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Smith & Wesson Semi-Auto Pistols Other Smith & Wesson Semi-Automatic Pistols from the 1950's to Present


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Old 08-28-2023, 06:21 PM
MDB1056 MDB1056 is offline
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Default Unusual 3914

Just picked up another 3914 from an estate sale auction. Were about 75 guns, but this was the only 3rd gen. I already have 2 of these - one as EDC and a clone as a back up in case original is ever confiscated, stolen, etc. This one just acquired though all the markings are in gold on the frame, slide, grips which I have not seen before. Came with 3 factory mags that have never had a round loaded in any of them. They are spotless - followers look brand new - not a mark on any. Mag springs are stiff, as is recoil spring. Gun also has night sights (old) that are marked M3 07.

Were the gold markings standard on later production runs? Again I've never seen them. I've not disassembled it yet but will tonight for a cleaning and thorough inspection. Hoping someone here can provide some insight. It's a very nice piece.
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Old 08-28-2023, 06:43 PM
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I’m guessing the gold paint and sights are the work of a previous owner.
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Old 08-28-2023, 06:47 PM
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I've seen older S&W revolvers painted in that same manner - very interesting on a pistol.

Sent from my 6165S using Tapatalk
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Old 08-28-2023, 07:40 PM
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Trijicon can re-lamp the night sights for $57.
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Old 08-28-2023, 07:47 PM
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Bonanza Gold fill paint kit.
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Old 08-28-2023, 08:39 PM
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Gold filling is nothin special. Easy to do and after market, not factory.
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Old 08-28-2023, 09:25 PM
MDB1056 MDB1056 is offline
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@cougar015 - interesting. How is it done to get precisely into such tiny spaces?
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Old 08-28-2023, 10:34 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by MDB1056 View Post
@cougar015 - interesting. How is it done to get precisely into such tiny spaces?
I would use a toothpick or needle.
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Old 08-29-2023, 02:26 AM
GerSan69 GerSan69 is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by MDB1056 View Post
@cougar015 - interesting. How is it done to get precisely into such tiny spaces?
Wipe it on to fill the recesses, then wipe off the excess. Really easy to do.
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Old 08-29-2023, 04:21 AM
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The gold filled lettering used to be something I did frequently to my guns.

I did this 1911 back in the 80's. It's showing some wear but still hanging in there.

.



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Old 08-29-2023, 10:13 AM
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Thanks to all. I'd not seen this before. I know I can always rely on the Forum for great information. Will definitely contact Trijicon about re-lamping. Really love the 3900's . Never had one hiccup
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Old 08-29-2023, 10:16 AM
Green Frog Green Frog is offline
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I’d say Jeppo and others nailed it on the “gold inlays”. Probably “Custom by Bonanza”. Also, the Trijicon sight would be worth having re-lamped if you will be using it, but will just get old and go dead in your safe.

With all that fine work on a new gun but no use, it would appear some Walter Mitty type dreamed up his perfect carry gun then after he built it… he never carried it! Good find.

Froggie

Last edited by Green Frog; 08-29-2023 at 10:17 AM.
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Old 09-07-2023, 01:23 PM
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Default Yellow color fill

Just plain old color fill like a few members have already posted. I own 2 3914 models with yellow markings from factory. 3914DAO (NYPD) 3914TSW Screenshot_20230906_025519_Gallery.jpg

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Old 09-07-2023, 09:08 PM
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Nice firearm regardless of coloring.
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Old 09-07-2023, 10:24 PM
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FYI: non acetone fingernail polish remover works fast. Better than the acetone version.
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