Factory Engraving

[Welder1]

It is family tradition that every child in the family be firearms proficient. Along with that typically comes a first firearm. My father was given a Colt Woodsman and Winchester .22 bolt gun. My father gave me a Winchester 9422 .22 Magnum lever gun when I was 11. I was blessed with birth of my first child December 5. She is the most amazing thing I ever could have received. Already quite the character. Obviously when the time is right she will be given proper firearms handling instruction and hopefully find the same love of shooting as my wife and I. Her first firearm will probably be a bolt action .22 or a Henry lever action but I’m thinking I’d like to also give her something special. Perhaps something that can continue to be passed along to later generations.
I am thinking I’d like to have a Smith revolver engraved. I have a Model 66 2 1/2” that I bought from a now good friend on the forum. The gun is virtually perfect and most likely not shot out of the factory. I was hoping some of the people here could give me some insight on their experiences with having something engraved at the factory. I’m not sure if S&W will engrave older Guns. I did look on their sight and see that they do still do custom engrave. Any thoughts, opinions and experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thank you and Happy New Year.

 

[Onomea]

My suggestion is buy some books on firearms engraving, and spend some time on engraving forums, and learn about the subject. Surely, there is no rush, and engraving is a very deep, engrossing subject.

I am not sure why you say “something engraved at the factory.” I think that factory engraving would be a simpler approach, set patterns, but, if something unique appeals to you, custom engraving is the way to go.

If you study up, you will learn what you like, what is possible, etc., etc.

Whatever you decide, congratulations on the birth of your daughter, and best wishes for your engraving project.

 

[Alk8944]

You may want to look at this guy. Does nice work much more reasonably than the "Big names" or the factory. About - Gouse Freelance Firearms Engraving - Gun Engraver Pistol Shotgun Rifle

 

[Welder1]

Thanks for the responses. Perhaps I didn’t specify clearly. What I am looking for is if anyone has any recent experience with the Smith and Wesson Engraving shop. I’m not opposed to using an independent engraver but as of now would prefer to have it done at Smith and Wesson. I think that there are from my search’s some unbelievable Engraving done by non smith and Wesson company’s I think having it done at Smith would add that much more allure to the gun. If anyone has any recent experience with having a gun engraved at the factory whether it be custom or one of the standard factory Engraving options I’d love to hear about it. Thank you.

 

[mod29]

I am thinking I’d like to have a Smith revolver engraved. I have a Model 66 2 1/2” that I bought from a now good friend on the forum. The gun is virtually perfect and most likely not shot out of the factory.

Personally, I would prefer that revolver as-is, since I'm not a big fan of engraving in general.
In that original condition it will be a very special gift for your daughter, especially several years from now when she's old enough to receive it.

Just another opinion, friend.