What are Leige Belgium proof marks, and do they diminish value?

[Davidnssbm]

There's a particular no dash smith I'm looking at acquiring because it's a great piece and has the box and everything, but I am not familiar with what these proof marks mean. Are they usually aftermarket?

Thanks,

David

 

[Walter Rego]

Here's a link to a thread I started about a month ago:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-re...389069-model-31-1-wischo-importer-marked.html

The Liege, Belgium proofmarks are seen in the close up pic. The name WISCHO was a European importer/distributor and as many Euro countries have their own proof laws, my revolver required re-proofing before being allowed to be sold in Belgium. Sometimes these marks are more obtrusive, on the frame, sides of barrel and sides of cylinder.
I don't see them as a plus or a minus, just part of the history although on a particularly scarce or high demand model some may be put off, especially if not stamped discretely. Tell us more about the gun you are considering.

 

[Davidnssbm]

Thanks. Here's what I've got my eye on:

Smith and Wesson Model 640, NO DASH : Revolvers at GunBroker.com

 

[Arik]

All that means is the gun was sent to Belgium and eventually came back. I've seen a few model 19 and 10 like that. It's neither good nor bad. It's only bad if you dislike stamps on the gun but that's a personal preference

 

[H Richard]

Those marks would make no difference to me. But, I might add I think the buy it now price is a little high.

 

[shouldazagged]

My very favorite J-frame, but the price seems out of line to me. If you plan to carry and shoot it, you can find a nice one a lot cheaper than that. If you plan to sell it, I don't think you'd make much profit.

But what do I know? I haven't been able to buy guns since I retired.

 

[TAROMAN]

Nice gun and the Liege proof marks certainly give it added character.
Interesting that it was imported directly by S&W hence no import markings.
Even, given the above, the price is too high, IMHO.

 

[M2MikeGolf]

I was stationed in Germany and purchased a S&W 619 there. It was proofed in Liège as that's where it was imported, then brought to Germany. In Europe, a firearm MUST be proofed by one of the approved agencies, and that's one of them. There are numerous one's throughout Germany, too. I also have an Ulm proofed 547. Like some have mentioned, it simply means that someone brought one back from Europe, maybe even a soldier. Considering how hard that is to do these days, I would consider with some respect the effort someone might have had to endure to bring it back. I just came back from Germany and went through an ATF nightmare "importing" all my firearms back; and that includes US made firearms. I discovered a veteran that was sympathetic to my cause at the ATF and he squared me away.

In order to pass the Euro proof test, a firearm must be able to fire a 10% overcharged round. I even now own a 1942 manufactured M-1 Garand with a German proof stamp, which is kind of interesting when you consider the rifle and the date.

I would consider that Belgian proof mark a badge of honor. I know I do.

 

[Georgia1911]

Liege is not far from Herstal, and they do know their firearms in Herstal. A man named Browning did some work there a few years ago.

I agree the marks are an interesting reminder of the history of a particular gun and generally should not have much impact on value either way, unless they are very obtrusive.

 

[Davidnssbm]

It's definitely a high price, but given the no dash and complete box/papers it seems understandable. but after FFL and taxes, ya it's too high.

 

[JustinL]

That is the first time in my life I've seen a letter list a gun store I've personally visited.

Knowing Shoot Straight they probably priced it at MSRP and listed it "On Sale."

 

[eyegots2no]

Yea, That is high.

If you need that TYPE of arm for carry---you can spend much less

I do not see a jet set revolver having an increase in collector interest.

IMHO

 

[Davidnssbm]

I'm looking to carry AND collect. BTW what do you mean "jet set revolver"?

 

[Knigge]

In Norway we dont have these proofmarks, but some gun dealers over here import S&W from Germany because it`s quicker and easier , my 686-6 is imported from Germany and it has Liege proof marks
Very discrete laser engraved

 

[steamloco76]

I have a nearly mint 586 with 8 3/8ths inch barrel with a Liege proof among others.