Model 51

[dixieman]

I was at a small local gun show yesterday when I came across a private dealer who had a S&W model 51 on his table. The gun appeared mint but the dealer claimed it was in 98% condition. I examined the gun and found no sign of any ware and it appeared to have never been fired. I have been attending gun shows for over 30 years and I have never seen a model 51. So I decided to buy it and paid $1000 for the gun.
Does anyone have any information about this model? Thanks

 

[Retired W4]

If I put my 51 in one of my display cases (and I would NOT) it would be priced at at least what you paid. The "I really don't want to sell it" price. I do like the little 51 but I prefer the K frame Model 48's.

 

[srsmyth]

I have a little information for you on a model 51. They are LOUD, but fun. Don't get rid of it, you may not be able to replace it. I have one blue one that I shoot and one mint boxed nickel one that I won't shoot. I would be happy to find another for $1000.

 

[armadillo]

I have a very early 51 flat-latch. It is in very nice condition.

But, when I shoot it the empties can only be extracted by "bumping" he extractor rod on a piece of wood. I have tried 6 different kinds of ammo - cleaned the chambers with a .243 bronze brush - lightly oiled the-chambers with synthetic oil - nothing works. Anyone have any suggestions - or do I make it a Safe Queen?

 

[InTheWoods]

I have both a 51 and a 651 (stainless version with a 1/2 inch longer barrel). Both are great guns. I carry the 651 quite a bit while walking my woods. The 51 does not get shot much or holstered due to fear of more visable wear.

They ARE loud. I often shoot .22 WRFs in them for quieter shooting at targets or small game. You just bought a neat SW!

 

[Baxter6551]

Armadillo - I can't offer assistance to correct your issue but I can say DONT "bump" your ejector rod on the bench to eject cases. Sure way to bend an ejector rod. Ask me how I know ……. Perhaps holding the cylinder with the tip of the rod pointing up a tap with a small piece of wood would be the better option.

 

[Retired W4]

No gun smith here, but tight chambers should not be too difficult to remedy. Good luck with it.

 

[erikpolcrack]

I have a very early 51 flat-latch. It is in very nice condition.

But, when I shoot it the empties can only be extracted by "bumping" he extractor rod on a piece of wood. I have tried 6 different kinds of ammo - cleaned the chambers with a .243 bronze brush - lightly oiled the-chambers with synthetic oil - nothing works. Anyone have any suggestions - or do I make it a Safe Queen?

I have owned two Taurus 22 revolvers - a K-frame size in 22lr and the smaller frame in 22WMR. The 22lr always required quite a push for extraction with every type of ammo I ever tried. With the 22WMR, never the slightest problem with extraction. All the types I ever fired came out easily. Really scratched my head over that and never did figure it out.

 

[M29since14]

That seems like a lot of money for a 51, but given S&W prices these days it's probably reasonable - especially since, as you say, it's not common to see one in the flesh at a gun show, at least in my experience. I like my the 51, and 651. I always meant to find .22 LR cylinders for both guns but never got around to it. I doubt you'll have any regrets about buying that revolver. Test it with a few different types of ammo before you lay in much stock. My guns are persnickety about what they like, and, naturally, the 51 likes one thing and the 651 likes something else. Congratulations on your new revolver.