Recent content by stoffer

I grew up living next door to a major in the WSP. Back in the day, unlike now, I believe all troopers had to be a minimum 6 foot or taller. Most were taller. My neighbor was about 6'4 and a great guy. Perhaps being able to handle the longer guns, they opted for more accuracy and range. Or maybe...

Wouldn't worry about the German proofs. I have a very nice 19-3 that I bought from a US dealer who imported it. If you buy from a US importer, they will need to place their identification on the gun somewhere. Federal law I believe. Mine is laser etched, small and very faint so does not affect...

Just curious. Why was the 36-1 made with a bull barrel? Is it desirable? Were any J frames made without the J in the serial number?

AJ I have an 18-4 4" TTT 1975-1980 vintage. I love it cause it looks good, feels good and shoots very accurately both single and double action. Only issue is tight chambers after it warms up. This seems to be a frequent issue with most if not all these models. Easy to overlook due to its other...

I have an original 18-4 1975 vintage high polish blue metal with dark Rosewood target grips that are a bit dull. They seem to have had an oil finish, not varnish. Ive tried Old English on them but doesn't last. Want to have a nice oil finish that highlights the light and dark grain. The gun has...

Model 18 with TT and TH. Here's my 18-4 TT TH in the foreground. Have the original box marked as such and the matching SN 89K7029. The 19-3 in the background is also a TT TH with box and matching SN 7K67718. Like to know what years these are. Help please.

Washington State issues non resident permits. No class or testing.

Interested in an older Model 36 or similar for CCW carry. What model and barrel length is best? Like the 3" but does it offer that much more in performance than a 2" or 2.5"? Is the 3" noticeably harder to conceal or fit IWB? I just picked up a new Walther CCP which works well IWB. But want to...

Had a bunch of guns stolen in the '70's. One was a Python I paid $90 for. Other was a customized Springfield '06 I built myself. Another my Grandfather's Iver Johnson pistol. All irreplaceable for cost and history. It still haunts me to this day. I made the mistake of having them in a gun rack...

Great buy at $675. I recently paid over $900 for same model, box, like new. I looked for a year. So many on auction sites are not as described and sellers dont offer inspections. I bought from a reputable dealer at fixed price. Im shooting it regularly and couldnt be happier. Even at my price...

Using Perfecta 230gr 45acp in my Kimber ultra carry. Now using Federal 230gr in aluminum case. Both from Walmart and inexpensive. No issues and Kimber has no restictions on them per my call to factory.

I have an Ultra Custom Compact Kimber 45 and have run about 500 rounds. I use Federal 230 FMJ aluminum case and Perfecta 230 FMJ without issues, and its inexpensive at Walmart. I called Kimber and was told they have no restrictions on any factory ammo thus far.

Just aquired a a model 18 and 19. Bought a Wheeler Engr set of tools, none of which fit my sight or side plate screws. Where may bonafide Smith tools be had that fit the screws and function without damage? Im also curious how the factory installs these screws without damage.

Model 18 blueing finish vs 19 Here is a better view of the 18 (foreground) and 19. The 18 grips were very dry. Must have been stored for years. Since this picture, Ive rubbed them with Old English lemon oil. Brightened up somewhat. Believe they're rosewood. Were 18's standard with rosewood vs...

Thanks to all for your responses. Very informative. Ive posted a quick picture of both guns. BTW, the 19-3 box tag does indicate a 'BT' finish. The 18-4 a 'B' finish. Were the BT finishes a special order or just random production?