Victory ???

[jboneusa]

I would appreciate any help to figure out what i have. it looks like a victory model S&W. S.N. V328581 . approx.3-1/2" barrel, nickle finish (recently re-finished). This was my fathers gun, and i can remember him having it when I was 3 or 4 Y/O. i'm 52 now.
Thanks!

 

[e6bill]

The "V" prefix pretty much tells the story. You can get a detailed history from S&W/Roy Jinks.

 

[Mike McLellan]

It sounds like you already know what it is. Absolutely a Victory model. A lot of them were doctored up after the war with chopped barrels and refinishes. There were lots of these great guns scattered around the world. You're lucky to have one that belonged to the old man. Have a smithy take a look at it, and see if you can find some ammo for it. Have fun.

 

[scha]

"V" indicates Victory model, but it could be a US Victory (38 Special) or a British Service Revolver Victory (38 S&W). The caliber marking should appear on the side of the barrel. The British Victories were usually a 5 inch barrel and the US models usually have a 4 inch barrel. Lots of the British revolvers were cut down and refinished after they were released for civilian sale.

Hope this helps.

Steve

 

[jboneusa]

It is definitely a .38 S&W Not a .38 Special. Thanks for your help, I really appreciate it.

 

[jboneusa]

Any idea on date of manufacture ?

 

[remo]

From approximately 1942 to about May 1943 the acceptance mark of Ordnance officer Guy H. Drewry is found on the butt. From approximately V300000 to end of production G.H.D is found on the left top strap

 

[jboneusa]

Thank You !

 

[DWalt]

Yours would have shipped in mid-1943. The barrel has been chopped. Are you sure a .38 Special round will not chamber?