I actually sort of hate it when this happens.

[Art Doc]

I buy shooter grade guns. I am a shooter and not a collector. I have no safe queens. If I own it, it gets shot.

Over the years, despite my not seeking them, guns have come into my possession in unfired condition. The only one I never shot was a 2nd generation Colt SAA that I sold to a collector before I gave in to the temptation. I have had 29s, 27s, and a 24-3 that arrived in new condition only to be put to work. I sometimes feel a bit guilty about this, so I prefer it when guns I buy cause me no qualms about shooting them.

Well, the Terrier I bought off Gun Broker arrived today. I have been looking for a shooter grade Terrier for a couple years and finally bought this for $400 ($100 more than I wanted to pay) as the best deal I had found. Pictures looked good and seller described it as in good shape with minor corrosion on frame.

Um... I can't find any corrosion. There also appears to be zero bluing loss (not even a turn line) and the stocks are absolutely perfect. I know it's never been carried and I doubt that it's even been fired. If it only had its original box I think any collector would be happy to have it.

But, it's going to work. And I do feel a bit guilty about it.

Any visible flaws are funny lighting. The gun is just about 100%.

 

[Stu454]

Having a beauty like that and not firing it is like having a 1933 Bentley and not driving it.

Lovingly use it as God intended!

 

[GF]

If you've waited a long time for it you owe it to yourself to shoot it.
We're not getting any younger and our heirs won't give a damn if it's been shot or not!

 

[JayCeeNC]

Make some collector happy--resell it for $500, find another one for $300, and pocket the profit. Everybody wins!

 

[29aholic]

SP
Was it model marked?

 

[smith17]

Maybe he sent you the wrong gun. I think you should send it back.
Ed

 

[Art Doc]

It is NOT model marked. No upper screw and no model so must be 1955-57 but unless someone sees this who has better info that's as close as I can get.

 

[Gun 4 Fun]

If it doesn't have a turn line, then put one on it! Once that line is there, it isn't perfect anymore, and you shouldn't feel guilty about shooting it.

 

[j38]

Nice piece, SP! Feeling a little guilty only makes one better appreciate innocence. GO FOR IT!

I doubt you've overpaid for many guns in your time - and I don't think you did this time either.

Regards,

Jerry

 

[Memphis]

What a nice example. I DO love those flat latches. You scored very well.

Roger

 

[Jack Flash]

Isn't it awful when the gun is so much better than described?

Whatever else you do, don't shoot .38 +P in it!

 

[bk43]

Very nice gun. I'd have trouble shooting it but sure would be sorely tempted. Probably would at least a couple times anyway.

Bob

 

[greenmachine]

We're not getting any younger and our heirs won't give a damn if it's been shot or not!

Isn't that the truth!

 

[FBullseye]

I know what you mean. I've broken-in a M&P or two I had (short lived) doubts as to shoot them or not. Guess things could have been different should I had brought them home right after buying them instead of stopping by the range (though probably not).
Beautiful little Terrier there. I passed on one of these I's (.32) once and regret it still.

Note to the powers that be. Love the new format--had been away for a while and was pleasantly surprised.

 

[Joe in SC]

SP, I know what you mean. Back in the early to mid seventies thru the eighties I bought a bunch of new and used S&W revolvers. I didn't think squat about taking them out and laying some lead down range. During that time period I know I bought/traded at least 100 S&W's, mostly K and N frame 38's and various magnums.

Back in the mid ninties I started holding on to some of my favorite models. I had always wanted a 3 1/2" model 27. About 2 years ago I bought one, paid the most I've ever paid for a Smith and it was as new as a gun could be even though it was previously owned.

With prices on 98% and better through the roof, I just handeled that gun lovingly for a few months and even considered selling it and looking for a shooter replacement.I finally decided that if someone was going to pop that cherry it was going to be me!

I fired the gun and cleaned her up real good and other than a slight cylinder ring she remains in pristine condition, just like all my guns. I'm gonna shoot her again real soon. I'm very fussy about taking care of my guns and most anyone looking for anything other than an unfired, perfect specimen would be glad to get my stuff.

 

[Art Doc]

JF- Already investigating loads for the 38 S&W that will exceed factory +P 38 Special in velocity. Found a couple in some manuals.

 

[Jack Flash]

Originally posted by SaxonPig:
JF- Already investigating loads for the 38 S&W that will exceed factory +P 38 Special in velocity. Found a couple in some manuals.

Mercy Sakes Alive!

 

[DWFAN]

Doc quit fussin about it and just shoot it. Just think how long it will take you to make it look like a shooter. You'll shoot it but baby it too. I have a Mark I Ruger I bought in '75, it has thousands of rounds through it and hardly looks used.

DW

 

[Art Doc]

Oh, I will shoot it. Never any doubt. But it's been raining for the past 10 days.