S&W model 16

[U202731]

Looking for info on S&W model 16 target model

[weatherby]

Some more information would help greatly especially the serial number located on the bottom of the grip frame. May be covered by the stocks/grips

[murphydog]

It’s a fairly rare K or medium frame revolver in .32 S & W Long. The majority were made prior to model stamping (pre-1958) so one marked MOD 16 is even less common. You are fortunate if you have or can afford one .

[Dale53]

I lusted after a Model 16 for years. I was always behind the price curve. I really didn't understand why they were so pricy compared to a Model 14 (as an example). Then, I had a chance to view the production numbers and just a fraction of the .32's were made compared to the Models 14 and 15. Then, the light bulb finally came on.

When the Model 16-4 hit the market I nearly broke my arm getting my wallet out of my pocket. I still have it and it is one of my favorite all time revolvers.

I can recommend either of the .32's without reservation. FINE revolvers and an excellent caliber when reloaded. The .32 S&W Long, when loaded properly with an appropriate cast bullet is a dandy range AND field load.

FWIW
Dale53

[kscharlie]

Post war, prior to when S&W began marking their revolvers with a model number in 1957, this revolver was known as the K-32 Masterpiece. Beginning in 1957, "MOD 16" or "MOD 16-x" (where the x is 2,3 or 4) was stamped on the yoke. Between 1947 and 1974 there were a total of 3,630 manufactured, all but about ten with 6" barrels. In 1989, S&W re-introduced the MOD 16-4, with 4", 6" or 8 3/8" barrels. These were made through 1992, with a total of about 8800 being made. I believe all the 16-4s were made with a full length lugged barrel, though I am not positive about this. All Model 16s came with adjustable target sights, thus making them "target models" by default.

Prices for these have been steadily rising, with the 16-4 being the least expensive. For a nice specimen from the '47-'74 era, expect a price of $3000 (if you are lucky) and up. A 16-4 can still be found occasionally for $1200 - $1500, but the prices on these seem to be going up quite rapidly. While not rare, they are somewhat scarce.

Here's a pic of my 16-4.

[Green Frog]

Either Angleton, TX has one of the greatest little gun shops around or your family/circle of friends are some serious accumulators of great S&Ws. Three posts and two guns in the unicorn category. You have asked questions that will attract the attention of most every revolver enthusiast here. May we see some more pictures, please? Oh yeah, welcome to the forum, you sure know how to make an entrance!

Froggie

PS On the question in this thread, the "dash number" makes a big difference as does the serial range. Regardless, ANY version of a Model 16 is desirable. The barrel length will also help with evaluation. Surprisingly, condition is less of a consideration due to rarity, but it will affect the final price of any old Smith.

[Qc Pistolero]

I know where there is one to be picked up for $500(model 16-4)..but the guy had it rechambered to .38spl.
Such guy should be hung by the ....thumbs until I stop crying!

[series guy]

Froggie was the instigator of my quest for a S&W .32 K frame. Due to the prices found I rolled my own and ended up with these two chambered in .327 Federal for far less than one original Model 16.

[g-dad]

Originally Posted by U202731

Looking for info on S&W model 16 target model

Are you looking for info on a specific M16 or info in general?

Here's my 16-3. I and others will be happy to try to assist you with specific questions.

[PMRet]

kscharlie has covered the basic information regarding the Model 16 family. Pictured below is a K-32 (predecessor to the Model 16) from 1956, and a pair of Model 16-4's from 1989.

[kscharlie]

Originally Posted by PMRet

kscharlie has covered the basic information regarding the Model 16 family. Pictured below is a K-32 (predecessor to the Model 16) from 1956, and a pair of Model 16-4's from 1989.

Just love that K-32!! Hopefully, some day I will get lucky and add one to my assemblage.

[ohiochuck]

This does not answer his question, but Sunday I saw a S&W model 31 for sale at the Columbus Ohio Cabela's it is not yet listed on their gun library site