This listing was WITHDRAWN on February 12, 2024. However, some of the guns not sold will be carried over into a new post soon.
WTS: collector downsizing -- 26 collector handguns
This is Phase 2 of my collection downsizing project. In this listing, initially, 26 handguns for sale, of which 15 are Smith & Wesson.
The concept of being offended by a so-called "low-ball offer" is alien to me; I will consider any actual offer and respond respectfully, usually within 24 hours. I will not be offended at being presented with information or arguments as to why any potential buyer thinks that I ought to accept a particular offer (e.g., information on recent forum or auction sales of similar items, or whatever). Some of these guns are rare or otherwise hard to find price comparisons for, so I am open to new information. Note, however, I tend to become more receptive to offers after a gun has been listed unsold for awhile at the original asking price.
On all guns: I have described and represented everything objectively to the best of my ability, but my observations are not infallible and what I think I know might be wrong. All sales are final, and the gun is your property from the time I turn it over to the shipping carrier, so please do not hesitate to use PMs or email to ask questions, ask for more photos, make suggestions, argue, or make offers. For most of these guns, additional high-def photos are available on my SmugMug gallery, at the URLs linked in each gun listing. (You will be required to click through the advisory, "Warning! The intended destination is not part of Smith & Wesson Forum," but have no fear, the SmugMug site is well known and secure.)
Generally, I will accept payment for guns by wire transfer (not ACH) or by U.S. Postal Service money orders. However, I will also accept a personal check from any SWCA member who is listed in the published Membership Roster, after allowing a few days for it to clear. Please don't post "I'll take it" unless you are willing to use one of these payment methods, unless we've mutually agreed otherwise in advance.
Buyer will pay the actual shipping costs. I am currently using a major common carrier where I qualify for discounted rates. It is my practice to ship any handgun wrapped in a silicon sock, snug inside a brand-new hard plastic pistol case (usual cost from $10 to $20), packed inside a robust cardboard box. I will insure to the amount instructed by the buyer, up to the purchase price. I will need a copy of your dealer's FFL, and he must accept shipment from non-dealer. (If my dealer needs to be involved, there will be an extra charge.) Although I am NOT a dealer, I do have a FFL03/C&R license, and on C&R-eligible guns I am willing to ship directly to a C&R license holder who resides in any state that allows it, as most do (but California DOES NOT). Note: NO SALES TO CALIFORNIA except C&R-eligible guns, and even then, only after prior discussion.
Photos of a couple of these individual guns, taken by Terry Popkin, appear in the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 4th Edition, by Jim Supica and Richard Nahas (Gun Digest Books, 2016), and where that is so I will note it in the text. Note that I am credited in that reference work with a complete rewrite of the chapter on Single Shot Pistols. I mention this mainly to assist any potential buyer who wishes to check out my bona fides.
All forum rules apply. Remember, guys, the rules prohibit comments in "Wanted to Sell" listings! The only reply allowed is "I'll take it." The administrators will remove any other comment and likely issue you a citation. I appreciate the expressions of admiration, but the rules require that you confine those to DMs and email. However, "Likes" are permitted and appreciated.
Doug
SWCA No. 2404
FFL Type 03 (Collector of Curios & Relics)
Maryland
Items #7, 13, 15, 20, and 22 are SOLD.
*****
(1) Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 24-5 (.44 Special)
Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 24-5 (.44 Special). Lew Horton Heritage Series, manufactured May, 2001. 6.5-inch barrel. Comes with Heritage Series gold box, manual, fired-casing envelope, and miscellaneous advertising. In 2016 I sent the gun to the Performance Center to lighten the trigger pull, and to camfer the chamber holes-- both jobs were done flawlessly, and I was very pleased with the results. (I have retained the original springs and they will be transmitted with the gun.) The gun has been shot little, but shoots well. It is in top condition.
$1425, plus actual shipping costs.
More photos on my SmugMug gallery:
S&W Model 24-5 Performance Center - Douglas Johnson
*****
(2) S&W "Pre-Model 24" ("Model of 1950 .44 Target")
S&W .44 Target "Model of 1950" ("Pre-Model 24"), #S144743 (1955). Five-screw revolver in .44 Special. 6.5-inch barrel. All numbered parts on revolver match, except the grips are the correct type (diamond magnas) but a different number. Satin blue (matte) finish in excellent condition. Back in 2013 the previous owner inquired on this forum whether the gun looked reblued, and it was the unanimous judgment of the commentators (a dozen or so) that it is not refinished. I concur, but I am not an expert. Here is that thread:
http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-ha...50-heavy-duty-reblued.html?highlight=jhood001
More photos on my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-Pre-Model-24-Model-of-1950-44-Target/
$2,550, plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
*****
(3) Smith & Wesson .38/44 Outdoorsman (Model of 1950) ("Pre-Model 23")
S&W .38/44 Outdoorsman Model of 1950 ("Pre-Model 23"). 6.5-inch barrel. Excellent condition. SN S93415 (1953).
The serial number on the cylinder matches the frame. All mechanics seem fine. Standard matt-blue finish, in excellent condition (minor defects, see photos here and at the linked gallery page). The box, somewhat battered, is period-correct but not originally associated with this gun.
As shown below, the gun is currently wearing a beautiful set of custom Roper-style grips by Keith Brown, in exhibition-grade black walnut with exhibition-grade finish (2011), which I think suit the gun very well. However, the gun came to me with well-fitting Diamond target grips (as shown above), that seem to be period-correct and are in excellent condition (but I think magnas were standard-issue); these Diamond target grips will stay with the gun.
For more photos see my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-3844-Outdoorsman-Model-of-1950/
$2800 with both grip sets, or $2100 with the Diamond target grips only, plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
****
(4) Smith & Wesson Pre-Model 27 ("Model of 1950") (.357 Magnum) with 8-3/8 barrel
Smith & Wesson Pre-Model 27 ("Model of 1950"). (.357 Magnum). SN S94744 (1952-1953). 8-3/8 barrel. Bright blue finish. I purchased this revolver from David Carroll in 2013. Here was his description at that time: "Scarce 8-3/8 barrel, original bright blue finish with Coke-bottle diamond target stocks. This early Model of 1950 .357 Magnum was built in 1952-1953 on the 5-screw frame and is in excellent overall condition. It has only a little high-edge and sharp corner wear and a few small handling marks. The rare and desirable Coke-bottle target stocks which came out in 1956 were added later, they also are in top-condition. Mint bore and cylinder chambers, flawless action and lock-up. The long-barrel length is seldom found on the examples built prior to the 1970s, making this revolver a very fine addition to any collection of 5-screw S&Ws!" The gun has been an safe queen ever since I acquired it.
$2675, plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
******
(5) Smith &Wesson K-22 First Model (Outdoorsman) with original-era, repaired red box
This K-22 Outdoorsman (K-22 First Model), SN 679343, is in excellent condition. Includes factory letter from Roy Jinks, that says gun was shipped January 21, 1940, to Dave Cook Sporting Goods Co., Denver, CO. "This revolver had a 6 inch barrel equipped with a Patridge front sight, blue finish, and checkered walnut grips." All of this corresponds to what we see on the gun. (The grips are silver medallion, as appropriate.) Matching numbers, including the SN stamped inside the right grip panel. (This revolver does NOT have the "humpback hammer," an option offered late in the model run.)
I bought this gun from renown photographer Terry Popkin in 2010-- he took these excellent photos, and many others that you can view on my photo gallery here. The gun has been a total safe queen since that purchase, and still looks exactly the same. Excellent condition--I'd rate 85%. Some scuffs on the top strap and other minor defects, as shown in the photo gallery.
The red box I acquired at a later date. It is authentic for this model (but not matched to the gun). I obtained the top of an original appropriate red box that had water damage. It was expertly and amazingly rehabilitated by Gary Lowe (SWCA No. 2515) (the box bottom is from a gold box, colored and aged by Mr. Lowe to match the authentic red box top). I paid a total of $225 for the original box and the later restoration work.
Pistol, box, factory letter: $2175 plus actual shipping. C&R eligible.
******
(6) Smith & Wesson Model 14-1 (.38 Special), Single-Action Only Variation
Smith & Wesson Model 14-1 (.38 Special), SN K413423. The factory letter confirms this revolver is the "Single Action Only Variation." shipped from the factory on June 28, 1961. It has a target hammer and target trigger, attributes of the SO Only Variation that are mentioned in the letter.
The grips are a later addition -- Herrett's target grips, probably rosewood, with a thumb rest. I think they suit the revolver very well.
