Rookie question about a Model 13

[MarkL_01]

I saw a Model 13, 3" blue, in a pawn shop. I didn't take it out of the showcase, but am considering going back for a closer look.

I'm not a collector, but I do enjoy good guns, and I like to know something about the ones that I shoot. Also, I don't want to over-pay.

The rookie part of the question is that, other than condition, I don't know what to look for. The last time I paid attention to S&W revolvers, all .357s were "P&R", so I didn't even look for that. The tag said 13-3.

The hammer was spurless, which I ASSume means that it had been modified. Grips were synthetic, with finger grooves.

I expect that the bobbed hammer and aftermarket grips would reduce the value compared to an all-original P&R version, but I have no idea by how much.

Asking price is $350.

Thanks for advice and/or opinions.

-Mark

 

[Ashlander]

3" 13s are in high demand. $350 seems a good price even if you have to have to worked on to get it back to double/single action.

 

[MarkL_01]

Thanks, Ashlander.
Sounds like a closer look would be justified.
-Mark

 

[kinar]

I have a M-13 that has a bobbed hammer from the factory (and a really great trigger), but it is a -4. Don't really know if they ever had a factory -3 with a bobbed hammer but it would be worth checking out. I sure wouldn't worry about the grips being synthetic. So at 350 if the mechanical & finish check out, I think I would have to jump on it. The M-13s are a great carry. k

 

[Lee Jones]

Lew Horton Performance Center item

Per SCSW, page 179 there were some 400 PC-13s with DAO, bobbed hammer, Magna Ported. Shrouded extractor rod also.
A real find, great carry piece, if that is what it is.

Lee Jones(Celtgun)

 

[1 old 0311]

Love my 13's. For $350 I would be all over that.

 

[Smithhound]

I was lucky enough to get this 13-3 with 4" barrel a few months ago, after some trading I ended up with right around $300 in it. I'm still not really sure how rare the nickle is but this is the first one I'd ever seen.
Still haven't had time to fire it but if it shoots as good as it looks I'll be even happier!
RD

 

[TJ1225]

Buy it! If you have any concerns send it to Smith and have it checked out. Carried one years ago, with the right holster and some practice it will make a great EDC with plenty of punch when you need it. When we transitioned to the auto pistol, I let mine go and could kick myself. TJ

 

[opaul]

Did it have the shrouded extractor rod? You might have a great find.

 

[MarkL_01]

Wasn't a good deal after all. The side that was down in the showcase was badly rusted on the frame and the full length of the cylinder. Looked like it had been riding under a car seat for a while. Also had rust and pitting on the top strap.
Thanks for all the info.
-Mark