Victory revolver, markings on yoke

[schemist]

I just picked up a Victory 38S&W revolver. There are some markings on the yoke I would like help with. I can't make out all of it but I believe the first line ends with OY'S and the second ends with COW MT. The only non-US marking I can find is an FTR on the sideplate and there doesn't appear to be an importer marking. Any idea what I have?

 

[Absalom]

The stamping in the yoke is a badly struck importer mark. There was an outfit in Montana (the MT is clear), but I don't remember the name.

The FTR mark in that location shows up very rarely. I don't think we have positively identified which place or country performed this, since we haven't had one with other identifying marks, like the Australian and Indian FTRs have.

 

[s&wchad]

I would guess that's a discrete import stamp. It could have been imported anytime after 1969. I doubt the BATF would approve placement like that today, so it well may be an older import.

If it is an importer mark, MT is the State (Montana). I checked a list of cites and the only one that ends in an "ow" is Glasgow. When I checked for importers in Glasgow MT, I came up with Leroy's Big Valley Gun Works.

I'd put money on it. If that's not it, it's a heck of a coincidence!

Edit to add: as I understand it, "FTR" is the British marking representing a "Factory Thorough Repair".

 

[Wiregrassguy]

Welcome to the forums from the Wiregrass!

 

[schemist]

If it is an importer mark, MT is the State (Montana). I checked a list of cites and the only one that ends in an "ow" is Glasgow. When I checked for importers in Glasgow MT, I came up with Leroy's Big Valley Gun Works.

I think you have nailed it. Looking at it now, I can see part of the R in Leroy's and part of the S in Glascow. I can't thank you enough.

 

[schemist]

Would Leroy's be able to tell me anything about the revolver?

 

[murphydog]

They are still in business, probably worth a call to them with the understanding that the imports may have been 30-40 years ago.

 

[Donald Paul]

Wonderful...

... a good looking revolver.
{ bet ya can't eat just one }.
Respectfully -
-Donald

 

[J. R. WEEMS]

YOUR REVOLVER

... a good looking revolver.
{ bet ya can't eat just one }.
Respectfully -
-Donald

I agree, a smart looking piece. I just acquire one from 1944, my birth year. but the stocks are later and I cant decide to find some like you have, or go with stag or Ivory. As luck would have it I found a 1944 holster as well. Some TLC is in order here and it was dyed black at some point but it IS period. Wartime leather isnt the best, but they go together. She went to the range for a short trip and does just fine. of course, 38 S&W--