Question Regarding Model 40/42 High Horn Stocks

[papicker61]

Did original factory Centenial high horn stocks come factory checkered along with the smooth uncheckered variety. Up till now I only ever encountered the smooth variety but yesterday acquired a pair of factory diamond uncheckered stocks numbered 5198XX. Are these high horn stocks known to have been manufactured in this configuration? Any info and value opinions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

 

[murphydog]

I have not seen the early Centennial stocks (with the small stock discs) checkered. Are these possibly the semi-high horn version with standard discs?

 

[papicker61]

I believe you are right as the horn on them is not quite as high as on the smooth variety.

 

[two-bit cowboy]

Sounds as though you have a pair of Bodyguard stocks--Models 38 or 49).

The Bodyguards used the original Chiefs Special serial number series.
The stocks you have likely shipped in spring 1967.

My Model 49 590710 shipped in April 1968.

 

[Hondo44]

Known as the medium high horn stocks.

 

[jcelect]

J frame grips

Here are the three different grips for the J frame guns in regard to the "horn height".

Note the different height of wood above the medallion. It is difficult to see in the top two guns.
jcelect

 

[papicker61]

Many thanks to all who answered my inquiry. It looks like the diamond stocks I acquired fit to an early Bodyguard. Anybody knowledgeable regarding current value? Thanks once again.