439 Stainless?

[junker]

I've got an opportunity to buy a 439 stainless. I haven't seen it yet myself, but a friend said it looked like new. The owner said he is original owner and has box, papers,spent casing, and extra mag. He also claims he has never fired it. Serial numb. starts A804xxx. Did they really make the 439 in stainless? I haven't had time to do much research, but everything i've seen so far has been blued. Approx. what should I pay for this? Sounds like it might be a nice example to have. Thanks in advance for your replies!!!

 

[Jim H]

I think a stainless 439 would be a 639, but I could be wrong...

 

[FirebirdV8]

It could be nickel plated, but is unlikely that a 439 is stainless steel (not impossible, just highly unlikely). The serial number puts it around 1982/1983 which is also when the 639 started coming out. My guess is either it is nickel or a mislabeled 639. Let us know when you see it with more detail and we can probably help out a little more.

 

[Racer X]

someone could have put a stainless slide on a 439 frame also.

I sometimes swap my 5906 and 6906 slides. Long slide compact? short slide full frame?

 

[junker]

You are correct, it is a nickel slide. Gun is in perfect condition. He doesn't have the spent round, though. The owner said it did not come with it when he bought it. Did S&W send the shell with new guns back then? It looks like I can buy it for $450.

 

[Babalooie]

I don't know about the spent shell, but the price seems fair.

 

[novalty]

That price seems in the right ballpark for a nickle 439. Being a little more unique than a blued 439.

 

[FirebirdV8]

I don't believe S&W sent the fired cartridge until around 2000. The price seems fair. Just remember to watch what you clean it with if you buy it. Nickel doesn't like hoppes 9 or anything similar to it.

 

[junker]

Thanks for the info. Gonna get to look it over in person tomorrow....