Was this Barrel Cut? 1950 Target

[aphelion]

I'm a collector of shooters so my comment is from that perspective. Several have said, as a cut down gun is it only worth $500-$600. I have to wonder how your thinking works to arrive at a price like that?

A 4" Model 24-3 is going to sell for way more than that. I personally would much rather have a 5-screw than a 1980s version of the N-frame 44 Special. In my neck of the woods (OK - desert) you just don't see hardly any N-frame S&W for under $500. I'm willing to bet a 5-screw 44 Special, even a cut down one but with a 4" barrel, would not be found on a dealer's selves for much under $1000...and I bet it would sell for that too.

Dave

Speaking as one of the "shoot and abuse crowd"(?), I'd say you hit the nail on the head. But let's keep it a secret, eh? Keeps the prices the down.

 

[lowhog]

armchair gun show has a 4 inch pre 24 that was cut down from a longer barrel.The rollmarks on that gun are perfectly centered on the barrel like mine.I say anything is possible from the s&w factory.Here is a picture of the side of mine.

 

[keith44spl]

Wells,

More fodder for the grismill,

Roll marks are what they are, it seems...

From factory letter,

"Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector Model of 1950 Target,
Model, .44 Hand Ejector Fourth Model, Special Barrel
Length, caliber .44 S&W Special....The records indicate that
this handgun was shipped with a 5 inch barrel..."

I'd hazard a guess, that if this one had been special ordered with a
4 inch barrel rather than a 5 inch the rollmarks would be the same.

Jest goes to show, ya never can tell

Su Amigo,
Dave

 

[Engine49guy]

Just wanted to add that I posted the pictures to compare the roll marks from a known 6.5" barrel with those of a Known 4".

Im not saying the OP gun is or is not original.

 

[D R Greysun]

Just wanted to add that I posted the pictures to compare the roll marks from a known 6.5" barrel with those of a Known 4".

Im not saying the OP gun is or is not original.

And that is exactly why it would be bought as a 'shooter' without a letter!

D R