Model 56 4" bbl

[rosewood]

Just ran across a model 56 with 4" bbl. Searches only show 2". Someone swap barrel? Bbl makes me think of model 15. Has 38 spcl ctg stamped on it, or something like that. Definitely had ctg.

I didn't take pics, but it clearly says 56 under the yoke and the bbl is longer than. 2" for sure. Blued with with adj sights.

 

[MajorD]

Did it have any US property marking on the frame? If US marked, likely a barrel swap. If not marked it is possible it was an over run frame the factory assembled inot a 4” gun. Also does it hav3 other characteristics of a 56? Namely the non serrated rear sight base?

 

[rosewood]

Did it have any US property marking on the frame? If US marked, likely a barrel swap. If not marked it is possible it was an over run frame the factory assembled inot a 4” gun. Also does it hav3 other characteristics of a 56? Namely the non serrated rear sight base?

I didn't notice any govt markings. Didnt notice rear sight base. May have to go back tomorrow and have another look. It on sale and I can get it for just over 300. I would say the finish is 50%. Actions seems good though.

 

[Hawg Rider]

The gov't destroyed almost all of the Model 56s, so they are extremely rare and hard to find. They are also usually very pricey! Looks like this frame might have escaped the crusher, and a 4" bbl. added later. As you probably know, the Model 56 was the precursor to the Model 15-2 snub nose revolver (2"), first released in 1964. We inherited a 15-2 snubby from my wife's LEO grandfather, and its 1962 s/n is within the range of Model 56s. It should have probably been a Model 56 but instead became an very early model marked 15-2 with 2" bbl. Even with 50%+ finish and a 4" bbl., I think I'd jump at that revolver for $300 (and maybe you can get it for a little less). You won't find many revolvers stamped as "Model 56". Good luck with your decision.

 

[murphydog]

Definitely a barrel swap, but an absolute no-brainer to buy just the frame at that price.

 

[rosewood]

I got it for $300 out door. Definitely a barrel swap. Bubba buggered up the frame around the pin. Barrel is blue, frame looks parkerized. No air force markings anywhere on it, even under grip.
Serial#K50359x

 

[rosewood]

I am thinking since the collectors value is shot, might as well as bead blast and reblue so it at least looks nice. Any reason I shouldn't?

 

[rjm6120]

That's really not a bad snag! Cerakoting may be cheaper than a reblue and worth looking into IMO.

 

[rosewood]

That's really not a bad snag! Cerakoting may be cheaper than a reblue and worth looking into IMO.

Will do myself. Cerakoting takes lot longer than cold blue,but i will consider that. I can do that also.

 

[Thiokol]

If you decide that you want to put it back to original, a good friend of mine has a barrel. If you're interested, I'll give you his contact information.

 

[JeffD607]

The gov't destroyed almost all of the Model 56s, so they are extremely rare and hard to find. They are also usually very pricey! Looks like this frame might have escaped the crusher, and a 4" bbl. added later. As you probably know, the Model 56 was the precursor to the Model 15-2 snub nose revolver (2"), first released in 1964. We inherited a 15-2 snubby from my wife's LEO grandfather, and its 1962 s/n is within the range of Model 56s. It should have probably been a Model 56 but instead became an very early model marked 15-2 with 2" bbl. Even with 50%+ finish and a 4" bbl., I think I'd jump at that revolver for $300 (and maybe you can get it for a little less). You won't find many revolvers stamped as "Model 56". Good luck with your decision.
View attachment 821592

I see there is one currently on a popular auction site now and it's a lot more than $300.00.

 

[rosewood]

If you decide that you want to put it back to original, a good friend of mine has a barrel. If you're interested, I'll give you his contact information.

I like the 4" bbl more. Reckon putting a 2" would increase the value? Even not being factory and not matching frame?

 

[mchom]

I like the 4" bbl more. Reckon putting a 2" would increase the value? Even not being factory and not matching frame?

I would do that if the barrel was reasonably priced. Especially if you have the ability to install the barrel yourself.

I’m curious if these barrels were stamped with serial ?

I believe it would add value.