The serial number is marked in the yoke channel and also on the underside of the grip frame. On the left face of the grip frame, on the bottom, is the number 37403. I see no number on the cylinder.
I purchased this revolver in 2011 from renown gun photographer Terry Popkin, who took the photos.
$1,350. C&R eligible.
More photos in my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-Model-14-1-Single-Action-Only/
*****
SOLD(7) Smith & Wesson Model 13-2 (.357 Magnum)
1978. Four-inch heavy barrel. K frame, fixed sights. Comes wearing Kim Ahrends cocobolo Tactical Revolver Stocks, with finger grooves. Also included: the original walnut magnas. Condition of the gun: I see no flaw. The gun has been shot, but not much, I think. I purchased this revolver from Terry Popkin a decade ago-- he took these great photos, and those in the linked gallery. The gun comes with a box with a label for a 4-inch Model 13, but the serial number on the box does not match the gun.
$975 [reduced from $1075], plus actual shipping costs.
Gallery of additional high-def photos by Terry Popkin here:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-Model-13-2
*****
(8) Smith & Wesson Model 325 Thunder Ranch Special (45 ACP)
This is a very handsome Smith & Wesson Performance Center revolver. The gun is in excellent cosmetic and mechanical condition. 45 ACP -- uses full-moon clips (I recommend Rimz plastic clips). TRD0099 (2008). Scandium/aluminum frame, black finish. Four-inch barrel, gold bead front sight, adjustable rear sight. Six-round cylinder with ball detente lockup. Hogue grips. Accessory rail. Internal lock and keys. 31 ounces. Comes with heavy-duty dark green Thunder Ranch soft case.
I purchased this revolver from eminent gun photographer Terry Popkin; he took the photos shown here. There are more photos on my SmugMug gallery.
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-Model-325-Performance-Center/
Another photo of this exact revolver (TRD0099), also taken by Terry, appears on page 444 of the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, Fourth Edition (2016).
Note: The holster shown in some of the photos is NOT included in this sale.
$1300, plus actual shipping costs.
****
(9) Smith & Wesson Performance Center Schofield Model of 2000
Smith & Wesson Performance Center Schofield Model of 2000.45 S&W (also called .45 Schofield). 7-inch barrel, polished blue finish. Combines design concepts of the original 3rd Model Schofield with modern engineering features -- modern hammer block safety, carbon steel frame, etc. The revolver comes with the original wooden display case, certificates, medallion, and other paperwork. I do not know if it has been fired but it seems flawless to me.
I purchased this gun from Terry Popkin a decade ago. He took the photos (the gun has been in the safe since then). Some of these photos also appear in the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, Fourth Edition, on page 437.
I will include with the revolver two sets of vintage ammunition: (1) Six loose cartridges won by Terry Popkin at a SWCA convention, labeled, "45 S&W Schofield cartridges, Bennet primed. (Loaded by Frankford Arsenal in 1880.)" And, (2) a box of 12 vintage unfired BLANKS, produced by Frankford Arsenal for use in .45 Schofield or .45 Colt Government revolvers. The box (torn open, as shown) is original, and is of a style used from 1882 until about 1900. These blanks (internally primed) were used to accustom cavalry horses to the sound of gunfire.
I purchased this gun from ace photographer Terry Popkin in 2013, and he took the pictures shown here and in the gallery linked below. Please note that Terry's collage photo of my revolver appears on page 437 of the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson 4th Edition--that is to say, the revolver pictured there in the book is SN GWS0793, the very gun offered for sale here.
The revolver, wooden case and accessories, six 19th century unfired cartridges and box of twelve 19th century blank cartridges: $2,650, plus actual shipping costs (see above).
More photos on my SmugMug gallery (photos courtesy Terry Popkin):
Schofield Model of 2000 - Douglas Johnson
*****
(10) Smith & Wesson 3rd Model Single Shot No. 10933 (with "really short" Olympic chamber)
This 3rd Model Single Shot is in beautiful condition. It has a rare attribute -- what Ralph Tremaine has called the "really short" version of the Olympic chamber, which was the version employed in the earliest pistols made with the Olympic chamber. Shooters complained about the considerable effort needed to fully insert a cartridge, especially the last little bit, so in later Olympic-chamber pistols the chamber was lengthened slightly. I have two other 3rd Models with the longer Olympic chamber (one of these offered for sale just below), and there is a definite difference. On this pistol, some modern .22LR rounds (with rounded lead bullets) cannot be chambered at all, or it can be accomplished only by snapping the gun shut, which I certainly don't recommend. However, some suitable target ammo types, such as CCI standard velocity round nose and Wolf Match Target, can be seated with reasonable pressure.
The serial numbers match five places: Grip frame, butt end of barrel (between the "ears" of the clasp), on the clasp itself, and on the bottom of the ejector plate. The number is also penciled on the inside of the right grip frame.
S&W factory letter from Roy Jinks, shown here, says "serial number 10933 was shipped from our factory on November 28, 1923 and delivered to Robert Nelson Hardware Co., Roanoke, VA. The records indicate that this handgun was shipped with a 10 inch barrel, blue finish, and checkered walnut extension target grips."
The pistol had two minor defects when I purchased it in 2013, both of which have been corrected. First, there was a short hairline crack in the top of the left grip panel, which was expertly glued by Terry Popkin; it is still visible, barely, in one of the photos in the photo gallery. The grips have a couple other minor dings but are in overall excellent condition. I obtained a detailed technical drawing of the original style sight, which a talented collector and metal worker named Jose Scoseria exactly duplicated as I observed (this took several hours), including bluing. The sight is 14 mm across the top, with a 6 mm tab on the bottom that the adjustment screws butt up against. It has a sighting notch 3 mm wide and about 1.5 mm deep.
Additional photos in my SmugMug gallery here.
For what it's worth, the Blue Book of Gun Values (44th Edition, 2023) lists the value of a 3rd Model with an Olympic chamber, 95%, at $2,600. My price for the pistol with its rare "really short" Olympic chamber and factory letter, reduced to $2,050 (down from $2,250), plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
*****
(11) Smith & Wesson 3rd Model Single Shot No. 10346 (with "regular" Olympic chamber)
Smith & Wesson 3rd Model Single Shot, with Olympic chamber and factory letter. SN 10346 (1922).
I estimate condition at 95%. As visible in the photos, there is one small spot missing finish on left side of barrel about two inches from the muzzle, and some thinning around the muzzle. There are some small scratches on the frame. The grips have some dings, especially on the bottom, but are excellent overall.
The serial number (10346) appears, as it should, on the grip frame, barrel end, clasp, and bottom of the ejector. It is also penciled very clearly on the inside of the right grip panel. It has the Olympic chamber, meaning that a .22LR cartridge with a round-nosed lead bullet can be seated with moderate thumb pressure-- this is NOT the "really short" Olympic chamber described under the listing for gun #10, above.
I obtained a S&W factory letter, dated December 4, 2013, which states, "your handgun, with serial number 10346 was shipped from our factory on December 11, 1922 and delivered to New Yorkporting [G]oods Co., New York City, NY. The records indicate that this handgun was shipped with a 10-inch barrel equipped with a Patridge front sight, blue finish, and checkered walnut non-medallion extension target grips." This described attributes are all in agreement with what I found on the pistol when I received it.
More photos on my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-3rd-Model-Single-Shot-10346/
For what it's worth, the Blue Book of Gun Values (44th Edition, 2023) lists the value of a 3rd Model with an Olympic chamber, 95%, at $2,600. My price: $2,050 plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
*****
(12) Smith &Wesson Pre-Model 27 (1955) (.357 Magnum) with 6.5-inch barrel
This is a very nice Smith &Wesson Pre-Model 27 (.357 Magnum) with 6.5 inch barrel, shipped in 1955. SN S139686. Bright blue finish. Period-correct box. There are some very light scratches and slight finish thinning that you can see under the very bright light used in some of the photos in the linked photo gallery, but I don't see most of that in ordinary light. I'd call it an 85% gun if not better, but look at the photos here and in the linked gallery and be the judge.
It is currently wearing a set of Keith Brown non-glossy Roper-style grips, made in about 2015; they are mint. Also included are the original Magna grips, which are correct and I believe original. The Magnas are in very decent shape-- the right panel may have absorbed a little gun oil along the top.
The gold box is period correct but a later acquisition, not linked to this gun. It is completely intact, "fair-to-good" condition (soiled in places).
The revolver seems to be completely mechanically sound, with a perfect bore. I have not fired it.
