New/old Model 49

[Ralph G. Briscoe]

Just picked up a 70's vintage model 49 today....complete with box, tools and papers. Looks new--no turn line, no flaws or signs of wear....$500. My dilemma, I want to shoot it and carry it occasionally--"safe queens" bore the hell out of me. Advice?

 

[Flint Ridge]

Must be a computer glitch, can't see your pictures of it.

Sounds wonderful. Depends on the market I guess. If you could turn it and make some cash and replace with a shooter, that might be an option. Or, if it was a real deal and you got it for the price of a shooter (don't ask me the prices - somebody will chime in soon or check GB) and you want to shoot it, it is yours.

 

[Seven3]

Several years ago, my Dad gave me his Model 49, with the box and papers. It was almost mint condition. I have shot it some, and carry it occasionally. It still looks great. They are nice little guns, but not really collector's items (at least not yet). In my opinion, shoot it, carry it, and take good care of it. It wasn't meant to be a safe queen.

 

[MSgt G]

The model 49 is one of my favorites. I say shoot it and don't look back.

Congratulations on a real winner!

 

[Bomberman]

Just picked up a 70's vintage model 49 today....complete with box, tools and papers. Looks new--no turn line, no flaws or signs of wear....$500. My dilemma, I want to shoot it and carry it occasionally--"safe queens" bore the hell out of me. Advice?

No dilemma at all...those guns were designed to be shot, not locked up in some dark, cold safe. Take it out and let its personality come and speak to you. Treat it with care and enjoy!

 

[Dark Knight]

Life is short. Why save it for the next guy?

 

[njdet354]

Model 49

One of the best backup guns made. Also carries well in pocket. Use it.

 

[MPSGT]

The model 49 is one of my favorites. I say shoot it and don't look back.

Congratulations on a real winner!

Just do it!

 

[scott001313]

Owned My 49 Since '74

Carried daily for over 15 years and then semi-retired for the past two decades. Occasionally carried in the last few years. Great firearm -- will provide a lifetime of outstanding service. Shoot and legally and responsibly carry same.

 

[Brian41]

I bought a Model 49 LNIB but mine came with Tylers and a 1970's vintage IWB holster. It appears someone bought it to carry and for some reason never did. I carried it some in an Uncle Mikes pocket holster but got to where I didn't want to get wear on it as it was so nice looking.
It's pretty much lived in my safe the last couple years and I carry a 36 or 37 instead. I guess in my mind I'm keeping it for a spare but just find it hard to mess up a fine old gun like that.

I'm not suggesting you put your's up only what I did after buying mine with the intent to carry it.

 

[texagun]

Shoot it and carry it. One of the best pocket pistols out there........

 

[WILDPIG]

I agree. Carry it.

WILDPIG

 

[pennlineman]

Wonderful guns. I agree, shoot it!

 

[Malysh]

Here's a '57 Mod 38 I just got in almost new condition for summer carry.
I will hate to age it but as others have said these are superior deep concealment guns. I'm not getting any younger and I think I should enjoy it while I can. If it's NIB with the box and all accessories, that may be a different story. But I think it will be awhile when a mint one with everything will appreciate a lot in value.
The Mod 49 and Mod 38 are not rare guns, just great ones. So I say use it!

 

[Engine49guy]

If it has been fired I would continue to shoot it.

On the other hand if I found a NIB unfired S&W revolver made before 1960 I definately wouldnt shoot it just because of the depreciation and guilt of ruining its pristine condition..

Maybe that even goes for some NIB unfired pinned models up to 1980 as they just dont make them like that anymore.

There are alot of people like me that would gladly trade a new airweight model 638 or older model 49 plus a few bucks to boot for an older unfired NIB gun ....

You would get a new carry piece with a warranty and the the other party gets an unfired classic.
EVERYONE is happy!

BTW after $50 rebate a new 638 is only about $350 in these parts....