Refinish Opinions?

[Speedo2]

As stated in an earlier thread, I've been looking at a bunch of recently unearthed S&W's at a buddy's shop for the purpose of offering my opinions on grading and pricing. I guess that having hung around here for a while, he thinks that I know a little bit about those things. Little does he realize that I'm pretty much just regurgitating thoughts and opinions from some of you guys that really know about S&W's. Well, I'm back at the alter of S&W knowledge with a question on the originality of the following gun:

The finish and grip condition of the above gun (a 38 DA 2nd; sn 640xx) are almost perfect. Perhaps too perfect for something that's over 100 years old. Also, the extractor star is nickel finished, which I've always thought was a sure sign of non OEM re-nickeling. However, the latch (but not the posts) and ejector mechanisms are correctly blued. Also in his stash of S&W gems were a couple of really poor condition 32 DA's that had obviously never been treated with much respect, let alone having been re-finished; and they too had nickeled extractor stars. So now I'm a bit confused and would much appreciate getting some opinions from the real experts. Did S&W never or sometimes nickel plate the extractor stars on these old DA's? This could make quite a difference in the recommended price on this little gun. Thanks for all responders. -S2

 

[rhmc24]

I consider myself pretty picky and somewhat knowledgeable about condition, particularly refinishing. From your photos I would call that piece original, not refinished. Question: How would anyone know To answer whether S&W 'never or sometimes' ?

 

[moosedog]

I just went into my stash and looked at a couple of period nickel guns that I know to be original finish and yes, they have nickeled extractor stars.
You'd be supprised how many of these old guns show up in fine condition.
I would say yours is original.

 

[Speedo2]

Thanks Moosedog, I appreciate your looking. I had earlier advised him that the gun was most likely re-finished, but finding those two well-worn 32DA's with nickeled extractors, and now with your observation, I will reverse my opinion, 'fess up and increase my price estimate. This will likely cost me, 'cuz that one is now one of the guns on my "first pickin's" list. -S2

 

[Philing]

I don't know if this can help but my 38 SA which is from the first year of production : 1891, has the extractor star nickeled. I am quite sure the nickel finish is original. (I also have a Russian 2nd model which has the extactor star nickeled)

 

[opoefc]

You will find nickel extractor stars in original guns. From my observations, I'd say it is morel likely in the earlier production than later on. Your pictures above look to me to show the original finish and not a refinish. Is there any date codes for factory work, under the grips? Ed.

 

[Speedo2]

Thanks to Philing and Ed for your input. Once again, I've learned something. I was hesitant to offer either a recommended selling price or buying price for it, but now I think that I will pursue it. I'll let you know if/when I acquire that 38 DA; and/or the asking price if my dealer-buddy gets too proud of it. -S2