Matte Finish on Model of 1950 Hand Ejector Target .44

[TheTinMan]

I’ve managed to knock three items off my “wish list” so far this year. One item that’s been on there for quite a while is a Hand Ejector Model of 1950 .44 Target.

I am confident that the finish is factory original. All lettering is crisp and clear. The side plate seams are perfect. No factory markings on the grip frame. IOW it looks right to my eyes in person; however, it is unlike any other Smith & Wesson blueing I’ve seen. It’s not completely matte but it is considerably less shiny than other S&Ws I have from the 1950s (1954, 1958, etc.). It shipped in May of 1955. Was this unique to the Model of 1950 Hand Ejectors? A special order item?

Chip

 

[murphydog]

This appears to be the standard postwar matte blue finish aside from the guns that were Bright Blue, like the .357 Magnum, or by special order. Not too long after this gun was shipped. all guns came standard with the polished blue until the early ‘60s I think.

 

[Shotguncoach]

The finish on yours looks very similar to the finish on two of mine.

A 1950 Target:

And a .38/44 Heavy Duty. Note the difference between the HD and the 3rd HE next to it:

 

[44wheelman]

Available in both matte & bright. I have both. Looks exactly like mine.

 

[spin132]

This K-38 shipped in 1954 and looks similar.

Mike

Sent from my SM-G996U using Tapatalk

 

[TheTinMan]

Thank you gentlemen!