unusual markings on pre-10 kframe

dolan2 · #1 12-20-2011, 08:28 AM

This marking is betwen the C prefix and main serial number on a pre-10 38spl. 5 screw made in 1948. Anyone seen it before? Is it factory or owner added?

bettis1 · #2 12-20-2011, 08:30 AM

Looks like a Masonic symbol to me. I'm not a Mason but I can tell you that it isn't factory.

Welcome to the Forum

Bob

Bell Charter Oak Holsters · #3 12-20-2011, 08:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bettis1

Looks like a Masonic symbol to me. I'm not a Mason but I can tell you that it isn't factory.

Welcome to the Forum

Bob

Yup, what Bob say's.

Cheers;
Lefty

dolan2 · #4 12-20-2011, 03:07 PM

GUNS IN VERY GOOD CONDITION
How bad will that hurt the collector value?

DCWilson · #5 12-20-2011, 03:24 PM

If I saw a gun I wanted, something like that wouldn't matter much to me. But if I had a choice of two almost identical guns side by side, one with the mark and one without, I would take the unmarked specimen.

357larry · #6 12-20-2011, 04:10 PM

Wow, were the Free Mason's packing heat back then??? Picking up where the Nights Templar left off???

Goony · #7 12-20-2011, 05:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DCWilson

If I saw a gun I wanted, something like that wouldn't matter much to me. But if I had a choice of two almost identical guns side by side, one with the mark and one without, I would take the unmarked specimen.

In that hypothetical situation, I think I'd be inclined to take the marked one just for not being a run of the mill M&P; in actuality, however, I'd probably scoop up both!

It's interesting that there is evidence of a partial double strike, either from the stamp bouncing or not having been struck firmly enough the first time. A very un-Mason like lapse.

Sebago Son · #8 12-20-2011, 05:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 357larry

Wow, were the Free Mason's packing heat back then??? Picking up where the Nights Templar left off???

There are alot of policemen that are Masons.

alaskavett · #9 12-20-2011, 06:27 PM

As I had a Grandpa who was in the "ring knocker" club if you will I find it cool. I have some of his stuff and guns that have some "markings" on them. Do you have any history with this piece,ie., is a family thing passed to you? Thanks for showing it to us. Kyle

werecat_25 · #10 12-20-2011, 07:13 PM

It is indeed a Blue Lodge Masonic symbol. As was mentioned, a lot of police officers then and now were masons...Maybe that was the owners way of marking "his" gun...In any event, very interesting..

dolan2 · #11 12-21-2011, 12:20 AM

I bought a collection (mostly Smith's) some time ago and this was part of that group. Never noticed the extra markings. Just sold the tapered barrel model 64 (no dash) that was also in the group. Didn't know they were made for such a brief period. One or two years? These Smith's can really throw you. Boy was the guy glad to get it.