New Revolver

[dodge_sigma]

I just acquired a new revolver from my father. it was given to him more than 20 years ago from his father. i don't know a whole lot of info and trying to get it restored. Really just needs a thorough cleaning and it needs to be refinished. my question is how can i find out some info ( year of manu. or model # or anything) with out paying s-w for it. also if anyone knows a good person to do some refinish work in the tampa, fl area im having issues finding some one. thanks

 

[BaldEagle1313]

With the caveat that you get what you pay for, here's my completely free advice.

DON'T get it refinished.

As far as info about the gun, you'd need to either post more pictures, especilly close-ups of the barrel (both sides) and the serial number; or detail that information as text in your next post. That info will be needed for anyone to give you definitive information about the family gun.

Oh, and did I mention? DON'T get it refinished.

 

[Joni_Lynn]

Hard to say, it might be a 22/32 Target later known as a model 35.

 

[murphydog]

It is a model 35, and is probably stamped as such under the barrel on the frame with the cylinder out. Its official name is ".22/32 Heavy Frame Target". If you can give the letter (if present) and partial number from the bottom of the grip frame, like M 123xxx, we can tell you when it left the factory. Others will comment on refinishing it, I'm sure.

 

[dodge_sigma]

you are correct about the 35 imprint behind the chamber. the first few of the serial are m41***

 

[dodge_sigma]

why shouldnt i get it refinished? it is pretty rusty and the finish is very rough from it. what other options are there?

 

[PH-2]

dodge,

Refinishing is a matter of opinion.

It, typically, destroys any collector value and, if such concepts are of any import to you, the remaining finish on that original gun is the same surface your Grandfather and Father, both, touched, oiled, cleaned and shot with. That is, in my oppinion, some GOOD mojo!

The cost of a refinish, should you ever sell it, will generally never be re-couped.

I have a couple of non-heirloom guns that could use it, and if I decide to go forward, I will let the manufacturer do the work.
In FLA. you might want to google/contact Fords. I also like Hamilton Bowens work, he is in east TN., but you would need to contact him to see about a straight re-finish.
Alternatives? Clean, oil, shoot, repeat. You can avoid further denigration of the finish with normal maintainance. Do not store the gun in a holster or in cloth. A good oiling and wipe-down every month or after shooting and cleaning will keep it in it's current condition.

Mike

 

[murphydog]

you are correct about the 35 imprint behind the chamber. the first few of the serial are m41***

It probably left the factory in 1971-early 1972.

As far as refinishing, my opinion is honest finish wear from use (especially from a family member) is one thing, but pitting or other deep metal damage pushes me toward a refinish. Personally, I would call factory customer service and follow the message prompt about refinishing; someone in the Performance Center can answer your questions. Please post the "after" photos should you decide to send it in.

 

[dodge_sigma]

the rust and pinged finish is from lack of care. my dad kept it in a safe for 15 years wrapped in a towel and never fired it. i might just take it to get the rust buffed out and leave the finish alone. thanks everyone for all the input. i plan on keeping it and passing it along one. but just for fun, does anyone know a realistic price for this model? ive seen a high and low that are too far to find a good range. thanks again.

 

[fyimo]

You can use (4) 0000 steel wool or (4) 0000 Bronze wool and gun oil to rub the gun down with and it will remove most surface rust and then wax it with Johnsons Floor Wax or Renaissance Wax and you will be surprised at how well it cleans up.

 

[kas9412]

Just don't rub too hard or too long or you will take some of the blue off with the rust!

kas

 

[410bore]

You can use (4) 0000 steel wool or (4) 0000 Bronze wool and gun oil to rub the gun down with and it will remove most surface rust and then wax it with Johnsons Floor Wax or Renaissance Wax and you will be surprised at how well it cleans up.

i agree with fyimo,

bust the wool out and get the rust off! its the only way to stop it from spreading more....if you take some bluing off, oh well, it beats rust.....and if you want a good shooter i would leave it at that

if you want to get it refinished by S&W, be prepared to be afraid to shoot it when you get it back....it will look that good

 

[nawilson]

You can use (4) 0000 steel wool or (4) 0000 Bronze wool and gun oil to rub the gun down with and it will remove most surface rust and then wax it with Johnsons Floor Wax or Renaissance Wax and you will be surprised at how well it cleans up.

Great advice here. You may want to clean it up before making any decisions on refinishing. Most collectors will advise against refinishing (personally, I agree), but it is your gun...

 

[Florida Guy]

There was a thread a few weeks ago by a member that had sent his gun to S&W to be refinished.
He requested a matte finish, and his gun was returned with a gloss finish.
S&W told him they don't do the matte finish any longer, so they did it the way they wanted.
Owner was less than happy, and it's sad that S&W treats loyal customers in this manner.
Refinish at your own risk.

 

[What the]

One more factor to consider in a refinish is " what does the inside of the barrel and charge holes look like?" If those areas were neglected and rusty you may just want to clean up the rust best you can and put it up or use as a wall hanger.