Is This 44HE, 2nd Model Worth >$1K?

Looks nice, if it is indeed not refinished I'd probably pay $1,000 for it but I'd offer less arguing that the stocks are not correct and will be expensive to replace with period correct ones. Here's my five inch, a little more worn than the one you're considering. . . .and while I paid less than $500 for it the stocks weren't on it and cost another $175 and that a couple years ago. Original finish but not much of it left. Good luck.

Jeff
SWCA #1457
 

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First Target

Then you may like this one. Just showing off. Big Larry

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Larry,
I see your 2nd Model Target and raise you a 1st Model 7.5" Target with ivory stocks. :-)
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If it's refinished I'm not seeing it. But without seeing under the grips and the opposite side plate you can't be certain.

That would be a gun I would try to haggle a tad, but I'd also have the full price in my pocket.

Just my $.02.

.44 2nd HE's are not that common in my area.
 
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OP, I like it & wouldn't pass it up.

I'll join the party with my 44 HE 2nd Model with the 6.5" barrel. Shipped Feb 23, 1923 per Roy's letter.

Mine is a 1917 WWI frame gun.

Cory
 

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Thanks, everyone... I'll certainly go back for more pictures, possibly get a better price through negotiation, and maybe bring it home (if not "hold it" with a down-payment).

I saw no signs of a refinish and felt at the time that it was in exceptionally good shape, for a 1920s N-frame.

I know the stocks are wrong but, as period-correct replacements, I think they're somewhat cool, if anybody can relate. Lol! ;)


FWIW I'd say it's not refinished. The S&W stamp is sharp, the cylinder stud is similarly sharp edged and the back of the recoil shield - has just the right lines to it too.

Not in this photo, but the ejector rod bolt seems to be a bit too proud up front. I'd want to make certain it's properly fitted and holding in solid.
 
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The opportunity to buy a good, serviceable 2nd Model 44HE doesn't come around very often. If this one is waiting for a purchaser at $1,000 it won't wait very long.

I have a 2nd Model 44HE with a 6-1/2" barrel. Mine is all original, with perfect mechanics and perfect bore and chambers. But the finish is flaked.

My harsh lights make it look a lot worse than in hand.

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I bought mine several years ago from a forum member for $800. It is #20612 and shipped in June 1923. It's built on a leftover 1917 frame. I like it.

Curl
 
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I have two .44 Second Models, both 6 1/2"

The blued one was shipped 9/9/1925 to Union Hardware and Metal CO, Los Angeles, California and the nickel was shipped to Frank Budge Co., Miami, Florida, 12/13/1926.

I am in the school of thought that the one that the OP is looking at is original finish and for the price, worth it for the 5" barrel.

 
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