Oddly enough, the other side of the revolver is actually pristine. As are the mechanics. The spotting and wear is probably from sweat getting on it - a common problem in hot climates. It was shot very little so the mechanics are still tight.

I have quite a few older guns. My favorite 1911 was made in 1978, when I would have been four. It's somewhat sarcastically that I relate the "get a Glock" comments locally - I've had six or so of them over the years - 23, 2 x27s, 26, 32, 34 - and never seem to retain one.

I take care of the Colt I have, but it's blue finish seems destined to suffer down here too. But I'll eventually "fix" it (and destroy any collector value, but eh) with a refinish of some sort.

I'm reluctant to do that to the 19-3. And it was a revolver that I'd wanted for a while, on and off, since I was in college. Well not this particular one, but one like it. And I should enjoy it. But I don't. And it bothers me that I don't on some level. (Rather like years ago when I was engaged to a film studies student, and I honestly maintained that I didn't like Citizen Kane or the Godfather films, despite feeling like I was supposed to.)

I carried a Ruger stainless Six Series (I honestly forget what it was since it was simply a utilitarian item) snub before I left MI. It was oddly enjoyable to shoot, loud but controllable and for some reason everyone seeing it thought it was some sort of mini cannon.