ID this .38. Heavy Duty?

I would say a HD from the early to mid 50s, and it is a good buy at $400. Even ten years ago, it was difficult to find any HD for less than $500. You might check to see if it has been rechambered to .357 Magnum. Many HDs were.
 
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I had earlier mentioned that a .357 modification was possible, but at least my opinion, that is not a severe detriment to the value of a HD unless it is one in very high condition. The best way to determine if the chambers have been lengthened is to see if a .357 cartridge or fired case can be fully chambered.
 
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gmborkovic said:
Im betting the grips number to the gun and finish is
original and not re-done.
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Called it.

Old Corp said:
My HD 4" from the same time period - 1954/55.
Had obviously been a work gun at some point. A GREAT shooter.
Click to expand...
This one shows a lot of honest wear. I think the nickel finish is original and was chosen intentionally.
DWalt said:
I had earlier mentioned that a .357 modification was possible, but at least my opinion, that is not a severe detriment to the value of a HD unless it is one in very high condition. The best way to determine if the chambers have been lengthened is to see if a .357 cartridge or fired case can be fully chambered.
Click to expand...

Like I said. MAYBE.
 
.38 HD

Here's mine from 1931-32. I have had for 15 years and paid $395 for it back then. $400 dollars in today's market is a deal even for a gun that will need some TLC
 

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I bought a HD off a popular gun auction site and was a bit disappointed to discover the cylinder bores had been cut to fire .357 mags. My fault I didn't ask first but for me I would rather have it unmodified.
 
I just got back from Chicago. I could have driven down to buy it if you passed. It would make a decent 45 ACP revolver with a new cylinder and either a rebore and rifling or a new barrel. Add a set of Ken's stocks and it would be spiffy!

Kevin
 
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So what's the value on this? I found a factory nickel hammer of similar vintage and had it fitted.
IMG_4770.jpeg
I like it fine but I just can't find much use for it.

It shoots great and anything but hot .38 ammo is a poof in it.

54/55 Heavy Duty with factory nickel finish. It's far from perfect but has that honest use wear and look. This was someone's piece. It's not bored for .357's.
I have the bobbed hammer for it too.

Would love to turn it into a M1917 or similar .45 ACP revolver.
 
AJMBLAZER said:
So what's the value on this? I found a factory nickel hammer of similar vintage and had it fitted.
View attachment 767101
I like it fine but I just can't find much use for it.

It shoots great and anything but hot .38 ammo is a poof in it.

54/55 Heavy Duty with factory nickel finish. It's far from perfect but has that honest use wear and look. This was someone's piece. It's not bored for .357's.
I have the bobbed hammer for it too.

Would love to turn it into a M1917 or similar .45 ACP revolver.
Click to expand...

Except on VERY rare occasions, factory hammers and triggers were case hardened.
 
Pretty sure the trigger was case hardened. Hammer is nickel plated but not original to gun.

Thoughts on value?
 
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