Question On A Lemon Squeezer .38

[Jay-Bird]

Hello,

I recently found out my Grandfather has a old S&W top-break .38. I wanted to see if anyone could give me any info on it.

I looked in the faqs, and I think it is 4th Mod. of a S&W .38 Safety Hammerless.

It is not in the best condition; it has not been fired in a good 40 years. I am thinking it is from the 20's. My grandfather told me his uncle gave it to my great-grandfather, because he got involved with some Chicago gangsters.

On the butt, the only numbers on the gun appear:

163XXX


I took it to my gunsmith, and he said it was still great mechanical condition, and you could fire it still. As far as cosmetics, would it be worth getting refinished, or would it be best to leave it alone?

Thanks for all of your help!

 

[Jay-Bird]

Hello,

I recently found out my Grandfather has a old S&W top-break .38. I wanted to see if anyone could give me any info on it.

I looked in the faqs, and I think it is 4th Mod. of a S&W .38 Safety Hammerless.

It is not in the best condition; it has not been fired in a good 40 years. I am thinking it is from the 20's. My grandfather told me his uncle gave it to my great-grandfather, because he got involved with some Chicago gangsters.

On the butt, the only numbers on the gun appear:

163XXX


I took it to my gunsmith, and he said it was still great mechanical condition, and you could fire it still. As far as cosmetics, would it be worth getting refinished, or would it be best to leave it alone?

Thanks for all of your help!

 

[npd136]

I love old guns with a history, especially the family kind. I would not touch it, besides a good cleaning. My dad gave me an old Colt double barrel hammer 12ga that was well worn. My great grandfather carried it on many hunts and each time I pick it up, I feel I am right there with him. Just my thoughts.

 

[mikepriwer]

Assuming you are going to keep the gun, and given its family history,
I would get it refinished. There are going to be those who will disagree
with me about this, but if it were mine, I would be much happier with it
if it looked better. It has virtually no collector value now, so
refinishing it will not damage its value. I think it will stand a better
chance of staying in the family, if it is handed down, if it looks really
nice. It will always be an old gun - never a new one !

Later, Mike Priwer

 

[opoefc]

I agree with Mike, get it refinished and keep it in the family, but be sure the refinisher is a pro and does not buff off any markings or round the screw holes. Ed.

 

[Deacon KC]

Great gun and history J!