Pre-Model 27 revolver with both original Magnas and Keith Brown Roper grips, and gold box: $2,150, plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
Several additional photos are available in my SmugMug photo gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-Pre-Model-27/
*****
SOLD PENDING FUNDS(13) Smith &Wesson Model 1, Second Issue (1866)
Here we have a very solid example of the Model 1, Second Issue (.22 Rim Fire Short, black powder, 7-shot), SN 97125, shipped July 17, 1866, with "3-3/16 inch barrel, two tone blue & silver finish, and smooth rosewood grips," according to the factory letter (shown here). Everything is pretty snug. The rosewood grips are in good shape. I'd rate it 80% on the Antique scale.
The pistol and the factory letter, $775 [reduced from $1,000] plus actual shipping cost. ANTIQUE.
Note: Under federal postal regulations, this revolver qualifies as an "Antique" that may be mailed between holders of FFL 03 (Curio & Relic license), so if the buyer has a valid C&R I can mail it directly to the buyer via Priority Mail, which is considerably cheaper than using a common carrier. For non-C&R purchaser, this item can be sent directly to the buyer (in most states), but I must use UPS or FedEx as is required for other handguns.
More photos in my SmugMug photo gallery here.
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(14) Smith & Wesson Double Action Fourth Model, .32 S&W "Short" (circa 1905)
This little five-shot revolver (3.5-inch barrel) which chambers the .32 S&W "Short," has nickel finish (with blue trigger guard and clasp) that is in very nice shape. However, the gun (S/N 253877) dates to roughly 1905, the black-powder era. There are some roughish spots in the bore. It has a bit of end-shake and a bit of side-to-side wiggle--not a whole lot, but noticeable (maybe somebody shot some smokeless rounds at some point). It wears pearl grips that are not a great fit. So, sold as a cute little display piece item, not recommended as a shooter.
S&W Double Action Fourth Model, $325 plus actual shipping expenses. C&R eligible.
***
SOLD(15) Colt Camp Perry (1928) with factory letter
Colt Camp Perry single-shot pistol in .22LR. SN 1502 (this number appears on the gun and is also stamped into both grip-panels). Excellent condition, other than the original owner stamping his or her initials "REN" into the butt, as shown in the photos. The Colt Archive letter from 2012 (cost $100) says the pistol was shipped to "Dr. R.E. Neill" on April 16, 1928."
(The Colt archivist told me they have no record of the doctor's address. Limited research in 2015 found a record of only one physician in the United States at that time with those initials, Roberta E. Neill, of Springfield, Mass. She practiced medicine in Springfield, Mass. for many years. She lived from 1895-1976, so she would have been 33 at the time of the shipment. However, I found no documentation linking Dr. Roberta Neill to the shooting sports or to this gun. The original guy buyer might have been a dentist or some other kind of "doctor" who my search missed. To complicate matters further, the collector I purchased the gun from in 2011 said that the collector he'd purchased it from years earlier said the pistol had been "shipped to the governor-general of the Philippines for his shooting team." I gave little weight to this story, since there was no documentation. In subsequent cursory research, I found no evidence as to whether or not any of the governors-general of the Philippines had a pistol team in that era, much less whether anybody named Neill was associated with such a team.)
$2950 with Colt Archive letter. C&R eligible.
More photos on my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/Colt-Camp-Perry-1502-1928/
*****
(16) Buchel "Winkelblock" target pistol (.22LR)
This is a rare, high-end German target pistol made for a fairly short time starting in 1911. Identified with the firm of Ernst Freidrich Buchel, but more likely actually designed by his son Cuno. ("Under Cuno's leadership the EFB firm quickly became one of the leading makers of German target rifles and pistols during the latter part of the Golden Age of German target shooting, 1985-1914." Alte Scheibenwaffen: German Target Arms 1960-1940, Volume 2, by Jesse Thompson et al, compiled by Tom Rowe.)
The pistol is chambered in .22LR, is mechanically sound, and can be fired safely and accurately with .22LR Standard Velocity ammo. The pistol has a set trigger which is fully operative (the trigger is set by depression of the large lever on the left side). There is a trigger adjustment screw behind the trigger, but you'd have to take the wood off to get at it; the slots in the screw are a bit buggered but the slots are still deep. The grips are walnut, I think; they have a right-hand thumb rest. The wood finish on the right side is a bit scuffed up. The bore is good with some little rough spots just past the chamber. The barrel is 14-5/8 inches long. For reasons obscure, this model was equipped with a lanyard ring.
Here is a diagram showing the mechanism, from the book Die Scheinbenpistole by Bruno Brukner and Ott Halfmann.
Markings: On left side of falling block: D.R.G.M. This denotes Deutsches Reich Gebrauchsmuster (German Reich Registered Design), a patent registration. On the left side of barrel: G. Will, Schwerin I/M. This refers to Gustav Will, the distributor for the Buchel guns. The proofmark 0,2gr N.G.P. M/71 refers to Nitrozellulose Gewehr Pulver (nitrocellulose rifle powder). M/71 was a Mauser powder. 2 grams of M-71 powder is 3.1 grains.
For more photos, including closeups of sights, proofmarks, etc., see my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/Buchel-1911-Winkelblock/
$2,975 plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
******
(17) Scharfenberg Tell Type 1 target pistol (circa 1900)
Scharfenberg Tell Type 1 target pistol. This .22LR target pistol was designed by Georg Scharfenberg (1831-1906). Scharfenberg made various types of firearms (including parlor guns) in his shop in Eisenberg near Mehlis (Germany). This model was issued a DRGM (sort of a patent) in 1892, so this gun might legally classified as an antique, but to be safe I am going to treat it as modern handgun (although C&R eligible), because I think the model was probably produced for at least a few years after 1898.
The pistol has a double set trigger, which is adjustable. The mechanisms all seem to work correctly. I would rate the condition as antique-fine to antique-excellent.
This is a rare high-end German target pistol and I have not seen a photo of any example in better condition in any book or elsewhere. $3,150. C&R eligible.
I am reproducing here pages from the book Die Scheibenpistole by Bruno Brukner and Ott Halfmann, which shows the inner mechanism of the action (but yes, the text is in German).
I am also reproducing pages from the book Alte Scheinbenwaffen Volume 3, edited by Tom Rowe, which includes photos of another example of the same model, although not in as good a condition as mine. The text refers to the action as "rocking block." It "was a popular target pistol in its day." It also explains that the model "has been referred to as the Tell Model 1," but cautions that "[E.F.] Buchel also made a Tell pistol which was completely different." (Note that I also have an example of the Buchel Tell model for sale, no. 19 on this list.)
More photos, including close-ups of sights, proofmarks, etc., on my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/Scharfenberg-System-Tell-Type-1-pistol/
*****
(18) Pickert "Arminius" Model 3 target pistol (circa 1925) -- very rare
This is a very rare, high quality German target pistol in .22LR, the Pickert "Arminius" Model 3, circa 1925. SN 23. The illustration from the book Guns of the World shows the three models of the Pickert match pistol. The Model 3 is the rarest, not found even in most references. In the 13 years since I acquired this example, I have never seen another Model 3 for sale, or in any collection. I saw one Model 2 (similar, but with a concealed hammer) go for $3,450 in a Julia Auction in 2017.
Very nice blue finish in excellent condition. Some very small dings in the walnut grips. 11-5/8-inch tapered barrel with matted rib. Fully adjustable rear sight. Based on the photo from Guns of the World, the front sight post is apparently a replacement for the original Patridge-style sight. Double-set trigger, adjustable. Serial number 23. The gun functions fine mechanically.
In a review of the Model 2 that appeared in the American Rifleman in January 1926, Hans Roedder concluded that the Pickert target pistol "approaches more than any other the ideal form of target weapon."
$2,850. C&R eligible.
Additional photos on my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/Model-3-Arminius-free-pistol-Frederick-Pickert/
To view or download an 11-second video demonstrating the tip-up loading procedure, and use of the set trigger, from my Google Drive, click here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1geo3U9Qidffi2oCWT6-F9k7lmF4YFUgI/view?usp=sharing
***
(19) Buchel "Tell Model 2" free pistol, owned by Olympic shooter Domenico Giambonini
This is a "Tell Model 2" free pistol, built by German gunmaker Ernst Friedrich Buchel, originally owned by Domenico Giambonini, a top-level pistol marksman in the early 20th century. He was born Nov. 11, 1868, in Switzerland, and died on Aug. 8, 1956 in Bellinzona, Switzerland. The barrel of the pistol contains the engraving GIAMBONINI and BELLINZONA. See the short bio that I have reproduced from Olympics.com, which says that Giambonini "came from a family of gunsmiths," won his first international championship in 1895, and achieved his lifetime best score at age 68, in 1936.
