S&W reg 357 magnum 1938 value

[DWalt]

Just for the OPs benefit, the attraction of the Registered Magnum involves more than the hardware itself. Part of the reason is that it was the very first .357 Magnum revolver. Another part was that it was considered a status symbol in its time (the late Depression era) when relatively few, other than the wealthy, had the cash to even think about buying something like that - sort of like owning a Rolex or other high-end wristwatch. There were several notable owners of RMs including Clark Gable, Gary Cooper, J. Edgar Hoover (he was presented with SN #1), and General George Patton. Who wouldn't want a revolver just like Patton carried?

 

[SRYSandan]

I have attached one photo of the pistol as well as page 2 of the letter. I will try to send the picture of he other side if this works.
To all who are looking at this please note I do not have access to the pistol at this time, it is in another stare. The pictures were taken in 2007, the letter dated 9 Oct of 2007. To the best of my knowledge there is no paperwork or other accessories for the gun. I knew my father in law from at least 1977 and in all that time he never shot the gun to the best of my knowledge. He originally told me it was a model 19.

 

[SRYSandan]

Other picture

Here is the right side view. Please note the chip on the stock

 

[Kinman]

Can't agree with you on that!! Either be honest with the MIL and get her a fair price (no matter what you think of her), or stay out of it completely.[/QUOTe

Good sound advice...Good luck with staying completely out of it.

 

[Wiregrassguy]

SRYSandan, it has obvious signs of being carried in a holster. The chip probably occurred while it was in a holster. That can be repaired and it's totally worth the price to have it repaired because the grips sell for insane prices these days. Is it being stored in a holster by any chance? If so it needs to come out of the holster and be put into a rug or sock. Holsters can contribute to surface rust. It's not pristine but it's not a beater either. I think some of the prices that have been quoted are in the ballpark. But I would like to hear from Wordsmith, Doc44, handejector or one of the other experts as to what they think about the value.

Guy

 

[DWalt]

The chip in the toe of the right grip can be restored so it looks nearly original. The person I formerly used to do grip repair unfortunately died a couple of years ago, not sure who does good work now, but someone will provide a source. I don't know the going price, but those I had done were in the neighborhood of $100 for such work. I have done some similar grip damage repairs using epoxy as a filler, but it's not as good as using a wood insert, just better than leaving the chip alone.