Need date on 44 Magnum

[PapaGib]

Want to know more about my Dad's revolver. It is a Smith and Wesson, 44 Magnum, hand ejector, 6", adjustable sight, 3 screw(including the trigger guard), blue finish. Sn#. S 1784xx. No model number or registration number. Thanks!

 

[arjay]

Its a 4 screw 44 magnum from 1958 (probably) There's another sideplate screw hidden under the grip.Does it have the original target grips?

 

[PapaGib]

Thanks! Found the 4th screw as you mentioned. The grips are wood and cover the handle frame. Checkered finish with diamond shape around screw. SW emblem above checkered area.

 

[arjay]

That could be either diamond targets or "cokes",which it would have had originally.Like this

Diamond targets have a smaller area of checking

 

[PapaGib]

Must be the Coke ones as it has a larger area of checking like your first picture and that dented area at the top next to the cylinder release. Maybe you can help with his other revolver, a SW 38 Special, 5 screw, blue, hand ejector, adj sight, strain relief screw, sn# K 2342xx.

 

[DWalt]

S 1784xx
The closest pre-Model 29 I have listed is S1796xx which shipped on 7/28/58. Model numbering began about SN S 183xxx- S 184xxx. So yours is correctly called the .44 Magnum.

K 2342xx
The closest SN I have listed is K 2323xx which shipped on 12/12/55. It would be called a K-38 Masterpiece, and should have a 6" barrel (AKA pre-Model 14). If it has a 4" barrel, it would be a K-38 Combat Masterpiece (AKA pre-Model 15).

Regarding the "Coke" N-frame relieved target stocks, they were specific to .44 Magnum thru the 29-2 models and also the early years of the Model 57. Special order only on pre 24s, 27s, etc., 1956 until 1967-68.

 

[PapaGib]

Thanks DWalt! The K38 has the 4" barrel. I am pretty sure my Grandpa used this pistol as a Deputy Sheriff in Texas.

 

[DWalt]

The K-38 Combat Masterpiece was made with law enforcement use in mind. The USAF also used them for quite a while prior to the adoption of the Beretta M9. The longer-barreled K-38 Masterpiece was marketed primarily as a target revolver for competitive shooters, although they also saw some use as a law enforcement weapon.

 

[jmace57]

You didn't ask...and nobody volunteered that your 44 magnum is likely worth a pretty penny, especially if it has the Cokes. We'd love to see pictures!

 

[DWalt]

A pre-29 with Cokes in top condition can bring some serious bucks. Even more if it has the original case, tools, and paperwork. Post some pictures and get an opinion if you wish.

 

[Göring's S&W]

Post some pics of your revolvers!

Yea we all sure love pre 29s!

 

[PapaGib]

I would like an opinion on value of
the 44 Magnum. It also has a holster (32"waist ) and handmade knife. My Dad was a lefty.