19-3 value? **Pics in post 21**

[S&W Fan]

Here it is, serial is 2K17XX. I think that places it at 1970? The good news is that the timing and lockup are excellent, doesn't show any signs of ever being holstered or fired very much, hardly any finish wear on the rod and it turns true, grips are nice with a little patina in the finish.

The bad news is that after I removed the grips there are some finish issues-look worse in the photos as they're reflecting the overhead light-plus a spot under the cylinder on the left side of the frame. Those allowed me to make another offer. I don't typically talk prices paid but I will say it was under all the suggestions above. Looking forward to putting some .38spl through it, don't like shooting magnums much anymore especially in K frames. I have a set of smooth target grips on the way that will go on it.

**Oh and no front sight pins **

**New edit follows** I will add that it’s not in the condition the seller’s pics showed but the action is so nice and the lack of use made me decide to buy it anyway. Still unsure if I’ll keep it but need to put some rounds down range to decide for sure.

 

[DV0]

Looks like a nice one, the 4” 19 has just the classic, unbeatable look.
What are your observations on the polish compared to newer?

 

[S&W Fan]

The blue of the older Smiths is truly amazing, the old ways are no longer possible due to EPA standards. It has almost a liquid look to it, nothing done today compares from my point of view.

Another issue I failed to point out is that the left grip panel has a piece missing at the right lower edge of the checkering and what appears to be a very old repair which is hard to see without looking very close. The fit of the grips makes me think they're original but can't say for certain. When I get the smooth set I'll put them on and see how they fit.

 

[ladder13]

High resolution photos tend to magnify any faults. I’ve taken pics of my guns and small pieces of lint or dust look like the hole in the Grand Canyon.

 

[Jcon72]

Despite its flaws, for the amount of money that it sounds like you spent you have a fine shooter that's also good-looking on the range. And you don't have to constantly stress about causing more wear by using it.

 

[Hair Trigger]

To clarify the pre 1970 Model 19's had their front site " Ramp" pinned to the barrel with two pins in holes drilled through the rib ( except snubs).
The process of pinning the blade to the ramp is a separate thing.

I got it; I know what you're talking about now, the pins were slightly proud instead of flush and there were two through the rib, holding the elevated sight base in place, right? I wish they still had those features; not just M19's but all of them.

 

[Engine49guy]

The ramp became an integral part of the 19 barrel around late 1969ish, my guess is it cut production time.
As for the two set pins the majority were polished flush, there are exceptions like nickel guns seem to be "proud" (not polished flush), also the revolvers made around 1952-53 are proud for some reason.

 

[gmborkovic]

Brad, pls. start a new Thread on evolution of the K frame 357 Mag.
Its seems there are still enough variations around to have a nice collection.
best, Mike

 

[Jeff Napoleoni]

I found a shooter 19-3 at the defunct Gander Mountain. $600

 

[schutz5]

Jack First gun parts may have a k frame side plate. They are kind of pricey in general but I think they are reliable. Numrich or ??