S&W model 28-2 nickel 4"

[goldwinghg]

I'm looking at a nickel 4" nickel model 28.The nickel on the frame is fair,but on the cylinder is rough. I'm sure it's not a factory job. It's got a good set of Target grips but as for as the gun it pretty rough. A shooter for sure. Trying to get a estimate of what is a fair price to offer. The owner is asking $650,which I think is to much. Any suggestion would be welcome.

 

[swagmeister]

Probably not factory nickle. If so, a very rare gun, even with a damaged finish. If an aftermarket finish, in good condition mechanically, but a fair finish as you describe with issues, I would offer $500 and see if they bite. Good luck.

 

[Jack Flash]

I would proceed with the belief that it's a refinish, and now in fair to poor condition.

Everybody seems to like the 4" M28 so add a little premium there, but it's not like they're rare. The catch is: one that's in better condition will cost more.

I agree that $650 is too high. But realistically, the old saying from just a few years ago that "Any working N-Frame is worth $500" needs to be updated for inflation. So somewhere in the $550 - $600 range (?)

Most people who impulsively jump on every low-priced beater/shooter they see wind up with quite a pile of them. Don't ask me how I know this.

 

[Hawg Rider]

Tough to give an estimate for a Model 28 that has been modified that much. You didn't mention the dash no. (i.e. Model 28, 28-2?), serial no., or the barrel length (4" or 6"), and all of those details could affect the value. A 4" bbl. version is generally worth a little more, and early S-prefix Model 28s are too. A non-factory nickel plating job generally decreases the value significantly, especially if the cylinder is not well done. Also, it's not wearing checkered magna stocks with which it would probably have shipped. However, nice checkered target stocks have a value of their own depending upon which type they are. If it's an early S-prefix 4" HP, $600 may be a reasonable price. If it's a 6" bbl. later model, perhaps $450-$500...almost any decent N-frame revolver is worth $500+ if the condition is good. A couple of pics would help greatly, as would some additional information. Good luck!

 

[bananaman]

I would be into the $500 range. They shoot, but I don't like ugly guns. How much money would you have in it to improve to your likings? Bob

 

[Jack Flash]

The gentleman said it's a 4" in the OP. Also, target stocks were one of the very few options on an M28, so those could be original.

Assuming the target stocks are factory and in very good condition, they could sell for $150. So $600 may not be outrageous.

Of course, if the stocks are aftermarket, and/or beat up, the value drops.

 

[AudieMurphy]

"just buy it, its only money" "you'll regret it later,if you dont buy it now"

 

[ken158]

To come up with a price you need to consider how much you are willing to invest to make it what you want. Whether it is "fair" or not is up to the owner. If he bought it new then he has less than $200 in it. Wear in out or beat it up for 30-40 years and get your money back is not a bad deal.

 

[Dvus]

I had one a few years ago in the same condition. I bought it off of GB knowing it was a refinish with targets. Seller described the finish as "beautiful" and that it functioned great. Lies on both counts. When received the nickel on the cylinder was starting to peel, the trigger would not return half of the time and the hammer would "push off." When fired it would snow tiny little nickel snowflakes.
Seller told me to step off when I contacted him so he received bright red blaring negative feedback for his trouble. I watched his next few auctions tank and he left GB (probably to start again under a new account.)
I fixed the mechanical issues and sold the gun for $550 with the finish issue fully disclosed. I suppose it could have traveled a little south in those five years. Buyer Beware and check over thoroughly before purchase.

 

[alwslate]

I would pass on that beater and pay the extra money for a nice one in original condition.

 

[Narragansett]

I would pass on that beater and pay the extra money for a nice one in original condition.

Exactly my thought. Why would you want this? I am 99.99 % sure it is not a factory gun.

Remember, Pride of Ownership is important

 

[raljr1]

I am in the "pass on it" crowd....i have said before, the only guns I've lost money on are guns that were ugly. Burn a couple hundred more and get a nice one.

Robert