The Tell Model 2 was popular among European competition shooters of that era, but also sold in the U.S. through the Stoeger catalogs.
I would consider this to be a 13-3/8-inch barrel (12 inches to frame, 13-3/8 inches to opening of chamber). This pistol has a falling-block action-- the large lever in the grip lowers the block to allow loading. It is a strong action.
The pistol has obviously seen considerable use, but is in overall good condition. The bore is very good. As shown, the rear sight has fine-adjustment capacity. The front sight may have an elevation adjustment, but if so I don't know how it works. I have taken this pistol to the range twice, most recently November 2023. Everything functions properly. There is a tension-adjustment screw for the set-trigger (counterclockwise to increase tension), which I have set to a light touch-- some might prefer to stiffen it further.
I think that this pistol was likely used by Giambonini when he was a member of the Swiss pistol team at the 1920 Olympics at Antwerp, although I have no photographic proof or other definitive documentation of that he used this pistol at that event. At the 1920 Olympics, the Swiss team finished 9th in the Free Pistol 50 meter event; Giambonini is listed as a participant in that event, in which the Tell Model 2 would have been the right tool for the job. (Five team members, including Giambonini, won bronze medals that year in the rapid-fire pistol event.)
Frederick Buchel Tell Model 2, inscribed to Domenico Giambonini, circa 1920, $1,350 (down from $1500) plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
Additional photos of the pistol, and additional documents on Giambonini and the 1920 Olympic pistol events, at my SmugMug photo gallery here.
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SOLD(20) Harrington & Richardson USRA Model (Model 195) Single Shot Pistol (1936), S/N R2157
During the 1930s, the H&R USRA Model was about the hottest thing going among small-bore competition target pistols, at least in the USA. In his influential 1938 Textbook of Pistols and Revolvers, Julian S. Hatcher devoted 10 pages to the USRA model. He wrote, "This is the most popular target pistol on the market today. In fact, it now holds the pre-eminent position in the 'Any Pistol' class that was formerly held by the Smith & Wesson Perfected .22..." The primary designer of the model, Walter F. Roper, called it "the very first speed-action single shot pistol ever offered by an American manufacturer." Using a machine rest of new design, Roper and Edwin C. Harrington produced a pistol producing all shots touching at 20 yards and one-inch groups at 50 yards. The pistol had a short hammer drop that jars the pistol very little, and a very fast action, both factors contributing considerably to shooter performance.
Roughly 4,000 were made from 1928-1942. This fine example, no. R2157, was made in or about 1936.
The USRA Model underwent many evolutionary changes, some of which Roper described in his 1945 book Pistol and Revolver Shooting. I have never seen two that are just alike. This particular example has a 10-inch barrel, very nice polished blue finish (with matte topstrap and front sight to reduce glare), adjustable front sight, adjustable rear sight, adjustable trigger. The USRA Model was at one point offered with five different options in one-piece stocks-- this example is wearing what appears to be the walnut #4 style (in excellent condition), which was modeled on the Colt Peacemaker and was, Roper wrote, "the most generally liked" option.
Some of the model's other features are described in these digital reproductions of H&R promotional literature from the 1930s. (Scans of additional vintage H&R promotional publications on the USRA Model are found on my photo gallery.)
This pistol functions as it should. The wonderful trigger and short hammer drop make it a lot of fun to shoot. The ejector throws the spent casing almost as far as the bullet travels!
There are some fine scratches next to a couple of screws, as you can see in the photos. There are areas on both sides of the hammer that have many small scratches where the metal may have been polished, as visible in photos. There is a lot of thinning to the finish only the inside of the grip strap. Overall condition is excellent.
Additional photos (some taken by the previous owner from whom I acquired the pistol in 2014, and some by me in November 2022) may be viewed in my photo gallery here.
H&R USRA Model No. R2147, PRICE REDUCTION $1,375 [reduced from $1,550], plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
*******
(21) Harrington & Richardson USRA Model No. 3211 (rare 7-inch barrel)
Harrington & Richardson USRA Model target pistol, No. 3211 (circa 1937), in the rarely found 7-inch barrel produced late in the production of the model. This example is virtually flawless (I see one tiny hairline scratch on right frame), as are the very nice H&R walnut style #4 target grips. See the detailed discussion of the USRA Model under gun #20 above.
The 7-inch pistols don't come up too often. For what it's worth, the Blue Book value of a 7-inch in 98% condition is $2,420. My price is $2000 plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
More photos on my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/HR-USRA-Model-3211-7-inch/
*****
SOLD PENDING FUNDS(22) Webley & Scott Mark III Single Shot Target Pistol in very rare .38 Special.
This Webley & Scott Mark III Single Shot from 1963 is a very rare gun-- the factory records indicate that only 40 examples were made in .38 Special, for a short time in the early 1960s. After the sweeping confiscation of handguns in the UK in the late 1990s, probably only a handful of these still survive. (The vast majority of Webley & Scott single shots were in .22LR, with .32 S&W and .38 S&W available as special orders during some periods.) I wrote up a post specifically on this gun that you can read in the "Other Brands" sub-forum here.
This is SN 4133. You can view additional photos of the gun and associated documentation in my gallery here. This includes a letter from Richard Milner, who has the Webley & Scott factory records, attesting that serial number 4133 was sold on March 20, 1963, to Shelley Braverman, a wholesaler in New York. The letter notes that it was shipped with right-hand walnut grips (which was a factory upgrade-- the standard grips were plastic).
The Blue Book of Gun Values (44th Edition, 2023), page 2298, rates the .38 Special variant as a 100% premium, so $2,800 at 98%.My offer: Pistol with original color paper brochures and digital documents, $2,250 (reduced from $2,950), plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
*****
(23) Pietta (Navy Arms) LeMat muzzleloader revolver
Pietta (Navy Arms) reproduction of the LeMat revolver of the Civil War. Manufactured 1986. The nine revolver chambers take .451 balls. The smoothbore underbarrel is .65 caliber/20 gauge. It has been fired but not much-- it's in excellent condition. It has a fine deep blue finish, and nice grips that I think are walnut.
Under federal law this muzzleloader is unregulated and can be mailed. However, a few states require transfer through an FFL dealer.
$950 plus actual mailing or shipping costs.
More high-def photos in my SmugMug gallery: https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/Pietta-Navy-Arms-LeMat-Navy-Model-revolver-2323/
*****
(24) Uberti Beretta Laramie (.45 Long Colt)
High-end top-break revolver in .45 Long Colt, manufactured by Uberti and marketed by Beretta, based loosely on the 1875 Schofield top break revolver. L00052, manufactured in or about 2005. Barrel is 6.5 inches. Windage-adjustable rear target sight. Very nice deep blue finish. Everything seems good mechanically but I have not fired the gun, and I think it has not been fired much.
$1,075, plus actual shipping costs.
*****
(25)Smith & Wesson Military & Police (4th Change) Model Target with factory letter
Smith & Wesson Military & Police (4th Change) Model Target. The revolver came with an original factory letter dated Nov. 14, 2011, to Dr. Fred F. Bruno of Bethesda, MD. It says that the revolver "was shipped from our factory on March 26, 1924, and delivered to E. K. Tryon Co., Philadelphia, PA. The records indicate that this revolver was shipped with a 6 inch barrel, adjustable rear target sight, blue finish, and checkered walnut non-monogrammed square butt grips." All of this corresponds to what is seen on the gun. The serial number appears in the proper places -- grip frame, barrel flat, and cylinder face. The grips are unnumbered, but are the proper style for 1924 and appear to be original; their condition is excellent. The overall condition I would put at about 90%. The finish is thinned at the muzzle, and there are some very light scratches.
Note: This revolver (SN 463426) was manufactured AFTER Smith & Wesson began heat treating cylinders (which began with SN 316,648).
$1,025 with factory letter, plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
******
(26) Hoppe's Ethan Allen double-barrel muzzleloader (.36 ball)
This is a fully operational double-barrel muzzleloader sold as a kit (100K) by Hoppe's in the 1980s. It is an all-steel reproduction of an Ethan Allen pistol originally produced in the 1840s. My father assembled it, and he may have fired it a few times. The bores are fine. A single trigger fires each barrel with consecutive trigger pulls. Everything is good mechanically. This example has a light blue finish, and it does not have the fancy engraving shown in the Hoppe's advertisement, which came only on a different, pre-assembled version. Eastern American walnut grips. The pistol shoots .35 or .36 ball (depending on the patch). No FFL is required to purchase this muzzleloader pistol; the price includes mailing via Priority Mail.
