M13 Aircrewmen, Experts needed

[Tgun05]

I just picked up a M13 at a show for a bargain. As they say if the deal is to good to be true its not. When I first looked at the gun I noticed the markings on the back strap were not consistent with other examples. but the S/N was spot on so I was satisfied. I was in a bit of a rush as others dealers were trying to buy the gun. when I took a closer look I saw the barrel read
AIRWEIGHT
38 SPECIAL CTG

But then aging the S/N was RIGHT so I kept looking and the nail in the coffin to say was the lack of P proof mark in the frame. Im reaching out for help in confirming my fears.

 

[kwill1911]

Sorry to confirm your fears but it is clearly NOT a legit Aircrewman. The back strap markings are spurious and the barrel is wrong. There are probably other clues but the pictures aren't clear enough to see details.

 

[SAFireman]

Pretty obvious fake from here.

 

[kwill1911]

https://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-h...volvers.html?highlight=aircrewman*cheat*sheet

 

[Malysh]

The "Property of U.S. Air Force" font is way off compared to an original.

A real Aircrewman will also bear the stamping Revolver, Lightweight, M13 on the top strap on the frame above the cylinder window.
Read the link Kwill provided. You'll learn a lot and will be prepared when your real Aircrewman appears someday.
Good luck.

 

[Slufstuff]

That "Property of U.S. Air Force" marking is not only the wrong font, but looks laser engraved, at least in the picture. Do not feel bad, I have made my share of expensive mistakes on US military firearms. It is part of the learning process.

 

[kwill1911]

Gotta love these drive-bys.

 

[SAFireman]

Gotta love these drive-bys.

I'm almost certain that he thought that got a steal of a deal and we just crapped all over it

 

[kwill1911]

Sure. But he could have thanked us for ruining his day!

 

[murphydog]

He was last here on 12/9 so might have seen all your words of affirmation and encouragement.

I don’t see enough of the gun to have an opinion, but could this be a real M13 with the property markings ground off, then reapplied on the backstrap? Yes, hope springs eternal…

 

[kwill1911]

No, I don't think so, Alan. Not with that barrel marking and the lack of top strap markings. I think it was just an attempt to fool someone. And it worked.

 

[AudieMurphy]

years ago I saw a whole box of chopped up pieces of these at a show. closer inspection revealed they were all made off an alloy. and like previous posters said. the backstrap looked lasered. those in the box were stamped into the backstrap. the only parts steel that I saw were the hammers and triggers