’t buy a gun someone (probably a criminal as stated a few times here) took a file to and I think the OP can do better with his money. Chill Mike.



PS I’ll add that the OP is clearly bothered by this. How many times has someone called two friends and the original seller after a gun purchase ?

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Old 02-04-2020, 08:26 PM
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Is it the serial number or the assembly number that is stamped on the frame that is covered by the yoke?

Why the question about it’s value? It’s current value is what you paid for it. There is no way to accurately predict it’s future value.

It sounds like the O.P. is having a case of buyer’s remorse. Since the seller is offering you a full refund returning the gun back to him would relieve you of any worries about it.

p.s. you do realize the the oversize target grips were not standard for the Model 28.
  #30  
Old 02-04-2020, 08:45 PM
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I think the price was fair and the gun looks like its in pretty nice shape to me. The gun is completely fine. Clean it, fondle it, shoot it and enjoy it. The serial is on butt and the fitters number stamp in the yoke area look totally normal to me. The OP is simply WAY over thinking the situation. I dont know where anybody is buying nice condtion
28-2's with 4 inch barrel for under $500 now days but please tell me where because I only see them for $600 and up everywhere I look - and I do a lot of lookin!
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Old 02-04-2020, 09:42 PM
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I’ll bet after all these conversations about the gun the dealer will Never sell you another gun. Model 28-2 have one serial number and your trying to ignore it .
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Old 02-06-2020, 01:12 PM
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I agree, keep it shoot it and enjoy it. The number removed from the crane area was not the serial number. Serial numbers were not stamped on the crane when that revolver was made. If you bought it through a dealer and filled out a 4473 I would not worry. I had a 28-2 stolen in 2004 and that's not it.
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Old 02-07-2020, 07:39 AM
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If it was in a pawn shop, it's NOT a hot gun. The serial number is no big deal, the one on the butt is the one that matters and I would have no worries keeping it. And whoever told you that you paid too much is not living on the same planet I'm on, $650 is not bad at all for the gun and those grips. I hope I can get one I'm looking at for the same price. If I could find a good one for $450, well, I would have a bunch of them, instead of just the 6" one I happily paid $700 for last year.
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  #34  
Old 02-07-2020, 03:05 PM
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In NC the Police will NOT run SN if you just request it...they WILL if there is a stop that warrants further Checking. The ATF ONLY uses the Frame SN...all others are not important from a Legal perspective. Any # thats been altered is cause of Concern. Me... I would want my $$$ back. 650.00 for a 28 with 90% finish 4 inch is a fair price. The stocks are newer SW.
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Old 02-07-2020, 03:53 PM
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I have been watching this for a few days, and just saw the updated pictures. Granted, due to cataract surgery I am looking at the pictures with one eye, the "defacing" looks awful level/balanced, suggesting that if a criminal had it defaced, they had the barrel pulled and reinstalled! With the barrel on, even with a dremel tool, I don't think the "defacing" would be that even. The side of the frame nearest the cylinder window doesn't look disproportionately deeper than where the extractor shroud is.

Working on the premise that the revolver is clean, I think you paid a fair price! Makes me kick myself for not buying the 4" Model 28 my gunsmith tried to steer me into in the late '90s for $325!
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Old 02-07-2020, 04:19 PM
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My 28-2 has serial # N2775XX. Mine has the serial # stamped at the same place. It's stamped pretty light tho. The MOD 28-2 tho is stamped deeper.
I'm in agreement with KEN158. As light as the serial # is stamped on mine it wouldn't take much fitting filing to obscure mine.
I'm also in agreement with the others. The guy has offered to return your money. Since it's bothering you so much now and it will no doubt continue to bother you no matter what anyone says then return it and get your money back. He won't have any trouble selling it, probably for more money, and with less hassle. You'll be happier. The dealer will definitely be happier.
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Old 02-09-2020, 08:24 AM
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Worrying about this gun is like going outside in the rain, and being upset about getting wet. There is nothing concerning about this gun in any way. But I have to agree, it would probably be better for him if he sent it back, as nothing anyone says seems to convince him the gun is fine.
  #38  
Old 02-09-2020, 09:54 AM
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Default any update from OP?

I'm late to this party, but wondering since post is several days old if the OP's gun has gone back to the dealer yet, or still languishing betwixt "should I.....shouldn't I"?

Pics below are my 1974 Model 28-2 and of course the serial number on butt is deep, clear, totally legible. Also, the same serial number including the "N" is on the yoke above Mod 28-2, and is also clear, legible (including the N...but my pic is crummy).

I have a FFL and agree with others that the butt serial number is all that legally counts, but I have also been involved with local gun shops with clerks and even owners/managers that are up to date on AR platforms and plastic fantastic, but really have no clue as to Smith wheel guns....that's why I've been called and asked to explain (to a prospective buyer in person) why the numbers shown around the firearm are "real" serial numbers and as you all know, in many instances they are assembly numbers. Yea......there have been some good stories sometimes the buyer really knows but is using "wrong serial numbers, non-matching" to dicker the price down, others (sellers) that don't have proper screwdriver at the counter, and don't want to pull grips...etc.

