model 12-2 frame crack question

[wcat94]

Has anyone seen an airweight with a crack just below the barrel pin and following the machining cut? It is hard to see (and photograph) without magnification and good lighting. Also it shows signs of being worked on - punch mark at the pin, buggered sideplate screws and light vice mark on the grip frame. It looks to have been hardly fired and has very nice finish with very little wear. I have seen reports of cracks under the barrel but not like this one. Thanks

 

[Muss Muggins]

Second most often cited place for a frame crack. I don't want to say it's common, but it's certainly a well known flaw . . .

 

[Hondo44]

Those special Airweight grips are probably worth more than the gun at this point. They're hard to find.

Is the owner going to inquire to S&W what kind of a replacement deal they'll offer for it?

 

[wcat94]

I had purchased it as a collector and possibly resell later. With that option out maybe- #1 part out, #2 keep as a conversation piece, #3 shoot until it gets worse or comes apart. I had not thought about return to S&W.