Which is the better revolver to have?

[Levallois]

I'm trying to decide between two New Model 3s in 44-40 (extremely rare caliber) - finish is good on both (most of the nickel gone but with a gray patina) except as noted below. First one has all the markings on the barrel, serial numbers, etc. but is dodgy mechanically - (this can be fixed for a price) or the second one, that is perfect mechanically, and has all the serial numbers but has had the barrel markings worn off? The prices are comparable but I wonder how important those barrel markings are for a collectable gun when the gun is this rare?

Thanks!

John

 

[Levallois]

I'm trying to decide between two New Model 3s in 44-40 (extremely rare caliber) - finish is good on both (most of the nickel gone but with a gray patina) except as noted below. First one has all the markings on the barrel, serial numbers, etc. but is dodgy mechanically - (this can be fixed for a price) or the second one, that is perfect mechanically, and has all the serial numbers but has had the barrel markings worn off? The prices are comparable but I wonder how important those barrel markings are for a collectable gun when the gun is this rare?

Thanks!

John

 

[Old 44 Guy]

I've had two # 3's. One in .44 Russian, the other on .38-.44. Any time you have an opertunity to get one buy both. You won't be sorry. You need financial help I volunteer.

 

[bmcgilvray]

I certainly go for the one with the dodgy mechanics and the appropriate markings. As you say the mechanics can be fixed but the markings are effectively lost. I'd never be quite as satisfied with the gun that had no markings.

 

[deadin]

On a rare gun I would consider the markings to be more important than a fixable mechanical problem.