$450, mailing costs included.
More photos on SmugMug:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/Hoppes-Ethan-Allen-double-barrel-pistol/
WTS: collector downsizing -- 26 collector handguns
This is Phase 2 of my collection downsizing project. In this listing, initially, 26 handguns for sale, of which 15 are Smith & Wesson.
The concept of being offended by a so-called "low-ball offer" is alien to me; I will consider any actual offer and respond respectfully, usually within 24 hours. I will not be offended at being presented with information or arguments as to why any potential buyer thinks that I ought to accept a particular offer (e.g., information on recent forum or auction sales of similar items, or whatever). Some of these guns are rare or otherwise hard to find price comparisons for, so I am open to new information. Note, however, I tend to become more receptive to offers after a gun has been listed unsold for awhile at the original asking price.
On all guns: I have described and represented everything objectively to the best of my ability, but my observations are not infallible and what I think I know might be wrong. All sales are final, and the gun is your property from the time I turn it over to the shipping carrier, so please do not hesitate to use PMs or email to ask questions, ask for more photos, make suggestions, argue, or make offers. For most of these guns, additional high-def photos are available on my SmugMug gallery, at the URLs linked in each gun listing. (You will be required to click through the advisory, "Warning! The intended destination is not part of Smith & Wesson Forum," but have no fear, the SmugMug site is well known and secure.)
Generally, I will accept payment for guns by wire transfer (not ACH) or by U.S. Postal Service money orders. However, I will also accept a personal check from any SWCA member who is listed in the published Membership Roster, after allowing a few days for it to clear. Please don't post "I'll take it" unless you are willing to use one of these payment methods, unless we've mutually agreed otherwise in advance.
Buyer will pay the actual shipping costs. I am currently using a major common carrier where I qualify for discounted rates. It is my practice to ship any handgun wrapped in a silicon sock, snug inside a brand-new hard plastic pistol case (usual cost from $10 to $20), packed inside a robust cardboard box. I will insure to the amount instructed by the buyer, up to the purchase price. I will need a copy of your dealer's FFL, and he must accept shipment from non-dealer. (If my dealer needs to be involved, there will be an extra charge.) Although I am NOT a dealer, I do have a FFL03/C&R license, and on C&R-eligible guns I am willing to ship directly to a C&R license holder who resides in any state that allows it, as most do (but California DOES NOT). Note: NO SALES TO CALIFORNIA except C&R-eligible guns, and even then, only after prior discussion.
Photos of a couple of these individual guns, taken by Terry Popkin, appear in the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 4th Edition, by Jim Supica and Richard Nahas (Gun Digest Books, 2016), and where that is so I will note it in the text. Note that I am credited in that reference work with a complete rewrite of the chapter on Single Shot Pistols. I mention this mainly to assist any potential buyer who wishes to check out my bona fides.
All forum rules apply. Remember, guys, the rules prohibit comments in "Wanted to Sell" listings! The only reply allowed is "I'll take it." The administrators will remove any other comment and likely issue you a citation. I appreciate the expressions of admiration, but the rules require that you confine those to DMs and email. However, "Likes" are permitted and appreciated.
Doug
SWCA No. 2404
FFL Type 03 (Collector of Curios & Relics)
Maryland
Items #7, 13, 15, 20, and 22 are SOLD.
*****
(1) Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 24-5 (.44 Special)
Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 24-5 (.44 Special). Lew Horton Heritage Series, manufactured May, 2001. 6.5-inch barrel. Comes with Heritage Series gold box, manual, fired-casing envelope, and miscellaneous advertising. In 2016 I sent the gun to the Performance Center to lighten the trigger pull, and to camfer the chamber holes-- both jobs were done flawlessly, and I was very pleased with the results. (I have retained the original springs and they will be transmitted with the gun.) The gun has been shot little, but shoots well. It is in top condition.
$1425, plus actual shipping costs.
More photos on my SmugMug gallery:
S&W Model 24-5 Performance Center - Douglas Johnson
*****
(2) S&W "Pre-Model 24" ("Model of 1950 .44 Target")
S&W .44 Target "Model of 1950" ("Pre-Model 24"), #S144743 (1955). Five-screw revolver in .44 Special. 6.5-inch barrel. All numbered parts on revolver match, except the grips are the correct type (diamond magnas) but a different number. Satin blue (matte) finish in excellent condition. Back in 2013 the previous owner inquired on this forum whether the gun looked reblued, and it was the unanimous judgment of the commentators (a dozen or so) that it is not refinished. I concur, but I am not an expert. Here is that thread:
http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-ha...50-heavy-duty-reblued.html?highlight=jhood001
More photos on my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-Pre-Model-24-Model-of-1950-44-Target/
$2,550, plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
*****
(3) Smith & Wesson .38/44 Outdoorsman (Model of 1950) ("Pre-Model 23")
S&W .38/44 Outdoorsman Model of 1950 ("Pre-Model 23"). 6.5-inch barrel. Excellent condition. SN S93415 (1953).
The serial number on the cylinder matches the frame. All mechanics seem fine. Standard matt-blue finish, in excellent condition (minor defects, see photos here and at the linked gallery page). The box, somewhat battered, is period-correct but not originally associated with this gun.
As shown below, the gun is currently wearing a beautiful set of custom Roper-style grips by Keith Brown, in exhibition-grade black walnut with exhibition-grade finish (2011), which I think suit the gun very well. However, the gun came to me with well-fitting Diamond target grips (as shown above), that seem to be period-correct and are in excellent condition (but I think magnas were standard-issue); these Diamond target grips will stay with the gun.
For more photos see my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-3844-Outdoorsman-Model-of-1950/
$2800 with both grip sets, or $2100 with the Diamond target grips only, plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
****
(4) Smith & Wesson Pre-Model 27 ("Model of 1950") (.357 Magnum) with 8-3/8 barrel
Smith & Wesson Pre-Model 27 ("Model of 1950"). (.357 Magnum). SN S94744 (1952-1953). 8-3/8 barrel. Bright blue finish. I purchased this revolver from David Carroll in 2013. Here was his description at that time: "Scarce 8-3/8 barrel, original bright blue finish with Coke-bottle diamond target stocks. This early Model of 1950 .357 Magnum was built in 1952-1953 on the 5-screw frame and is in excellent overall condition. It has only a little high-edge and sharp corner wear and a few small handling marks. The rare and desirable Coke-bottle target stocks which came out in 1956 were added later, they also are in top-condition. Mint bore and cylinder chambers, flawless action and lock-up. The long-barrel length is seldom found on the examples built prior to the 1970s, making this revolver a very fine addition to any collection of 5-screw S&Ws!" The gun has been an safe queen ever since I acquired it.
$2675, plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
******
(5) Smith &Wesson K-22 First Model (Outdoorsman) with original-era, repaired red box
This K-22 Outdoorsman (K-22 First Model), SN 679343, is in excellent condition. Includes factory letter from Roy Jinks, that says gun was shipped January 21, 1940, to Dave Cook Sporting Goods Co., Denver, CO. "This revolver had a 6 inch barrel equipped with a Patridge front sight, blue finish, and checkered walnut grips." All of this corresponds to what we see on the gun. (The grips are silver medallion, as appropriate.) Matching numbers, including the SN stamped inside the right grip panel. (This revolver does NOT have the "humpback hammer," an option offered late in the model run.)
I bought this gun from renown photographer Terry Popkin in 2010-- he took these excellent photos, and many others that you can view on my photo gallery here. The gun has been a total safe queen since that purchase, and still looks exactly the same. Excellent condition--I'd rate 85%. Some scuffs on the top strap and other minor defects, as shown in the photo gallery.
The red box I acquired at a later date. It is authentic for this model (but not matched to the gun). I obtained the top of an original appropriate red box that had water damage. It was expertly and amazingly rehabilitated by Gary Lowe (SWCA No. 2515) (the box bottom is from a gold box, colored and aged by Mr. Lowe to match the authentic red box top). I paid a total of $225 for the original box and the later restoration work.
Pistol, box, factory letter: $2175 plus actual shipping. C&R eligible.
******
(6) Smith & Wesson Model 14-1 (.38 Special), Single-Action Only Variation
Smith & Wesson Model 14-1 (.38 Special), SN K413423. The factory letter confirms this revolver is the "Single Action Only Variation." shipped from the factory on June 28, 1961. It has a target hammer and target trigger, attributes of the SO Only Variation that are mentioned in the letter.
The grips are a later addition -- Herrett's target grips, probably rosewood, with a thumb rest. I think they suit the revolver very well.
