L frame target grip question

[Dieseltech56]

I purchased a 686-4 8 3/8" and I have a question about the wood used for these target grips. I have a 686-3 and 2 other sets of goncalo alves target grips from the late 80s/early 90s but the ones that came on the dash 4 (dated 1993) are not the same kind of wood. They look correct otherwise.

The wood is slightly darker and the finish more matte. Are these period correct grips?

Goncalo Alves on the left and the grips in question are on the right. I have seen a few 686s but never noticed any with a grip finish like this.

 

[Pizza Bob]

That late I don't think they were using anything but GA for the target grips. Style is correct and there is a wide color variation with GA.

Adios,

Pizza Bob

 

[Dieseltech56]

Check out this listing on gun broker. These appear to be the same grips.

The seller lists them as "second gen Morado"

http://www.gunbroker.com/item/710752843

 

[StakeOut]

Whether GA or Morado IMO very aggressive pricing on those target stocks without silver washers.I'd value them at $75-$100.

Highly grained target stocks in like new condition with silver washers sell for $150.

These stocks are not scarce,rare,hard to find or in high demand.

Engage mind before buying.

 

[k22fan]

Very early in the 1990s S&W changed their round butt N frame Combat Stocks form Goncalo Alves to Morado so it is likely they were also making Morado Targets by 1993.

However, there is the old joke about where Goncalo Alves comes from. Every time S&W wants more the tree faller in Brazil walks out the back door to the closest tree, then, rather than hollering timber he yells Goncalo Alves. The color varies a lot.

Through out the 1980s and into the 1990s I bought excellent condition S&W square butt Target Stocks for $5 to $10 at nearly ever gun show I attended. After not finding any guns priced low enough to buy they made good souvenirs.

What ever wood your new L frame came with looks great. I'd put them back on and be happy.

By the way, Hogue calls their default wood Pau Ferro, another name for Morado.

 

[Dieseltech56]

It amazes me how much these target stocks are listed for on eBay and gunbroker. I agree a set like I posted wouldn't be worth near that much, I was just using the pics for comparison.

Truthfully the 686-4 I bought today was the only one I've ever seen with TS I thought they came with Hogues by then.

If they are Morado I'll leave those ones on it when I shoot it

 

[K Frame Keith]

For a few years I collected S&W factory stocks mostly from flea bay. Not many, but I don't expect to sell any given the prices offered recently...regardless of wood. All my S&W's wear wood or bone but I like having a variety around.

 

[Mortimer94]

Looks like walnut to me.