Shootgood
Member
I am aware of the going prices of standard 3913 models, but do you think the tdf model would bring a premium for a 98% gun with original box and papers etc?
3913 tdf prototype value?
- Thread starter Shootgood
- Start date
I have heard of AIP guns and RSR guns, but what makes a “tdf” a prototype? Do you have pictures or links to discussion on exactly what makes this a prototype or makes this pistol distinctive in any way?
I’ll also say up front that if we are talking about a very rare modern S&W, you really (REALLY!) need the original box with unmolested end label, especially with the product code.
I’ll also say up front that if we are talking about a very rare modern S&W, you really (REALLY!) need the original box with unmolested end label, especially with the product code.
URIT
Member
Only 450 with the "TDF" serial numbered Model 3913 prototypes were made and at 98%, you might be able to get $800+ from the right collector/buyer.
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18DAI
Absent Comrade
The 450 or so "Prototype" 39XX series guns might more accurately be referred to as pre production. As they were the first batch and there were some 3914s mixed in there too. How many? Nobody knows. Or if they do they aren't telling us here. 
I had a TDF 3914. The only difference between it and a "regular" 39XX series pistol was the trigger guard. The trigger guard was "cut", angled, where it meets the frame (like on a 4516 no dash) vice being blended to meet the frame as it was on all the rest of the 39XX series.
As to value......I sold mine - shooter/used/no box/two mags - to a friend who needed it, for $450. Four years back. I don't really see a premium on these BUT I am a shooter not a collector. And with 457s having $799 opening bids on the big auction board, a 3913 "prototype" may very well be worth $800. Or more!
Regards 18DAI
I had a TDF 3914. The only difference between it and a "regular" 39XX series pistol was the trigger guard. The trigger guard was "cut", angled, where it meets the frame (like on a 4516 no dash) vice being blended to meet the frame as it was on all the rest of the 39XX series.
As to value......I sold mine - shooter/used/no box/two mags - to a friend who needed it, for $450. Four years back. I don't really see a premium on these BUT I am a shooter not a collector. And with 457s having $799 opening bids on the big auction board, a 3913 "prototype" may very well be worth $800. Or more!
Regards 18DAI
OP
Shootgood
Member
Thank you for the replies.
NCBeagle
US Veteran
The 450 or so "Prototype" 39XX series guns might more accurately be referred to as pre production. As they were the first batch and there were some 3914s mixed in there too. How many? Nobody knows. Or if they do they aren't telling us here.
I had a TDF 3914. The only difference between it and a "regular" 39XX series pistol was the trigger guard. The trigger guard was "cut", angled, where it meets the frame (like on a 4516 no dash) vice being blended to meet the frame as it was on all the rest of the 39XX series.
18DAI
I have one. It is an ANIB example previously owned by Roy Jinks, with his serial number. Have some of the original paperwork too. It's the only pistol that I purchased with no intent to carry or shoot.
I paid premium because it was Roy's gun at one point. Think it was around $800. Cannot recall. It was early 2018. Have to say, didn't know that it was any sort of prototype.
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Jeppo
Member
Oh yeah?
My recollection is you bought that a few months after I bought my NIB 3914DAO out of the last batch that hit the market.
I was shocked when we compared what we’d each paid. I’m pretty sure you scooped it up for less than you remember.
My recollection is you bought that a few months after I bought my NIB 3914DAO out of the last batch that hit the market.
I was shocked when we compared what we’d each paid. I’m pretty sure you scooped it up for less than you remember.
NCBeagle
US Veteran
I was shocked when we compared what we’d each paid. I’m pretty sure you scooped it up for less than you remember.
Ha. Yes. Your text refreshed my recollection. The final price may have been high 600s.
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NCBeagle
US Veteran
In reading your description & the one in the SCSW #4, I'm not sure I see exactly what's different than mine, which was made (19) days (Spec Ord 9304) after NCBeagle's.
Are we talking about the front or the rear part of the trigger guard where it meets the frame?
Is it the front trigger guard where it meets the frame/dust shield and the "1" is stamped on mine?
Kind of looks like NCBeagle's might be stepped rather than curved/blended together?
Product Code 103912 isn't in the SCSW. Someone should let Supica know so he can add it in.
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18DAI
Absent Comrade
Yes BLUEDOT37, the front and rear of the trigger guard, where it meets the frame.
On the "prototypes", there is a small shelf at each point where the trigger guard meets the frame. On later production 39XX series guns this area is blended. No "step".Regards 18DAI
On the "prototypes", there is a small shelf at each point where the trigger guard meets the frame. On later production 39XX series guns this area is blended. No "step".Regards 18DAI
