An old "working class" model 10 from the NYPD

[JRWnTN]

I worked a couple years with the Washington DC Metropolitan Police Department back in the mid-80's.

We were issued the "pencil-barrel" Model 10. I was too unaware of the model details at the time to be able to say what "dash" variant it was.

I have a Model 10 marked "MPDC", a little older than the one you were issued, but very similar to the one in your photograph. Nice action, though the blue shows typical holster wear.

What ammo was issued and how much would an officer shoot in a year for qualifications? The cylinder is still tight. I've used in to introduce several woman and youth to centerfire handguns.

 

[PeterCartwright]

Thanks, Rich. I really enjoy accounts of arms that have given such faithful service and remain ready. I also appreciate the nostalgia of your post. Last year I horse traded a really nice nickled Model 15-3 snubbie for a cherry 4" Model 10-5. I'm sure the snubbie was worth more than the 10. That wasn't the point. My dad (deceased for more than 20 years now) had purchased a brand new model 10 (probably a 10-5) for my grandfather when I was a kid. I can still see him opening the box and unwrapping that shiny new gift.

After my grandfather died, another of his son-in-laws (who didn't know the origin of the gun) took it with him to his home across the country. Dad was too much a gentleman to protest, but he felt badly about the incident for the rest of his life. I always wanted one just like it, and gladly exchanged one k frame for another.

I've spent some time shooting the 10-5 and am stunned by how perfectly the gun is regulated. I'm not sure how the good folks at Smith pull this off, but it speaks to production pride that translates easily to ownership pride. Gotta love those k frame .38s! And while I'm more likely to carry a P series Sig, I'm enough of a dinosaur to believe the .38 spl., properly loaded, offers adequate personal protection.

PC

 

[Printman]

I have a Model 10 marked "MPDC", a little older than the one you were issued, but very similar to the one in your photograph. Nice action, though the blue shows typical holster wear.

What ammo was issued and how much would an officer shoot in a year for qualifications? The cylinder is still tight. I've used in to introduce several woman and youth to centerfire handguns.

WW or R-P 158 grain Round Nose followed by 158 grain Lead Hollow Points. 100 rounds for qualification.