The serial number is marked in the yoke channel and also on the underside of the grip frame. On the left face of the grip frame, on the bottom, is the number 37403. I see no number on the cylinder.
I purchased this revolver in 2011 from renown gun photographer Terry Popkin, who took the photos.
$1,350. C&R eligible.
More photos in my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-Model-14-1-Single-Action-Only/
*****
SOLD(7) Smith & Wesson Model 13-2 (.357 Magnum)
1978. Four-inch heavy barrel. K frame, fixed sights. Comes wearing Kim Ahrends cocobolo Tactical Revolver Stocks, with finger grooves. Also included: the original walnut magnas. Condition of the gun: I see no flaw. The gun has been shot, but not much, I think. I purchased this revolver from Terry Popkin a decade ago-- he took these great photos, and those in the linked gallery. The gun comes with a box with a label for a 4-inch Model 13, but the serial number on the box does not match the gun.
$975 [reduced from $1075], plus actual shipping costs.
Gallery of additional high-def photos by Terry Popkin here:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-Model-13-2
*****
(8) Smith & Wesson Model 325 Thunder Ranch Special (45 ACP)
This is a very handsome Smith & Wesson Performance Center revolver. The gun is in excellent cosmetic and mechanical condition. 45 ACP -- uses full-moon clips (I recommend Rimz plastic clips). TRD0099 (2008). Scandium/aluminum frame, black finish. Four-inch barrel, gold bead front sight, adjustable rear sight. Six-round cylinder with ball detente lockup. Hogue grips. Accessory rail. Internal lock and keys. 31 ounces. Comes with heavy-duty dark green Thunder Ranch soft case.
I purchased this revolver from eminent gun photographer Terry Popkin; he took the photos shown here. There are more photos on my SmugMug gallery.
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-Model-325-Performance-Center/
Another photo of this exact revolver (TRD0099), also taken by Terry, appears on page 444 of the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, Fourth Edition (2016).
Note: The holster shown in some of the photos is NOT included in this sale.
$1300, plus actual shipping costs.
****
(9) Smith & Wesson Performance Center Schofield Model of 2000
Smith & Wesson Performance Center Schofield Model of 2000.45 S&W (also called .45 Schofield). 7-inch barrel, polished blue finish. Combines design concepts of the original 3rd Model Schofield with modern engineering features -- modern hammer block safety, carbon steel frame, etc. The revolver comes with the original wooden display case, certificates, medallion, and other paperwork. I do not know if it has been fired but it seems flawless to me.
I purchased this gun from Terry Popkin a decade ago. He took the photos (the gun has been in the safe since then). Some of these photos also appear in the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, Fourth Edition, on page 437.
I will include with the revolver two sets of vintage ammunition: (1) Six loose cartridges won by Terry Popkin at a SWCA convention, labeled, "45 S&W Schofield cartridges, Bennet primed. (Loaded by Frankford Arsenal in 1880.)" And, (2) a box of 12 vintage unfired BLANKS, produced by Frankford Arsenal for use in .45 Schofield or .45 Colt Government revolvers. The box (torn open, as shown) is original, and is of a style used from 1882 until about 1900. These blanks (internally primed) were used to accustom cavalry horses to the sound of gunfire.
I purchased this gun from ace photographer Terry Popkin in 2013, and he took the pictures shown here and in the gallery linked below. Please note that Terry's collage photo of my revolver appears on page 437 of the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson 4th Edition--that is to say, the revolver pictured there in the book is SN GWS0793, the very gun offered for sale here.
The revolver, wooden case and accessories, six 19th century unfired cartridges and box of twelve 19th century blank cartridges: $2,650, plus actual shipping costs (see above).
More photos on my SmugMug gallery (photos courtesy Terry Popkin):
Schofield Model of 2000 - Douglas Johnson
*****
(10) Smith & Wesson 3rd Model Single Shot No. 10933 (with "really short" Olympic chamber)
This 3rd Model Single Shot is in beautiful condition. It has a rare attribute -- what Ralph Tremaine has called the "really short" version of the Olympic chamber, which was the version employed in the earliest pistols made with the Olympic chamber. Shooters complained about the considerable effort needed to fully insert a cartridge, especially the last little bit, so in later Olympic-chamber pistols the chamber was lengthened slightly. I have two other 3rd Models with the longer Olympic chamber (one of these offered for sale just below), and there is a definite difference. On this pistol, some modern .22LR rounds (with rounded lead bullets) cannot be chambered at all, or it can be accomplished only by snapping the gun shut, which I certainly don't recommend. However, some suitable target ammo types, such as CCI standard velocity round nose and Wolf Match Target, can be seated with reasonable pressure.
The serial numbers match five places: Grip frame, butt end of barrel (between the "ears" of the clasp), on the clasp itself, and on the bottom of the ejector plate. The number is also penciled on the inside of the right grip frame.
S&W factory letter from Roy Jinks, shown here, says "serial number 10933 was shipped from our factory on November 28, 1923 and delivered to Robert Nelson Hardware Co., Roanoke, VA. The records indicate that this handgun was shipped with a 10 inch barrel, blue finish, and checkered walnut extension target grips."
The pistol had two minor defects when I purchased it in 2013, both of which have been corrected. First, there was a short hairline crack in the top of the left grip panel, which was expertly glued by Terry Popkin; it is still visible, barely, in one of the photos in the photo gallery. The grips have a couple other minor dings but are in overall excellent condition. I obtained a detailed technical drawing of the original style sight, which a talented collector and metal worker named Jose Scoseria exactly duplicated as I observed (this took several hours), including bluing. The sight is 14 mm across the top, with a 6 mm tab on the bottom that the adjustment screws butt up against. It has a sighting notch 3 mm wide and about 1.5 mm deep.
Additional photos in my SmugMug gallery here.
For what it's worth, the Blue Book of Gun Values (44th Edition, 2023) lists the value of a 3rd Model with an Olympic chamber, 95%, at $2,600. My price for the pistol with its rare "really short" Olympic chamber and factory letter, reduced to $2,050 (down from $2,250), plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
*****
(11) Smith & Wesson 3rd Model Single Shot No. 10346 (with "regular" Olympic chamber)
Smith & Wesson 3rd Model Single Shot, with Olympic chamber and factory letter. SN 10346 (1922).
I estimate condition at 95%. As visible in the photos, there is one small spot missing finish on left side of barrel about two inches from the muzzle, and some thinning around the muzzle. There are some small scratches on the frame. The grips have some dings, especially on the bottom, but are excellent overall.
The serial number (10346) appears, as it should, on the grip frame, barrel end, clasp, and bottom of the ejector. It is also penciled very clearly on the inside of the right grip panel. It has the Olympic chamber, meaning that a .22LR cartridge with a round-nosed lead bullet can be seated with moderate thumb pressure-- this is NOT the "really short" Olympic chamber described under the listing for gun #10, above.
I obtained a S&W factory letter, dated December 4, 2013, which states, "your handgun, with serial number 10346 was shipped from our factory on December 11, 1922 and delivered to New York
More photos on my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-3rd-Model-Single-Shot-10346/
For what it's worth, the Blue Book of Gun Values (44th Edition, 2023) lists the value of a 3rd Model with an Olympic chamber, 95%, at $2,600. My price: $2,050 plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
*****
(12) Smith &Wesson Pre-Model 27 (1955) (.357 Magnum) with 6.5-inch barrel
This is a very nice Smith &Wesson Pre-Model 27 (.357 Magnum) with 6.5 inch barrel, shipped in 1955. SN S139686. Bright blue finish. Period-correct box. There are some very light scratches and slight finish thinning that you can see under the very bright light used in some of the photos in the linked photo gallery, but I don't see most of that in ordinary light. I'd call it an 85% gun if not better, but look at the photos here and in the linked gallery and be the judge.
It is currently wearing a set of Keith Brown non-glossy Roper-style grips, made in about 2015; they are mint. Also included are the original Magna grips, which are correct and I believe original. The Magnas are in very decent shape-- the right panel may have absorbed a little gun oil along the top.
The gold box is period correct but a later acquisition, not linked to this gun. It is completely intact, "fair-to-good" condition (soiled in places).
The revolver seems to be completely mechanically sound, with a perfect bore. I have not fired it.
Pre-Model 27 revolver with both original Magnas and Keith Brown Roper grips, and gold box: $2,150, plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
Several additional photos are available in my SmugMug photo gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/SW-Pre-Model-27/
*****
SOLD PENDING FUNDS(13) Smith &Wesson Model 1, Second Issue (1866)
Here we have a very solid example of the Model 1, Second Issue (.22 Rim Fire Short, black powder, 7-shot), SN 97125, shipped July 17, 1866, with "3-3/16 inch barrel, two tone blue & silver finish, and smooth rosewood grips," according to the factory letter (shown here). Everything is pretty snug. The rosewood grips are in good shape. I'd rate it 80% on the Antique scale.
