This takes a bit of explaining, so bear with me.
I carry a Kimber Pro Carry II as my every day carry pistol. However, my arthritis is now getting so bad that I occasionally limp wrist and get an FTF. I decided that it may be time to think about carrying a revolver.
I knew I wanted a .357, so I thought about a Model 60, but I want six rounds. That led me to thinking about a Model 66.
Money's tight, so if I want a gun, I have to sell a gun. I had a really sweet, practically unfired Colt Diamondback, easily 95% +. It was beautiful, but I didn't want to shoot it. So, I sold it today. We did the transfer at a gun shop about 60 miles from here that I hadn't ever been to before. So, while I was at the shop I casually asked if they had any stainless S&W's in back. They wound up bringing out a 6" 686+ and a 3" Model 60, both with the internal locks. That's no go for me.
Anyway after chatting a bit, the owner went in the back and came out with a beautiful 4" Model 19-5. It looks practically unfired and the bluing is pretty much perfect. I think it has target stocks. There's a chip on the bottom of the grip, but that was the only flaw I could see.
I actually prefer stainless or Parkerized guns for carry, but this 19 just called my name. So, I did the right thing and bought it. I mean it needed a home where it would be appreciated and loved.
It looks to be manufactured in 1984 and it's the first change that's not pinned and recessed. Unless you experts tell me differently, I plan on putting it to work as a carry gun. Is it good to go as a carry piece or would that be a sacrilege?
Being in Kalifornistan I have to wait ten days to bring it home which is pretty stupid, since I walked into and out of the shop armed.
I'll post pics when I bail it out of gun jail.
BTW, this being CA where everything is overpriced, I paid $525. I felt it was a good price for this bastion of liberaldom.