S&W model 1953 (pre model 34)

[griggsy]

I recently acquired a pre 34 smith. From what I can tell it's an "I" frame 4 screw. From what I could see its in extremely good shape 95% give or take a little. When I get it out of the detention center I'll bathe it well to see more, was shot and lightly cleaned. Anyone wanna take a stab at the value of this little beauty. Like I said I frame 4 screw, diamond grips no model # on the frame, indicative of pre 1957/58. 5 digit sn. 22xxx. Any ideas? Thanks.

[smithrjd]

It really comes down to condition, the "kit guns" are collectable. Also depends on the barrel length. Do you have the box etc? Do the stocks have the serial number of the pistol on them? Might be best to ask over at the smith-Wesson.com forum, lots very knowledgeable folks over there.

[Mr. Beretta]

OP, it would help, if you provided more details.



Barrel length?

Finish?

R/B ? S/B?

Adj sights? Fixed sights?

Flat latch thumbpiece?

Original box numbered to gun?

Any factory papers, tools, mop?

Timing ? End Shake?

[griggsy]

Pre 34

4" barrel
Blue finish
Round butt
Adjustable sights
Flat latch
No box,papers etc. Timing and end shake seem to be fine. But clean and check will tell full story. Coil main spring and 4 screw are certain, don't recall any numbers on grip panels. Was this done on all revolvers?
All info is appreciated Thanks

[smithrjd]

The improved I frame, just before the J frame. 4" is a better one. Without pictures hard to say, $500 to $750 as a guess. Maybe a bit more here in CA. the S&W forum will know more.

[Mr. Beretta]

$450 to $550.

[john myers]

4" barrel
Blue finish
Round butt
Adjustable sights
Flat latch
No box,papers etc. Timing and end shake seem to be fine. But clean and check will tell full story. Coil main spring and 4 screw are certain, don't recall any numbers on grip panels. Was this done on all revolvers?
All info is appreciated Thanks

S&W revolver grip panels were stamped with the serial number on the inside (you will have to remove the grips) up until about 1980 your circa 1955 kit should be marked and match the guns serial number

[DanGunner]

These pre-model number kit guns are very valuable. They are asking $1K plus in gunbroker.com. I bought a pre-Model 43 J frame air weight with very low serial number recently for $500 but that was very unusual. I had expected to pay at least $750.

[griggsy]

S&W

Thanks for the info everyone.

[griggsy]

S&W

So the grips match numbers cleaned up nice, blue is a sold 97/98% light mark on the cylinder from turning and a little missing left barrel o.d. edge, holster? WOW.

[RocketRider]

It sounds like you got a great little revolver. I have a 4” 34-1 that I bought a few years ago to shoot with one of my sons. We really enjoy shooting it.

It came with the original grips that I don’t find comfortable, so I called S&W and bought the wood grips made for the M60 pro-series. It’s a big improvement on the feel in the hand without being too large for the small gun. S&W doesn’t list them on the web site, you have to call so see if they are in stock.

Enjoy your new kit gun!