The pistol and the factory letter, $775 [reduced from $1,000] plus actual shipping cost. ANTIQUE.
Note: Under federal postal regulations, this revolver qualifies as an "Antique" that may be mailed between holders of FFL 03 (Curio & Relic license), so if the buyer has a valid C&R I can mail it directly to the buyer via Priority Mail, which is considerably cheaper than using a common carrier. For non-C&R purchaser, this item can be sent directly to the buyer (in most states), but I must use UPS or FedEx as is required for other handguns.
More photos in my SmugMug photo gallery here.
********
(14) Smith & Wesson Double Action Fourth Model, .32 S&W "Short" (circa 1905)
This little five-shot revolver (3.5-inch barrel) which chambers the .32 S&W "Short," has nickel finish (with blue trigger guard and clasp) that is in very nice shape. However, the gun (S/N 253877) dates to roughly 1905, the black-powder era. There are some roughish spots in the bore. It has a bit of end-shake and a bit of side-to-side wiggle--not a whole lot, but noticeable (maybe somebody shot some smokeless rounds at some point). It wears pearl grips that are not a great fit. So, sold as a cute little display piece item, not recommended as a shooter.
S&W Double Action Fourth Model, $325 plus actual shipping expenses. C&R eligible.
***
SOLD(15) Colt Camp Perry (1928) with factory letter
Colt Camp Perry single-shot pistol in .22LR. SN 1502 (this number appears on the gun and is also stamped into both grip-panels). Excellent condition, other than the original owner stamping his or her initials "REN" into the butt, as shown in the photos. The Colt Archive letter from 2012 (cost $100) says the pistol was shipped to "Dr. R.E. Neill" on April 16, 1928."
(The Colt archivist told me they have no record of the doctor's address. Limited research in 2015 found a record of only one physician in the United States at that time with those initials, Roberta E. Neill, of Springfield, Mass. She practiced medicine in Springfield, Mass. for many years. She lived from 1895-1976, so she would have been 33 at the time of the shipment. However, I found no documentation linking Dr. Roberta Neill to the shooting sports or to this gun. The original guy buyer might have been a dentist or some other kind of "doctor" who my search missed. To complicate matters further, the collector I purchased the gun from in 2011 said that the collector he'd purchased it from years earlier said the pistol had been "shipped to the governor-general of the Philippines for his shooting team." I gave little weight to this story, since there was no documentation. In subsequent cursory research, I found no evidence as to whether or not any of the governors-general of the Philippines had a pistol team in that era, much less whether anybody named Neill was associated with such a team.)
$2950 with Colt Archive letter. C&R eligible.
More photos on my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/Colt-Camp-Perry-1502-1928/
*****
(16) Buchel "Winkelblock" target pistol (.22LR)
This is a rare, high-end German target pistol made for a fairly short time starting in 1911. Identified with the firm of Ernst Freidrich Buchel, but more likely actually designed by his son Cuno. ("Under Cuno's leadership the EFB firm quickly became one of the leading makers of German target rifles and pistols during the latter part of the Golden Age of German target shooting, 1985-1914." Alte Scheibenwaffen: German Target Arms 1960-1940, Volume 2, by Jesse Thompson et al, compiled by Tom Rowe.)
The pistol is chambered in .22LR, is mechanically sound, and can be fired safely and accurately with .22LR Standard Velocity ammo. The pistol has a set trigger which is fully operative (the trigger is set by depression of the large lever on the left side). There is a trigger adjustment screw behind the trigger, but you'd have to take the wood off to get at it; the slots in the screw are a bit buggered but the slots are still deep. The grips are walnut, I think; they have a right-hand thumb rest. The wood finish on the right side is a bit scuffed up. The bore is good with some little rough spots just past the chamber. The barrel is 14-5/8 inches long. For reasons obscure, this model was equipped with a lanyard ring.
Here is a diagram showing the mechanism, from the book Die Scheinbenpistole by Bruno Brukner and Ott Halfmann.
Markings: On left side of falling block: D.R.G.M. This denotes Deutsches Reich Gebrauchsmuster (German Reich Registered Design), a patent registration. On the left side of barrel: G. Will, Schwerin I/M. This refers to Gustav Will, the distributor for the Buchel guns. The proofmark 0,2gr N.G.P. M/71 refers to Nitrozellulose Gewehr Pulver (nitrocellulose rifle powder). M/71 was a Mauser powder. 2 grams of M-71 powder is 3.1 grains.
For more photos, including closeups of sights, proofmarks, etc., see my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/Buchel-1911-Winkelblock/
$2,975 plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
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(17) Scharfenberg Tell Type 1 target pistol (circa 1900)
Scharfenberg Tell Type 1 target pistol. This .22LR target pistol was designed by Georg Scharfenberg (1831-1906). Scharfenberg made various types of firearms (including parlor guns) in his shop in Eisenberg near Mehlis (Germany). This model was issued a DRGM (sort of a patent) in 1892, so this gun might legally classified as an antique, but to be safe I am going to treat it as modern handgun (although C&R eligible), because I think the model was probably produced for at least a few years after 1898.
The pistol has a double set trigger, which is adjustable. The mechanisms all seem to work correctly. I would rate the condition as antique-fine to antique-excellent.
This is a rare high-end German target pistol and I have not seen a photo of any example in better condition in any book or elsewhere. $3,150. C&R eligible.
I am reproducing here pages from the book Die Scheibenpistole by Bruno Brukner and Ott Halfmann, which shows the inner mechanism of the action (but yes, the text is in German).
I am also reproducing pages from the book Alte Scheinbenwaffen Volume 3, edited by Tom Rowe, which includes photos of another example of the same model, although not in as good a condition as mine. The text refers to the action as "rocking block." It "was a popular target pistol in its day." It also explains that the model "has been referred to as the Tell Model 1," but cautions that "[E.F.] Buchel also made a Tell pistol which was completely different." (Note that I also have an example of the Buchel Tell model for sale, no. 19 on this list.)
More photos, including close-ups of sights, proofmarks, etc., on my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/Scharfenberg-System-Tell-Type-1-pistol/
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(18) Pickert "Arminius" Model 3 target pistol (circa 1925) -- very rare
This is a very rare, high quality German target pistol in .22LR, the Pickert "Arminius" Model 3, circa 1925. SN 23. The illustration from the book Guns of the World shows the three models of the Pickert match pistol. The Model 3 is the rarest, not found even in most references. In the 13 years since I acquired this example, I have never seen another Model 3 for sale, or in any collection. I saw one Model 2 (similar, but with a concealed hammer) go for $3,450 in a Julia Auction in 2017.
Very nice blue finish in excellent condition. Some very small dings in the walnut grips. 11-5/8-inch tapered barrel with matted rib. Fully adjustable rear sight. Based on the photo from Guns of the World, the front sight post is apparently a replacement for the original Patridge-style sight. Double-set trigger, adjustable. Serial number 23. The gun functions fine mechanically.
In a review of the Model 2 that appeared in the American Rifleman in January 1926, Hans Roedder concluded that the Pickert target pistol "approaches more than any other the ideal form of target weapon."
$2,850. C&R eligible.
Additional photos on my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/Model-3-Arminius-free-pistol-Frederick-Pickert/
To view or download an 11-second video demonstrating the tip-up loading procedure, and use of the set trigger, from my Google Drive, click here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1geo3U9Qidffi2oCWT6-F9k7lmF4YFUgI/view?usp=sharing
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(19) Buchel "Tell Model 2" free pistol, owned by Olympic shooter Domenico Giambonini
This is a "Tell Model 2" free pistol, built by German gunmaker Ernst Friedrich Buchel, originally owned by Domenico Giambonini, a top-level pistol marksman in the early 20th century. He was born Nov. 11, 1868, in Switzerland, and died on Aug. 8, 1956 in Bellinzona, Switzerland. The barrel of the pistol contains the engraving GIAMBONINI and BELLINZONA. See the short bio that I have reproduced from Olympics.com, which says that Giambonini "came from a family of gunsmiths," won his first international championship in 1895, and achieved his lifetime best score at age 68, in 1936.
The Tell Model 2 was popular among European competition shooters of that era, but also sold in the U.S. through the Stoeger catalogs.
