Ex-LEO Model 65-3

[Glynn863]

Older son acquired a Model 65-3 from a friend, who got it a few years ago. Supposedly it's a former Alabama Highway Patrol pistol; S/N on the butt is AHP15xx. Other numbers on crane are 86 and underneath, 12511 - by that, I'm assuming the pistol was made in 1986. Pistol is tight; finish has a few light nicks and scratches. Original rubber grips were replaced by friend with some used target grips (few minor chips). Son paid $400. Comments? Thanks.

[bananaman]

You did not mention the barrel length. Makes a difference in value. Numbers on the crane other than Model # are just assembly numbers used at the factory. They mean nothing to you. The serial # has nothing to do with Alabama Highway Patrol. I would have no problem at $400. Worth a lot more if 3". Pictures would be a big help! Bob

[629shooter]

If its not too beat up, and its mechanically sound, I wouldn't be afraid of it.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G890A using Tapatalk

[Double-O-Dave]

Hi Glynn863:

If I'm not mistaken, the Model 65 only came in with one of two barrel lengths - 3.0 inches and 4.0 inches. The 3.0 inch barreled revolvers were once issued by the DEA to their agents, and is the more desirable of the two. Assuming the condition is good, $400.00 for a Model 65 in either barrel length is good in my opinion. If it's the 3.0 inch barreled revolver, then he got it for a song. If it's the Model 65 Ladysmith (with shrouded ejector rod), then he made the deal of the year.

By the way, "crane" is the term used by Colt for the same part S&W refers to as the "yoke". Eh, maybe a small thing, but when was the last time you loaded a "clip" into your semiauto? Just sayin'.

Regards,

Dave

[Eddietruett]

I'd gladly give $400 if in good condition no matter which Barrel length. I have a 3" now and might would be my favorite if girlfriend had not laid claim to it. It is as accurate as anything I have with target or hot loads.

[Kernel Crittenden]

Originally Posted by Glynn863

.... a Model 65-3.... S/N on the butt is AHP15xx. ....

This gun most likely left the factory in.....

April - September 1985.

This was a common s/n prefix used on thousand of guns and has nothing to do with Alabama. I'm in agreement with bananaman on this point.

If it could be authenticated that it was issued to an Alabama Highway Patrol officer that would be an incredible coincidence. Try to get a signed document. Even then it would add little to no monetary value.

[Wee Hooker]

Most LE revolvers were carried allot and shot little. My guess is that he did very good and will get a lifetime of enjoyment out of that gun.

[Glynn863]

It has a 4" barrel. My wife's uncle retired from AHP, so I'll ask him next time I see him if they ever used the Model 65.

[Qc Pistolero]

Hey!It is a S&W.If it is working properly,even if one pays a little too much(which doesn't seem to be the case here),he will always ''recoup''his investment.It'll only take a little while more.
I think at $400,it is a good deal!
Qc