.357 Combat Magnum w Box & Custom Holster and a Good Story

[tt66]

This is my summary of a pretty cool story, and a big 'Thank You' to the forum and all of the members that were involved in providing information to make this happen.

From what I understand, the first run of the .357 Combat Magnum was a run of 2500, starting at K260001. This one is #K261590. I purchased it on the forum several years ago from the late Charlie Sides. According to Mr Jinks, it shipped August '56.

Last year Greg, aka bamabiker, posted a custom holster that he made for a 4" frame. He was donating the proceeds to the forum. It was a beautifully engraved half flap design. When I saw his holster, I knew it was a perfect fit for the Combat Magnum.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/lounge/662998-lets-make-some-money-forum-tt66-winner.html

A couple of weeks ago David, aka JADARE, posted with a question about an old box that he found when he was going through his dads collection. Turns out the box was serial numbered to the Combat Magnum that I bought from Mr Sides. David also sent me the Helpful Hints brochure, no idea if it came with the box, but it is period correct.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-ha...0-combat-magnum-box-update.html#post141428192

This is the good stuff, this is what keeps us going as a community ....

And we know everybody likes pics....

 

[mh51]

Lots of years have passed since the box and the gun were separated, and its amazing to see them reunite. And the holster is a great partner for the gun. Congrats.....I enjoyed reading about the reunion.

 

[DARE]

The helpful hints brochure was in your box, so probably came with the gun. As you point out, it is period correct.

 

[krsmith58]

i agree Xs2. very good story. great looking revolver, holster and finding original box. if i send you a few bucks would you buy a lottery ticket for me. thanks for sharing. always enjoy a story with a happy ending. krs/kenny

 

[Kansasgunner]

That’s a great story and I’m glad it all came together for you. Charlie was one of the good guys and we miss him, RIP Mr. Sides.

 

[raljr1]

That's awesome.....I check serial numbers on grips and boxes all the to see if one might match up to a gun I have....about the same odds as a lottery jackpot I'd guess..



Robert

 

[RKmesa]

Super fun story! Great gun, box and leather as well.

Thanks for sharing,

 

[mk70ss]

That post made my day. Always good when the stars align and things wok out like that.

 

[jdlii]

Fantastic story, beautiful combat magnum and holster combination!

 

[lihpster]

Makes me feel a little better about losing that holster to you.
Very nice set you have there! Oh, and I bought one of Greg's holsters, similar in appearance for an N frame.

 

[Robert Henley]

Wow, reuniting the box is great.

I've got a S&W Model 15 with a four-inch barrel made in 1957 and a S&W Model 19 with a six-inch barrel made in 1980 with no boxes. I recall a Luger forum had an area for matching magazines with guns with some success. I guess there's no area on this Board for missing boxes?

 

[oneeyedpete]

Great story! Now go out and buy a lottery ticket as fate has truly smiled upon you!

 

[S&W Fan]

There are still good people in this world, especially on this forum. Congrats!

 

[oldnavynukespook]

I know Charlie is smilin' down. Sure miss seeing him at the shows.

 

[S&W SS Revolvers]

You can't make that stuff up. Awesome story!!

 

[Llance]

I don't know but from the number of "likes" your posting has received either folks here like good leather, good boxes, great guns, or a combination of all three put together. Regardless that is a fine combination and you now need to start looking for your other boxes or some fine gun leather.

 

[John Patrick]

That’s all together awesome.

 

[Capt29]

I love the K frames. My favorites are a 3" 65, a 4" NYPD bobbed hammer 64 HB (DAO), and my 4" 66. The 2 4" are round butt, and the NY gun has a DA to die for(figuratively speaking). I feel well equipped with any of them. Add in a BHP 9mm and a 940 and I have it all.

 

[Puller]

Very cool story, love the holster too.

 

[Chukar60]

Love this story!!
I never knew Charlie personally but did sell him a gun years back. He was a prince to deal with.
I am betting he had a finger in this fortuitous reunion. Treasure that one forever.