.357 Model Question

[chadmtew]

I have a .357 Magnum that my father in law gave me. I am trying to find out the year of manufacture, but i can't find the Model...Where the model is on my other S&W's there is just a stamp that says Reg.2815. I was wondering if any one else has seen this...thanks in advance for the help. (Pic is attached)

 

[arjay]

It's a registered magnum.The first 357s made during the 30s.A highly desirable gun.Some experts will be along,I'm sure

 

[jubela#4]

You have a 357 registered magnum. The most highly sought after 357 magnum made by S&W. You will not find a model number on the gun as model numbers were not applied to guns made in that time frame. It was simply called a 357 magnum.

 

[DGT]

I will flag this as it should ben in the Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 area.

We need more pictures.

 

[chadmtew]

Not that i'm in the market to sell it, but does anyone know what they're worth?

 

[arjay]

Anywhere from $1000 to many thousands depending on condition and original accessories.

 

[chadmtew]

I will flag this as it should ben in the Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 area.

We need more pictures.[/QUOT

Sorry about that i'm new to the forum, how do I move it to the right area?

-Chad

 

[arjay]

The mods will do it.Now about those photos ;-)

 

[chadmtew]

Here ya go...

 

[arjay]

Neat gun! Have you shot it yet? I think it was made in '38,going by the serial number under the barrel.

 

[chadmtew]

So what's the verdict guys?? What do you think?

 

[murphydog]

About 5,500 of these were produced starting in 1935, for a total of about 4 years. Yours probably falls about in the middle of this time range based on the REG number. These were literally custom-built to individual order.

What is the exact barrel length, cylinder face to muzzle? These could be ordered in 1/4" increments from 3.5 to 8.75".

A factory letter for this type of gun would be a good idea - you can find the form by clicking on Downloads above. A good $50 investment.

You have a very nice father-in-law . Hope this is helpful.

 

[1blindref]

I'm not an expert, but it looks like a nice shooter with some real character.
Do you know how long your Father-in-law has had the gun?
Did he give you any history on it?

 

[arjay]

We are waiting for the real experts to show up.These were custom built guns with about 25 different barrel lengths,numerous sights,etc.Do you have the box or registration certificate? They add quite a bit to the value.

 

[bamabiker]

I think you hit the jackpot that alot of us are looking for.
Congrats and welcome to the forum.
I'll let the more knowledgable give you a value.

 

[arjay]

For a real value,put it on gunbroker with a good header and lots of clear photos.Put a crazy reserve ($10k) so it doesn't sell.Start it at a penny,let it run for a week and by the end you'll have a good idea of how much someone would pay for it.

 

[rwsmith]

I had good FIL too.

He left me his 1929 Browning shotgun. You lucky dog. I'm glad you checked here before taking to a pawn shop

 

[P&R Fan]

I would really like to hear the story about how your FIL acquired that.
You better treat him good.
Jim

 

[1blindref]

I would really like to hear the story about how your FIL acquired that.
You better treat his daughter good.
Jim

fixed it

 

[DWalt]

For a real value,put it on gunbroker with a good header and lots of clear photos.Put a crazy reserve ($10k) so it doesn't sell.Start it at a penny,let it run for a week and by the end you'll have a good idea of how much someone would pay for it.

I've suspected for awhile that a lot of that goes on in GB.