buying a K38 over the internet?

[Glennp]

As I'm in NJ and there isnt much to find local, I'm looking to find a K38 online. I get free transfers through a friend so it is relativly economical.

Ive done online purchases before but I'm looking for a like-new or close to it pistol to last me forever. I dont want a revolver with off timing, excessive cylinder gap, cylinder shake etc.

I do realize that these problems are more common with magnum chambered revolvers, but I'm slightly hesitant to buy something online like this. If the seller claims its tight, good timing, out a dozen times, minty bore, etc etc, and it looks minty nice, is this likely to be true? Has anyone ever run into a worn K38?

Whats the service life on these?

Thanks!

 

[HAWKEYE10]

I think you will find most people are honest. A seller on
an auction site wants good feed back from his buyers. If
he gets a lot of bad feed back then his sales will go down.
Also IMO if the gun looks in really good condition on the
outside the inside will be OK to. If the outside is all beat
up you might think they didn't take care of the inside. Don

 

[john traveler]

For competition shooting using 148 grain WC loads, an M14 or K38 will last indefinitely. I've known many bullseye competition shooters that shot an entire lifetime using these fine revolvers that never needed a trip back to S&W, never needed re-timing, or correcting cexcessive cylinder endshake, or hammer shims.

My personal M19 was fired a documented 50,000 rnds of 148 g WC and 158 g RN in two years of PPC competition, and it never needed any work.

The picture changes if you run a lot of .38 Special jacketed +P ammunition through the gun. Used with higher pressure ammunition, the serviceability intervals between gunsmith visits is decreased.

 

[easyx]

Buy K-38 OnLine

Having recently bought a K-38 online myself, thought I would share my experience with you.
Since my club recently began Harry Reeves competion revolver matches, I decided to find a K-38 in minty condition to use in this match. Began tracking S&W K-38 sales on Gun Broker. Just take your time and be patient. Before long, a beauty came up at auction; no bluing wear (never holstered), no cylinder line, so I bid on it. Just be sure to have a 3 day minimum inspection privilege and full refund if not satisfied. I paid just under 600.00 and am very happy with the gun, the seller and with GB.
Hope that you will locate a gun that you will be happy owning and you should expect pay approx 600.

 

[murphydog]

Hi, and welcome. I have bought the vast majority of my collection online. I have found it best to stick to reputable and knowledgeable sellers; this goes not only for the guns they sell but also packaging, shipping costs, etc. You will see feedback under their user names to this effect, good and bad. Always ask plenty of questions, because if something is misrepresented you will have recourse via the website if there is a dispute.

Having said all this, there are many bargains to be had online. Agree that a K-38 or any other gun at or near 100% factory finish is likely not to be worn mechanically. You could shoot thousands upon thousands of standard pressure .38 Specials in a K frame and not wear it out; you'd just be its temporary guardian, until your kids or grandkids have their turn!

 

[Gunhacker]

I also have purchased a good portion of my herd online from both auction sources and this excellent forum.

I've had great experiences with GunBroker and have found that on this forum, the stated condition of guns being sold are usually better than what's described.

I've encountered more dishonesty/misrepresentation at gun shows and at few "select" local shops, than my online experiences.

 

[2sigs]

I would suggest a WTB ad in the correct location of this forum will provide a painless and reputable sale.

I have bought a few 10's on the internet and have not been dissipointed. I will say that the weapons that I have bought via the forums have not been dissipointing but have received 2 via the auctions that I have returned(not K38's).

as said most are honest and don't want their name smeared

Just a thought...You want one to shoot, collect or ?? you might ask on this forum what version or production change would best suit or needs as some will have opinions of qualty, better trigger options etc. on the other hand you may know exactly what it is you want, Thats great!

Good luck on your quest, I'm sure you will find a perfect match to your needs.

Have a Merry Christmas everyone!!

-2sigs

 

[jt1]

I've bought numerous guns over the internet. Ask for plenty of clear, high resolution pics, and ask for a three day inspection with shipping costs addressed. If the seller isn't willing to do these, I generally pass. So far, this has worked well for me.

John

 

[Camster]

"Has anyone ever run into a worn K38?"
I've seen a few that weren't too bad cosmetically,but had cylinders that seemed wobbly imo.I'm of the opinion that any centerfire wears with use-you just have to buy new,or as new,or low mileage.

 

[fyimo]

I bought a Model 14-4 that was mint with a 8 3/8 inch barrel off of GB and I got a K38 made in 1953 with 6 inch barrel and it is a 97% gun. I've had good luck both buying and selling up there.