SW 25-2 Value

[trubiltman]

Hi everyone,
I have the opportunity to buy a SW model 25-2 that my local dealers has. He states that the date of manufacture is 1955 and that the gun is unfired. He is asking $ 1,500.00 for it. Can someone tell me if this is a good deal. Thank you.

 

[sodacan]

He is probably reading the model number off the side of the barrel. A 25-2 would be a later iteration of the Model 1955. For a 25-2, the price is high, but condition is everything. Having the box, tools and papers increases the value. Also, if it has a wooden presentation it could command more money. A nice condition gun alone is worth $1K on average, but geography also affects the price. Good luck.

 

[trubiltman]

The gun does come in a wooden presentation box, but didn't see any papers etc.

 

[g8rb8]

Good, close up photos of the right & left side of the firearm, the frame opposite the yoke, the back of the cylinder, the recoil shields, the left side of the grip frame, and the box are always helpful when helping a member determine if they are being presented with a reasonable price.

A serial number including the prefix, either S or N, would be helpful.

Knowing the cartridge would be helpful, .45 ACP or .45 Colt.

Knowing the exact length of the barrel, 6" or 6-1/2" would be helpful.

I think there are three possibilities in order of likelyhood:
1. This is a Model 25-2 in .45 ACP circa 1961-1977. If it was produced prior to 1968 (S prefix) and if it has original diamond center target stocks and truly has not been fired and is in the original "clam shell" (circa 1960-1969) box some would opine it could be worth $1500. More likely this is a N prefix gun made after 1968 and therefor would likely not have diamond center stocks and would more likely have a "Styrofoam bottom box with with foam rubber top insert" (circa 1969-1974) and if it were in unfired/like new condition with a really nice original box I would tend to agree with the SCSW (Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson) citing a value of $1200 for ANIB (as new in box)
2. It could be a Model 25-2 in .45 Colt. All of the statements in section 1 above apply except you now have a more desirable firearm and a more valuable firearm.
3. The seller is wrong about it being a Model 25-2 and it really is a .45 cal revolver made in 1955 but this seems very unlikely.

There are some other

 

[Moedot]

I believe the Model 25-2 was produced between 1961 and the mid 70's

 

[series guy]

If you are buying this to shoot do a search on oversized cylinder throats as these guns are notorious for this problem. They are otherwise a fantastic example of the S&W N frame.

 

[Mike C2]

25-2 was manufactured 1961-1982. The serial # will be preceded by an S through 1968. In 1969 that would change to an N. Earlier guns were 6 1/2" while the last few years were 6".

$1500 would be a fair price for an early S serial gun that has Diamond target stocks, the presentation box, and all of the tools, accessories, and literature.

 

[trubiltman]

I found out more info. on this gun. It is a model 1955 25-2 in 45 acp. Gun does appear unfired and comes with presentation case and accessories but no paper work or manual. So, is $1,500.00 a good price or do I walk away. Thanks for all your guys help.

 

[Kinman]

I'm no expert...but I know what I like. At that price you better like it and as was mentioned some of those have throat discrepancies that can give you problems with accuracy. If my memory serves correctly there is a quick gun show check that is to drop a certain size ball onto the cylinder face, if it drops into the chamber...pass on the revolver. I got into shooting .45 auto revolvers late in life and now own three, its a terrific cartridge for older guys and the Model of 1955 is a great platform. One of mine is a 25-2 that had been cut down to 5.5" and modified with Behlert rear sights, it has a very slick double action and according to the previous owner was built to shoot bowling pins down in Texas...its a tack driver and very comfortable to shoot. I paid that much for a very nice pre-model 25 model of 1955 a couple years back but think its just a schotsche high for a model number piece. Again...if you've been looking and see what you like, pays your money and takes yer chances.

 

[Pete 45]

It's been over a month now trubiltman and personally I'm interested as to what action you took. If you purchased the 25-2, have you found out any further information on it? How do you like it. Just curious...

Thanks,

Pete