How rare is the 5 inch model 63?

[Sub sailor]

I was reading the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson and it mentioned that there are some 5 inch versions of the model 63. I purchased one used a couple of years ago, but just assumed that they (the 5" models) were common. I see now that the 3" and 4" are the size you are most likely to find. Does anyone know how common or uncommon the 5" models are, and is there a premium for those revolvers. I have no intention on selling the gun, just curious. Thanks for any and all replies!

 

[murphydog]

The 5" 63-4 was made for about 3-4 years; they did not sell well, so now of course everyone wants one . The 60-18 5" in .357 had a similar fate. They currently tend to sell for about what a nice 4" version will bring.

 

[Usmc5811]

I have 2 of the 5" 63-4's, and don't plan on selling either one. One is almost NIB and I payed $600 for it about 3 years ago. The other I bought for a shooter for $300. Those are the only two that I have ever came across. I have killed a few squirrels and 2 rabbit with mine. I carry it all through hunting season. It gets shot more then my 18-4 and 6" 617-2 combined. I also have a 3" 63-5, but it just doesn't balance as well as the five incher.

 

[MichiganScott]

My wife owns a 5" 63. It is one of the better handling S&W's I've ever wrapped my hands around. The biggest problems are that it is simply too small for me and Mrs. MichiganScott is forced to shoot it single action because of the strength of the main spring.

 

[k22fan]

The SCSW 3rd ed. was printed before "two piece barrel" five inch 63-4s were introduced. The 5" 63s on page 224 were early 63s with pinned one piece barrels. The early ones are extremely rare. The recent ones, while not necessarily quick to find, are common.

 

[Usmc5811]

MichiganScott I know the feeling until I found a pair of cheap wooden grips made in the Philippines. They are over sized and fit my big paws great. Sorry the pic is not the greatest.

 

[Sub sailor]

The SCSW 4th ed. was printed before "two piece barrel" five inch 63-4s were introduced. The 5" 63s on page 224 were early 63s with pinned one piece barrels. The early ones are extremely rare. The recent ones, while not necessarily quick to find, are common.

Uhhh...you mean the SCSW 3rd ed., right?

 

[k22fan]

Uhhh...you mean the SCSW 3rd ed., right?

Correct. I look forward to buying the 4th when it gets on the market. It would have been a good idea to buy one of the 5" 63-4s when they were readily available but I do not have money or time every gun that looks cool.