No long harangue here.....the Op's gun has raised questions in his mind, so what the rest of us think or say doesn't really matter. I will tell you that anything I sell has the same "gentlemen's warranty" in that you don't like it for any reason I'll refund your money provided I get it back exactly as I shipped it to you.

My vote would be to return it to the seller but thank him for being a standup guy....you are really lucky to have a "dealer" like that to work with.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg Model 28 - A1.jpg (53.7 KB, 32 views)
File Type: jpg Model 28 - B1.jpg (44.8 KB, 28 views)
File Type: jpg Model 28 - C1.jpg (40.8 KB, 31 views)
File Type: jpg Model 28-C.jpg (40.0 KB, 36 views)
File Type: jpg Model 28-D.jpg (54.0 KB, 28 views)
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  #39  
Old 02-09-2020, 10:18 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Ackley1952 View Post
I’ll bet after all these conversations about the gun the dealer will Never sell you another gun. Model 28-2 have one serial number and your trying to ignore it .

I bought it from a gentleman, at a gun show, that lives 200 miles from me. I literally don’t care if he never sells to me again because I will probably never see him again. Your comment was neither helpful or informative. When did I ever say that I was trying to ignore the fact model 28-2 have one serial number. As a matter of fact, I stated multiple times I KNOW ITS LEGAL! Maybe before you make an accusation you should use your brain, and read the previous posts.
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Old 02-09-2020, 10:29 AM
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To everyone who has been polite and helpful, I thank you. I came to this site in hopes to find information and advice. For the 78th time I KNOW THE FIREARM IS LEGAL. I haven’t decided what I’m going to do just yet. However, I’m leaning towards returning it. I think I can do better for my money. Like I said, I KNOW ITS LEGAL, it just leaves an unsettling feeling in my stomach knowing that the firearm was at one time illegally altered. Plus I believe it detracts from its cosmetic value and overall essence. Thanks again to those that were polite and helpful.

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Old 02-09-2020, 11:10 AM
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I think you will be right to take it back.
I think the under-yoke serial number was removed with felonious intent and ignorance of the butt location concealed by the target grips.

I think there are untold numbers of Smith & Wessons with "assembly numbers" on their paperwork because the butt was covered by target grips, but before they started putting the serial number under the yoke.

There was a case like that here where my friend the Gun Guy at the pawn shop was offered a "scrubbed" Smith and Wesson. He loaned the customer a few bucks and called police and BATF immediately he walked out the door. There was a serial number remaining somewhere on the gun, so they tracked it back to the owner it had been stolen from and returned it to him. That was a long time ago, I don't know if the feds would be so obliging now.
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  #42  
Old 02-09-2020, 11:39 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by LPD256 View Post
To me, if you had to fill out a 4473 you bought from a FFL. The gun would be on the dealer’s book, and the Serial Number would be on the 4473 when transferred. Which I would presume would protect you in some ways.
No protection needed. Police realize most stolen guns are bought by people not realizing they are stolen. I bought a stolen gun many years ago. Cops took it and I was out what I paid for it. Nobody thought I was a criminal.
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Old 02-09-2020, 11:41 AM
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It sounds like you are really unhappy with this purchase. The seller agreed to refund your money, I say take him up on the offer and look for a Model 28 that will satisfy that itch.
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  #44  
Old 02-09-2020, 11:43 AM
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[I missed it. How do you KNOW the gun is legal? OK, went back and apparently the original serial is still on butt. So you are good as long as it hasn't been reported stolen. You haven't had any problems so far so it's likely you won't. Keep it or return as you please.
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Old 02-09-2020, 07:11 PM
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Sorry, man. It's the internet. People don't always get exactly what you're trying to say, no matter how "clear" you think you are. It happens to all of us, me too.
As for your gun, it's been nearly two weeks and you still are up in the air? There's only one answer:
"Come on, man!"

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Old 02-09-2020, 07:41 PM
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Glad I did not have to wrestle this problem 6 times.
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Old 02-09-2020, 08:29 PM
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Default Will You Ever Sell It?

Like many here, I'm confident your 28-2 is legal. No telling what happened to it, but it has been run through NCIS and comes up clean. The trouble will come if you try to sell it and have to convince a buyer it's O.K. If nothing else it raises doubts, just as it has for you, and buyers will either pass or de-value it. I am with the voters for taking it back. You might pay a bit more to find another nice example with target grips for $650, but you never know. I paid $175, NIB, for mine several Presidents ago.
  #48  
Old 02-09-2020, 08:50 PM
Hillbilly77 Hillbilly77 is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by hemiram View Post
If it was in a pawn shop, it's NOT a hot gun. The serial number is no big deal, the one on the butt is the one that matters and I would have no worries keeping it. And whoever told you that you paid too much is not living on the same planet I'm on, $650 is not bad at all for the gun and those grips. I hope I can get one I'm looking at for the same price. If I could find a good one for $450, well, I would have a bunch of them, instead of just the 6" one I happily paid $700 for last year.
I was thinking the same thing.
I’ll buy all the 28-2s you’ll sell to me for $450.00
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Old 02-09-2020, 09:10 PM
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Glad I did not have to wrestle this problem 6 times.
'Gansett, you should let me help you with your hoarding problem!
  #50  
Old 02-09-2020, 09:18 PM
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Were done all question have been answered
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