Incomplete 1970’s Model 19-3

[Efoehn]

Thanks to everyone who has given some input during this process. I have learned a lot about revolvers since I started this project. I still have a lot to learn though and I still need to shoot it!

So the next bit of advice I could use is about ammo. What should I use to get started?

Here are some after pictures. My camera isn't that great so neither are the pictures.

 

[Sgt 127]

That gun looks great!

I like the wear on the muzzle. I wonder how many times your dad drew that gun? At a burglar alarm at night. A Robbery alarm at the bank. In the gun locker while booking a prisoner. I'll bet there were a few times it felt pretty reassuring in his hand.

I usually shoot whatever .38 Special ammo I have laying around. It will safely shoot as many .38 Specials, in whatever form you will generally find, forever. As far as Magnums go, I'm not as worried about the gun as I am my hands. Full house Magnums get old, quick. But, shoot a few through the old warhorse just for old times sake. Generally, it will cause less wear and tear if you stay with the 158 GR .357 Magnums. The 125 GR will cause the fastest wear. ("fastest wear" is a relative thing...it may shoot 125 grain .357 Magnums for 20 years without a problem, but, the general belief is it has the potential to cause quicker and more severe wear.)

Enjoy. You brought an old warrior back to life. Its still in the family where it belongs.

 

[sw44spl]

very good story I gald you got it up and running again.

 

[gunlovingirl]

I just read through this thread. Really interesting! And it couldn't have turned out better! Something tells me your Dad is as happy as you are!

 

[bgrafsr]

It looks great and I would not worry about the b/c gap. Take it out and shoot it, but stay away from .357 Mag 125 grain ammo. Shoot 158 grain .357 Mag ammo sparingly, and blast away with any of the .38 Special ammo you want.

 

[toddimusnimski]

If you find that the wooden grips are a bit punishing when firing .357s, consider switching to rubber ones from Hogue or other manufacturers. A good pair of shooting gloves will work wonders, too. If you do change the grips, do not loose the factory originals as they add to the value and personality of the gun. Lots of wheelgun guys have several sets that they change regularly; rubber grips for range use and wood grips when showing the toys at the family BBQ.

Thanks for sharing your story. Enjoy the 19!

 

[gearchecker]

Congratulations,
This is proof that there is a life after.
Great story and what an awesome ending.

 

[nedlate]

That is great that all turned out well. Only getting charged $30 by Gary Reeder speaks well of him also.
Ed

 

[michael thornton]

i sure hope you get the parts to get it back running

 

[bmcgilvray]

This is such a nice thread. Great to see your dad's gun up and running. Thank you for sharing it with us. Please post about your shooting impressions after you take the revolver "out for a spin."