I would consider this to be a 13-3/8-inch barrel (12 inches to frame, 13-3/8 inches to opening of chamber). This pistol has a falling-block action-- the large lever in the grip lowers the block to allow loading. It is a strong action.
The pistol has obviously seen considerable use, but is in overall good condition. The bore is very good. As shown, the rear sight has fine-adjustment capacity. The front sight may have an elevation adjustment, but if so I don't know how it works. I have taken this pistol to the range twice, most recently November 2023. Everything functions properly. There is a tension-adjustment screw for the set-trigger (counterclockwise to increase tension), which I have set to a light touch-- some might prefer to stiffen it further.
I think that this pistol was likely used by Giambonini when he was a member of the Swiss pistol team at the 1920 Olympics at Antwerp, although I have no photographic proof or other definitive documentation of that he used this pistol at that event. At the 1920 Olympics, the Swiss team finished 9th in the Free Pistol 50 meter event; Giambonini is listed as a participant in that event, in which the Tell Model 2 would have been the right tool for the job. (Five team members, including Giambonini, won bronze medals that year in the rapid-fire pistol event.)
Frederick Buchel Tell Model 2, inscribed to Domenico Giambonini, circa 1920, $1,350 (down from $1500) plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
Additional photos of the pistol, and additional documents on Giambonini and the 1920 Olympic pistol events, at my SmugMug photo gallery here.
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SOLD(20) Harrington & Richardson USRA Model (Model 195) Single Shot Pistol (1936), S/N R2157
During the 1930s, the H&R USRA Model was about the hottest thing going among small-bore competition target pistols, at least in the USA. In his influential 1938 Textbook of Pistols and Revolvers, Julian S. Hatcher devoted 10 pages to the USRA model. He wrote, "This is the most popular target pistol on the market today. In fact, it now holds the pre-eminent position in the 'Any Pistol' class that was formerly held by the Smith & Wesson Perfected .22..." The primary designer of the model, Walter F. Roper, called it "the very first speed-action single shot pistol ever offered by an American manufacturer." Using a machine rest of new design, Roper and Edwin C. Harrington produced a pistol producing all shots touching at 20 yards and one-inch groups at 50 yards. The pistol had a short hammer drop that jars the pistol very little, and a very fast action, both factors contributing considerably to shooter performance.
Roughly 4,000 were made from 1928-1942. This fine example, no. R2157, was made in or about 1936.
The USRA Model underwent many evolutionary changes, some of which Roper described in his 1945 book Pistol and Revolver Shooting. I have never seen two that are just alike. This particular example has a 10-inch barrel, very nice polished blue finish (with matte topstrap and front sight to reduce glare), adjustable front sight, adjustable rear sight, adjustable trigger. The USRA Model was at one point offered with five different options in one-piece stocks-- this example is wearing what appears to be the walnut #4 style (in excellent condition), which was modeled on the Colt Peacemaker and was, Roper wrote, "the most generally liked" option.
Some of the model's other features are described in these digital reproductions of H&R promotional literature from the 1930s. (Scans of additional vintage H&R promotional publications on the USRA Model are found on my photo gallery.)
This pistol functions as it should. The wonderful trigger and short hammer drop make it a lot of fun to shoot. The ejector throws the spent casing almost as far as the bullet travels!
There are some fine scratches next to a couple of screws, as you can see in the photos. There are areas on both sides of the hammer that have many small scratches where the metal may have been polished, as visible in photos. There is a lot of thinning to the finish only the inside of the grip strap. Overall condition is excellent.
Additional photos (some taken by the previous owner from whom I acquired the pistol in 2014, and some by me in November 2022) may be viewed in my photo gallery here.
H&R USRA Model No. R2147, PRICE REDUCTION $1,375 [reduced from $1,550], plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
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(21) Harrington & Richardson USRA Model No. 3211 (rare 7-inch barrel)
Harrington & Richardson USRA Model target pistol, No. 3211 (circa 1937), in the rarely found 7-inch barrel produced late in the production of the model. This example is virtually flawless (I see one tiny hairline scratch on right frame), as are the very nice H&R walnut style #4 target grips. See the detailed discussion of the USRA Model under gun #20 above.
The 7-inch pistols don't come up too often. For what it's worth, the Blue Book value of a 7-inch in 98% condition is $2,420. My price is $2000 plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
More photos on my SmugMug gallery:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/HR-USRA-Model-3211-7-inch/
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SOLD PENDING FUNDS(22) Webley & Scott Mark III Single Shot Target Pistol in very rare .38 Special.
This Webley & Scott Mark III Single Shot from 1963 is a very rare gun-- the factory records indicate that only 40 examples were made in .38 Special, for a short time in the early 1960s. After the sweeping confiscation of handguns in the UK in the late 1990s, probably only a handful of these still survive. (The vast majority of Webley & Scott single shots were in .22LR, with .32 S&W and .38 S&W available as special orders during some periods.) I wrote up a post specifically on this gun that you can read in the "Other Brands" sub-forum here.
This is SN 4133. You can view additional photos of the gun and associated documentation in my gallery here. This includes a letter from Richard Milner, who has the Webley & Scott factory records, attesting that serial number 4133 was sold on March 20, 1963, to Shelley Braverman, a wholesaler in New York. The letter notes that it was shipped with right-hand walnut grips (which was a factory upgrade-- the standard grips were plastic).
The Blue Book of Gun Values (44th Edition, 2023), page 2298, rates the .38 Special variant as a 100% premium, so $2,800 at 98%.My offer: Pistol with original color paper brochures and digital documents, $2,250 (reduced from $2,950), plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
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(23) Pietta (Navy Arms) LeMat muzzleloader revolver
Pietta (Navy Arms) reproduction of the LeMat revolver of the Civil War. Manufactured 1986. The nine revolver chambers take .451 balls. The smoothbore underbarrel is .65 caliber/20 gauge. It has been fired but not much-- it's in excellent condition. It has a fine deep blue finish, and nice grips that I think are walnut.
Under federal law this muzzleloader is unregulated and can be mailed. However, a few states require transfer through an FFL dealer.
$950 plus actual mailing or shipping costs.
More high-def photos in my SmugMug gallery: https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/Pietta-Navy-Arms-LeMat-Navy-Model-revolver-2323/
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(24) Uberti Beretta Laramie (.45 Long Colt)
High-end top-break revolver in .45 Long Colt, manufactured by Uberti and marketed by Beretta, based loosely on the 1875 Schofield top break revolver. L00052, manufactured in or about 2005. Barrel is 6.5 inches. Windage-adjustable rear target sight. Very nice deep blue finish. Everything seems good mechanically but I have not fired the gun, and I think it has not been fired much.
$1,075, plus actual shipping costs.
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(25)Smith & Wesson Military & Police (4th Change) Model Target with factory letter
Smith & Wesson Military & Police (4th Change) Model Target. The revolver came with an original factory letter dated Nov. 14, 2011, to Dr. Fred F. Bruno of Bethesda, MD. It says that the revolver "was shipped from our factory on March 26, 1924, and delivered to E. K. Tryon Co., Philadelphia, PA. The records indicate that this revolver was shipped with a 6 inch barrel, adjustable rear target sight, blue finish, and checkered walnut non-monogrammed square butt grips." All of this corresponds to what is seen on the gun. The serial number appears in the proper places -- grip frame, barrel flat, and cylinder face. The grips are unnumbered, but are the proper style for 1924 and appear to be original; their condition is excellent. The overall condition I would put at about 90%. The finish is thinned at the muzzle, and there are some very light scratches.
Note: This revolver (SN 463426) was manufactured AFTER Smith & Wesson began heat treating cylinders (which began with SN 316,648).
$1,025 with factory letter, plus actual shipping costs. C&R eligible.
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(26) Hoppe's Ethan Allen double-barrel muzzleloader (.36 ball)
This is a fully operational double-barrel muzzleloader sold as a kit (100K) by Hoppe's in the 1980s. It is an all-steel reproduction of an Ethan Allen pistol originally produced in the 1840s. My father assembled it, and he may have fired it a few times. The bores are fine. A single trigger fires each barrel with consecutive trigger pulls. Everything is good mechanically. This example has a light blue finish, and it does not have the fancy engraving shown in the Hoppe's advertisement, which came only on a different, pre-assembled version. Eastern American walnut grips. The pistol shoots .35 or .36 ball (depending on the patch). No FFL is required to purchase this muzzleloader pistol; the price includes mailing via Priority Mail.
$450, mailing costs included.
More photos on SmugMug:
https://douglasjohnson2.smugmug.com/Hoppes-Ethan-Allen-double-barrel-pistol/
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