Posted: 5/31/2009 9:40:52 AM EDT
| I have a model 18 in 4" and what I though was a model 34 with a 2". However the snubby has 1 2004 with a 3 under it stamped under the crane on the frame where the model number normally is. Any idea as to value or model on the snubby? |
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S&W didn't stamp model numbers on their guns prior to 1957, so you may well have what most collectors would call a "pre-34". The numbers you quoted sound like assemblers' numbers, which have no meaning to us. The serial number will be found on the butt or the front strap; if you'll post it with the last two or three digits x'd out (55,xxx) we can help you date it.
ETA, I sold a ratty looking pre34 for $300 a couple of years ago; I sure they've gone up since. The M18 should go for $350 and up, possibly over $500. Condition is everything! |
| I bought a nice Model 18 a few years ago for $300 but that was a aberration pricewise. Most Model 18s in decent shape tend to start around $400 these days, at least around here in Houston. You just do not see many of them for sale any more. Hopefully you are pricing them for insurance purposes and not to sell. Those are keepers for sure. |
| Thanks for the help gents. Yes, these are keepers. I bought the K frame new in 1974 for $155.00. The J frame I bought about the same time. I was in a local sporting goods store and a fellow was trying to trade the clerk the J frame for a cheep pair of Binoculers. It was just past closing time and the clerk did not want to do the paperwork of taking in a gun. So I bought the glasses and made the trade, cost me $29.00 plus tax. I gave it to my Dad for Christmas that year and it came back when he passed away. I also still have a 6 1/2" model 29 that I bought in Germany while in the Army in 1972. It came with the presentation case for $195.00. I paid $210.00 for my model 19 and $180.00 for my model 36 both in 1981. I gave my antigun Father in Law my model 28 4" after a friend of his was murdered while camping. He still has it and still keeps it handy. These days I shoot mostly autos but when a S&W gets in my hands it tends to stick around. |