A little help from the model 10 experts

[Barn Boy]

I am considering adding a model 10's to my collection. I am looking at a pre model 10 s/n range C306xxx which I take to be from the 1954 to 1956 era. It has a four inch barrel and the grips appear to be correct for the gun. Bluing is about 85%. It is tight and doesn't appear to have any problems.
I am looking to add shooter grade pieces to my small collection. The question I have is: for $359 is this gun a good buy or not?
Any opinions would be appreciated as I haven't committed to the deal yet.
Thanks,
Randy

 

[pace40]

Hi Randy

If that Pre-10 you're looking at is from the mid 50's, the serial number should begin with a "C". That said, unless there's something special with the provenance of the gun, its probably a little high at 85%. If you want "shooter grade" as you stated, you can grab them easily for $300 or less. Collector grade with the goodies in this time period would be in the $650 - $750 range, slightly more for nickel.

Now if there is no letter prefix, its a pre-war gun and prices will be a lttle higher but keep in mind there were litterally millions of these made so the slightest decrease in condition moves the value dramatically. Good luck!



The Relics Corner

 

[Barn Boy]

Pace, thanks for the info. I failed to put the C in front of the 306xxx.
Randy

 

[RU98A]

If that Pre-10 you're looking at is from the mid 50's, the serial number should begin with a "C". That said, unless there's something special with the provenance of the gun, its probably a little high at 85%. If you want "shooter grade" as you stated, you can grab them easily for $300 or less. Collector grade with the goodies in this time period would be in the $650 - $750 range, slightly more for nickel.

Now if there is no letter prefix, its a pre-war gun and prices will be a lttle higher but keep in mind there were litterally millions of these made so the slightest decrease in condition moves the value dramatically. Good luck!



The Relics Corner

Was glad to find this post. I was at a gun show yesterday and lo and behold there lay on a table just what I thought I had been looking for, a Model 10 in excellent condition and the dealer had it marked as a Model 10. It followed me home at $320.00 but at home on closer inspection it turns out not to be a Model 10 but what I guess is a Model of 1905 4th change. Serial number is C2195xx and is a 5 screw gun. Excellent condition and looks to be about 95% on the finish with just a few blemishes.
Anyway I am thrilled to have found this S&W at that price.

 

[OIF2]

Here's my C-prefix M&P .38. Almost new in the box, purchased in Los Angeles for $295.00 when you could still buy guns in LA.
Bob