Well, its been a rough morning around here. At least as far as my photo posting goes. I'll give it another try in a minute. Before I do, though, I'll tell you all the story of my latest acquisition.
Early in my law enforcement career, I watched intently the rise and fall of the FBI's 10mm project. I think the most beneficial thing to come out of the whole affair was the .40 S&W. Even though the .40's star was rapidly rising when the bureau finally pulled the plug on the 1076, I noted its passing with a degree of disappointment. When history books are written about those things that first seemed destined for greatness but ultimately failed; the 1076 will take its rightful place amongst the likes of the Edsel, the Beta Max, and Brittany Spears.
Unlike them, however, the 1076 is still fully capable of performing its intended function in the current era.
I had given up ever finding a 1076 that was priced where I could afford it. Until last Friday, that is. Upon walking into a gun shop I had never before visited, I happened across one. according to the shop owner, the pistol was originally part of an LE contract purchase. When that agency (I don't know which one, yet)traded in their 1076's on something new, S&W took them back, refurbished them and sold them off through their distributors. He also said the pistol had been in his case for about 5 years. He had it priced at $429. After a bit of talking, he agreed to sell it to me for $400 out the door.
I posted a thread on here last week asking for input on the deal. I got the idea that Jeepguy would have reached out of the computer and slapped me if he could have. After a week, I walked back into the shop yesterday and bought the gun. I have to say I'm quite happy with it. There is just a bit of holster wear, but otherwise it is in great condition. Mechanically, it is quite sound.
About an hour after I left the shop, I was on the range. I've literally grown up with a .40 S&W in my hand, but this was my first experience with the 10mm. I must say that when my first 5 175 grain silvertips sailed over my chronograph at an average 1200 fps, I started to see why so many of you have remained loyal fans of what could be described as a "moribund" cartridge. The 1076 was also impressive with the best three shot groups running about 2" @ 25 yards.
I think its safe to say that after all these years of searching, I've found another gun that will never leave my collection. Now I'll give that photo another try.
HRF