.44 Special

[robhooper]

I hope this is not a repeat post, but I have been working all day! Recently got my hands on a .44 Special, 2nd Model, 5" barrel, from a friend. The serial numbers all match, even the one on the grip in pencil. There is some holster wear, but the bluing is not bad as it doesn't look to have ever been refinished. This is a tight revolver, no rattles or timing issues, and the cylinder and bore look clean.

I am not sure of the value of this weapon. I normally deal with military surplus, not civilian models, and this is not my area of expertise. I know condition is everything, but this is a great shooter, just need to know it's collectibility.

 

[beagleye]

Somehow the pics are showing up very small on my computer. It would be nice to see some real clear pics to get a clear look at the finish.

 

[Wiregrassguy]

Any .44 SPCL is collectable. But it is hard to tell anything from the pictures you posted. We need some 1280x1024 pixel or larger pictures to gauge from. You can post the 1280x here as an attachment or put them on a picture hosting site in a larger size and link to them. I think that the forum software will also resize larger pictures for you. Please try again. If you have problems, email them to me and I'll post them for you.

 

[bettis1]

robhooper,

While we're waiting for better pictures from you I will give you a few tidbits about your gun.

For years, the 2nd Model has been something of a "redheaded stepchild" in the N Frame HE family because everyone was seeking either the 1st or 3rd models. That is no longer the case because the 2nd has been rising in value over the last several years. One as you describe, with the original grips, is certainly a prize.

You mentioned that your main focus was with military surplus. As such, you should recognize that your Second Model HE is simply a .44 Special caliber version of the M1917 .45 ACP with an extra inch of barrel. Many of the frames of the 2nd Models were left over from the Govt. production of the M1917 and have the same eagle head acceptance stamp on the frame.

Bob

 

[robhooper]

Thank you for the info. I was aware of the M1917, but was thinking it was more like the 1st Model with the triple lock...

 

[bettis1]

robhooper,

In response to several factors (i.e. requests from the Brits for a design that was less liable to jam in the mud and the desire of the Factory to reduce the cost) the third lock of the Triple Lock (1st Model HE) and the barrel lug covering the ejector rod were removed. That cut the cost by $2.00 and made it a little less likely to jam when in bad conditions. The result was the M1917 and the 2nd Model HE. Both played outstanding roles in the military, civilian and law enforcement arenas.

Welcome to the Forum! You've got a good 'un.

Bob

 

[robhooper]

I was asked for better pictures. Hope these work. Looking for collectibility and value of this 2nd Model, 5" barrel HE.

 

[delta-419]

44HE 5" Barrel

Nice gun! Do all of the numbers match;butt, cylinder, barrel, and back of ejector star? Is there a serial number on the inside of the right grip, same as above. The 5" 2nd model is a desirable gun, however the finish may deter collectors as to the wear . As a shooter, value would be in the $500-600 range in my geographic area, maybe higher in others. Hope this helps.

 

[dewey]

Yes, 500 in the Carolinas.

Hope you find/have some more....dan

 

[robhooper]

All the serial numbers match. I had the value figured at the $600-800 range.

 

[gkitch]

If the bore is clean and the lock up and timing are good, I'd probably give you $600 for it at a gunshow (or other FTF transaction). A good, shootable 44 Special that is worn but not messed-with would be apealing.

 

[murphydog]

It is a desirable gun and barrel length, but definitely refinished (note the fit of the sideplate to the frame, and the rounding of the edges of the metal there). Valuing a refinished gun is an inexact science, but somewhere in the $500-600 range sounds about right.

 

[gkitch]

It is a desirable gun and barrel length, but definitely refinished (note the fit of the sideplate to the frame, and the rounding of the edges of the metal there). Valuing a refinished gun is an inexact science, but somewhere in the $500-600 range sounds about right.

I was thinking the same. Older refinsh that was well done at the time, then used hard afterwards.