New Model 37

[boxerrider]

I've been shopping for a spare J frame and ended up with this new (old) Model 37.
I believe the combination of the newer thumb piece and diamond grips happened 1966-1967, correct? Serial#533092.
It has a little rust near the end of the barrel on the right hand side, light rusting spots on opposite sides of the cylinder, and a few little spots where the black is chipped off of the frame. It doesn't look like it was shot or carried much - I'm guessing the rust happened while stored somewhere that got a little wet. Grips are in good shape and number to the gun.
$375 out-the-door, that probably wasn't a great bargain but I'm pretty pleased since I had been through a lot of shops over the last several weeks and used, no-lock, J frames were scarce.

Jeff

 

[kaaskop49]

As former Yankee manager Casey Stengel allegedly said, "He done splendid." If the piece is sound mechanically: in time, no endshake, proper b/c gap, you "done" more than splendid. I always assign a high value to what I consider certain valuable guns. A lightweight piece that can fit in a pocket is such a gun.

More knowledgeable folks will chime in as to how to deal with the rust spots. It might be wise to restrict this gun to standard pressure, service-style ammo. It's bigger stable mate Model 12 is known to develop cracks in the frame...

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

 

[ABPOS]

Looks really good and I'd say that's a very good price!!!!!!

You done good. Love to hear a range report on that one and how you like shooting it. I would suggest a Tyler T grip.

 

[haywood]

Sounds like you got a good deal to me. When I find a little rust I use a soft brass brush and Ballistol. I like the 37. I Bobbed the hammer on mine. It can still shoot single action if I wanted.

 

[boxerrider]

Thanks, everyone. The rust spots got oil and a soft bronze brush when I gave the gun it's obligatory after-purchase cleaning. I'll do a good cleaning once it has been shot a little and cover with a coat of wax. This will be a carry piece, so it just needs to stop rusting, not be restored.
I have a Tyler T on my M49 and like it. These grips are rounder and more comfortable than those on the 49 (about 1982) but I still want something more to hang onto. I may try some boot grips.