I found a forgotten about Model 34-1, .22LR, 4" bbl, nickel finish in my closet, in VG condition. The serial number looks a bit odd to me; it appears below the model number - it has "54" then a space, then an "X", then a space, then two more digits together - below these five characters looks like "524" but the first digit is indistinct. I paid $100, used, for it back in the late '80s. Unfortunately it has rubber grips, comfortable but no originals came with it. Not being familiar with S&W, nor having sold a gun in decades, is it worth much more than $100?

Is that number from the bottom of the grip frame? If it's from the inside the yoke on the frame it's an assembly number and has no meaning outside the factory. The S/N is only on the bottom of the grip frame. Possibly starting with an "M".

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

Check under the grip panels at the bottom of the butt of the gun for the serial number.
Condition is the most important factor in determining value. Some photos would help the members of the forum determine an approximate value. Although not "rare" per se, the gun/model as you describe it is valuable and sought after by both shooters and collectors.

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Ret. LE, FA Instr, S&W Armorer

Welcome! If it is functioning it is worth several multiples of $100. The original stocks are called Magna or service style, checkered walnut.

Lucky you! All I find in my closet are dust bunnies and dead spiders .

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

Ah, yes. It is valued at more than $100!

As mentioned by others, you haven't located the serial number. You need to remove those Goodyear grips and examine the butt of the gun.

Here's a pic of a Kit Gun like you described, although the finish on it is more like 95% or better and it wears its original stocks. A few months ago I paid $650 for it and was not at all ashamed of myself.

I hope this helps you.

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Wow, I had no idea of the worth of a 34-1!
The serial # is M226XXX. (I thought all S&W had the serial number under the cylinder, oops sorry) Photo is not very good, and under the light I can see evidence of some tiny pitting in cylinder flutes and some handling marks - so I guess condition is merely Good(?) - it is accurate and functions well; looks pretty good except the hideous grips.
Thanks to all who replied!
[Oh well, pix would not upload from my computer (5 meg)]

Try to resize your pictures to about 1800 - 1000. All of us would like to see what you have.

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Baby Chief Admirer
SWCA 2870

Thanks jacksvs1 for the resize info! will see if this works...

Attached Images

SAM_0434.jpg (52.2 KB, 60 views)

From 1983. This is consistent with the lack of a barrel pin, as seen in your picture.

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Yes, call it a $500-600 gun or so.

Nickel finished guns commonly have fine scratches and other defects in the plating. A fine polish (like Flitz or Renaissance Pre-Lim) and light pressure with a soft cloth will take many of those away. Any polishing takes away the nickel (it comes off as dark residue on the cloth) so go easy.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220