I returned yesterday from the S&WCA annual Symposium and thought in the interest of perhaps enticing people to consider joining, I would post a few photos here. First a few words about the Association. It was founded over 50 years ago by a few forward thinking individuals, including S&W historian Roy Jinks. Lest you think it's a collection of stuffy old guys, there are younger guys in the group and new blood is always welcome. For more info, follow this link: http://smith-wessonforum.com/swca-public-area/96291-information-about-swca.html
Now for the pics!
Here's an interesting Model 12-2:
Wait! What's that cylinder release doing on the right side???
Well, this gun is one of an order of 12-2 models ordered by a French Police agency. What appears to be a cylinder release is actually a safety that prevents the gun from firing when engaged. Leave it to the French to need a safety on a revolver!
Next up is a "Do-it-yourself" Model 28 kit:
Indeed, other than the frame, everything is there to build a Model 28. These kits appear to be assembled from guns that were taken apart. There were two put up for sale in the auction and one even included part of the frame still attached to the barrel. Yours truly now owns it, but I've no idea what I'll ever do with it short of using it for a conversation piece.
The gun below in in the possession of a forum member though I will let him identify himself if he wishes. It was purchased new in Hollywood California and it's new owner sent it out for an outstanding engraving job. As pictured, it has both a 22 Jet cylinder and a .22 long rifle cylinder. The "star" who bought this gun and had it engraved? The King, Elvis Presley:
The guns I've posted here aren't even a drop in the bucket of what was on display. There were at least 3 guns owned by Teddy Roosevelt, one by outlaw Jesse James, and host of other noteworthy persons. There was a collection of various S&W models with serial number 0001. From Model 1's to more newer offerings, the gambit was wide and diverse and there was something there for everyone!
The SWCA has its symposium once a year and the symposium itself is nearly worth the price of joining. Besides that however, they are most knowledgeable group on all things S&W you will ever meet. Members also have access to free shipping date info as well as a discount on factory letters. And every member I've met has been friendly and never looked down on me for my lack of knowledge.
Now for the pics!
Here's an interesting Model 12-2:
Wait! What's that cylinder release doing on the right side???
Well, this gun is one of an order of 12-2 models ordered by a French Police agency. What appears to be a cylinder release is actually a safety that prevents the gun from firing when engaged. Leave it to the French to need a safety on a revolver!Next up is a "Do-it-yourself" Model 28 kit:
Indeed, other than the frame, everything is there to build a Model 28. These kits appear to be assembled from guns that were taken apart. There were two put up for sale in the auction and one even included part of the frame still attached to the barrel. Yours truly now owns it, but I've no idea what I'll ever do with it short of using it for a conversation piece.
The gun below in in the possession of a forum member though I will let him identify himself if he wishes. It was purchased new in Hollywood California and it's new owner sent it out for an outstanding engraving job. As pictured, it has both a 22 Jet cylinder and a .22 long rifle cylinder. The "star" who bought this gun and had it engraved? The King, Elvis Presley:
The guns I've posted here aren't even a drop in the bucket of what was on display. There were at least 3 guns owned by Teddy Roosevelt, one by outlaw Jesse James, and host of other noteworthy persons. There was a collection of various S&W models with serial number 0001. From Model 1's to more newer offerings, the gambit was wide and diverse and there was something there for everyone!
The SWCA has its symposium once a year and the symposium itself is nearly worth the price of joining. Besides that however, they are most knowledgeable group on all things S&W you will ever meet. Members also have access to free shipping date info as well as a discount on factory letters. And every member I've met has been friendly and never looked down on me for my lack of knowledge.
